Job Description

Important Note on Location

Please be advised: Uesco Industries is currently based in Alsip, IL, but we have an exciting strategic relocation planned. We will be moving our headquarters and manufacturing operations to a new facility in Hammond, IN, in 2028. We are looking for a long-term team member who is willing and able to commute to the Hammond location when this transition occurs.

Who We Are: A Century of Strength

At Uesco Cranes, we don’t just build machinery; we build legacies. Founded in 1921, we have evolved from a local electric motor shop into a premier manufacturer of custom-engineered overhead traveling cranes and runway systems.

We are proud to be a fourth-generation, family-owned business. When you work at Uesco, you aren't just a number in a conglomerate; you are part of a team that honors its history while engineering the future of material handling. We deliver American-made quality to distribution partners and major industrial clients nationwide.

The Opportunity

We are looking for a dedicated Buyer to join our operations team. In this role, you will be the heartbeat of our supply chain, ensuring our manufacturing floor has precisely what it needs to build world-class cranes on time and on budget.

This isn't just about data entry; it’s about relationships. You will manage vendors, negotiate for the best value, and hunt for the high-quality components that allow our cranes to lift 100+ tons safely. You will work directly with our engineering, sales, and production teams to keep our projects moving.

What You Will Do

• Strategic Sourcing: Analyze requisitions from managers and sales to select the best vendors for raw materials, crane components, and shop supplies.
• Vendor Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers. Negotiate pricing and terms to secure cost savings without sacrificing the quality Uesco is known for.
• Project Coordination: Ensure materials arrive when needed to meet strict production schedules. You will track orders, handle inbound and outbound logistics, and resolve back-order issues immediately.
• Inventory Control: Monitor inventory levels to prevent shortages that could stop the line, while avoiding overstock.
• Collaboration: Act as the bridge between the office and the shop floor. You will communicate daily with production, shipping, receiving, and finance to ensure billing and deliveries align.

What We Are Looking For

• Computer & Typing Proficiency: High proficiency with computers is non-negotiable. You must possess strong typing skills (speed and accuracy) and be comfortable navigating multiple screens, purchasing software/ERP systems, and the Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, Word) fluently.
• Experience: Proven experience in purchasing or procurement, specifically within a manufacturing or industrial setting.
• Technical Aptitude: Familiarity with industrial components (motors, steel, electrical parts) or overhead cranes is a significant advantage.
• Commute Reliability: Must be able to commute to our current Alsip, IL facility and our future Hammond, IN location (beginning 2027).
• Character: A negotiator with integrity who fits our family-oriented culture. You should be organized, detail-oriented, and capable of working autonomously.

Why Join Uesco? (Benefits & Perks)

We believe in taking care of the people who help us build our business. Uesco Industries offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your health and financial future:

• Medical Insurance: Premium 75% paid by the employer.
• Retirement Security:
• 401(k) with a 3% Safe Harbor contribution.
• Profit Sharing program.
• Cash Balance Program (a distinct advantage for long-term wealth building).
• Dental & Vision: Available plans to keep you covered.
• Time Off: Paid Leave (PL) to ensure work-life balance.
• Financial Protection: Life Insurance provided.
• Stability: Join a company with over 100 years of continuous operation and growth.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

• Buyer: 1 year (Preferred)

Language:

• English (Required)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Alsip, IL 60803 (Required)

Work Location: In person

You should be proficient in:

• ERP & MRP Systems
• Basic Computer Skills
• Buyer
• purchasing
• Steel