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

Description

Job Id: 71731

Procurement Specialist – Category Buyer
Our client is seeking a procurement professional who can confidently lead sourcing initiatives from intake through contract execution, with a strong emphasis on driving Requests for Proposals (RFPs), partnering closely with business stakeholders, and negotiating service-based agreements. This role is ideal for someone who combines strategic thinking with hands-on execution, brings a consultative approach to stakeholder engagement, and thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

This role is a hybrid model in Portland, Oregon.

Procurement Specialist – Category Buyer Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end sourcing events, including RFIs, RFPs, and RFQs, with a strong focus on independently managing RFP processes.
• Partner closely with internal business stakeholders to define requirements, scope services, and align sourcing strategies to business needs.
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and service-based contracts for mid-complexity categories while ensuring compliance with internal policies.
• Draft, review, and manage contracts, renewals, and amendments, maintaining accuracy and full lifecycle visibility.
• Serve as a key point of contact for suppliers, supporting onboarding, performance management, and issue resolution.

Procurement Specialist – Category Buyer Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Finance, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• 2–4 years of experience in procurement, sourcing, or contract management, with direct ownership of RFP processes.
• Proven experience sourcing and contracting for mid-complexity services, including negotiating service-based agreements.
• Demonstrated ability to partner with business stakeholders to gather requirements and drive sourcing outcomes.
• Proficiency with procurement or ERP systems and strong Microsoft Office skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Professional certifications such as CPSM, CIPS, or similar are preferred.

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.

#LI-Hybrid