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Purchasing Agent Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

pca

Purchasing Agent

Gladstone, VA · On-site

The Purchasing Agent is responsible for the purchase of materials, equipment, supplies, and services at the lowest cost possible consistent with quality and service requirements to ensure continuing ...

Sunrise Senior Living

Purchasing Agent

Mclean, VA · On-site

$64.52K - $80.65K/yr

Additionally, the Purchasing Agent will require coordination and implementation of new supplier agreements into corporate order guides and blocking of non-approved products. Will also assist in ...

Packing Corp Of America

Purchasing Agent

Gladstone, VA · On-site

People • Customers • Trust The Purchasing Agent is responsible for the purchase of materials, equipment, supplies, and services at the lowest cost possible consistent with quality and service ...

Sunrise Senior Living

Purchasing Agent

Mclean, VA · On-site

Additionally, the Purchasing Agent will require coordination and implementation of new supplier agreements into corporate order guides and blocking of non-approved products. Will also assist in ...

Sunrise Senior Living

Purchasing Agent

Mclean, VA

$64.52K - $80.65K/yr

Additionally, the Purchasing Agent will require coordination and implementation of new supplier agreements into corporate order guides and blocking of non-approved products. Will also assist in ...

DR Horton

Purchasing Agent

Midlothian, VA · On-site

D.R. Horton, Inc. is currently looking for a Purchasing Agent for their Purchasing Department. The right candidate will bid on new projects, maintain scopes of work, track blueprints and design ...

D.R. Horton, Inc

Purchasing Agent

Midlothian, VA · On-site

D.R. Horton, Inc. is currently looking for a Purchasing Agent for their Purchasing Department. The right candidate will bid on new projects, maintain scopes of work, track blueprints and design ...

SEACORP

Purchasing Agent

Norfolk, VA

SEACORP is hiring a Purchasing Agent to execute procurement of all materials and equipment necessary for supporting on-site defense contracting tasks. Performs diversified buying duties which include ...

SEACORP

Purchasing Agent

Norfolk, VA · On-site

SEACORP is hiring a Purchasing Agent to execute procurement of all materials and equipment necessary for supporting on-site defense contracting tasks. Performs diversified buying duties which include ...

Mirion Technologies, Inc.

Purchasing Agent

Norfolk, VA · On-site

The Purchasing Agent independently performs procurement activities to source, negotiate, and purchase materials, equipment, and services in alignment with organizational requirements. This role ...

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Purchasing Agent information

See Virginia salary details

$30.2K

$53.6K

$82.8K

How much do purchasing agent jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for purchasing agent in Virginia is $53,570.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,600.00 and $59,500.00 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, 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 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 does a Purchasing Agent do?

A Purchasing Agent is responsible for buying goods, materials, and services for organizations to ensure they have the necessary resources for their operations. They research suppliers, negotiate contracts, and evaluate product quality and prices to obtain the best value. Purchasing Agents also maintain records, monitor inventory levels, and ensure timely delivery of goods. Their role is crucial in controlling costs and supporting the organization's supply chain.

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

Purchasing agents can earn around $3,000 or more per month depending on experience, industry, and location, often without requiring a college degree. Success in such roles typically depends on strong negotiation skills, industry knowledge, and sometimes certifications. Other jobs that may pay similar wages without a degree include sales representatives, administrative supervisors, and certain skilled trades like HVAC technicians or commercial drivers, which may require specialized training or licenses.

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.

More about Purchasing Agent jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing Agent jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Purchasing Agent jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Agent jobs in Virginia? For Purchasing Agent jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Purchasing Agent jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Purchasing Agent jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Purchasing Agent jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Purchasing Agent job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Agent jobs in VA? For Purchasing Agent jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Purchasing Agent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing Agent job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,570 per year, or $25.8 per hour.
Purchasing Agent

Purchasing Agent

pca

Gladstone, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 20 days ago

Packaging Corporation Of America rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 109 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

The Purchasing Agent is responsible for the purchase of materials, equipment, supplies, and services at the lowest cost possible consistent with quality and service requirements to ensure continuing operation of the Mill.  This may include reviewing and processing requisitions, detailing specifications, obtaining quotations, conducting analysis of proposals and negotiations, monitoring vendor quality, maintaining knowledge of vendor capabilities, and determining appropriate inventories.

The Purchasing Agent reviews current processes and recommends improvement programs.  The Purchasing Agent is expected to manage multiple projects and tasks at the same time, exercise judgment in prioritizing projects and managing the department’s resources for the maximum return.

Principle Accountabilities: 

  • Responsible for quotation and bid requests and analysis, selection of primary and secondary vendors, purchase commitments, issuing purchase orders, writing contracts, and expediting the timely receipt of materials, equipment, and services to sustain the normal operation of the mill.
  • Become familiar with specific markets and work with various departments and vendors to obtain optimum value.
  • Develop and implement blanket purchase orders and contracts,
  • Monitor vendor performance and conduct annual vendor reviews and ensure they are continually improving to meet PCA’s quality, delivery, and cost objectives.
  • Act as a liaison to solve problems, facilitate communication, and negotiate strategic supply/service agreements to help reduce supplier base.
  • Supervise purchasing functions in absence of manager and be available for emergency calls.
  • Coordinate with accounts payable to ensure accurate and timely payment of vendor invoices.
  • Assist mill customers with keeping material inventory at optimum levels.
  • Demonstrate working knowledge of ISO 9002 principles.
  • Knowledge of applicable purchasing law.
  • Ability to achieve consistent, documented cost savings/reductions.
  • Implement and support corporate supply/service agreements to ensure optimal participation to the mill.
  • Know and follow policies and procedures of the company, share information that would benefit other members of the team and find ways to improve the delivery of service to our customers.
  • Strive to continually strengthen PCA’s business philosophy of meeting needs and exceeding expectations for customers specifically supporting PCA’s Commitment to Service which involves doing what’s right for our customers, focusing on strategies that add value and support growth, and keeping the promises that we make.

Position Requirements:

  • Education equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree in Business or Procurement experience required.
  • Strong project management experience with the ability to assess business needs and make solid recommendations regarding timelines, suppliers, contractors, and costs.
  • Excellent negotiation skills in supplier sourcing, vendor analysis, and program evaluation.
  • Solid working knowledge of computer systems including experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
  • Proven ability to learn AS 400 and purchasing software.
  • Strong listening, evaluating, and problem-solving skills.  Ability to create alternative solutions and meet deadlines. 
  • Ability to work in a fast paced, deadline-oriented environment, prioritize assignments, and handle multiple projects and/or requests concurrently.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to handle numerous details, deadlines, and requests.
  • Must be able to travel as necessary and possess a valid U.S. driver’s license.
  • Five (5) years’ previous work experience in an industrial and/or manufacturing environment, preferably in the purchasing department.
  • Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), Certified Supply Chain Manager (CSCM) required.

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