Senior Category Manager

Senior Category Manager (Subcontracts Admin Staff V)The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.The Aerospace Supply Chain organization is seeking a strategic and results-driven Senior Category Manager to lead procurement activities for critical indirect categories including Research & Development (R&D), Prototyping, Maintenance, Repair & Operations (MRO), Calibration services, and Enterprise Services.In this high-impact role, you will develop and execute category strategies that drive cost savings, ensure supply continuity, and align with corporate objectives. You'll lead vendor negotiations, conduct market analysis, and build strong cross-functional partnerships to deliver value across the organization. The ideal candidate brings 5-7 years of procurement and strategic sourcing experience, with a proven track record in managing indirect categories and delivering measurable results in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.Our Supply Chain organization manages all aspects of procurement for the entire corporation, offering the opportunity to be part of a diverse team that procures a wide range of capital, indirect, and government-funded products and services—including IT, specialized equipment, research and development, facilities services, engineering, design, and construction.The selected candidate will be required to work full-time on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.What You'll Be DoingLead strategic sourcing and category management for Research & Development (R&D), Prototyping, Maintenance, Repair & Operations (MRO), and Calibration services, with additional responsibility for Enterprise Services as neededDevelop and execute category strategies that align with business objectives, drive cost savings, and ensure supply continuityManage sourcing activities for assigned indirect commodities, including goods and services, while executing and overseeing the timely award of contracts and purchase ordersConduct market analysis and supplier assessments to identify opportunities for cost reduction, process improvement, and risk mitigation.Lead vendor negotiations to secure favorable pricing, delivery terms, and service level agreementsTrack and report procurement savings and ensure compliance with established policies and proceduresBuild and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders across R&D, Operations, Quality, and other functions to understand requirements and deliver valueCollaborate with key stakeholders to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and support business initiativesMonitor supplier performance and resolve any issues or discrepancies promptly to maintain operational excellenceEnsure proper documentation and record-keeping for audit purposes and contract complianceWhat You Need to be SuccessfulMinimum Requirements for the Senior Category Manager ( Subcontract Administration Staff V) include:Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration or a related field is requiredA minimum of (5) years of hands-on experience in Supply Chain, Procurement, Strategic Sourcing, or Category Management is requiredDemonstrated experience in procurement planning, strategic sourcing, and executing procurement plans for indirect categoriesProven experience managing R&D, MRO, Prototyping, and/or Calibration categoriesStrong project management skills with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneouslyExcellent communication and negotiation skills, with strong attention to detail and organizational abilitiesStrong analytical skills for evaluating procurement data, market trends, and vendor performance, with experience in presenting data analysis summaries to various audiences, including senior managementHow You Can Stand OutIt would be impressive if you have one or more of these:Master's degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration, or a related fieldCertification in Supply Chain Management (e.g., CPSM, CSCP, CPM)Experience managing Enterprise Services categories (e.g., consulting, professional services, contingent workforce)Familiarity with SAP / ARIBA (source to pay) systemsExperience in the aerospace or highly regulated industry supporting indirect commoditiesTrack record of delivering significant cost savings and process improvements through strategic sourcing initiativesWe offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.(Min - Max)$120,300.00 - $180,400.00Pay Basis: AnnualLeadership CompetenciesOur leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:Operate StrategicallyLead ChangeEngage with ImpactFoster InnovationDeliver ResultsWays We Reward Our EmployeesDuring your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:Comprehensive health care and wellness plansPaid holidays, sick time, and vacationStandard and alternate work schedules, including telework options401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hireFlexible spending accountsVariable pay program for exceptional contributionsRelocation assistanceProfessional growth and development programs to help advance your careerEducation assistance programsAn inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respectWe are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.Equal Opportunity CommitmentThe Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at or by email at . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.