ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Purchasing Agent Jobs in Riverside, CA

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsEntry Level Purchasing Agent JobsEntry Level Purchasing Agent Jobs in Riverside, CA

Entry Level Purchasing Agent information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$31.8K

$56.4K

$87.1K

How much do entry level purchasing agent jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level purchasing agent in Riverside, CA is $56,371.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,900.00 and $62,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Purchasing Agent, you need a solid understanding of procurement processes, attention to detail, and typically a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field. Familiarity with procurement software, ERP systems, and Microsoft Excel is often required, and some roles may prefer candidates with APICS or CPSM certifications. Strong negotiation, communication, and organizational skills help you build relationships with vendors and manage multiple tasks efficiently. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring cost-effective purchasing, accurate order processing, and smooth supply chain operations.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level purchasing agents, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level purchasing agents often encounter challenges like managing supplier relationships, balancing cost with quality, and navigating unfamiliar procurement systems. It's common to feel overwhelmed by the fast pace and the need to quickly learn company-specific processes. Building strong communication skills and seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues can help, as can staying organized and proactive in addressing potential supply chain issues. Over time, these experiences provide valuable learning opportunities and lay the foundation for advancement within the procurement field.

What does an Entry Level Purchasing Agent do?

An Entry Level Purchasing Agent is responsible for assisting with the procurement of goods and services for a company. Their tasks typically include researching suppliers, obtaining quotes, placing orders, and maintaining records of purchases. They work closely with vendors and internal departments to ensure that materials are delivered on time and within budget. This role is ideal for those looking to start a career in supply chain or procurement, as it offers valuable exposure to purchasing processes.

How to start a career in purchasing?

To start a career as an entry-level purchasing agent, gain relevant education such as a high school diploma or associate degree in business, supply chain management, or related fields. Develop skills in negotiation, communication, and basic computer software like Excel, and seek internships or entry-level positions to gain practical experience in procurement processes.

What is the difference between Entry Level Purchasing Agent vs Purchasing Coordinator?

AspectEntry Level Purchasing AgentPurchasing Coordinator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; some roles prefer associate's degreeHigh school diploma; some roles prefer associate's or bachelor's degree
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, procurement departmentsOffice environment, procurement and supply chain teams
Employer & Industry UsageRetail, manufacturing, logisticsCorporate procurement, manufacturing, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Purchasing Agent and a Purchasing Coordinator lies in their job scope and responsibilities. Entry Level Purchasing Agents focus on basic procurement tasks, supplier communication, and order processing, often requiring minimal experience. Purchasing Coordinators typically handle more administrative and coordination duties within procurement teams, sometimes overseeing order tracking and documentation. Both roles are essential in supply chain operations and share similar educational backgrounds, but Purchasing Coordinators may have slightly broader administrative responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Purchasing Agent jobs in Riverside, CA? For Entry Level Purchasing Agent jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Purchasing Agent jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Purchasing Agent jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Purchasing Agent jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Purchasing Agent job openings:
Entry Level Purchasing Agent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Purchasing Agent job openings in Riverside, CA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,371 per year, or $27.1 per hour.
Purchasing Agent

Purchasing Agent

Meritage Homes Corporation

Irvine, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities

Meritage Homes is looking for a Purchasing Agent to support our Southern California Division. This person will:

  • Research and resolve Vendor disputes; including product or pricing issues, and invoice and contract discrepancies and coordinate pricing adjustments when necessary
  • Build and maintain effective relationships with trade partners to better meet bidding and production requirements
  • Work collaboratively with other departments, including land development, construction, marketing, finance, and design, to ensure all internals goals and deadlines are met
  • Communicate product changes to Sales, Construction, and Subcontractors
  • Initiate bid events with subcontractors, perform bid analysis, and create and compile contract confirmations as well as all backup as necessary for audit compliance
  • Assist in base cost and option price analysis
  • Assist in reviewing house budgets to verify accurate base house and margin costs
  • Assist in end-of-month cost-off process to get accruals for current month closings

Qualifications
  • A minimum of 2 years of experience in Purchasing or the Construction Industry, preferably in residential homebuilding
  • 4-year degree or similar experience
  • Exceptional computer skills in Microsoft Excel and Word; JD Edwards, Enterprise One, and BuildPro experience a plus
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and other construction documents a plus
  • A go-getter attitude
  • Enjoy a fast paced, high-volume work environment
  • Great attention to detail
  • Strong negotiation and influencing skills
  • Proactive in addressing questions and concerns in a professional manner
  • Can work independently as well as with a team
  • Highly organized

#LI-AJ2


Overview

Are you looking for an incredible career opportunity? Then Meritage Homes is the place for you!  From the homes we build to the careers we offer, we are focused on delivering a Life.Built.Better.®. Meritage is committed to building energy-efficient and affordable entry-level and first move-up homes across the US. We are looking for candidates who are excited about furthering their careers, as well as bringing their authentic self every day to be part of an inclusive organization. Meritage was certified a Great Place To Work for a second year in a row, and is currently ranked on Fortune’s Best Workplaces listings in the categories of Construction, Women and Parents. Meritage has delivered over 200,000 homes in its 40-year history, and has a reputation for its distinctive style, quality construction, and award-winning customer experience. Meritage is looking for professionals who are self-starters and want to help our organization grow by providing new and innovative ideas. 

When joining Meritage Homes, you and your career can benefit in several ways, including:

  • A work environment that encourages creativity and innovative ideas from every level
  • An organization that lives by its core values everyday
  • Team atmosphere where every individual is considered a vital asset
  • State of the art technology to provide an optimal working environment
  • A competitive pay structure
  • Strong benefits
  • Flexibility in work-life integration
  • Team-oriented environment where all individuals play an integral role in the company
  • Opportunity to further your career in a growing national organization
  • Maintain a competitive drive to be the best
Qualifications:
  • A minimum of 2 years of experience in Purchasing or the Construction Industry, preferably in residential homebuilding
  • 4-year degree or similar experience
  • Exceptional computer skills in Microsoft Excel and Word; JD Edwards, Enterprise One, and BuildPro experience a plus
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and other construction documents a plus
  • A go-getter attitude
  • Enjoy a fast paced, high-volume work environment
  • Great attention to detail
  • Strong negotiation and influencing skills
  • Proactive in addressing questions and concerns in a professional manner
  • Can work independently as well as with a team
  • Highly organized

#LI-AJ2

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

Apply