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Material Specialist

Progress Rail
La Grange, IL Full Time
POSTED ON 1/13/2026 CLOSED ON 2/12/2026

What are the responsibilities and job description for the Material Specialist position at Progress Rail?

Job Purpose

  • Operates industrial forklift to perform material handling assignments;
  • Process material request and receipts in computerized database.
  • Receives, identifies and unloads materials/parts and stores in inventory;
  • Identifies, draws from inventory and transports material, parts and equipment associated with the assembly of locomotives to and from assembly areas, machines, loading docks and other areas;
  • Familiarizes self with material packaging areas to assure prompt delivery and adequate supply of required items;
  • Inspects and completes reports related to safe operation and maintenance of material handling equipment prior to operation;
  • Operate all equipment in safe manner;
  • Assists in other areas and duties as assigned by supervision.

Req ID

11302BR

Work Location Options

laGrange

City

La Grange

State:

Illinois

Company Description

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. At Progress Rail, the team is not just building the future of rail—they are making history every day.

Key Job Elements

  • Operates industrial forklift to perform material handling assignments;
  • Process material request and receipts in computerized database.
  • Receives, identifies and unloads materials/parts and stores in inventory;
  • Identifies, draws from inventory and transports material, parts and equipment associated with the assembly of locomotives to and from assembly areas, machines, loading docks and other areas;
  • Familiarizes self with material packaging areas to assure prompt delivery and adequate supply of required items;
  • Inspects and completes reports related to safe operation and maintenance of material handling equipment prior to operation;
  • Operate all equipment in safe manner;
  • Assists in other areas and duties as assigned by supervision.

Education / Training

  • High School degree or GED equivalent.

Qualifications and Experience

  • Minimum 6 months distribution/material handling or equivalent;
  • Must have previous forklift operation experience;
  • Demonstrated skill working with Microsoft Applications and data entry. Prior experience with SAP or other ERP applications is a plus.
  • Position is on dayshift.

Essential and Physical Activities Functions:
  • Strength – Must be able to lift and carry up to 50lbs, push and pull up to 125lb;
  • Motion – Constant walking Frequent and sustained bending, crouching, stopping, kneeing, squatting and overhead reaching and climbing ladders;
  • Vision/Hearing Requirements – Must be able to follow written and verbal instructions and hear audible alarms;
  • Work Environment – Works on varied surfaces, concrete floors, and gravel, rail car and locomotive floors. Non-temperature control environment, all weather conditions with high noise and high dust levels;
  • Emotional Demands – Due to the working environment, noise, dust, personal protective equipment, employee must be comfortable working alone;
  • Safety – Safety Sensitive positions because it works in and around active tracks, rail cars, locomotives, and other moving equipment. Employee must abide by all safety protocols, health/medical screenings and utilize all required PPE. Included but not limited to metatarsal boots, safety glasses, gloves, respirators, aprons, ear protection, etc.

Benefits

Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance, and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Progress Rail.*
  • Competitive Salary
  • 401(k) plan with up to 6% company match (no waiting period with immediate vesting)
  • Medical/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability Insurance
  • Group Accident, Critical Care, and Hospital Insurance available along with an HDHP and HSA with employee and employer contributions
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time-Off (PTO)
  • Employee Assistance Plan
  • Education Assistance Program
  • Employee Recognition Programs



  • Subject to position, eligibility, and plan guidelines.

EEO

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


Job Category

Production - Hourly

PRS Facility Location

EMD LaGrange Bargaining Unit - 406

Summary Pay Range

$22.00 - $22.00

Salary : $22

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