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

Michael Lewis Company

Purchasing Agent / Buyer

Mccook, IL · On-site

$60K - $77K/yr

Place and manage purchase orders for food, disposables, equipment, and related supply chain items supporting MLCo customer programs * Analyze demand forecasts, usage trends, and inventory levels to ...

Michael Lewis Company

Purchasing Agent / Buyer

Mccook, IL · On-site

$60K - $77K/yr

Place and manage purchase orders for food, disposables, equipment, and related supply chain items supporting MLCo customer programs * Analyze demand forecasts, usage trends, and inventory levels to ...

LHH US

Purchasing Agent/Buyer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

The ideal candidate will manage the purchasing process from demand analysis and replenishment planning through purchase orders, supplier coordination, and product receipt. Strong analytical skills ...

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Purchasing Agent Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.4K

$55.7K

$86K

How much do purchasing agent manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for purchasing agent manager in Chicago, IL is $55,662.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,300.00 and $61,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a purchasing agent manager do?

A Purchasing Agent Manager oversees the procurement activities of an organization, ensuring that goods and services are acquired at the best possible prices and quality. They manage a team of purchasing agents, develop supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and analyze market trends to make informed buying decisions. Their role is crucial for optimizing costs, maintaining supply chain efficiency, and supporting the organization's operational goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a purchasing agent manager?

To thrive as a Purchasing Agent Manager, you need expertise in procurement processes, contract negotiation, supply chain management, and typically a bachelor's degree in business or a related field. Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, procurement software, and professional certifications like the Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) are highly valuable. Strong leadership, analytical thinking, and effective communication are critical soft skills for managing teams and vendor relationships. These competencies ensure efficient purchasing operations, cost savings, and the ability to build reliable supplier partnerships.

What are some common challenges purchasing agent managers face when balancing cost savings with quality requirements?

Purchasing Agent Managers often navigate the challenge of sourcing goods or services at the best possible price without compromising on quality or reliability. This requires strong negotiation skills, thorough vendor evaluations, and close collaboration with internal stakeholders such as production and quality assurance teams. Managing supplier relationships and monitoring market trends are also critical to anticipate price fluctuations and ensure supply chain stability. Success in this role often comes from building strategic partnerships and implementing robust procurement processes.

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

AspectPurchasing Agent ManagerPurchasing Agent
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in supply chain, business, or related field; certifications like CPSM or CSCP are commonUsually needs a high school diploma or associate degree; certifications like CPSM can be advantageous
Work EnvironmentSupervises purchasing teams, manages procurement strategies, and collaborates with suppliersPerforms procurement tasks, negotiates with vendors, and sources products or services
Employer & Industry UsageFound in manufacturing, retail, and logistics companies overseeing purchasing departmentsCommon across various industries including retail, manufacturing, and government agencies

The main difference is that a Purchasing Agent Manager oversees purchasing teams and strategies, while a Purchasing Agent focuses on executing procurement tasks. The manager role involves leadership and strategic planning, whereas the agent role is more operational and task-oriented.

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 Purchasing Agent Manager jobs?

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

Purchasing Agent Manager jobs near you

Sr. Purchasing Agent

General Kinematics Corporation

Crystal Lake, IL • On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Other

Medical, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Description
Job Description
Description:


General Kinematics is the premier manufacturer of vibrating equipment for the processing of bulk materials. From vibratory feeders to entire process systems, General Kinematics creates the solutions customers require to process even the most difficult materials.


The Sr. Purchasing Agent is a strategic procurement leader responsible for driving sourcing strategies, supplier performance, and cost optimization initiatives that support company growth and operational excellence. This role serves as a key business partner to engineering, operations, sales and finance, ensuring procurement decisions align with organizational objectives, risk management priorities, and long-term supply continuity.


In addition to managing critical supplier relationships and negotiations, this position provides leadership within the purchasing function, guiding best practices, supporting capability development, and championing continuous improvement.


Job Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute sourcing strategies that balance cost, quality, delivery, and risk while supporting business and operational goals.
  • Analyze and manage material requirements through the MRP system, ensuring alignment with production scheduling and inventory management.
  • Lead supplier relationship management, including performance reviews, capability assessments, and long-term partnership development.
  • Partner closely with the Supplier Quality team to establish and maintain supplier governance processes, including audit programs, performance metrics, and corrective action oversight.
  • Drive commercial negotiations and contracting strategies to achieve sustainable value and mitigate supply chain risk.
  • Partner cross-functionally with engineering, operations, sales and finance to influence design, planning, and make-versus-buy decisions.
  • Champion cost leadership initiatives, including should-cost analysis, value engineering, and structured cost-reduction programs.
  • Provide procurement leadership on key projects, including early involvement in project planning and new product initiatives.
  • Analyze market dynamics and supply trends to inform sourcing strategies and executive decision-making.
  • Identify and implement process improvements that enhance procurement efficiency, scalability, and data integrity.
  • Mentor and support development of purchasing team members, promoting a high-performance, collaborative team culture.
  • Perform other tactical duties as required to optimize procurement processes such as maintaining data integrity in the ERP system, supporting engineering changes, etc.
Requirements:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related discipline preferred (or equivalent experience).
  • 5–7+ years of progressive procurement experience in a manufacturing or engineered-to-order environment.
  • APICS CPIM or CPSM certification (or similar professional certification) is a plus.
  • Demonstrated success in strategic sourcing, supplier development, and complex negotiations.
  • Strong business acumen with the ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders.
  • Experience leveraging ERP systems and data analytics to support decision-making.
  • Proven ability to lead initiatives, manage competing priorities, and operate effectively in a fast-paced environment.
  • Willingness to travel approximately 15%.

Pay: $80,000 to $100,000 paid annually. The range provided is a guideline and not a guarantee of compensation. Other factors that are involved in offer decisions include, and are not limited to a candidate’s experience, qualifications, geography, and internal equity.

Benefits: The position also comes with an annual profit-sharing incentive bonus payment. Our benefit programs provide choice and flexibility to meet the needs of you and your family. This includes health and well-being, financial planning tools, career development, PTO, and more.


Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

EOE M/F/D/V

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