Category Buyer II

La Grange, IL 60525

Employment Type: Permanent Job Category: Supply Chain Job Number: 45433636 Compensation: $90000-110000 / year

Job Description

Title: Category Buyer II

Location: La Grange, IL

Overview: Sterling has helped build careers for thousands for professionals like yourself. Our expert recruiters support you at every step in the process and as a Best of Staffing company, Sterling provides exciting work with exceptional employers across the U.S.

Hire Type: Direct Hire
Benefits:  Benefits from day 1 and almost 100% coverage! In addition to 11 paid holidays, 2-3 weeks vacations, 401K, etc.
Target Salary: $90-110,000K
Bonus/ Incentives/ Stock Options: up to 10% annual bonus

Job Summary: As a Category Buyer, you’ll lead sourcing strategies and supplier negotiations to optimize total cost, quality, and delivery across the supply chain. This role manages supplier relationships, contracts, and performance while supporting product development, cost reduction efforts, and operational issue resolution. You’ll work cross-functionally with internal teams and suppliers to ensure purchasing strategies align with business goals, leveraging the QCLDM (Quality, Cost, Logistics, Development, Management) framework. 

Job Duties:

  • Develop and execute sourcing strategies at site, regional, and global levels for critical engine components
  • Lead supplier selection, contract negotiations, and performance management
  • Drive cost savings, quality improvements, and supply chain efficiency initiatives
  • Support NPI (New Product Introduction) and make/buy decisions through strategic sourcing
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Supplier Quality Engineers and internal stakeholders
  • Mentor junior purchasing staff and contribute to 6 Sigma improvement projects
  • Ensure compliance with purchasing policies, agreements, and ERP processes
  • Build strong supplier relationships and resolve quality or delivery issues

Qualifications:

  • MUST have a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Engineering
  • Strong experience with ERP systems (SAP or LN preferred) and Microsoft Office
  • Solid understanding of supply chain, procurement, and engine components
  • Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing and QCLDM principles
  • Experience sourcing engine components like crankshafts, bearings, etc.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities, solve problems, and work independently
  • Proven leadership and team collaboration skills
  • Willingness to travel as needed
  • Professional certifications (e.g., C.P.M., CPIM, CIRM) preferred

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Meet Your Recruiter

Amy Badal
Technical Recruiter

Amy Badal is a seasoned Senior Recruiter passionate about connecting with individuals across diverse industries and various career stages. With an impressive 7-year tenure at Sterling, Amy has become an invaluable asset to the organization's talent acquisition efforts.

Amy's journey in recruiting spans over 11 years, during which she has acquired a wealth of knowledge and experience in the field. Her fascination with working alongside people from different backgrounds and professional levels has driven her successful career.

As a Senior Recruiter, Amy thrives on collaborating with candidates and hiring partners in the railroad industry. She relishes the chance to contribute to their career growth and the overall success of the organizations she serves. Amy's ability to understand each individual's unique needs and aspirations allows her to make insightful and tailored placements that benefit both parties.

One of Amy's most valuable pieces of advice is never to burn bridges and always maintain high professionalism throughout the hiring process.

As one of the most respected names in engineering staffing, Sterling has hundreds of opportunities with top employers. If you’ve got a friend or colleague seeking their next move in engineering, we could have their next opportunity. We offer a referral bonus for every referral that we place. Submit referral now. 

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About La Grange, IL

Discover exciting job opportunities in the vibrant area surrounding La Grange, Illinois! Nestled in Cook County, just 13 miles west of Chicago, La Grange offers a perfect blend of suburban charm and urban convenience. Job seekers in this area are not only met with a diverse range of career options but also with a rich cultural scene that includes the award-winning Art Institute of Chicago, the iconic Wrigley Field, and the world-class dining of Chicago's deep-dish pizza. With picturesque parks like Portage Park and the vibrant energy of the Chicago theater district, pursuing a career in La Grange opens the door to endless possibilities for personal and professional growth. Explore our job listings today and start your journey towards an exciting new chapter in this dynamic region!