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Purchasing Agent Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Shodeen Homes

Be Seen First

Purchasing Agent

Geneva, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Job Overview We are seeking a detail-oriented Purchasing Agent to join our home building team. You will manage vendor relationships, negotiate contracts, and secure high-quality construction ...

Veterans Health Administration

Purchasing Agent

Hines, IL · On-site +1

$50K - $65K/yr

The position serves as a Purchasing Agent for the Logistics Service in a Veteran Affairs Health Care System (VA HCS) and supported catchment area. This position primarily performs Purchasing Agent ...

DXP

Purchasing Agent

Addison, IL

Purchasing Agent Industrial distribution / metalworking supply We are looking for a detail-oriented Purchasing Agent to manage daily procurement activity across branch locations. This role focuses on ...

DXP

Purchasing Agent

Addison, IL

Purchasing Agent Industrial distribution / metalworking supply We are looking for a detail-oriented Purchasing Agent to manage daily procurement activity across branch locations. This role focuses on ...

DXP Enterprises, Inc.

Purchasing Agent

Addison, IL · On-site

Purchasing Agent Industrial distribution / metalworking supply We are looking for a detail-oriented Purchasing Agent to manage daily procurement activity across branch locations. This role focuses on ...

Schillings

Purchasing Agent

Saint John, IN · On-site

Schillings is currently looking for a Purchasing Agent at our Saint John, IN location. We offer competitive pay along with a full package of benefits and opportunities for advancement. Apply today!

Schillings

Purchasing Agent

Saint John, IN

Schillings is currently looking for a Purchasing Agent at our Saint John, IN location. We offer competitive pay along with a full package of benefits and opportunities for advancement. Apply today!

Schillings

Purchasing Agent

Saint John, IN · On-site

Schillings is currently looking for a Purchasing Agent at our Saint John, IN location. We offer competitive pay along with a full package of benefits and opportunities for advancement. Apply today!

Sargent Electric

Purchasing Agent

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

We're seeking a detail-oriented Purchasing Agent to support our electrical construction projects from our East Chicago office. This role is critical to ensuring materials, equipment, and services are ...

Sargent Electric

Purchasing Agent

East Chicago, IN · On-site

We're seeking a detail-oriented Purchasing Agent to support our electrical construction projects from our East Chicago office. This role is critical to ensuring materials, equipment, and services are ...

M/I Homes

Purchasing Agent

Chicago, IL

$75K - $95K/yr

Manage negotiation and execution of contracts for the purchase of all materials and labor for homebuilding operations. * Prepare bid packages, collect pricing, negotiate contracts, maintain scopes of ...

M/I Homes

Purchasing Agent

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Manage negotiation and execution of contracts for the purchase of all materials and labor for homebuilding operations. * Prepare bid packages, collect pricing, negotiate contracts, maintain scopes of ...

M/I Homes

Purchasing Agent

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Manage negotiation and execution of contracts for the purchase of all materials and labor for homebuilding operations. * Prepare bid packages, collect pricing, negotiate contracts, maintain scopes of ...

Topbuild

Purchasing Agent

Aurora, IL

$20 - $40/hr

About Your Future with Service Partners Are you looking for a career with an industry leader that drives the future of energy-efficient insulation and building material products? Is being part of a ...

TopBuild Corp.

Purchasing Agent

Aurora, IL · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

About Your Future with Service Partners Are you looking for a career with an industry leader that drives the future of energy-efficient insulation and building material products? Is being part of a ...

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All JobsPurchasing Agent JobsPurchasing Agent Jobs in Chicago, IL

Purchasing Agent information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.4K

$55.7K

$86K

How much do purchasing agent jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for purchasing agent in Chicago, IL is $55,662.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,300.00 and $61,800.00 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 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.
More about Purchasing Agent jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing Agent jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Purchasing Agent jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Agent jobs in Chicago, IL? For Purchasing Agent jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Purchasing Agent jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Purchasing Agent jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Purchasing Agent jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Purchasing Agent job openings:
Purchasing Agent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing Agent job openings in Chicago, IL 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 $55,662 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Purchasing Agent

Shodeen Homes

Geneva, IL • On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

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Job description

Shodeen Homes, L.L.C. a New Home builder in Illinois and Wisconsin is seeking a Purchasing Agent for our Residential Home Building Team.

Job Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented Purchasing Agent to join our home building team. You will manage vendor relationships, negotiate contracts, and secure high-quality construction materials at the best prices. Your work will directly impact our project timelines, build quality, and profit margins.

Key Responsibilities

  • Source Materials: Find and select reliable vendors for lumber, roofing, flooring, plumbing, and other building supplies.
  • Negotiate Costs: Review trade partner bids and negotiate pricing, payment terms, and delivery schedules.
  • Manage Contracts: Issue purchase orders (POs) and formal contract agreements for subcontractors and suppliers.
  • Control Budgets: Analyze material costs against project budgets to identify and fix cost overruns.
  • Maintain Inventory: Monitor supply levels to ensure construction sites never face delays due to missing materials.
  • Evaluate Quality: Inspect sample materials and evaluate vendor performance to maintain our building standards.

Qualifications and Skills

  • Experience: 2–5 years of purchasing experience, specifically within the residential home building or commercial construction industry.
  • Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Construction Management, or a related field (preferred but not required).
  • Software Skills: Proficiency with construction management software such as Build Pro and/or Procore, and Microsoft Excel.
  • Industry Knowledge: Strong understanding of blueprints, construction phases, and residential building materials.
  • Soft Skills: Excellent negotiation, communication, and math skills.

Benefits

  • Competitive salary with discretionary performance bonuses.
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan.
  • Vacation and Sick Time.