IT Category Manager

Intuitive Machines • Palo Alto, CA

9d • $111,000 - $185,000

About The Position

Intuitive Machines is seeking an experienced IT Software Category Manager to lead strategic sourcing and supplier management for its IT software portfolio. The role requires a proactive self-starter who can develop category strategy, negotiate complex agreements, deliver value, and manage risks in software procurement.

The position covers IT hardware and software categories across the enterprise, including hardware procurements and leases, software licenses, maintenance agreements, and SaaS contracts. The manager will work with IT and business stakeholders to understand requirements, manage supplier performance, and oversee contracts from RFP through execution and renewal.

The position is incentive eligible. Its target is based on contribution, company performance, and/or individual results; the specific incentive plan and target amount will depend on the role and breadth of contributions. The role offers paid time off, health and welfare insurance, and a 401(k) to eligible employees. Starting base pay varies by location: $97,000–$161,000 annually in Colorado, New Jersey, and Delaware; $107,000–$178,000 in the Washington, DC metropolitan area; and $111,000–$185,000 in California. Ranges for other states may vary by location.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, IT, or a related field.
• 5–7+ years of procurement experience focused on IT categories.
• Extensive knowledge of software licensing models, terms and conditions, and contract structures.
• Proven track record of successful negotiations with major IT suppliers.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to use data for decision-making.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and drive results.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Proactive approach to problem-solving and process improvement.
• Strong decision-making capabilities and sound business judgment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in aerospace, defense, or high-tech manufacturing.
• Professional certification such as CPSM, CSCP, or similar.
• Familiarity with enterprise software platforms, including ERP, PLM, and cybersecurity tools.
• Experience with SaaS and cloud-based licensing models.
• Knowledge of software compliance requirements in regulated industries.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category strategies for IT hardware and software across the enterprise.
• Lead negotiations for hardware procurements and leases, software licenses, maintenance agreements, and SaaS contracts.
• Manage relationships and performance for key IT suppliers.
• Conduct market analysis and benchmarking to identify cost optimization opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with software licensing terms and corporate policies.
• Partner with IT and business stakeholders to understand requirements and deliver solutions.
• Drive standardization and consolidation opportunities within the software portfolio.
• Manage the contract lifecycle from RFP through execution and renewal.
• Identify and mitigate procurement risks related to software licensing and terms.

Benefits

• Paid time off.
• Health and welfare insurance.
• 401(k) for eligible employees.
• Incentive-eligible compensation, with target based on contribution, company performance, and/or individual results.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level