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Purchasing Agent Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

About Your Future with Service Partners Are you looking for a career with an industry leader that drives the future of energy-efficient insulation and building material products? Is being part of a ...

Purchasing Agent

Aurora, IL · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

About Your Future with Service Partners Are you looking for a career with an industry leader that drives the future of energy-efficient insulation and building material products? Is being part of a ...

LHH is seeking an experienced Purchasing Analyst / Buyer with strong purchasing expertise and a data-driven approach to inventory and supply management. This role will analyze demand, inventory ...

Independently lead RFP evaluation teams, conduct IFB, process purchase orders, change orders, and contract modifications or amendments. Prepare and review bids and make contract awards to the most ...

The Purchaser will negotiate with vendors to purchase all materials, supplies, equipment, and services Chemtech Plastics uses. This person will also review vendor performance quarterly and work to ...

Showing results 21-40

Purchasing Agent information

See Illinois salary details

$29.6K

$52.4K

$80.9K

How much do purchasing agent jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for purchasing agent in Illinois is $52,360.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,700.00 and $58,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a purchasing agent?

Purchasing agents buy goods and services for a company to use or resell. As a purchasing agent, you research products, pricing, and suppliers for items your company needs or wants to sell. Your job duties as a purchasing agent include attending trade shows and sales pitches, evaluating suppliers, negotiating contracts, arranging deliveries, and maintaining records of product pricing, performance, and inventory.

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

To thrive as a Purchasing Agent, you need strong negotiation, analytical, and organizational skills, typically supported by a degree in business or supply chain management. Proficiency with procurement software, ERP systems like SAP, and familiarity with inventory management tools is often required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring cost-effective purchasing decisions, maintaining supplier relationships, and supporting smooth business operations.

What are some common challenges purchasing agents face when negotiating with suppliers?

Purchasing Agents often encounter challenges such as fluctuating market prices, limited supplier options, and tight deadlines when negotiating contracts. Balancing cost savings with quality requirements and maintaining positive supplier relationships can be difficult, especially in fast-paced industries. To overcome these challenges, successful Purchasing Agents stay informed about market trends, develop strong communication skills, and frequently collaborate with internal teams like inventory management and finance to ensure alignment with organizational goals.

What is the difference between Purchasing Agent vs Buyer?

AspectPurchasing AgentBuyer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certifications like CPSMHigh school diploma; certifications like C.P.M. can be beneficial
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, often within procurement or supply chain departmentsOffice environment, working closely with suppliers and internal teams
Industry UsageCommonly used in manufacturing, retail, and logistics sectorsWidely used across retail, manufacturing, and wholesale industries
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding procurement roles, responsibilities, and qualificationsComparing purchasing and buying roles, career paths, and job duties

The main difference between a Purchasing Agent and a Buyer lies in their scope and responsibilities. Purchasing Agents often handle broader procurement strategies and supplier negotiations, while Buyers focus on selecting and purchasing specific goods or services. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, and they are frequently used interchangeably depending on the industry.

Is a purchasing agent a hard job?

A purchasing agent's job involves negotiating with suppliers, managing inventory, and ensuring timely procurement of goods, which can be demanding due to deadlines and the need for attention to detail. The role requires strong communication skills, organization, and knowledge of supply chain processes, but the difficulty varies depending on the industry and complexity of the purchasing tasks.

Is purchasing a stressful job?

Purchasing agents often face stress due to tight deadlines, budget constraints, and the need to negotiate favorable terms. The role requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail to manage supplier relationships and ensure timely procurement, which can contribute to work-related pressure.

What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing Agent jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Purchasing Agent jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Agent jobs in Illinois?

For Purchasing Agent jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Purchasing Agent jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Purchasing Agent job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Agent jobs in IL?

For Purchasing Agent jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Purchasing Agent job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,360 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Purchasing Agent

The Countertop Factory Midwest, Inc.

Addison, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Job description


A progressive manufacturing company is looking for an exceptional person to join our expanding team.

We are a large manufacturer of counter tops and commercial casework, servicing all of Chicago land, Southern Wisconsin and Northern Indiana. We are looking for an individual with the following characteristics to work at our facility in the Western Suburbs:

* Must be reliable and dedicated.

* Must be good with numbers and have strong analytical skills

* Must be able to forge great relationships with vendors

* Must have critical thinking and problem solving skills

* Able to work overtime and weekends (when required)

Responsibilities:

*Must be able to read drawings

*Must be computer savvy

*Must be good at math

*Must be good at spatial design/awareness

*Must be able to determine quantities of material by project

This company offers full time hours, overtime pay (when available), vacation time, health care benefits and a 401K/retirement savings program. This is a great opportunity for an individual to start with a company that is leading the industry with digital technology, the most advanced machinery and an environment that is pro-Customer and pro-Employee.

-This position is available immediately for the right qualified candidate and compensation is in direct proportion to the candidate's experience. In order to be considered for an interview, you must respond with an email describing yourself and a current resume. -