Buyer, Category I

Progress Rail•La Grange, IL

13d•Onsite

About The Position

This position develops, leads, maintains and seeks approval of sourcing strategies from functional management. It continuously optimizes the Total Cost of Ownership and leads cost reduction programs. The role actively participates in the pre-bid and bid processes, up to the Aftermarket phase. It involves selecting, negotiating, and establishing contracts with suppliers, monitoring supplier performance, and resolving chronic problems regarding quality and supply. The position also leads the make/buy process up to approval from the Senior VP and works closely with all functions, supporting the resolution of operational issues when required. Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation—driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become one of the world’s largest and most trusted providers of railroad products, services, and technologies. Today, Progress Rail delivers a comprehensive portfolio of cost-effective solutions to railway customers around the globe. From the rails themselves to the EMD® locomotives that ride them, the company’s products are in operation across more than 100 countries—powering progress and connecting communities. In 2006, Progress Rail joined Caterpillar Inc., further strengthening its ability to lead the rail industry with cutting-edge technology, unmatched expertise, and a commitment to excellence. At Progress Rail, the team is not just building the future of rail—they are making history every day.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree
Experience of ERP systems and MS office product
Excellent computer skills
PCBA / CM / Electronics background
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible job‐related experience
Good verbal and written communication skills
Demonstrated analytical ability and problem-solving skills
Self-starter with initiative. ability to function with minimal supervision
Interpersonal skills to work within team environment
Ability to read (or learn to read) blueprints and understand basic Engineering documents
Experience with demand forecasting and inventory management
Ability to travel as required
Attention to detain, ability to multi-task and prioritize tasks with strict deadlines
Ability to apply logic and reasoning to identify solutions to problems
Demonstrated personal time management skills

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Engineering focus
Prior Purchasing experience
SAP exposure

Responsibilities

Develops, leads, maintains and seeks approval of sourcing strategies from functional management
Continuously optimizes the Total Cost of Ownership
Leads cost reduction program
Actively participates to the pre-bid and bid processes, up to Aftermarket phase
Selects, negotiates and establishes contracts with suppliers
Monitor supplier’s performance
Resolves chronic problems regarding quality and supply
Leads make/buy process up to approval from Senior VP
Works closely with all functions and supports resolution of operational issues when required
Negotiates price and terms with suppliers
Initiates and implements cost reductions on supplier products
Develop new and maintains current qualified suppliers for assigned commodities
Procures quality material to support demand requirements
Establishes and maintains supply base with capacity/capability to support requirements
Troubleshoots to resolve issues relating to assigned vendors and their parts
Responds quickly to changing production and aftermarket customer needs
Coordinates execution of engineering changes affecting purchased material
Provides expedite assistance to assure maximum schedule performance
Works cross-functionally with Engineering, Quality, Accounts Payable, Supply Chain, Transportation, Receiving, Production, Customer Service, Demand Planning, others
Coordinates with Supply Chain to control inventory by lead times, lot sizes, MOQs, etc
Monitors raw material/alloy trends, using this to manage part pricing to minimize cost
Negotiates settlement on material issues due to quality, scheduling, or other causes
Perform all duties in accordance with Our Values in Action, Caterpillar’s Code of Conduct
Adheres to company, purchasing, planning, and accounting policies and procedures

Benefits

Competitive Salary
401(k) plan with up to 6% company match (no waiting period with immediate vesting)
Medical/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability Insurance
Supplemental Accident, Critical Care, and Hospital Insurance available along with an HDHP and HSA with seed money
Flexible Spending Accounts
Paid Vacation
Paid Holidays
Paid Time-Off (PTO)
Employee Assistance Plan
Education Assistance Program
Employee Recognition Programs
Site specific Production and Incentive Plans
Site specific Step and Skill Level Wage Adjustment Plans
Site Specific Relocation and Sign-on Bonus Programs