Lead Materials Specialist

Wabtec•Erie, PA

9d•$68,900 - $98,200

About The Position

The Lead Materials Specialist provides materials management expertise to the operations team, maintains inventory accuracy and work-order consumption, and orders direct materials. The role solves problems, drives process adherence, develops and executes objectives, and contributes to short- and some long-term business goals. The specialist oversees internal kitting and lineside management of direct materials across multiple production lines, leads hourly associates responsible for receiving, stocking, kitting, and replenishment, and works with fulfillment, planning, and other materials specialists to forecast needs and develop plans for parts. The role uses Oracle ERP and MES systems, resolves discrepant and non-conforming materials, supports accurate physical inventory, and communicates materials guidance and metrics to stakeholders and leadership. This position also leads plantwide materials process-improvement projects, supports other shop operations when needed, and ensures compliance with applicable regulations, OSHA practices, and site-specific work rules. The role may require long hours and timely responses when issues are urgent.

Requirements

At least two current years of experience in a production or materials role in the manufacturing industry.
Comprehensive knowledge of manufacturing techniques and processes.
Strategic and creative thinking to analyze issues and develop solutions.
Basic shop math skills across units of measurement and the ability to read and use gauges and measuring instruments.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with strong attention to detail.
Strong organizational skills.
Strong interpersonal skills, with demonstrated ability to influence, motivate, coach, and drive accountability.
Experience with Microsoft Office Suite.
Ability to respond and communicate quickly and effectively when time is critical.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree or technical degree.
Understanding of continuous improvement, lean manufacturing concepts, and production schedules.
Experience with ERP systems; Oracle is preferred.

Responsibilities

Work with fulfillment and planning teams to forecast and prevent part shortages affecting production, escalate issues, and communicate with operations teams.
Own internal kitting and lineside management of direct materials for multiple production lines.
Manage direct-material presentation through kits and lineside bins.
Lead hourly associates responsible for receiving, stocking, kitting, and material replenishment.
Work with other materials specialists to develop an optimal plan for every part.
Use Oracle ERP and MES software to manage material and other system requirements.
Maintain inventory and transactional accuracy as requirements change for modernization and new-build locomotive programs.
Provide timely disposition resolution for discrepant and non-conforming material.
Achieve a high level of accuracy during yearly physical inventory.
Communicate materials guidance to management and Wabtec employees.
Collaborate across functions to support customer success within the shop.
Ensure compliance with applicable regulations, OSHA work practices, and industry- and site-specific rules.
Lead plantwide materials process-improvement projects in addition to lineside and kitting responsibilities.
Support and improve other shop operations functions beyond traditional job responsibilities.
Occasionally report on and present materials metrics and project improvements to senior and executive leadership.
Respond and communicate promptly to urgent issues, working long hours when necessary to complete the job.