Procurement Specialist – Category Buyer in Portland, Oregon - #71731 | VanderHouwen

Description

Job Id: 71731

Procurement Specialist – Category Buyer
Our client is seeking a proactive and detail-oriented procurement professional who thrives at the intersection of strategy and execution. The ideal candidate is a collaborative problem solver with strong negotiation skills, sound judgment, and the ability to manage competing priorities while maintaining compliance and accuracy. This individual brings a customer-focused mindset, analytical strength, and the confidence to partner effectively with suppliers and internal stakeholders.

This role is a hybrid model in Portland, Oregon.

Procurement Specialist – Category Buyer Responsibilities

• Lead tactical sourcing initiatives, including execution of RFIs, RFPs, and RFQs aligned to established category strategies.
• Negotiate pricing, commercial terms, and conditions for mid-complexity categories while ensuring policy and regulatory compliance.
• Draft, review, and manage contracts, renewals, and amendments to ensure accuracy, audit readiness, and lifecycle oversight.
• Serve as the primary liaison for suppliers, supporting onboarding, performance monitoring, and issue resolution.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to define requirements, provide procurement guidance, and drive process improvements and cost optimization efforts.

Procurement Specialist – Category Buyer Qualifications

• 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 administration, or category management.
• Demonstrated experience leading RFx events and negotiating contracts within mid-complexity spend categories.
• Proficiency with procurement and ERP systems, along with intermediate Microsoft Office skills.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills with the ability to manage deadlines, adapt to shifting priorities, and influence cross-functional stakeholders.
• Preferred certifications such as CPSM, CIPS, or similar procurement credentials are a plus.

Compensation: Up to $36.44/hr. (DOE)

VanderHouwen Contractors Enjoy Exceptional Benefit Perks!
As an eligible contract employee with VanderHouwen, you’ll have access to a full suite of benefits designed with your well-being in mind. Our comprehensive package includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short- and long-term disability, and a matching 401(k) to help secure your future.

Meet VanderHouwen
What kind of recruiter do you see yourself working with? One who prioritizes your best interest, no matter what? VanderHouwen does, and we’re in it for the long game! Our recruiters focus on YOU, building meaningful, long-term relationships while developing a deep understanding of companies’ staffing needs and workplace cultures. This approach helps us find an ideal job match that aligns with your unique career aspirations and goals.

VanderHouwen is an award-winning, Women & Diversity-Owned, WBENC certified professional staffing firm. Founded in 1987, VanderHouwen places experienced professionals across the nation! Our recruitment teams specialize in either Technology and IT, Engineering, Human Resources, or Accounting and Finance career markets. Partner with us to land your next exciting career!

VanderHouwen is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify. VanderHouwen does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state, or federal civil rights laws.

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