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Assistant Purchasing Agent Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Schedules update meetings for new projects and assist the Purchasing Agent or Project Manager as necessary. Pursue to resolution all Vendor Contracts, Bond and Insurance Certificates. * Develop ...

Loaner Agent Motor Werks

Barrington, IL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You will assist customers with loaner vehicles, coordinate with the service team, and maintain ... Employee discounts on vehicle purchases, parts, and service. Why Work at Murgado Automotive Group?

Buyers Agent

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

... agreements, and assist in home selection * Prepare and negotiate purchase offers on behalf of ... Licensed real estate agent * Exceptional written and oral communication abilities * Committed to ...

Buyers Agent

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

... Agent and benefit from a well-established system designed to fast-track your career growth. Our ... Calls * Assist buyers throughout the purchasing process, secure signed buyer agreements, and ...

... Agent and benefit from a well-established system designed to fast-track your career growth. Our ... Calls * Assist buyers throughout the purchasing process, secure signed buyer agreements, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Assistant Purchasing Agent information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$25.8K

$62.3K

$99.4K

How much do assistant purchasing agent jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant purchasing agent in Chicago, IL is $62,287.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,900.00 and $71,600.00 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?

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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Purchasing Agent jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Assistant Purchasing Agent jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Assistant Purchasing Agent job openings:

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Reports to: Regional Manager or Officer
FLSA Status: Exempt 

POSITION SUMMARY
The Operations Manager will be responsible for the successful execution of projects in all of the regional territory through the effective supervision of Senior Project Managers, Project Managers, Purchasing Agents and Superintendents. The Operations manager will have direct oversight of Project Management and the Field.  The Operations Manager has first line supervisory authority over subordinate staff to include hiring, firing, performance evaluation, training and development. In addition, the Operations Manager will participate in the development and execution of annual plans and forecasting.

Duties & Responsibilities

 Personnel Supervision

  • May have Sr. Project Manager(s), Project Manager (s), Purchasing Agent (s) and Installation Manager reporting to them.
  • May have Field Superintendent/Foreman reporting to them during installation of specific projects, if no Installation Manager is involved.
  • May have AutoCAD Engineers or Administrative personnel reporting to them.
  • Responsible for hiring/firing/promotion/ of personnel reporting to them against Job Descriptions. Conduct annual performance reviews for the personnel assigned and provide salary increases/promotions/bonus input to Regional Manager or Vice President.

Project Responsibilities

  • Responsible for projects from Purchasing Phase until Final Completion.
  • Determine Engineering, Purchasing and PM assignments based on workload.
  • May be involved in the Estimating of project, based on size and/or schedule. Dependent on Regional Manager request. Attend pre-award interview meeting with Sales and Estimating staff with customers when required. 
  • Analyze projects to determine scope, schedule requirements, and coordinate Engineering, Purchasing and Installation to effectively bring project within budget and on schedule.
  • Execute customer contracts within signing limitations.
  • Participate in Quarterly Division Reviews.
  • Review purchasing process, vendor selections and oversee Outsource procurement. Schedules update meetings for new projects and assist the Purchasing Agent or Project Manager as necessary.  Pursue to resolution all Vendor Contracts, Bond and Insurance Certificates.
  • Develop execution plan for each project with Project Team (PM, PE, Foreman) and Installation Manager. Review progress with periodic job walks with PM and foremen during installation. Adjust plan as necessary.
  • Perform monthly review and risk analysis of budgeted job costs with Project Managers. Review Cash Flow reports on major projects. 
  • Review Cost to Completes for accuracy with Project Managers prior to being distributed. Make adjustments necessary to installation process to meet estimated minutes.  If that is not possible, revise report to provide accurate projection of installation costs to complete the project.  
  • Review Schedule of Values to maintain overbilling and positive cash flow.
  • Review Accounts Receivable to ensure timely payments in accordance with contract terms.
  • Review and execute Subcontracts, Purchase Orders from customers. Make sure all Terms and Conditions of Offer to Sell are included or negotiated.
  • Maintain relationship through weekly jobsite visits with customer and PM.
  • Review billings to make sure project cash flow stays positive.
  • Review submittals on large projects to make sure all risk items are addressed.  Especially when Lab Planners are involved.
  • Review with PM all logs, manpower schedules and things to do lists (Submittal Log, Outstanding Issues Log and Material Status Report, COP log, etc) on regular basis to assess project progress and potential risks.
  • Review all major Change Orders with Project Manager to minimize risk over price and schedule completion.
  • Insure the quality, customer satisfaction, timeliness and cost control of all projects. Assist the Project Management staff and Field Superintendents in their day-to-day dealings with vendors, architects, owners, and contractors in resolving problems or conflicts. Make sure the final portion of the project is completed and closeout documents are submitted. Follow up on final payments.
  • Approve Investment Reports, Expense Advances and Check Requests.
  • Review short term and long-term installation schedules with Installation Manager.  Assist as necessary with foremen assignments.  Review manpower schedules with Project Managers and Installation Manager to ensure projects are not over manned or undermanned.
  • Conflict resolution – responsible for resolution of conflicts with Contractor, Suppliers, etc.  Involve Regional Manager or attorney as required.
  • Ensure ISEC’s commitments to Core Values are maintained throughout the construction process.
  • Assist the Regional Manager or Vice President in the preparation of the annual overhead budget and plan each fiscal year.

Safety Responsibilities

  • Effectively communicate and implement the Company’s safety policies and procedures committed to the Safety Promise.
  • Establish an environment of “zero tolerance” for safety non-compliance and promote a positive atmosphere for safety excellence.
  • Ensure an accident free region through managing of the safety program including full implementation of the Safety Leadership Team.
  • Provide the resources and time necessary to execute the required actions in safety on projects.
  • Ensure all employees in the region follow and implement ISEC safety requirements.

Other Duties
Please note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing or activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.  Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Preferred Qualifications (in addition to minimum qualifications)

Education/Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree in construction management
  • 5-8 years’ experience in a commercial construction management position

 Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

  • Ability to mentor and coach subordinates

 

Minimum Qualifications

Education/Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree in relevant field or the equivalent combination of education and related commercial construction experience
  • Minimum of 5 years commercial construction experience with 3 years in a leadership position

 Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

  • Requires practical knowledge of commercial construction methods and application of principles
  • Track record of success
  • Strong analytical, organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills
  • Strong leadership and management skills
  • Strong accounting skills

Customer Service Skills: 

  • Demonstratescommitment to deliver outstandingservice– both with internal and external customers 
  • Takes ownership to personally resolve customer problems (or find someone who can) 
  • Listens well, asks clarifying questions, and checks for agreement with customers 
  • Committed to following-up with customers in all instances in a timely manner 
  • Strong sense of accountability - ensures that you will do what you say that you are going to do 
  • Creates a personal connection with customers – smiles, warm greetings, acts friendly and respectful
  • Positive attitude