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Purchasing Agent Jobs in Maine (NOW HIRING)

Cary Medical Center

PURCHASING AGENT-FT

Caribou, ME · On-site

The Purchasing Agent works collaboratively with departments, vendors, and staff to ensure efficient operations, cost-effective purchasing practices, and uninterrupted availability of supplies needed ...

Cary Medical Center

PURCHASING AGENT-FT

Caribou, ME

The Purchasing Agent works collaboratively with departments, vendors, and staff to ensure efficient operations, cost-effective purchasing practices, and uninterrupted availability of supplies needed ...

Defense Logistics Agency

$56K - $73K/yr

Required Qualifications To qualify for a Purchasing Agent your resume and supporting documentation must support: A. Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience that equipped you with ...

Misti Pett

Purchasing Coordinator

South Paris, ME · On-site

$19.75 - $26.50/hr

Ability to execute purchase orders for suppliers, perform steel checks daily and verify inventory coverage. Must be detail oriented with a strong ability to multitask. Executing weekly corporate ...

Consigli Construction

Purchaser

Portland, ME · On-site

$96K - $124K/yr

Purchasing Department: Purchasing Reports to: Regional Purchasing Manager Supervisory Duties: Yes Salary Range: $96,000 - $124,000 The Purchaser is responsible for hiring subcontractors and vendors ...

Consigli Construction

Purchaser

Portland, ME · On-site

$96K - $124K/yr

Purchasing Department: Purchasing Reports to: Regional Purchasing Manager Supervisory Duties: Yes Salary Range: $96,000 - $124,000 The Purchaser is responsible for hiring subcontractors and vendors ...

Consigli Construction

Purchaser

Portland, ME · On-site

$96K - $124K/yr

Purchasing Department: Purchasing Reports to: Regional Purchasing Manager Supervisory Duties: Yes Salary Range: $96,000 - $124,000 The Purchaser is responsible for hiring subcontractors and vendors ...

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All JobsPurchasing Agent JobsPurchasing Agent Jobs in Maine

Purchasing Agent information

See Maine salary details

$29.5K

$52.3K

$80.8K

How much do purchasing agent jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for purchasing agent in Maine is $52,315.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,600.00 and $58,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

Is purchasing a stressful job?

Purchasing agents often face stress due to managing supplier relationships, meeting deadlines, and controlling costs. The job requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail, and workload can vary depending on industry and company size. Effective communication and negotiation skills help mitigate stress in this role.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

Purchasing agents can earn around $3,000 or more per month, especially with experience and strong negotiation skills, often without requiring a college degree. Other roles such as sales representatives, commercial drivers, or certain skilled trades may also reach this income level through certifications and on-the-job training.

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

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 does a purchasing agent do?

A purchasing agent is responsible for buying goods and services for an organization, negotiating prices, and ensuring timely delivery. They analyze supplier options, manage purchase orders, and maintain relationships with vendors to secure the best terms. Strong negotiation skills and knowledge of supply chain management are essential in this role.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Purchasing agents typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized surgeons, or successful entrepreneurs. High-paying procurement roles may exist in large corporations or industries like oil and gas, but they are rare and often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities.

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.
More about Purchasing Agent jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing Agent jobs in Maine? The most popular types of Purchasing Agent jobs in Maine are:
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Agent jobs in Maine? For Purchasing Agent jobs in Maine, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Agent jobs in ME? For Purchasing Agent jobs in ME, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Purchasing Agent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing Agent job openings in Maine as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,315 per year, or $25.2 per hour.
PURCHASING AGENT-FT

PURCHASING AGENT-FT

Cary Medical Center

Caribou, ME • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Cary Medical Center rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

257th of 1,051 rated hospitals

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Status
40hours/week
Job Summary
The Purchasing Agent is responsible for supporting the purchasing, receiving, and inventory functions of the Materials Management Department. This position provides clerical and administrative support to ensure the timely procurement, receipt, and distribution of supplies and equipment while maintaining accurate inventory records. The Purchasing Agent works collaboratively with departments, vendors, and staff to ensure efficient operations, cost-effective purchasing practices, and uninterrupted availability of supplies needed to support quality patient care.
Essential Job Duties:
  • Performs tasks related to clerical work, memos, general typing tasks, filing, answering phones, calling suppliers to resolve problems, communicating information to departments and persons.
  • Maintains files/records and assists in locating information and documentation.
  • Assists in calling suppliers to obtain information on back-orders supplies, to place orders and schedule appointments and deliveries.
  • Performs data entry of all inventory materials at warehouse and in general stores.
  • Prepares credit request forms for materials to be returned, obtains return authorization numbers and approval from suppliers.
  • Assists identifying and resolving problems with receiving documents by coordinating receiving with material handlers, paying attention to duplicate shipments, errors in shipment, emergency orders and date materials.
  • Ensures that all invoice discrepancies are corrected promptly and sent to the accounts payable department.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of inventory control by preventing stock-outs, follow through on back orders and maintaining efficient inventory records.
  • Demonstrates ability to perform assignments independently.
  • Develops an understanding of the materials management systems and supports.
  • Responsive and understanding of the needs of co-workers, peers and those in authority.
  • Exercise tact, discretion and diplomacy in establishing and maintain good relations with other departments.
  • Demonstrates good verbal and written communication skills, documents and reports clearly and concisely.
  • Always remains flexible to adjust to changes, interruptions and emergencies during the shift while maintaining the ability to complete routine tasks.
  • Demonstrates effectiveness in identifying future needs and problem areas of the department and developing workable solutions.
  • Informs requisitioner of order status, delivery changes and seeks requisitioner approval of alternative action designed to achieve timely delivery of requirements.
  • Obtains and analyzes available pertinent information in order to make the most informed decision based on factual and objective data.
  • Recognizes the need to support and provide services effectively to meet the demands of others on a timely basis.
  • Routinely performs tasks related to receiving, processing, stocking, issuing and the distribution of supplies.
  • Assures FIFO is used in rotating stock.
  • Maintains neatness and cleanliness in stockroom and warehouse by periodically dusting and straightening shelves.

Requirements
  • Be flexible, self-motivated, dependable, and capable of prioritizing work and meeting deadlines.
  • Have excellent interpersonal skills and be able to deal with the public, staff and community.
  • Be diplomatic in handling difficult situations related to the department.
  • Be flexible and adapt easily to interruptions.
  • Exhibit excellent telephone skills and have superior computer skills.
  • Minimum Associates in Science in Information Systems, Bachelors in Science in Information Systems preferred.

Schedule:
  • M-F 7a-3p
  • In consideration of our patients' and staff needs, you may be required to work evenings, weekends, and/or holidays.

Contact:
  • To view the full job description or request additional information, please contact Kelly at 207-498-1311 or email klandeen@carymed.org.
  • We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, retirement, and paid time off. To view the complete benefits package, click here: Cary Medical Center Benefit Information.

Cary Medical Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer & Provider

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