Category Officer | Procurement | Full Time | Preston

Salaryper 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 were 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: 21^st 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 youve always wanted.

In return for your passion and expertise we offer a generous benefits package which includes:

• 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.

Job Description & Person Specification