Category Officer | Procurement | Full Time | Preston

Lancashire County Council; Preston; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Preston is seeking a Category Officer to support procurement activities and contract management. The ideal candidate should have strong analytical skills, knowledge of procurement processes, and experience with specialised software. This position offers a competitive salary, generous leave, and development opportunities.

Benefits

Local Government Pension Scheme

26 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Staff discount scheme

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Strong analytical skills and the ability to explain technical issues to non-technical users.
• Experience working independently with specialised systems or IT software.
• Detailed knowledge of procurement processes and regulatory frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Carry out procurement and contract activities, supporting Category Managers with technical and analytical tasks.
• Independently manage low-risk procurement processes, including tenders and supplier engagement.
• Provide practical advice and guidance to internal customers.

Skills

Analytical skills

Written communication

Technical explanation

Procurement process knowledge

Education

5 GCSEs (Grade C and above) including English and Maths

Tools

Specialised systems or IT software

Job description

Salary £32,061 – £36,363 per annum | Fixed Term until 31/12/2026, Full time 37 hours per week | County Hall, Preston

Are you a procurement professional with an eye for detail and a passion for public service? Join our Procurement and Contract Management Service and help deliver high-quality, value-for-money procurement solutions across Lancashire County Council.

As a Category Officer, You Will

• Carry out procurement and contract activities, supporting Category Managers with technical and analytical tasks.
• Independently manage low-risk procurement processes, including tenders and supplier engagement.
• Provide practical advice and guidance to internal customers, interpreting procedures and applying best practice.
• Analyse procurement data, identify discrepancies, and support service delivery improvements.
• Stay up to date with policy, legislation, and contractual requirements to ensure compliance and effective service delivery.

What We're Looking For

• 5 GCSEs (Grade C and above) including English and Maths.
• Experience working independently with specialised systems or IT software.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to explain technical issues to non-technical users.
• Excellent written communication and task prioritisation skills.
• Detailed knowledge of procurement processes and regulatory frameworks.

Join us and help shape a modern, efficient procurement service that supports communities across Lancashire. Apply now to be part of a collaborative and forward-thinking team.

Closing Date

21st November - 2025

Application review is ongoing, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on this exciting opportunity.

Why join us?

By joining Lancashire County Council, you can shape the career path that is right for you, with opportunities to gain personal and professional qualifications, coaching, and mentoring. Lancashire County Council truly is the place where you can have the career you've always wanted.

Benefits

• A competitive salary and Local Government Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions.
• A great holiday entitlement of 26 days annual leave, which increases with length of service. You will also be entitled to 8 Bank Holidays, 2 additional statutory Bank Holidays, and have the option to buy additional leave each year.
• Our staff discount scheme in partnership with Vivup, allowing you to access discounts with a range of UK retailers, saving on everything from weekly food shops to white goods and cars.
• Access to fantastic development and career opportunities.

Please ensure you have uploaded and attached your supporting statement to evidence how you meet the criteria for the role. The panel may be unable to shortlist you for interview without this evidence.