Charlotte, NC, US
Position Title: Specialist, Category Management
Come Build Your Career at Aecon!
As a North American leader in infrastructure development, Aecon is safely and sustainably building what matters for future generations to thrive! We lead some of the most impactful infrastructure projects of our generation, at the forefront of transformational change in transportation and energy, and partnering every day to build, connect, power, and strengthen our communities.
At Aecon, you can count on:
- Safety Always. Our number one core value. If we can’t do it safely, we don’t do it at all.
- Integrity. We lead by example, with humility and courage.
- Accountability. We’re passionate about delivering on our commitments.
- Inclusion. We provide equitable opportunities for everyone.
We lead the infrastructure industry with purpose, and our people are at the heart of everything we do. So, we invest in our people, just like they invest in us!
At Aecon we:
- Ensure you and your family receive the services needed to support your mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
- Believe in helping you build your career through our Aecon University and Leadership Programs.
- Are committed to 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.
- Are a leader in sustainable construction. With a strong commitment to operating responsibly by minimizing our impact on the environment and surrounding communities.
Our business success relies on strong execution and continuous improvement – driven by the diversity, expertise and teamwork of our people. We’re always searching the globe for innovative, collaborative minds to join our best-in-class Aecon community!
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:
- 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 diversity, inclusion and 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.
Nearest Major Market: Charlotte