Commodity Buyer- Manufacturing

Commodity Buyer- Manufacturing

Job Category: Administrative Support Requisition Number: BUYER003444

Location: Hazel Crest, IL 60429, USA

Description

The most complete lifting company in the world, Lanco represents four iconic, world-class heavy equipment manufacturers, mobile crane dealerships across US and Canada, the largest parts and service network in North America, and factory-authorized technician training. In this role, you will support Mi-Jack Products, Inc. Established in 1954, Mi-Jack Products is recognized as an industry leader and innovator in Travelift and Translift Rubber Tired Gantry crane manufacturing, sales, service, and support. Mi-Jack is also the industry leader in providing maintenance services, inspections, repairs and parts for the railroad, port and industrial equipment end-users. From the engineering department to the manufacturing floor, we are committed to providing a superior product and an unsurpassed customer experience.

Position Overview: The Buyer (Commodity Buyer) is responsible for managing sourcing strategy, supplier relationships, and material flow for key fabricated components supporting manufacturing operations. This role balances tactical execution with strategic initiatives, including cost savings, supplier development, and Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) programs. This position plays a critical role in driving total cost of ownership improvements while ensuring uninterrupted supply to support production and new product development.

What You Will Do:

• Commodity & Supplier Management: Manage assigned commodities, with a strong focus on fabricated components (steel, weldments, machined parts). Develop and execute sourcing strategies that align with operational and financial goals. Build and maintain strong supplier relationships while holding vendors accountable for performance (cost, quality, delivery).
• Cost Savings & Continuous Improvement: Lead and support cost savings initiatives, including resourcing, supplier negotiations, and value engineering opportunities. Analyze spend, market trends, and supplier performance to identify cost reduction opportunities. Drive continuous improvement across the supply base and internal processes.
• Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) & Material Flow: Support and expand Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) programs to improve inventory turns and reduce stockouts. Optimize material flow using MRP, forecasting, and supplier collaboration. Ensure continuity of supply for fabrication and production schedules.
• Tactical Procurement Execution: Process purchase orders and manage order lifecycle, including expediting critical materials as needed. Evaluate supplier quotes and ensure alignment with cost, quality, and lead time expectations. Maintain accurate supplier pricing and lead times within ERP systems.
• Cross-Functional Partnership: Partner with engineering, operations, and supply chain teams to support design changes, new product introductions, and production needs. Proactively address supply risks and recommend alternative solutions. Support quality and operational teams in resolving supplier-related issues.

Qualifications Guidelines:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 3–7+ years of experience in purchasing, sourcing, or commodity management in a manufacturing environment
• Experience sourcing fabrication, weldments, or machined components strongly preferred
• Demonstrated success in: Supplier negotiations and relationship management, cost savings / cost reduction initiatives, Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) or inventory optimization
• Experience working in ERP/MRP systems

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Strong negotiation and analytical skills
• Ability to balance tactical execution with strategic thinking
• Effective cross-functional collaboration
• Data-driven decision-making
• Continuous improvement mindset

Physical and Environmental Elements:

This is primarily an office classification with low/moderate noise levels and controlled temperature conditions. Occasional short durations of time may be spent in shop floor environment, offsite in various environments, and some travel may be required (less than 15%).

Special Requirements/Certification:

APICS certification encouraged but not required.

Compensation/Benefits:

We foster a collaborative team environment that values innovation and encourages creative solutions to drive positive organizational impact. Our employees are the key to our success and help us stand out from our competitors. The base pay range for this role is $50,000 to $70,000. The final compensation offer may vary based on factors such as experience, education, skills, and location. We offer competitive pay, paid time off, and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and a 401(k) plan.

Lanco is an equal opportunity employer. All employment-related decisions, including but not limited to hiring, compensation, promotion, discipline (including termination), evaluation, training and development opportunities, etc., are made without discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender-related identity, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, military status, protected disability, citizenship, genetic information or any other category protected by applicable law.

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.