Position summary:
The Purchasing Agent will purchase machinery, equipment, tools, parts, supplies, and materials needed to support the operation of a railcar maintenance (repair, cleaning, and paint / coating) facility.

Tasks:

• Prepares purchase orders for machinery, equipment, tools, parts, supplies, and materials.
• Researches and evaluates suppliers based on price, quality, selection, service, support, availability, reliability, production, and distribution capabilities.
• Obtains purchased items by forwarding purchase orders to suppliers and monitors and / or expedites orders as necessary.
• Monitors inventory and ensures parts and materials ordered are needed.
• Verifies receipt of items by comparing items received to items ordered and if necessary, resolves shipments in error with suppliers.
• Monitors delivery dates / schedules of items and materials ordered.
• Obtains supplier quotes that address location needs.
• Negotiates prices with suppliers, vendors, and other representatives.
• Maintains files and records of current and potential suppliers, materials, prices, delivery dates, inventories, and purchase orders.
• Authorizes payment for purchases by forwarding receiving documentation and other appropriate paperwork.

Skills:

• Inventory Control - Ability to maintain cost and control of machinery, equipment, tools, parts, supplies, and material inventory.
• Organizational Skills - Ability to organize work efficiently and act independently to deliver results.
• Time Management Skills - Ability to manage time effectively by completing multiple projects on time within a fast pace environment.
• Detail Oriented - Ability to verify accuracy and correctness of data / information and revise any errors.
• Communication Skills - Ability to communicate ideas / information in writing and through speech so that others will understand.
• Computer Skills - Proficient in MS Office (e.g., Word, Excel) applications with the ability to learn Eagle Railcar database systems.
• Safety - Ability to understand and follow all safety rules, wear PPE required for job, and focus on preventing safety incidents.
• Work within an industrial office environment.
• Sitting and standing for extended periods of time.
• Occasionally lift up to 35 lbs.

Qualities:

• Ability to communicate effectively (oral & written).
• Dependable
• Teachable
• Mechanically Inclined
• Committed to Personal Excellence (Safety, Quality, Productivity)

Experience and Education:

• High School Diploma (or GED or High School Equivalence Certificate)
• 1-3 years’ experience with purchasing material, inventory management or similar filed.
• Experience with purchasing materials for a railcar maintenance facility or heavy industrial environment preferred but not required.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Day shift

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Work Location: In person