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 ApartWe'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 PerformanceSuccess 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 SuccessWe 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.
