Senior Category Manager

The Aerospace Corporation • El Segundo, CA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space. Job Summary The Aerospace Supply Chain organization is seeking a strategic and results-driven Senior Category Manager (Subcontracts Admin Staff V) to lead procurement activities for critical indirect categories including Research & Development (R&D), Prototyping, Maintenance, Repair & Operations (MRO), Calibration services, and Enterprise Services. In this high-impact role, you will develop and execute category strategies that drive cost savings, ensure supply continuity, and align with corporate objectives. You'll lead vendor negotiations, conduct market analysis, and build strong cross-functional partnerships to deliver value across the organization. The ideal candidate brings 5-7 years of procurement and strategic sourcing experience, with a proven track record in managing indirect categories and delivering measurable results in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. Our Supply Chain organization manages all aspects of procurement for the entire corporation, offering the opportunity to be part of a diverse team that procures a wide range of capital, indirect, and government-funded products and services—including IT, specialized equipment, research and development, facilities services, engineering, design, and construction. The selected candidate will be required to work full-time on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration or a related field is required
• A minimum of (5) years of hands-on experience in Supply Chain, Procurement, Strategic Sourcing, or Category Management is required
• Demonstrated experience in procurement planning, strategic sourcing, and executing procurement plans for indirect categories
• Proven experience managing R&D, MRO, Prototyping, and/or Calibration categories
• Strong project management skills with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with strong attention to detail and organizational abilities
• Strong analytical skills for evaluating procurement data, market trends, and vendor performance, with experience in presenting data analysis summaries to various audiences, including senior management

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration, or a related field
• Certification in Supply Chain Management (e.g., CPSM, CSCP, CPM)
• Experience managing Enterprise Services categories (e.g., consulting, professional services, contingent workforce)
• Familiarity with SAP / ARIBA (source to pay) systems
• Experience in the aerospace or highly regulated industry supporting indirect commodities
• Track record of delivering significant cost savings and process improvements through strategic sourcing initiatives

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic sourcing and category management for Research & Development (R&D), Prototyping, Maintenance, Repair & Operations (MRO), and Calibration services, with additional responsibility for Enterprise Services as needed
• Develop and execute category strategies that align with business objectives, drive cost savings, and ensure supply continuity
• Manage sourcing activities for assigned indirect commodities, including goods and services, while executing and overseeing the timely award of contracts and purchase orders
• Conduct market analysis and supplier assessments to identify opportunities for cost reduction, process improvement, and risk mitigation.
• Lead vendor negotiations to secure favorable pricing, delivery terms, and service level agreements
• Track and report procurement savings and ensure compliance with established policies and procedures
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders across R&D, Operations, Quality, and other functions to understand requirements and deliver value
• Collaborate with key stakeholders to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and support business initiatives
• Monitor supplier performance and resolve any issues or discrepancies promptly to maintain operational excellence
• Ensure proper documentation and record-keeping for audit purposes and contract compliance

Benefits

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
• 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
• Flexible spending accounts
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
• Relocation assistance
• Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
• Education assistance programs
• An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

What This Job Offers

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