Buyer

Kershaw Equipment, located in Montgomery, AL, is a leader in rail maintenance and vegetation management production and a worldwide supplier of maintenance‑of‑way equipment. Built on a strong commitment to customers, the company supplies machines to Class I railroads, transit lines, short lines, and many contractors globally. Kershaw is part of The Heico Companies LLC, a parent holding company comprising more than 40 businesses in manufacturing, construction, and industrial services. Kershaw joins forces with heavy equipment brands Pettibone, BARKO, and ARDCO as part of the Heavy Equipment Segment of The Applied Solutions Group.

Responsibilities

• Purchase materials, supplies, and services in accordance with company requirements.
• Create and maintain purchase orders in ERP systems.
• Monitor supplier performance regarding quality, delivery, and pricing.
• Obtain quotations and negotiate costs within assigned authority levels.
• Expedite orders to ensure on‑time delivery and prevent production disruptions.
• Maintain accurate purchasing records and supplier documentation.
• Collaborate with Operations, Planning, Quality, and Finance teams to support business needs.
• Resolve issues related to shipments, invoices, and supplier discrepancies.
• Analyze inventory levels and demand requirements to optimize purchasing decisions.
• Support supplier development and continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements

Education: High school Diploma or GED required; Bachelor’s in Business Administration or Operations preferred but not required.

Minimum Experience: 0‑2 years of purchasing, procurement, supply chain, inventory, or related business experience. Internship or co‑op experience in procurement or supply chain preferred. Manufacturing environment experience preferred but not required.

Minimum Skills:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.
• Experience using ERP/MRP systems preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Effective communication and negotiation skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge of purchasing and procurement principles.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, and work at a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to communicate effectively in person, via phone, and electronically.
• Occasional walking within office and manufacturing facilities.
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to travel occasionally to supplier or company locations as required.

Benefits

• Multiple health plan options through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois.
• Health Savings Account (with company match) or Flexible Spending Accounts, depending on selected health care plan.
• Two dental plan options through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois.
• Vision plan through VSP.
• Paid time off (vacation and 11 paid holidays).
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Life/AD&D insurances (both company‑paid and additional voluntary options).
• Sick leave, short‑term disability and long‑term disability plans (company‑paid).
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP, company‑paid).
• Three Aflac plans.
• Pet insurance plans.
• Legal insurance.
• Identity & fraud protection plan.