Specialist, Category Management

AECON • Charlotte, NC

13h

About The Position

Reporting directly to the Director, Procurement – US Commercial Operations , the Specialist, Category Management is responsible for managing and optimizing assigned product or service categories to drive value, efficiency, and strategic growth. This role combines market analysis, supplier management, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure category performance aligns with organizational goals. The ideal candidate brings strong analytical skills, commercial acumen, specific category (mechanical/electrical) knowledge, the ability to influence stakeholders and ensure compliance to standard operating procedures.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering or a related field (Master’s preferred)
• Experience in specific industry(e.g., nuclear, utilities, industrial manufacturing)
• 5–8+ years of experience in category management, procurement, or strategic sourcing
• Demonstrated success in supplier negotiation and contract management
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with experience using data to drive decisions
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities
• Proficiency in procurement systems, ERP platforms, and data analysis tools
• Experience in construction, engineering, EPC, or capital‑intensive industries
• Familiarity with estimating, procurement, contracts, and compliance workflows
• Experience supporting ERP or enterprise system improvements
• Experience working in regulated or federally governed environments
• Results-driven mindset

Nice To Haves

• Professional certifications (e.g., CPSM)

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category strategies that align with business objectives and deliver cost savings, quality improvements, and innovation
• Analyze market trends, supplier capabilities, and competitive benchmarks to inform sourcing decisions
• Manage supplier relationships, including negotiation of contracts, pricing, and service level agreements
• Partner with internal stakeholders (e.g., operations, finance, estimating and contracts) to understand requirements and ensure alignment
• Identify risks and opportunities within the category and implement mitigation or improvement plans
• Monitor category performance through KPIs, reporting, and data analysis
• Lead or support sourcing events, RFPs, and contract renewals
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across the supply base and internal processes
• Ensure compliance with company policies, regulatory requirements, standard operating procedures and ethical sourcing standards

Benefits

• Ensure you and your family receive the services needed to support your mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
• Helping you build your career through our Aecon University and Leadership Programs.
• Supporting and investing in inclusive work environments, through initiatives like Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Accessibility training, our Aecon Women in Trades and Aecon Diversity in Trades programs , and our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) to ensure we are building inclusion into every aspect of our culture at Aecon.
• Operating responsibly by minimizing our impact on the environment and surrounding communities.

What This Job Offers

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