2026 Entry Level - Supply Chain - Buyer

Solar Turbines Incorporated • San Diego, CA • 5h ago

Career Area:

Procurement, Supply Chain and Logistics

Job Description:

Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.

Role Summary

Supports purchasing and supply chain operations by processing requisitions, analyzing costs, managing contracts, and contributing to sourcing and procurement strategies.

Key Responsibilities

Learn and develop skills that result from the practical application of basic supply chain knowledge by assisting a project team or others in the workgroup.

Provide support for purchasing, supply chain, sourcing, cost, price analysis, and contract/purchase order generation.

Develop improvement plans to support buyers related to response time, lean targets, quality, cost, logistics, development, capacity, and risk management to enable optimal and efficient operations.

Perform analytical and administrative tasks in support of purchasing strategic initiatives.

Manage purchased material requirements according to the demand signals for the assigned products. Take appropriate actions to ensure material availability and appropriate inventory levels, ensuring that the correct material is delivered to the right place and at the right time.

Monitor material shortages tools, adjusting the delivery schedule with suppliers as needed, according to inventory availability and demand signals. Communicate shortages or risk of shortages to customer.

Core Competencies

Decision Making & Critical Thinking: Applies structured analysis to evaluate options and guide informed decisions.

Effective Communication: Clearly conveys information and feedback, adapting to audience needs.

Negotiation: Engages vendors and stakeholders to reach collaborative, win-win outcomes.

Vendor Management: Coordinates with suppliers to ensure timely, quality deliverables and resolves issues proactively.

Cost Management: Understands cost drivers and supports initiatives to optimize spend.

Procurement Knowledge: Familiar with purchasing cycles, tools, and organizational procurement practices.

Procurement Systems: Uses procurement software to manage orders, track shipments, and resolve system issues.

Purchasing Operations: Understands procurement policies and supports purchasing activities across categories.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in supply chain, engineering, business, or a related field.

Overall GPA of at least 2.8 on a 4.0 scale.

0-2 years of relevant experience related to this field (internships or academic projects are a plus)

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Effective communication and collaboration abilities.

Interest in process improvement and vendor relationship management.

Core Competencies:

Analytical Thinking

Apply structured analysis to identify root causes and develop effective solutions.

Decision Making & Critical Thinking

Use data-driven judgment to evaluate risks and make informed decisions.

Business Process Improvement

Support initiatives to streamline operations and reduce waste.

Effective Communication

Deliver clear, concise feedback and interpret information accurately across teams.

Problem Solving

Diagnose issues and propose actionable resolutions using proven tools and techniques.

Matrix Management

Collaborate across departments and functions to balance priorities and drive results.

Vendor/Supplier Management

Build strong relationships with external providers to ensure quality and timeliness.

Procurement

Support purchasing activities using established systems and procedures.

Why Join Us?

Be part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Gain exposure to cross-functional operations and global supply chain strategies.

Grow your career with mentorship and development opportunities.

Summary Pay Range:

$76,542.00 - $114,814.00

2026ETposting

This position requires working onsite five days a week.

Relocation is available for this position.

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position. This employer is not currently hiring foreign national applicants that require or will require sponsorship tied to a specific employer, such as, H, L, TN, F, J, E, O. As a global company, Caterpillar offers many job opportunities outside of the U.S which can be found through our employment website at www.caterpillar.com/careers.

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