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Purchasing Agent Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Purchasing Agent I, II, III

Chesapeake, VA ยท On-site

$21.11 - $41.04/hr

Position Title: Purchasing Agent I, II, III Work Location: Chesapeake, VA - In Office FLSA Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt REQ#26_030505 Summary of duties - The Purchasing Agent has direct ...

Purchasing Estimator

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Prior experience in estimating, engineering, or as a buyer/purchasing agent in support of procuring heavy civil construction projects is preferred. * Experience with HCSS Heavy Bid Estimating ...

Previous experience as a Buyer, Purchasing Agent, Procurement Specialist, or similar purchasing role. * Knowledge of vendor sourcing, supplier management, and purchasing processes. * Experience ...

Procurement Agent 2 - Tysons, VA

Tysons, VA ยท On-site

$75K - $113K/yr

Responsibilities As a Purchasing Agent supporting MC Dean's growing businesses, your role will include: * Functioning as a key liaison between the Procurement team and internal stakeholders including ...

Procurement Agent 1 - Tysons, VA

Tysons, VA ยท On-site

$65K - $97K/yr

Responsibilities As a Purchasing Agent supporting MC Dean's growing businesses, your role will include: * Functioning as a key liaison between the Procurement team and internal stakeholders including ...

Hands-on purchasing execution: Remain actively involved in day-to-day purchasing, including purchase requisition review, purchase-order placement, order confirmations, expedites, shortages, late ...

Showing results 21-40

Purchasing Agent information

See Virginia salary details

$30.2K

$53.6K

$82.8K

How much do purchasing agent jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 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 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.
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 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:
Infographic showing various Purchasing Agent job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $53,570 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Purchasing Agent I, II, III

Prism Maritime

Chesapeake, VA โ€ข On-site

$21.11 - $41.04/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Position Title: Purchasing Agent I, II, III
Work Location: Chesapeake, VA - In Office
FLSA Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt
REQ#26_030505
Summary of duties - The Purchasing Agent has direct responsibility for executing purchasing activities for such commodities as hardware items, electrical parts, electronic components, mechanical assemblies, sub-assemblies, chemicals, and services. Requires a background in supply chain purchasing. Must have expertise in developing, improving, and executing purchasing management processes for continental US and international requirements. This includes experience in requirement forecasting, planning, purchasing, shipping and delivery, and customer service.
Specific description of duties:
  • Directs and coordinates activities of personnel engaged in purchasing and distributing materials, equipment, and supplies.
  • Plans, organizes, directs, and controls activities related to the purchasing function, from intent to purchase through delivery to customer.
  • Manages the purchase order process and complies with all public law requirements as well as corporate policies and procedures, import/export regulations, and employs sound business practices.
  • Follows FAR/DFARS guidelines to process and evaluate vendor quotations. Uses appropriate negotiation and purchasing techniques to ensure quality, price, delivery, and service objectives are met.
  • Evaluates and determines bid awards for procurements within the established purchasing authority.
  • Negotiates or supervises the negotiation of complex requests for equipment, supplies, and services from suppliers and subcontractors.
  • Coordinates with logistics department to ensure receipt of proper supplies. Investigates and expedites delinquent purchase order deliveries.
  • Takes corrective action with quality control personnel, customers, and vendors on defective or unacceptable goods or services.
  • Reviews purchase order file and documentation for completeness and correctness for procurements above the established purchasing authority. Coordinates with the corporate purchasing manager for processing the award.
  • Executes purchasing activities for such commodities as hardware items, electrical parts, electronic components, mechanical assemblies, subassemblies, chemicals and for services. Responsible for acquiring OEM repairs, parts, and services. Analyzes assigned purchase requisitions and applies purchasing strategies to select suppliers and identify leveraging opportunities.
  • Applies understanding of the procurement process, responsibilities, and ethical standards necessary for US Government, commercial and international material, and services procurements. Follows FAR/DFAR guidelines to process and evaluate vendor quotations. Utilizes appropriate negotiation and purchasing techniques to ensure quality, price, delivery, and service objectives are met.
  • Develops and maintains suppliers that provide best value, high quality products and services while maintaining the highest code of ethics and conduct.
  • Works with internal customers to ensure specifications and statements of work for materials and services are appropriate for the tasks or products required.
  • Prepares negotiation plans and conducts effective negotiations. Interfaces with internal customers to ensure quality, delivery and cost performance are met. Supports supplier management activities.
  • Overtime may be required but not guaranteed.
  • Occasional travel outside the local area may be required.
  • Knowledge of Costpoint an advantage but not required.
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office required.
  • Perform any other assignments or tasks as needed or requested by management to assist in accomplishing the organization's mission, objectives, and goals.

Education/Specialized Training:
Level I:
  • HS diploma or GED may be required depending on varying contract stipulations.
  • 0 - 3 years of experience related to Government contracting/ purchasing experience.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, well-developed interpersonal skills, effective negotiation skills.
  • Basic understanding of Federal Acquisition Regulations, contract law, price and cost analysis techniques required.

Level II:
  • High School diploma or GED mandatory
  • Associate degree and/or 4-8 years of experience related to Government contracting/ purchasing.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, well-developed interpersonal skills, effective negotiation skills.
  • Basic understanding of Federal Acquisition Regulations, contract law, price and cost analysis techniques required.

Level III:
  • High School diploma or GED mandatory
  • Associate degree and/or 8-15 years of experience related to Government contracting/ purchasing.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, well-developed interpersonal skills, effective negotiation skills.
  • Basic understanding of Federal Acquisition Regulations, contract law, price and cost analysis techniques required.

Security Clearance:
  • Clearance up to Secret level may be required.
  • US Citizenship required.

Physical/Environmental Job Requirements:
Physical requirements include the following:
  • Lifting/moving up to and including 25 pounds

Company Overview:
Prism Maritime is a premier maritime service provider for Alteration Installation Team (AIT) and Modernization related Services in support of US Maritime and Shore-based clients. Prism Maritime is a privately held business headquartered in Chesapeake, VA, with offices in San Diego and Ventura, CA. Established in 2006, Prism Maritime currently employs over 350 professionals and maintains an ISO 9001-2015 certified Quality Management System.
Prism Maritime is an EEO/AA employer. We invite resumes from all interested parties without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnic origin, physical or mental disability, veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. U.S. citizenship is required for most positions.
If you need special assistance or an accommodation while seeking employment with us, please email hropportunities@prismmaritime.com or call: 757-460-8800.
To Apply: Visit www.prismmaritime.com and click on Careers>Job Openings
All applications are active for 90 calendar days. After 90 days you must re-apply to still be considered for this position.