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Assistant Purchasing Agent Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Description The company is currently seeking a Purchasing Agent to develop and maintain effective ... Conduct field visits to verify material ordered is not being wasted * Assist Purchasing Manager ...

Purchasing Agent

Houston, TX · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Job Title: Purchasing Agent Location: Houston area, Texas Job Type: Contract Schedule: Monday ... Assist with vendor performance tracking and basic supplier evaluations. • Support cost-saving ...

... Assist purchasing agent to initiate, review, and process purchase requisitions as necessary Confer with supplies to obtain product or service information such as price, availability, delivery ...

... Assist purchasing agent to initiate, review, and process purchase requisitions as necessary Confer with supplies to obtain product or service information such as price, availability, delivery ...

As our Purchasing Agent, you'll be the backbone of our supply chain, making sure everything runs ... Maintain supplier relationships and assist in monitoring supplier performance through scorecards ...

As our Purchasing Agent, you'll be the backbone of our supply chain, making sure everything runs ... Maintain supplier relationships and assist in monitoring supplier performance through scorecards ...

As our Purchasing Agent, you'll be the backbone of our supply chain, making sure everything runs ... Maintain supplier relationships and assist in monitoring supplier performance through scorecards ...

A Brief Overview The Purchasing Agent is responsible for overall pricing and timely, cost-effective ... Cross-trains in all areas of purchasing to be able to assist as needed. * Performs other duties as ...

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Assistant Purchasing Agent information

See Texas salary details

$23.3K

$56.3K

$89.9K

How much do assistant purchasing agent jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant purchasing agent in Texas is $56,332.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,300.00 and $64,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Assistant Purchasing Agent do?

An Assistant Purchasing Agent helps manage the procurement of goods and services for an organization. They assist in sourcing suppliers, requesting quotes, preparing purchase orders, and tracking deliveries. Their role often includes maintaining records, ensuring compliance with company policies, and supporting the main purchasing agent in negotiations. This position requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail to ensure cost-effective and timely procurement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Purchasing Agent, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Purchasing Agent, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a background in business, supply chain, or a related field. Familiarity with procurement software, enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, and sometimes certifications such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) are common requirements. Excellent negotiation, communication, and organizational skills help build vendor relationships and manage multiple priorities. These competencies ensure efficient purchasing processes, cost savings, and reliable supply chains for the organization.

What is the difference between Assistant Purchasing Agent vs Purchasing Agent?

AspectAssistant Purchasing AgentPurchasing Agent
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certificationsHigh school diploma; often some certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentSupports purchasing team, administrative tasksLeads procurement, negotiates with suppliers
ResponsibilitiesAssists in order processing, data entrySources suppliers, negotiates contracts

The Assistant Purchasing Agent typically supports the purchasing team with administrative tasks and order processing, while the Purchasing Agent takes on more responsibility for sourcing suppliers and negotiating contracts. The roles are closely related, with the assistant position often serving as a stepping stone to the purchasing agent role.

What are some common challenges faced by Assistant Purchasing Agents and how can they be managed?

Assistant Purchasing Agents often encounter challenges such as managing multiple supplier relationships, ensuring timely delivery of goods, and balancing cost efficiency with quality standards. Staying organized and maintaining clear communication with vendors and internal teams is essential. Utilizing procurement software and regularly updating order tracking can help prevent delays and errors, while ongoing training supports effective negotiation and problem-solving skills.
What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing Agent jobs in Texas? The most popular types of Purchasing Agent jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Assistant Purchasing Agent jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Assistant Purchasing Agent job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Purchasing Agent job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,332 per year, or $27.1 per hour.
Deputy Assistant Purchasing Agent - Harris County Office of Purchasing Agent

Deputy Assistant Purchasing Agent - Harris County Office of Purchasing Agent

Harris County, TX

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Harris County rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 119 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

321st of 693 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Salary: Depends on Qualifications
Location : Houston, TX
Job Type: Regular Full-time
Job Number: 16891
Department: Purchasing Department
Opening Date: 06/30/2026
Closing Date: 7/31/2026 11:59 PM Central
Max Number of Applicants: 100
Position Description
The Deputy Assistant Purchasing Agent serves as the principal deputy to the Purchasing Agent and plays a key leadership role supporting county-wide procurement operations for the 3rd largest county in America. This position supports operational, administrative, and strategic activities that impact approximately 5 million residents, 20,000 employees across 80 departments, and $5.5 billion in annual expenditures spanning more than 3,000 contracts.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Support the Purchasing Agent in directing county-wide procurement operations, including purchasing services, strategic sourcing, and administrative functions, ensuring statutory and policy compliance.
  • Oversee agenda-driven procurement actions for Commissioners Court and other governing bodies, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and alignment with legal requirements of all documentation.
  • Provide operational oversight of requisition processing, competitive solicitations, contract development, and workflow coordination; monitor timelines and resolve bottlenecks.
  • Review and validate procurement records, solicitations, evaluation documentation, and contract files to ensure audit readiness and appropriate retention.
  • Serve as a central point of coordination between departments, vendors, internal stakeholders, and governing bodies to resolve procurement issues and maintain operational continuity.
  • Act on behalf of the Purchasing Agent and Assistant Purchasing Agent when delegated, representing the office, supporting decision-making, providing leadership across procurement and personnel management functions.
  • Ability to manage dispersed purchasing teams as a contract service.
  • Lead, develop, support, and retain a high performing team in a fast paced, high volume work environment.
  • Effectively manage competing priorities, ensure staff accountability, and maintain operational continuity during periods of elevated workload or organizational change.
  • Builds and maintains strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including departments, vendors, and executive leadership.
  • Communicates complex procurement matters clearly, facilitates collaborative problem solving, and represents the department with professionalism and responsiveness.

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx
If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net.
This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.
Requirements
Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in Procurement, Supply Chain, Business Administration, Public Administration, Government, Public Policy, or a closely related field.

Experience:
  • At least eight (8) years of progressive experience in public procurement, contract management, or government operations within complex, high-volume procurement environments
  • Experience supporting executive-level or agenda-driven processes and working with governing bodies

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Extensive knowledge of public procurement principles, competitive solicitation methods, and contract administration, including application of Texas Local Government Code Chapter 262.
  • Ability to interpret and apply procurement laws and policies and exercise sound judgment in high-visibility, complex purchasing decisions.
  • Strong operational understanding of county-wide procurement functions, including requisition-to-award processes and agenda-driven actions.
  • Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills; ability to resolve operational issues and ensure audit readiness.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage senior leadership, elected officials, vendors, and stakeholders.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead, develop, and support a high performing team through mentoring, employee development and other proven retention strategies.

NOTE: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge and skills must be documented in your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications.
Preferences
  • Strong knowledge of public procurement laws and practices, including Texas Local Government Code Chapter 262 and applicable federal, state, and local requirements.

General Information
Position Type and Typical Hours of Work:
  • This is a full-time position with the typical work hours of Monday - Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM.
  • Occasional weekends, holidays, and overtime may be required based on the specific needs and demands of the department.

Work Environment and Physical Demands:
  • This position is designated as essential and may be required to work during peak operational periods and declared emergency events, ensuring critical procurement functions continue without interruption.
  • Primarily office-based with routine use of standard office equipment across multiple locations.
  • Predominantly sedentary work with occasional standing/walking; may require lifting up to 10 pounds.

Location:
  • Harris County Purchasing Office Building - 1111 Fannin St 12th Floor Houston, TX 77002

Compensation:
  • Annual Salary Range: Depends On Experience

Reporting Relationships:
  • Reports To: Purchasing Agent

Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.
Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.
HARRIS COUNTY EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
Harris County offers a highly competitive benefits program, featuring a comprehensive group health plan and defined benefit retirement plan.
The following benefits are offered only to Harris County employees in regular (full-time) positions:
Health & Wellness Benefits
  • Medical Coverage
  • Dental Coverage
  • Vision Coverage
  • Wellness Plan
  • Life Insurance
  • Long-Term Disability (LTD) Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Healthcare Flexible Spending Account
  • Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account

Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Ten (10) days of vacation leave per year (accrual rate increases after 5 years of service)
  • Eleven (11) County-observed holidays
  • One (1) floating holiday per year
  • Paid Parental Leave*
  • Sick Leave

Retirement Savings Benefit
  • 457 Deferred Compensation Plan

The following benefits are available to Harris County employees in full-time and select part-time positions:
  • Professional learning & development opportunities
  • Retirement pension (TCDRS defined benefit plan)
  • Flexible work schedule*
  • METRO RideSponsor Program*

* Participation may vary by County department. The employee benefits plans of Harris County are extended to all eligible participants across various departments with the exception of the Harris County Community Supervision and Corrections Department, for which the cited Health & Wellness Benefits are administered through the State of Texas.
In accordance with the Harris County Personnel Regulations, group health and related benefits are subject to amendment or discontinuance at any time. Harris County Commissioners Court reserves the right to make benefit modifications on the County's behalf as needed.
For plan details, visit the Harris County Benefits & Wellness website:
01
Which of the following best describes your highest level of education completed as it relates to this position?Qualifying information must be documented in the Education section of your application.
  • High School or GED diploma
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree or higher
  • None of the above

02
If you selected a college degree in response to the previous question, which of the following best describes your major?
  • Procurement
  • Supply Chain
  • Business Administration
  • Public Administration
  • Government
  • Public Policy
  • Other Related Field
  • Unrelated Field
  • N/A; No Degree

03
Please describe your educational background including level of education completed, area of study and completed major and minor programs.
04
Which of the following best describes your verifiable progressive experience in public procurement, contract management, or government operations within complex, high-volume procurement environments?(To be considered, qualifying experience must be documented in your application's employment history)
  • Less than eight (8) years
  • Eight (8) years but less than nine (9) years
  • Nine (9) years but less than ten (10) years
  • Ten (10) years or more
  • I do not have this experience

05
Please provide the dates of employment during which you obtained experience working in public procurement, contract management, or government operations within complex, high-volume procurement environments. Provide the month and year that began and ended the experience ( Example: "January 2020 - December 2025" ) If this experience is not clearly documented in the Work Experience section, your application will be disqualified. If you do not have this experience, type "N/A" in the space provided.
06
Do you have strong knowledge of public procurement laws and practices, including Texas Local Government Code Chapter 262 and applicable federal, state, and local requirements?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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About Harris County

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Harris County is the third largest county in the United States with more than 4.7 million residents. There are four precincts in Harris County. The four elected commissioners, along with an elected county judge, serve as members of the Harris County Commissioners Court, the administrative head of the county's government.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

2000

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