Procurement Specialist in Portland, Oregon - #72412 | VanderHouwen

Description

Job Id: 72412

Procurement Specialist
Our client is seeking a Procurement Specialist to support sourcing and procurement operations across assigned business categories. This role will serve as a key connection point between procurement strategy and day-to-day execution, managing sourcing activities, supplier coordination, and contract administration. The ideal candidate brings direct, hands-on procurement experience with a strong background leading RFPs, negotiating service-based agreements, and partnering closely with internal stakeholders to drive efficient and compliant procurement outcomes.

This role is a hybrid model in Portland, Oregon.

Procurement Specialist Responsibilities

• Lead tactical sourcing initiatives including RFIs, RFPs, and RFQs in alignment with procurement and business objectives.
• Partner with internal stakeholders to define project requirements, sourcing timelines, and procurement deliverables.
• Develop bid packages, coordinate vendor communications, and evaluate supplier proposals and pricing submissions.
• Negotiate pricing, contract terms, service agreements, and commercial conditions for assigned procurement categories.
• Draft, review, and manage contracts, renewals, amendments, and termination documentation.
• Maintain accurate procurement and contract records to support compliance, reporting, and audit readiness.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for suppliers regarding operational issues, performance concerns, and ongoing procurement activities.
• Support supplier onboarding processes and ensure adherence to company governance and compliance standards.
• Monitor supplier performance and escalate risks or concerns to procurement leadership as appropriate.
• Ensure procurement activities comply with organizational policies, regulatory requirements, and sourcing best practices.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements, operational efficiencies, and cost optimization initiatives.
• Facilitate communication between procurement teams, suppliers, and cross-functional business partners throughout the sourcing lifecycle.
• Manage multiple sourcing activities simultaneously while maintaining strong attention to detail and meeting critical deadlines.

Procurement Specialist Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Finance, or a related field preferred, or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum of 2–3 years of direct procurement, sourcing, purchasing, or category management experience required.
• Prior experience holding titles such as Procurement Specialist, Buyer, Category Buyer, or similar procurement-focused roles strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience leading RFPs, RFQs, and RFI processes from initiation through award.
• Experience negotiating service-based contracts, pricing agreements, and supplier terms required.
• Strong understanding of procurement operations, sourcing methodologies, and supplier management practices.
• Experience working with procurement and ERP systems such as PeopleSoft, SharePoint, eRecords, or similar platforms preferred.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and decision-making skills with the ability to manage competing priorities effectively.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Ability to collaborate effectively across cross-functional teams and influence business decisions.
• Intermediate to advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
• Strong presentation, facilitation, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to adapt quickly in changing environments while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• CPSM, CIPS, or other procurement certifications 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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