Category Manager - Lab Equipment

RK Management Consultants, Inc.; Northbrook (IL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consulting firm located in Northbrook, IL is seeking a Category Manager to lead sourcing strategies for capital equipment essential to lab construction. The ideal candidate has at least 3 years of experience in strategic sourcing, a strong understanding of lab requirements, and excellent communication skills. This role offers a contract-to-hire opportunity with collaboration across various teams to ensure successful project execution.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in strategic sourcing or procurement focused on capital equipment.
• Strong understanding of lab construction requirements and ability to influence teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead sourcing strategy for capital equipment critical to lab construction.
• Drive engagement with stakeholders to ensure sourcing involvement in planning.

Skills

Strategic sourcing

Vendor management

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, Engineering, Business or related field

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

Sourcing tools

Project management systems

Job description

Job Overview

Job Title: Category Manager

Role Type: Contract-to-Hire

Location: Northbrook, IL

Responsibilities

• Lead sourcing strategy and execution for capital equipment including lab equipment like Chambers, RTO, HVAC systems, and other infrastructure critical to lab construction.
• Partner closely with cross functional teams including Business Facilities, EHS, Construction and Project Management teams to understand project requirements and align sourcing timelines.
• Drive proactive engagement with business stakeholders to ensure early involvement of sourcing in project planning and budgeting.
• Promote adherence to sourcing policies, including standard payment terms, contract lead times, and supplier qualification processes.
• Develop and manage RFQs/RFPs, supplier evaluations, and contract negotiations to secure optimal pricing, terms, and service levels.
• Ensure timely execution of MSAs, SOWs, and POs in alignment with project milestones.
• Monitor supplier performance, delivery schedules, and quality metrics throughout the project lifecycle.
• Educate internal teams on sourcing processes through playbooks, training sessions, and collaborative planning.
• Create visibility into sourcing status and risks through dashboards, reports, and regular stakeholder updates.
• Support quality Audits at the supplier with a Quality lead.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, Engineering, Business, or related field; master’s preferred.
• 3+ years of experience in strategic sourcing or procurement, with a focus on capital equipment or lab infrastructure.
• Strong understanding of lab construction requirements and equipment specifications.
• Proven ability to influence cross-functional teams and drive sourcing compliance.
• Experience negotiating complex supplier contracts and managing vendor relationships.
• Familiarity with sourcing tools and project management systems.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and analytical skills.
• Experience in regulated environments.