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Purchasing Agent Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Compass Group

Purchasing Manager

Ames, IA · On-site

$60K/yr

Purchasing Manager @ Iowa State University Salary: $60,000 Different perspectives make us better. We're committed to creating an equal opportunity and fair treatment environment, where learning and ...

Compass Group

Purchasing Manager

Ames, IA · On-site

$60K/yr

Purchasing Manager @ Iowa State University Salary: $60,000 Different perspectives make us better. We're committed to creating an equal opportunity and fair treatment environment, where learning and ...

Compass Group

Purchasing Manager

Ames, IA · On-site

$60K/yr

Purchasing Manager @ Iowa State University Salary: $60,000 Different perspectives make us better. We're committed to creating an equal opportunity and fair treatment environment, where learning and ...

Seaboard Foods

Purchasing Coordinator - Ames, IA

Ames, IA

$20.50 - $27.75/hr

YOUR OPPORTUNITY We currently have an exciting Purchasing Coordinator opportunity in our Ames, IA office. In this highly impactful role, you will convert customer requisitions of medications and ...

Iowa State University

Procurement Agent

Ames, IA · On-site

Procurement Agent Job Group:Professional & Scientific Required Minimum Qualifications:Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of related education and experience totaling 4 years Summary of ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Service Deli Clerk

Ankeny, IA

$13.25 - $16.25/hr

Shops the warehouse and purchases needed supplies and ingredients for the day's production ... Wipes stationary parts with a cleaning agent, water and sanitizing agent. Cleans deli prep room ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Service Deli Clerk

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $16.25/hr

Shops the warehouse and purchases needed supplies and ingredients for the day's production ... Wipes stationary parts with a cleaning agent, water and sanitizing agent. Cleans deli prep room ...

Liveops

Remote Customer Service Agent

Ames, IA · Remote

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

Customer Service Agent -- Independent Contractor (Remote) Location: Remote (US-Based) Liveops is seeking independent contractors to provide virtual customer service support for a variety of client ...

Liveops

Remote Customer Service Agent

Ankeny, IA · Remote

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Customer Service Agent -- Independent Contractor (Remote) Location: Remote (US-Based) Liveops is seeking independent contractors to provide virtual customer service support for a variety of client ...

MCI Careers

On-Demand Bilingual Data Breach Agent

Iowa, IA · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

... AGENT DO? We improve the customer's experience, providing exceptional solutions to simple requests. You will apply the latest customer service techniques and learn our account management systems ...

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All JobsPurchasing Agent JobsPurchasing Agent Jobs in Ames, IA

Purchasing Agent information

See Ames, IA salary details

$29.8K

$52.9K

$81.7K

How much do purchasing agent jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for purchasing agent in Ames, IA is $52,855.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,100.00 and $58,700.00 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.
More about Purchasing Agent jobs

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Cities near Ames, IA with the most Purchasing Agent job openings:

Purchasing Agent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing Agent job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,855 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Purchasing Manager

Compass Group

Ames, IA • On-site

$60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,093 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

347th of 495 rated business services

Job description

Purchasing Manager @ Iowa State University

Salary: $60,000

Different perspectives make us better. We're committed to creating an equal opportunity and fair treatment environment, where learning and growing together is just part of our every day. An environment where you can be your authentic self. 

About Levy
The disruptor in defining the sports and entertainment hospitality experience, Levy is recognized as the market leader and most critically acclaimed hospitality company in its industry. Twice named one of the 10 most innovative companies in sports by Fast Company magazine and one of the top three Best Employers for Diversity in America by Forbes, Levy's diverse portfolio includes award-winning restaurants; iconic sports and entertainment venues, zoos and cultural institutions, theaters, and convention centers; as well as the Super Bowl, Grammy Awards, US Open Tennis Tournament, Kentucky Derby, and NHL, MLB, NBA, NFL, and MLS All-Star Games. 

Detailed Responsibilities 

* Understands all menus, product offerings, packaging and pricing 

* Practices proper product control and handling of all inventory and equipment 

* Achieves assigned budget goals

* Contributes to required daily reporting

* Contributes to the completion of required department reports and assists in compiling information at month-end closing 

* Ensures all products are properly stored, rotated and dated in accordance with the Levy guidelines

* Monitors inventory procedures for accountability 

* Interviews, hires, trains and develops team members according to Levy guidelines 

Job Summary

Job Summary:

Key Responsibilities:

  • Understands all menus, product offerings, packaging and pricing
  • Employs good safety and sanitation practices
  • Achieves daily sales and assigned cost goals
  • Contributes to the completion of required department reports and assists in compiling information at month-end closing
  • Ensures all products are properly stored, rotated and dated in accordance with the Levy guidelines
  • Monitors inventory procedures for accountability
  • Interviews, hires, trains and develops team members according to Levy guidelines

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in Supply Chain or Purchasing
  • Degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Hospitality or similar is preferred
  • High level of computer literacy
  • Excellent interpersonal and stakeholder management skills
  • Curiosity for new technology and industry trends

At Levy, team = family. And we'll always take care of family, learn more about Levy benefits offered.

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/ AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • Flexible Time Off Plan
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
  • Personal Leave
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information. 

https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_Levy.pdf

Levy is a member of Compass Group USA. Compass Group/Levy is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass/Levy, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable acccommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsiblities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity.

 We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act. We encourage applicants with a criminal history (and driving history) to apply.

Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. 

Levy maintains a drug-free workplace.

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