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Purchasing Agent Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Dahl Consulting

Purchasing Analyst

Saint Cloud, MN

Purchasing Analyst Location : St. Cloud, MN Job Type : Permanent Compensation : $65,000 - $75,000 ... Create and maintain product SKUs as part of new product launches within agent software systems.

New

Scott Equipment Co

Designer/Drafter

New Prague, MN · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Upon approval, bill of material is prepared and submitted to the Purchasing Agent. · Requests drawings and models from vendors for specific components /devices included in the order/bill of material ...

Lindsay Windows

Junior Buyer

North Mankato, MN · On-site

$55K - $66K/yr

Our centralized purchasing team supports core processes across all locations and is seeking a detail-oriented Purchasing Agent with a junior buyer skillset to support daily procurement operations and ...

Dairiconcepts, L.P.

Manager, Purchasing

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

Manage the purchasing process from requisition to receipt, ensuring compliance with company policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements. Manage vendor and supplier relationships. Establish ...

New

BALDWIN SUPPLY COMPANY

Purchasing Manager

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Purchasing Reports to: VP of Branch Operations Position Type and Expected Hours of Work: Management / Full-time / Salary-Exempt About Baldwin Supply: Baldwin Supply Company has worked alongside ...

Guida's Dairy

Manager, Purchasing

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

Manage the purchasing process from requisition to receipt, ensuring compliance with company policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements. Manage vendor and supplier relationships. Establish ...

New

BALDWIN SUPPLY COMPANY

Purchasing Manager

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Purchasing Reports to: VP of Branch Operations Position Type and Expected Hours of Work: Management / Full-time / Salary-Exempt About Baldwin Supply: Baldwin Supply Company has worked alongside ...

Aston Carter

Purchasing Associate

Elk River, MN

$23 - $25/hr

Purchasing AssociateOverview We are seeking a detail-oriented and organized Purchasing Associate to join our procurement team in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This role is ideal for an ...

rockler

Purchasing Manager

Hamel, MN · On-site

The Purchasing Manager will use expertise in planning and supply chain optimization to ensure the organization meets its objectives in relation to in-stock levels, inventory turns, GMROI, customer ...

rockler

Purchasing Manager

Hamel, MN · On-site

The Purchasing Manager will use expertise in planning and supply chain optimization to ensure the organization meets its objectives in relation to in-stock levels, inventory turns, GMROI, customer ...

Aston Carter

Purchasing Associate

Elk River, MN · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Purchasing Associate Overview We are seeking a detail-oriented and organized Purchasing Associate to join our procurement team in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This role is ideal for an ...

CRH

Purchasing Assistant

Warren, MN · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Purchasing Assistant Infrastructure Products Group Warren, Minnesota, United States Job ID: 525586 Non-Exempt Oldcastle, a CRH company, is reinventing what's possible in building solutions. We are ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsPurchasing Agent JobsPurchasing Agent Jobs in Minnesota

Purchasing Agent information

See Minnesota salary details

$29.9K

$52.9K

$81.8K

How much do purchasing agent jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for purchasing agent in Minnesota is $52,921.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,100.00 and $58,800.00 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 role requires strong organizational skills and the ability to handle pressure, especially in fast-paced or high-stakes environments.

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 specific responsibilities.

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.
More about Purchasing Agent jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing Agent jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Purchasing Agent jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Agent jobs in Minnesota? For Purchasing Agent jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Purchasing Agent jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Purchasing Agent jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Purchasing Agent jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Purchasing Agent job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Agent jobs in MN? For Purchasing Agent jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Purchasing Agent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing Agent job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $52,921 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Purchasing Analyst

Dahl Consulting

Saint Cloud, MN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description


Title: Purchasing Analyst
Location: St. Cloud, MN
Job Type: Permanent
Compensation: $65,000 - $75,000 + Bonus Opportunity
Industry: Manufacturing
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About the Role
We are partnering with a rapidly growing manufacturer of feature-rich, specialty LED lighting and controls to find a Purchasing Analyst for their St. Cloud, MN operation. Our client serves the commercial, specification, and national account distribution markets, and recently became part of a larger global lighting organizationexpanding their supply chain reach across Asia, Europe, and North America.
This is a high-impact, hands-on role for a numbers-driven professional who thrives on cost savings, disciplined sourcing, and keeping inventory flowing at the right levels. You'll work closely with the Operations Manager and a global vendor management team while gaining exposure to an international supply chain and a fun, growth-oriented culture built on the values of being easy to work with, doing what it takes, and embracing change.
Job Description
Reporting to the Director of Operations, the Purchasing Analyst will drive cost savings and improve cash flow while ensuring high-quality products are available when needed. This person owns the purchasing cycle end to endplacing orders, managing product data, forecasting demand, and coordinating inbound logisticswhile building strong supplier relationships and instilling best-in-class sourcing discipline.
Key Outcomes
  • Increase profitability and gross margin by reducing product cost and improving supply chain efficiency (freight, duties, tariffs, etc.).
  • Optimize cash flow by reducing inventory to fewer than 180 Days on Hand (DOH).
  • Eliminate stock-outs and backorders to maintain service levels (target: 0 backorders).
  • Minimize inventory write-offs through disciplined cycle counting and end-of-life (EOL) processes.
Responsibilities
  • Inventory Management: Maintain accurate inventory data, manage min/max levels and just-in-time ordering, issue purchase orders, and confirm delivery dates, quantities, and pricing. Handle occasional special-order purchases.
  • Demand Planning & Forecasting: Forecast inventory needs based on purchasing cycles and product sales analysis to keep warehouse levels optimized.
  • Sourcing Strategy: Source globallyincluding China, Thailand, Vietnam, Poland, Canada, and the U.S.to secure quality solutions at the right cost.
  • SKU Setup & Maintenance: Create and maintain product SKUs as part of new product launches within agent software systems.
  • Supplier Selection: Identify, rank, and weight supplier criteria; build a consistent selection process; and pre-qualify potential suppliers.
  • Negotiation: Lead supplier agreements and negotiations to secure the most competitive price and service offers.
  • Logistics & Shipping: Coordinate inbound shipments via air and ocean freight with forwarders and logistics partners to ensure availability at the best landed cost.
  • Relationship Management: Manage supplier performance and agreements to sustain service levels and price competitiveness, including after-hours video calls with international vendors.
  • Budgeting: Prepare and manage an annual purchasing budget, track results monthly, analyze variances, and reallocate resources to pursue new opportunities.
Growth Opportunities
This role offers strong potential for career progression into Merchandising, Product/Cost Management, or Product Planning as the organization continues to scale.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • 3+ years of professional purchasing/procurement experience, ideally within an inventory-oriented business involving light assembly, light manufacturing, and/or distribution.
  • Experience buying physical products is required.
  • Demonstrated experience across:
    • Demand forecasting
    • Inventory planning
    • Purchasing/procurement
    • SKU setup and management
    • Warehouse inventory coordination
  • Advanced Excel and spreadsheet skills with a highly numbers-oriented, analytical, and financial mindset.
  • Strong vendor identification, evaluation, negotiation, management, and communication skills.
  • Proven ability to reduce costs and generate savings.
  • Experience overseeing shipping and supply chain logistics, including both air and ocean freight.
  • High attention to detail with strong problem-solving, planning, and organizational skills.
  • Willingness and ability to travel internationally to Asia annually (approximately 10 days) and to interact with global vendors after-hours as needed.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Associate or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business, Finance, or a related field.
  • Electrical and/or mechanical aptitude.
  • Background in merchandising, product planning, product management, distribution, or the HVAC industry.
  • Working knowledge of ERP and WMS systems; experience with ForecastRX, Salesforce, and QuickBooks is a plus.
  • Experience working with international vendors and foreign cultures (China, Asia, Europe, Mexico) in a business setting.
Benefits
This position offers an excellent benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with a Health Savings Account (HSA) featuring a company match. Employees are also eligible for a 401(k) plan with up to a 4% company match, paid holidays, paid time off (PTO), and life insurance. In addition, team members can earn an annual bonus based on both individual and organizational performance.
How to Apply
Take the first step on your new career path!To submit yourself for consideration for this role, simply click the apply button and complete our mobile-friendly online application. Once weve reviewed your application details, a recruiter will reach out to you with next steps!

Equal Opportunity Statement
As an equal opportunity employer, Dahl Consulting welcomes candidates of all backgrounds and experiences to apply. If this position sounds like the right opportunity for you, we encourage you to take the next step and connect with us. We look forward to meeting you!
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Company Description

Our promise is simple. DAHL has proven year after year that we are flexible, consistent and easy to work with, which is why our clients and consultants have stayed with us, and we've continued to grow throughout the years.
Our clients know they can depend on our efforts, as we hold their priorities in high regard. We genuinely care about each and every relationship and promise to work with the utmost of respect, integrity and high energy, as we continually strive to build long-term relationships.