Advanced Purchasing Analyst

Job Overview

Apply for the Advanced Purchasing Analyst role at Progress Rail, a Caterpillar Company
. The position can be filled in Muncie or Lagrange.

City:
Muncie
State:
Indiana

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.

Using the existing system, ensure the timely purchasing and delivery of material to the facility to meet the production schedule while maintaining a competitive cost structure and minimum inventory levels. Assist Category buyers with data analysis, contract negotiation, supplier relations, purchase order development, and invoice problem resolution. All other duties as assigned.

Key responsibilities include:

• Effectively manage purchase order problem resolution to mitigate impact to operations and production groups
• Communicate supplier relationship issues to Purchasing Management and shortages to the operations group and assist in the development of a recovery plan
• Monitor production activity; be proactive and focus on support
• Maintain Material Master Data
• Ensure POs have been placed and transmitted to suppliers
• Monitor and maintain departmental metrics
• Participate in regular cross‑functional meetings
• Follow up with customer (operations) and understand their needs
• Maintain ERP system accuracy
• React to ERP error messages in a timely and effective manner
• Participate in cross‑functional Lean activities

• 4‑year degree (Business, Engineering, or Supply Chain specialization preferred)
• Diploma/Certificate in Supply Chain Management or equivalent training

Required:

• Strong MS Excel and ERP/MRP system skills
• Competency with other computer‑based programs such as Word, Outlook, PowerPoint; LN & SAP helpful
• Solid problem‑solving, analytical and decision‑making skills
• Demonstrated ability to work in a self‑directed, team‑based environment
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to negotiate solutions with suppliers and internal customers

Preferred:

• Planning in a low volume, highly complex BOM environment
• Six Sigma trained
• Experience working with ERP systems

• Strength – Position involves work in a standard office environment. Frequent sitting. Occasional standing, walking. Rare lifting
• Motion – Position requires standard repetitive motions and hand/eye coordination associated with research and central office communications
• Vision/Hearing Requirements – Frequent communications, including both talking and hearing
• Work Environment – Position will typically be located in an office environment
• Emotional Demands – Position is vital to the organization, as no service or support product can enter multiple Progress Rail facilities without the Sourcing Team; high degree of flexibility and demand with ability to work with a team to accomplish the mission
• Safety – Position is primarily limited to general office safety and travel requirements

• 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
• Benefits eligibility varies by job position, full‑time/part‑time and regular/temporary status. The provisions of the plan documents control such benefits
• Subject to position, eligibility, and plan guidelines.

• Job Category:
  Transportation, Logistics, Supply Chain and Purchasing
• Facility
  
  Location:
  
  Muncie, IN Locomotive - 293
• Summary Pay Range: $57,538.38 – $
• Seniority Level: Mid‑Senior level
• Employment Type:
  
  Full‑time
• Job Function:
  Purchasing and Supply Chain
• Industries:
  Railroad Equipment Manufacturing

EEO Progress Rail is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.