Mechanical Category Lead

POSITION SUMMARY The Category Lead, Mechanical owns the Mechanical and Plumbing (MP) systems category where integration of labor, materials, and prefab is critical (e.g., air handling units, chillers, boilers, pumps, ductwork, piping systems, plumbing fixtures, controls). Focuses on system level optimization, rather than individual components, to support complex building and industrial projects.

RESPONSIBILITIES Category Strategy & Roadmap Defines holistic strategies for major MEP systems (mechanical plants, distribution systems, plumbing systems, controls), including:

Establishes standardized system “families” and preferred solutions by market and building type.

Evaluates make‑vs‑buy and prefab vs. field‑build decisions, in concert with Prefab and Design Phase teams.

Aligns with Self‑Perform Mechanical, National Water, mission critical / healthcare, and national MEP leadership.

Spend & Market Intelligence Builds and maintains material taxonomy, spend views, and should cost models for major mechanical components.

Tracks mechanical market conditions including lead times, air handling units, chillers, boilers, pumps, ductwork, piping systems, plumbing fixtures, controls pricing, standards, codes, tariffs, and informs early buy down opportunities.

Builds TCO models that reflect equipment + piping/duct + installation + commissioning + lifecycle energy/maintenance.

Tracks OEM and integrator landscapes, including design assist partners and MEP subs capable of supporting national or regional programs.

Sourcing & Contracting Co-leads sourcing events with Strategic Sourcing for:

Key MEP OEMs including HVAC equipment, controls, specialty systems.

Strategic MEP subcontractors and integrators (design‑build/design‑assist).Establishes partnering frameworks (e.g. framework agreements, preferred partner programs) emphasizing:

Standardization and repeatability

Early collaboration in design and precon

Alignment with prefab and logistics models

Supplier & Risk Management Owns SRM for strategic mechanical suppliers, ensuring:

Capacity and prioritization for mega projects and program work.

Robust warranty, commissioning, and technical support.

Leads risk assessments for long lead / critical items (e.g., AHUS, chillers, boilers) and defines mitigation including alternate OEMs, standardization, and early commitment.

Identifies high risk MEP scopes (e.g., mission critical, healthcare, water/process, large industrial) and design sourcing and contracting to address:

Capacity and qualified labor availability.

Commissioning, warranty, and performance guarantees.

Coordination risk among trades and suppliers.

Governance, Standards & Playbooks Develops and maintains Mechanical Category Playbook:

Preferred specifications, OEMs, channel strategy, ordering rules, lead time guidance.

Ensures integration with VDC, design standards, and prefab assemblies.

Partners with 02S Solutions Integration to embed mechanical procurement workflows in project intake and margin planning.

Key Interfaces Internal:
Self‑Perform Mechanical, National Water & Process Pipe, regional MEP leaders, Design Phase / VDC, Prefab Leadership, 02S Logistics, 02S Buyers, Project Ops.

External: MEP OEMs, integrators, key MEP subs, commissioning agents, controls vendors. QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering, Supply Chain, Business, or related field5+ years of progressive experience in mechanical systems and equipment, with category management experience, procurement, or strategic sourcing management

Proven track record in supplier negotiations and contract management

Experience implementing sourcing technology and analytics toolsCPSM, PMP, or similar certification preferred

Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management…