Charlotte, NC, US
Position Title: Specialist, Category Management
Come Build Your Career at Aecon!
Aecon delivers some of the most complex and impactful infrastructure projects — from transformative transportation networks to critical energy, industrial and nuclear programs. The projects we build connect communities and power future generations. With deep roots in North America and a strong footprint internationally, Aecon brings global expertise and proudly serves public and private sector clients through its Construction and Concessions segment.
Safety Always is not only our #1 core value – it is the standard that anchors our culture. We believe the most ambitious projects deserve the most committed people. At Aecon, you won’t just build your career — you’ll help build what matters to enable future generations to thrive.
At Aecon, you can count on:
- Safety Always. Our number one core value. The safety of our people, projects, partners, and stakeholders is our priority focus – today and always.
- Integrity. We lead by example, with humility and courage.
- Accountability. We’re passionate about delivering on our commitments.
- Inclusion. We provide opportunities where people feel valued, supported, and empowered to contribute fully.
We deliver infrastructure with purpose, and our people are at the heart of everything we do. Aecon employees are incredibly proud to build some of the most impactful infrastructure of this generation – we call it Aecon Proud.
At Aecon we:
- Ensure you and your family receive the services and benefits needed to support your mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
- Are intentional when it comes to investing in your development. We help you build your career and advance your skills through our Aecon University, tuition reimbursement, and Leadership Programs.
- Are committed to creating work environments focused on mutual respect, teamwork, collaboration, and new ideas, through meaningful initiatives, training, and partnerships with Veteran groups, to ensure we are building with top talent and harnessing our collective strengths within every aspect of our culture.
- Operate responsibly by managing risk, safety, and environmental considerations across all our projects and surrounding communities.
Our success is built on the passion, expertise, and dedication of our people. Together, we embrace strong execution, innovation, and continuous improvement — values that come to life through the unique talents and collaborative spirit of every team member. If you’re inspired to make a difference through future-building projects, join our best-in-class team.
What is the Opportunity?
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.
What You’ll Do Here:
- 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
What You Bring to the Team:
- 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
- Professional certifications (e.g., CPSM)
- Results-driven mindset
Aecon fosters belonging within and across our organization. We consider all applicants for positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, mental or physical disabilities, veteran status, and all other characteristics protected by law.
We are committed to adhering to the objectives and requirements outlined in the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), and to meeting the accessibility needs of persons with disabilities in a timely manner, through the implementation of the requirements of the EEOC and its applicable regulations. Appropriate accommodation under the EEOC will be provided upon request throughout the interview and hiring process.
Aecon is committed to ensuring all job postings are compliant with all applicable laws. Any candidate who has a concern regarding the contents of this or any other job posting can email aecon@aecon.com.
Nearest Major Market: Charlotte