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Purchasing Agent Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

The Purchasing Analyst is responsible for supporting the procurement and purchasing activities of EBR Housing by ensuring compliance with federal, state, local, and agency procurement regulations.

Purchasing Coordinator

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$20.25 - $27.25/hr

Purchasing Coordinator Full-Time | In Person | Baton Rouge, LA About Us Safe Air Technology is a rapidly growing manufacturer of mission-critical and explosion-proof HVAC systems. We take pride in ...

Purchasing Coordinator

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$20.25 - $27.25/hr

Purchasing Coordinator Full-Time | In Person | Baton Rouge, LA About Us Safe Air Technology is a rapidly growing manufacturer of mission-critical and explosion-proof HVAC systems. We take pride in ...

Manage the material release schedule and delivery with Purchasing Agent and Project Controls Manager/Project Manager/Supervisor. * Acquire growing awareness of client relations through communication ...

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Purchasing Agent information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$26K

$46.1K

$71.2K

How much do purchasing agent jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for purchasing agent in Baton Rouge, LA is $46,077.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,700.00 and $51,200.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Agent jobs in Baton Rouge, LA? For Purchasing Agent jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Purchasing Agent jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for? The top searched job categories for Purchasing Agent jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:
What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Purchasing Agent jobs? Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Purchasing Agent job openings:
Infographic showing various Purchasing Agent job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,077 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Purchasing Agent

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Purchasing Agent


Alvarez Construction, one of Louisiana's leading homebuilders, is seeking an experienced and detail-driven Purchasing Agent to join our growing team. This role is responsible for managing purchase orders, trade partner coordination, bid support, and system accuracy across multiple active communities - keeping the build moving and the numbers right from the first take-off to the final closing.


Our Core Values

  • Resilient
  • Do the Right Thing
  • Be a Team Player
  • Excellence in Everything
  • Accountable


Key Responsibilities

  • Manage the full purchase order lifecycle - issue, track, update, void, and correct POs across assigned trades and communities in Newstar ERP.
  • Process and manage variance purchase orders (VPOs), change orders, and tax corrections accurately and on time.
  • Audit PO accuracy against estimates and flag discrepancies before they reach the job site.
  • Support bid preparation - perform take-offs and cost comparisons for assigned trade categories.
  • Review plan sets from a cost perspective, identifying opportunities to reduce cost or improve accuracy.
  • Coordinate directly with trade partners and suppliers on pricing, delivery schedules, and order details.
  • Maintain accurate system data - supplier records, parts pricing, bid rates, and takeoffs.
  • Support community setup in Newstar - pricing, attribute mapping, and PO generation rules.
  • Respond to construction, buyer, and sales team questions on POs, specifications, and options.
  • Collaborate with accounting on completion dates, PO discrepancies, and payment processing.
  • Responsible for job scrubs - for homes closed and under construction.
  • Build and maintain working relationships with trade partners and suppliers across assigned categories
  • Coordinate delivery schedules, pricing confirmations, and order details directly with suppliers
  • Monitor supplier license expirations and flag compliance issues proactively
  • Assist with onboarding new trade partners into the system and vendor qualification process


Qualifications

  • 2-4 years of purchasing, estimating, or procurement experience - homebuilding or residential construction strongly preferred.
  • Working knowledge of construction documents, plan sets, and scope of work concepts.
  • Experience with homebuilder ERP systems (Newstar, Builder MT, Hyphen, or similar) or a strong aptitude to learn quickly.
  • Ability to perform or support quantity take-offs and cost comparisons.
  • Strong organizational skills - comfortable managing multiple trades and communities simultaneously.
  • High attention to detail - PO accuracy directly impacts job site execution and cost outcomes.
  • Effective communicator with trade partners, internal teams, and management.
  • Self-motivated, accountable, and able to work independently without constant direction.
  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Business, Supply Chain, or related field preferred, but not required.


Why Alvarez Construction?

We believe great people deserve a great workplace. That's why we offer:

  • Competitive compensation package
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Company contribution toward employee health coverage
  • 401(k) with generous company match
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays
  • Half-day Fridays year-round (Monday-Thursday: 7:00 AM-4:30 PM | Friday: 7:00 AM-12:00 PM)
  • Birthday Friday Off - enjoy a paid Friday off during your birthday week
  • Career growth and advancement opportunities
  • Supportive, team-oriented culture built on trust, accountability, and excellence


If you're looking for a long-term career with a company that values precision, teamwork, and continuous improvement - and wants to grow with a team that's building something real - we'd love to hear from you.