Remote Category Sourcing & Operations Specialist

Lumen; Columbus (OH); Remote; USD 85,000 - 113,000; Full time

Job summary

Lumen is a leader in AI-ready connectivity, offering high-performance, secure solutions across cloud, edge, and AI workloads. The Sr.

Category Operations Specialist supports procurement strategies for Outside Plant services, collaborates with Network Construction, and drives cost optimization and supplier performance improvements. The role involves spend analysis, supplier onboarding, RFI/RFQ/RFP activities, and contract administration, with a focus on effective procurement operations and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required or equivalent experience.
• 2–4 years in procurement, strategic sourcing, or supplier management.
• Ability to analyze spend and performance data and make recommendations.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel for data analysis and reporting.

Responsibilities

• Analyze spend, supplier performance, service demand, and market trends to identify sourcing opportunities and optimize costs.
• Develop reports, dashboards, and metrics with the Reporting & Analytics team.
• Maintain visibility into category spend and supplier utilization.
• Coordinate contracts, statements of work, amendments, and renewals with stakeholders.

Skills

Spend analysis

Supplier management

Data analysis

Excel proficiency

Education

Bachelor's degree in supply chain or related field

Tools

SAP

Ariba

Excel

Job description

Lumen is a leader in AI-ready connectivity, offering high-performance, secure solutions across cloud, edge, and AI workloads. The Sr.

Category Operations Specialist supports procurement strategies for Outside Plant services, collaborates with Network Construction, and drives cost optimization and supplier performance improvements. The role involves spend analysis, supplier onboarding, RFI/RFQ/RFP activities, and contract administration, with a focus on effective procurement operations and