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Purchasing Agent Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Purchasing Agent

Corona, CA · On-site

$31 - $36/hr

The Purchasing Agent is responsible for executing purchasing and material planning activities to ensure timely and accurate procurement operations for Pacific Electric Switchgear's manufacturing ...

Purchasing Agent

Corona, CA · On-site

$31 - $36/hr

The Purchasing Agent is responsible for executing purchasing and material planning activities to ensure timely and accurate procurement operations for Pacific Electric Switchgear's manufacturing ...

We are currently seeking an experienced Purchasing Agent to support our California operations. This non-supervisory role is responsible for sourcing and purchasing materials, components, and services ...

Responsibilities Meritage Homes is looking for a Purchasing Agent to support our Southern California Division. This person will: * Research and resolve Vendor disputes; including product or pricing ...

Purchasing Agent

Fontana, CA · On-site

$55.80K - $76.70K/yr

Checking the purchase orders and modifying them according to the changes in the production plan with the help of the Shortage List and the Open Purchase Order List. * Tracking shipments, urging them ...

Purchasing Agent

Fontana, CA · On-site

$55.80K - $76.70K/yr

Checking the purchase orders and modifying them according to the changes in the production plan with the help of the Shortage List and the Open Purchase Order List. * Tracking shipments, urging them ...

Purchasing Agent

Fontana, CA · On-site

$55.80K - $76.70K/yr

Checking the purchase orders and modifying them according to the changes in the production plan with the help of the Shortage List and the Open Purchase Order List. * Tracking shipments, urging them ...

Purchasing Agent

Fontana, CA · On-site

$55.80K - $76.70K/yr

Checking the purchase orders and modifying them according to the changes in the production plan with the help of the Shortage List and the Open Purchase Order List. * Tracking shipments, urging them ...

Purchasing Agent

Fontana, CA · On-site

$55.80K - $76.70K/yr

Checking the purchase orders and modifying them according to the changes in the production plan with the help of the Shortage List and the Open Purchase Order List. * Tracking shipments, urging them ...

Sr Purchasing Agent

Irvine, CA · On-site

$68.64K - $88.16K/yr

Join a Company that Empowers you to Build your Future The Sr Purchasing Agent reports directly to the VP of Purchasing. Provide analytical and technical support to vertical purchasing group. Role ...

Sr Purchasing Agent

Irvine, CA · On-site

$68.64K - $88.16K/yr

Join a Company that Empowers you to Build your Future The Sr Purchasing Agent reports directly to the VP of Purchasing. Provide analytical and technical support to vertical purchasing group. Role ...

Sr Purchasing Agent

Irvine, CA · On-site

$68.64K - $88.16K/yr

Join a Company that Empowers you to Build your Future The Sr Purchasing Agent reports directly to the VP of Purchasing. Provide analytical and technical support to vertical purchasing group. Role ...

Purchasing Assistant

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$20 - $25.75/hr

Job Summary Under the supervision of the Purchasing Agent, the Purchasing Administrative Assistant will provide efficient and effective support for the purchasing department. We are looking for a ...

Purchasing Clerk

Corona, CA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

The Purchasing Clerk works closely with the Purchasing Agent and internal teams to ensure accurate documentation, support material flow, and maintain efficient day-to-day purchasing operations.

Purchasing

Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site

$28 - $33.50/hr

Purchasing Associate (Entry Level) Location: Rancho Cucamonga, CA Jobs and Responsibilities * Communicate expected delivery dates to vendors at, or prior to, the time the purchase order is submitted.

Purchasing

Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site

$28 - $33.50/hr

Purchasing Associate (Entry Level) Location: Rancho Cucamonga, CA Jobs and Responsibilities * Communicate expected delivery dates to vendors at, or prior to, the time the purchase order is submitted.

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Purchasing Assistant

Pomona, CA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

The Purchasing Assistant will help maintain inventory control, process purchasing documentation, follow up with vendors, assist with office supply purchasing, and support communication between ...

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Showing results 1-20

Purchasing Agent information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$31.8K

$56.4K

$87.1K

How much do purchasing agent jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for purchasing agent in Riverside, CA is $56,371.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,900.00 and $62,600.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing Agent jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Purchasing Agent jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Agent jobs in Riverside, CA? For Purchasing Agent jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Purchasing Agent jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Purchasing Agent jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Purchasing Agent jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Purchasing Agent job openings:
Infographic showing various Purchasing Agent job openings in Riverside, CA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,371 per year, or $27.1 per hour.
Purchasing Agent

Purchasing Agent

PACIFIC ELECTRIC

Corona, CA • On-site

$31 - $36/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Pacific Gas and Electric Company rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

General Summary:

The Purchasing Agent is responsible for executing purchasing and material planning activities to ensure timely and accurate procurement operations for Pacific Electric Switchgear’s manufacturing needs. This role owns purchase order execution, supplier communication, pricing and lead time negotiation, and open purchase order tracking to support production schedules and inventory requirements. The Purchasing Agent works cross-functionally to ensure material availability, maintain supplier performance, and proactively resolve supply issues to prevent delays or disruptions.

Essential Functions:

  • Processes and executes purchase orders in accordance with production schedules, material requirements, and company procedures
  • Leads supplier communication and negotiates pricing, terms, and lead times to ensure cost-effective and timely material availability
  • Manages open purchase orders and maintains open PO tracking and reporting, proactively identifying delays and ensuring material availability aligns with production schedules
  • Follows up with vendors and expedites critical materials to prevent delays, shortages, or production disruptions
  • Resolves supplier-related issues, including late deliveries, incorrect shipments, damaged goods, missing items, and pricing discrepancies
  • Coordinates with inventory and warehouse teams to align purchasing activities with stock levels, material needs, and incoming shipments, and works with inventory to correct pricing, vendor, and product description discrepancies
  • Ensures inventory alignment and material availability by actively utilizing and monitoring MRP (Material Requirements Planning) to support production schedules and operational demands
  • Reviews and validates purchase requisitions, specifications, and quantities prior to order placement
  • Collaborates cross-functionally with Production, Engineering, Inventory, and Quality teams to support material flow and meet operational requirements
  • Supports goods receipt verification, vendor setup, and ERP data accuracy by coordinating with the Purchasing Clerk and ensuring proper documentation
  • Supports pricing updates, RMAs, and purchasing records maintenance by providing information and coordination as needed
  • Identifies supply risks, escalates critical issues to leadership, and prepares and supports ad hoc reports, data analysis, and information requests as needed to support purchasing operations


REQUIRED SKILLS, EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:

Core Competencies / Skill Sets
  • Purchase Order Execution and Ownership, managing the full lifecycle of purchase orders to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and alignment with production requirements
  • Supplier Management, Communication, and Negotiation, leading vendor interactions and negotiating pricing, terms, and lead times to optimize cost, delivery, and supplier performance
  • Material Planning, MRP Utilization, and Inventory Alignment, actively utilizing Material Requirements Planning (MRP) systems to align purchasing activities with production schedules and inventory requirements
  • Open Purchase Order Tracking and Material Visibility, maintaining accurate open PO reports, monitoring material status, and proactively identifying risks to material availability
  • Inventory Data Integrity and System Accuracy, working with inventory teams to ensure accuracy of pricing, vendor information, and product descriptions within ERP systems
  • Problem Solving and Issue Resolution, identifying supply risks, delays, discrepancies, and supplier issues and taking corrective action to minimize operational impact
  • ERP System Utilization and Data Management, maintaining accurate purchasing data, order status, and documentation within ERP systems such as SAP
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration, working effectively with Production, Engineering, Inventory, Quality, and internal teams to support material flow and operational needs
  • Organization, Attention to Detail, and Task Prioritization, managing multiple purchase orders and deadlines while ensuring accuracy in purchasing transactions and communication
  • Microsoft Office and System Proficiency, demonstrating proficiency in tools such as Excel, Outlook, and ERP systems to support tracking, reporting, and communication
  • Language and Communication Skills, ability to read, write, and speak English is required; bilingual in English/Spanish is preferred


Professional Experience/Education/Certifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Operations, or related field required
  • 2–5 years of purchasing, procurement, or supply chain experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment, including purchase order execution and supplier coordination
  • 2–5 years of experience managing supplier relationships, including pricing negotiation, lead times, and order performance
  • 2–5 years of experience working with ERP systems for purchasing and material tracking (SAP preferred)


Additional Eligibility Qualifications:

None required for this position.


Position Type / Expected Hours of Work:

Full-time, non-exempt position. Typical business hours with additional time, overtime, or schedule adjustments as needed to meet operational and production demands.


Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This position operates primarily in an office environment and may occasionally support operations at nearby company facilities. The role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, calculators, and photocopiers.


Other Duties:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of position duties, responsibilities, or functions that are required of the employee for this position. The role, responsibilities, duties, and activities described within the job description may change at any time with or without notice.


Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable persons with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and use a computer or other office equipment. The employee may occasionally walk throughout office and production areas to collaborate with employees and support operational activities. The employee must be able to communicate effectively and maintain visual and hearing acuity sufficient to perform the essential duties of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.


Physical Requirements


Working conditions and

Physical Requirements

Level of Physical Effort Normally Required for This Position

Never

<20% Occasionally

20 – 80%

Frequently

>80%

Constantly

  1. Close Eye Work (computers, drawing, typing, reading, writing)
  1. Sedentary (continuous sitting)
  1. Light Work (standing, walking, lifting <15 pounds)
  1. Moderate Work (lifting, moving, loading 15-30 pounds, prolonged use of small hand tools, climbing ladders)
  1. Moderately Heavy Work (lifting, moving, loading 31-50 pounds)
  1. Heavy/Hard Work (above average strength and stamina, lifting >51 pounds, constant shoveling, etc.)

Day Shift / In Office