The Category Buyer supports South Region Vallourec facilities by strategically sourcing repairs (on-site and off-site), spare parts, calibration services, equipment leases, facility management, and working clothes. This role ensures both immediate operational needs and long-term business requirements are met.

You will drive optimal sourcing outcomes across cost, quality, delivery, and service performance-while operating under the most favorable economic conditions and in full alignment with Company and Corporate Purchasing policies and procedures.
Your Role at a Glance

• Lead supplier selection, supplier awards, competitive pricing analysis, and commercial negotiations aligned to sourcing strategies and business priorities
• Develop and execute negotiation strategies to secure optimal commercial terms
• Prepare, analyze, and evaluate RFQs and commercial offers; provide clear sourcing recommendations
• Challenge business demand by validating requirements, specifications, and volumes to optimize spend and scope
• Drive productivity initiatives and value-driven sourcing decisions

Core Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain commodity strategies with cross-functional stakeholders
• Lead sourcing initiatives to deliver cost savings, mitigate risks, and enhance competitiveness
• Consolidate regional and North American demand to leverage economies of scale
• Perform cost analysis (including make-or-buy decisions) and recommend value improvements
• Manage supplier lifecycle: market analysis, qualification, performance management, and continuous improvement
• Monitor market trends to identify risks, opportunities, and innovation
• Manage contracts end-to-end (drafting, negotiation, execution, compliance)
• Maintain strong internal and external stakeholder relationships
• Represent sourcing on cross-functional projects and initiatives
• Ensure full compliance with EHS standards, ethical sourcing, and company policies
• Perform additional duties as assigned

What Sets You Apart

We're looking for individuals who bring the right mix of experience, technical capability, and business acumen:

• Bachelor's degree in STEM or Business (or 10+ years of relevant experience in lieu of degree)
• 3-5 years of sourcing or purchasing experience in a corporate environment
• Strong knowledge of strategic sourcing, negotiations, contract management, and supplier performance management
• Experience sourcing industrial services/materials (repairs, spare parts, calibration preferred)
• Proficiency with ERP systems (SAP preferred) and Microsoft Office tools
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a matrixed environment
• Proven ability to influence stakeholders without direct authority
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
• Effective communication and reporting skills
• Commitment to compliance, ethics, and continuous improvement

What Powers Your Performance

Success in this role is driven by a strong mix of ownership, collaboration, and continuous improvement. We value team members who:

• Communicate clearly and effectively
• Collaborate and contribute to team success
• Adapt quickly with a proactive mindset
• Take accountability and initiative
• Demonstrate reliability and attention to detail
• Prioritize safety in every action
• Embrace feedback and continuous learning
• Drive improvement and challenge the status quo

How We Support Your Success

We are committed to helping you thrive-both professionally and personally. We offer a collaborative culture where your ideas make an impact and career opportunities support your growth.

Our competitive benefits package includes:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
• Company-paid Life Insurance & Short/Long-Term Disability
• 401(k) with 4.5% company match (no vesting period)
• Paid Parental Leave (including adoption)
• 10 paid holidays + 1 floating day
• Paid vacation time
• Performance-based bonus program
• Tuition reimbursement

Safety isn't negotiable, it's who we are. Every spark, every shift, and every decision is guided by a commitment that goes well beyond compliance. We don't cut corners; we set the standard. That means clear expectations, continuous training, and shared accountability at every level. Protecting our people is more than a priority, it's a promise we make to every colleague, every day.