Analyst I - Rail Operations

Summary

The Rail Operations Analyst is a pivotal role at Westlake Chemical Corporation, tasked with overseeing the efficient and timely movement of our rail fleet. The specialist will work closely with commercial teams, manage fleet logistics, and ensure that business objectives align with transportation activities. This position is integral to facilitating strategic decisions, shaping long-term business strategies, and maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction. Reporting to the Manager, Rail Transportation, the specialist will have a direct impact on the company's logistical efficiency.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Serve as the principal point of contact for rail carriers, customer service, and plant operations, ensuring seamless communication and coordination.
• Provide robust support to commercial and operations teams by communicating rail service issues promptly, delivering insightful account reporting, and engaging in collaborative problem-solving.
• Proactively develop and implement alternative rail logistics strategies to address deviations from the operating plan, accommodating production fluctuations, transportation constraints, or demand shifts.
• Oversee the management of hazardous and non-hazardous rail shipments within a 15,000-car fleet, maintaining safety and compliance.
• Identify at-risk shipments, formulate recovery strategies, and recommend solutions to enhance quality and service.
• Work collaboratively with plant operations and Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) to address operational planning challenges and opportunities.
• Monitor and rectify railcar Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) billing discrepancies.
• Maintain the integrity of RailTrac data, ensuring exception clearances, rail routes, fleet data, and product information are up-to-date.
• Assist with the financial management of rail-related invoices, ensuring accurate coding, payment, and administrative processes.
• Uphold SOX compliance within the Rail Transportation department.
• Undertake additional responsibilities as needed and comply with all company policies and procedures.
• Actively support Westlake's commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence at both strategic and tactical levels.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.

Qualifications, Education, and/or Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Business, Engineering, or IS/IT is preferred. Relevant experience will also be considered.
• Proficiency in Bourque Logistics systems is advantageous.
• Prior experience in an analyst role with a focus on logistics or supply chain management is desirable.
• Must be highly motivated, capable of working under pressure, and maintain customer focus at all times.

Physical Demands

The role requires frequent sitting, standing, walking, and use of hands and arms. The employee may occasionally need to stoop, kneel, or crouch and must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.

Work Environment

The position is primarily office-based with a moderate noise level. Some tasks may require visits to operational units, adherence to PPE standards, exposure to outdoor elements, and the use of stairs and elevators. Travel of up to 25%, including air or auto travel, may be required.