Sr. Category Manager - Optics
$95,000–$123,000 year
On-siteCamas, Washington, United States
Job Summary
Develop and execute sourcing strategies for critical precision optics categories, shaping supplier portfolios through segmentation and capability coverage to reduce single-source dependency. Drive supplier performance via scorecards and quarterly business reviews, negotiating commercial terms including pricing, lead times, and risk-sharing frameworks to ensure cost competitiveness and continuity. Partner with Engineering, Quality, Operations, and Program teams on supplier selection, qualification activities, and make/buy decisions for new and sustaining products. Monitor market conditions and geopolitical risks to proactively identify supply constraints, implementing alternate sourcing and recovery planning as needed. Ensure all sourcing activities comply with applicable regulations and internal policies while improving processes through analytics and cross-functional collaboration.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, or a related discipline
- 8+ years of experience in category management, strategic sourcing, supply chain, or a related field
- Experience developing category strategies and managing supplier relationships in a manufacturing, technology, or regulated environment
- Demonstrated experience negotiating supplier agreements and commercial terms
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
- Experience leading sourcing, supplier performance, or process improvement initiatives
- Proficiency in ERP systems, Microsoft Excel, and other sourcing or analytics tools
- Demonstrated ability to influence stakeholders, manage competing priorities, and deliver results in a cross-functional environment
- US Person (US citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual granted asylum or refugee status)
Desired Qualifications
- Familiarity with government contracting, trade compliance, or regulated industry requirements, including FAR, DFARS, ITAR, or EAR
- Experience with sourcing and technical challenges for the following categories: Precision Optics, Reflective Optics, Coated Optics, Photonic Components, Fiber Optics, Optical Assemblies, Beam Combining
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