Procurement Specialist (CPSM/CIPS)
About The Position
The Procurement Specialist (Category Buyer) provides tactical procurement support for assigned categories and connects strategic category planning with operational execution. The role manages mid-complexity sourcing events, supports contract negotiations, coordinates supplier interactions, and ensures procurement activities are timely, compliant, and cost-effective. The specialist applies intermediate procurement expertise to generate value, improve processes, and support internal stakeholders. This is a 12-month W2 contract role located in Portland, Oregon, with a hybrid workplace arrangement. The position supports sourcing, contract administration, supplier coordination, stakeholder collaboration, and procurement policy compliance.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Finance, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
- 2–3 years of experience in procurement, sourcing, contract management, or category management.
- Experience leading RFx events and negotiating contracts for mid-complexity categories.
- Proficiency with procurement or ERP systems, such as PeopleSoft, SharePoint, or eRecords.
- Intermediate knowledge of procurement methods, inventory practices, and market evaluation techniques.
- Intermediate sourcing strategy development and execution skills.
- Strong negotiation capabilities for pricing, commercial terms, and vendor performance.
- Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office and procurement systems.
- Strong analytical and decision-making skills.
- Effective communication, collaboration, and stakeholder influence skills.
- Solid organizational and prioritization abilities.
- Confident presentation and facilitation skills.
- Ability to manage deadlines and time-sensitive tasks while maintaining accuracy.
- Adaptability and openness to feedback in a dynamic environment.
Nice To Haves
- CPSM, CIPS, or similar procurement certification preferred.
Responsibilities
- Execute RFIs, RFPs, and RFQs in alignment with established category strategies.
- Develop bid packages, evaluate supplier proposals, and manage cross-functional evaluation processes.
- Negotiate pricing, commercial terms, and conditions for mid-complexity categories.
- Ensure procurement activities comply with procurement policies and regulatory requirements.
- Draft, review, and execute contracts, renewals, amendments, and terminations.
- Maintain accurate contract documentation and ensure proper workflow approvals.
- Monitor contract expiration dates and arrange timely renewals to maintain audit readiness.
- Serve as the primary supplier contact for tactical sourcing matters, performance discussions, and issue resolution.
- Support supplier onboarding and ensure adherence to governance standards.
- Monitor supplier performance and escalate risks or concerns to Category Managers as needed.
- Partner with internal stakeholders to define requirements, timelines, and deliverables.
- Guide stakeholders on procurement policies and sourcing processes throughout the procurement lifecycle.
- Apply procurement best practices and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
- Support cost optimization and value-generation initiatives within assigned categories.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
