Buyer​/Purchasing Specialist

The Buyer/Purchasing Specialist is responsible for executing operational purchasing activities to ensure material availability (~70%) while supporting strategic sourcing initiatives by identifying new/alternative suppliers and parts (~30%).

This role is hands-on and execution-focused, ensuring timely ordering, supplier follow-up, expediting, and tracking, while also contributing to sourcing and cost improvement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Create and manage purchase orders for production materials, spare parts, services, indirect materials.
• Monitor and track all purchase orders to ensure on-time delivery, correct quantities, and accurate pricing.
• Communicate proactively with suppliers to obtain order status updates, confirm delivery dates, and resolve or prevent delays; expedite urgent requests as required.
• Coordinate closely with internal departments such as Production, Planning, and Engineering to clarify material requirements and support material availability.
• Provide timely updates to relevant stakeholders on order status, risks, and potential supply issues.
• Maintain purchasing-related master data, including supplier information, pricing, lead times, and minimum order quantities.
• Support sourcing activities for new and existing parts by identifying new or alternative suppliers, issuing RFQs, and evaluating supplier quotations.
• Support negotiations with suppliers regarding pricing, lead times, payment terms, and commercial conditions.
• Collaborate with internal teams on new product introductions, design changes, and alternative sourcing options.

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum 3 years of experience Purchasing, Procurement, or Supply Chain within a manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of Procurement and Supply Chain Management principles and practices.
• Ability to read, interpret, and understand technical drawings, specifications, and bills of materials (BOMs).
• Strong experience with operational buying processes and a good understanding of sourcing, negotiations, and supplier selection principles.
• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or a related field
  -or equivalent professional experience.
• Proficiency in MS Excel and ERP systems; SAP experience preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and execution discipline.
• Proactive and solution-oriented mindset.
• Strong supplier communication and relationship management skills.
• Ability to balance transactional workload with strategic initiatives.
• Ability to analyze data and make informed purchasing decisions.

What We offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• 401(k) with company match
• Generous paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays)
• Life and disability insurance
• Employment in a growing rail industry market with long-term prospects
• A dynamic, international environment with growth potential and strong leadership support
• Exposure to both operational purchasing and strategic sourcing activities
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous improvement initiatives

Karla Carlson answers all your questions about training. With extensive expertise and an open ear, she is there for you to discuss all aspects of our training programs, provide clarity and help you find the right path for your professional journey.

Karla Carlson

Phone:

-800

We look forward to receiving your detailed application via our application form.