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Purchasing Agent Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Freedom Warranty

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B2B Outside Sales Representative

Springfield, IL · On-site

Field Agent with Protected Territory Compensation: Commission Sales (1099). Unlimited Potential ... When you purchase a Freedom Warranty vehicle service contract you deal directly with us. We're ...

All JobsPurchasing Agent JobsPurchasing Agent Jobs in Springfield, IL

Purchasing Agent information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$30.2K

$53.6K

$82.8K

How much do purchasing agent jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for purchasing agent in Springfield, IL is $53,553.00, 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 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 popular job titles related to Purchasing Agent jobs in Springfield, IL? For Purchasing Agent jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Purchasing Agent jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Purchasing Agent job openings:
Purchasing Agent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing Agent job openings in Springfield, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $53,553 per year, or $25.7 per hour.
Purchasing Manager

Purchasing Manager

Lincoln Land Community College

Springfield, IL • On-site

$66K - $78K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Quick Link
https://llcc.peopleadmin.com/postings/9564
Position Title
Purchasing Manager
Full Time or Part Time
Full Time
Months Worked Per Year
12
Hours Worked Per Week
40
Work Schedule
Monday - Friday; 8:00AM - 5:00PM
Remote Work Availability
No
Job Description Summary
Supporting Student Success Through Strategic Purchasing and Operational Excellence at LLCC!
The Purchasing Manager oversees the procurement of goods and services, ensuring materials are sourced cost-effectively, delivered on time, and meet quality standards. This role ensures procurement activities align with college policies, regulatory guidelines, and applicable state laws. In addition, the Purchasing Manager supports facility construction projects through project management activities and oversees fixed asset inventory management processes. Through these responsibilities, the position helps the college maintain efficient operations, control expenses, and minimize procurement-related risks.
As a staff member at LLCC, you can look forward to 23 paid holidays a year, including 2 weeks at the end of the calendar year and one week in March for mid-semester break; 12 Fridays off in the summer; and 5 personal days, 12 sick days, and starting with 15 vacation days per year. LLCC staff, their spouse and qualified dependent children are eligible to use the tuition waiver on credited courses. Staff can also enjoy free access to our on-campus fitness center. LLCC is a positive, team-oriented environment supportive of staff development. You can view all benefits on our website. Come join our team and experience success at LLCC!Starting salary is likely to be between $66,342 and $78,163 per year with an excellent benefits package. The person hired into this position will be placed within this range based on education, training, experience, and skills.
LLCC strives to create an inclusive workplace and environment for our students, faculty, and staff. We are seeking applicants from all backgrounds and experiences to ensure we create a diverse workforce and learning environment.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in business administration or related field. Individuals with extensive, relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
  • Supervisory experience.
  • Purchasing/Procurement experience.

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Prior working knowledge of community college finance, planning and budget management principles, policies and legal requirements, purchasing and inventory management as applied to government institutions.
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks concurrently.
  • Strong attention to detail.

Physical Requirements
While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk and sit. The employee is occasionally required to lift up to 10 pounds.
Position Salary
Starting salary is likely to be between $66,342 and $78,163 per year with an excellent benefits package.
Requisition Detail Information
Open Date
07/06/2026
Last Day to Apply
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
This position will be open until filled: however, applications must be received on or before July 27, 2026 to be considered during the initial review window. Onsite interviews will begin August 5th. Anticipated start date for this position is September 1, 2026.
If you have a college degree or credits, please upload copies of your transcripts to your application along with a cover letter and resume. Photocopies of transcripts are acceptable to be uploaded. Please redact (black out) any personal information such as age, gender and Social Security Number from your transcripts or other documents you intend to share with us before you upload them to your application.
If you do not have transcripts to upload at the time of submission, please mail them to the address below and instead upload a Word document as your transcripts that indicates you will have transcripts sent directly to us. Please contact the Human Resources office at 217-786-2752 if you have any questions.
Lincoln Land Community College
ATTN: Human Resources
P.O. Box 19256
Springfield, IL 62794
Job Duties
Description of Job Duty
Direct all aspects of college wide procurement process.
Essential Duty?
Yes
Description of Job Duty
Manage the preparation and approval of all purchases based upon requisitions and college guidelines.
Essential Duty?
Yes
Description of Job Duty
Oversee the college's bidding process including establishing bid opening dates, preparing bid specifications, issuing invitations to bid and conduct public bid openings.
Essential Duty?
Yes
Description of Job Duty
Review, organize and evaluate bid responses and make recommendations on the selected bidder in accordance with Board policies and State statutes.
Essential Duty?
Yes
Description of Job Duty
Solicit quotations and utilize established governmental agreements to ensure competitive procurement in accordance with established procedures.
Essential Duty?
Yes
Description of Job Duty
Oversee assignment of work, training, supervision, evaluation and hiring of Purchasing Coordinator and Property Control Technician.
Essential Duty?
Yes
Description of Job Duty
Establish relationships with vendor representatives to remain aware of new product developments and establish new competitive sources.
Essential Duty?
Yes
Description of Job Duty
Act as a liaison between College staff and vendors to address rate adjustment/discrepancies, resolve issues with incorrect materials, and facilitate delivery, payments and return authorizations. Work with accounts payable to ensure timely and correct payments.
Essential Duty?
Yes
Description of Job Duty
Oversee and direct work of Property Control Technician to develop, coordinate and maintain the College's inventory record and fixed asset control system. Ensure proper classification of equipment in conformance with the Illinois State Property Control Act and college policies. Supervise and assist in the College's disposal of surplus property.
Essential Duty?
Yes
Description of Job Duty
Oversee management of the College's fleet vehicles by property control technician.
Essential Duty?
Yes
Description of Job Duty
Assist with project management for facility construction and renovation projects by coordinating schedules, tracking progress, supporting communication between stakeholders (contractors, vendors, and internal departments).
Essential Duty?
Yes
Description of Job Duty
Maintain Titles, leases and service agreement files.
Essential Duty?
Yes
Description of Job Duty
Serve as the college liaison responsible for promoting supplier diversity, overseeing the collection, tracking and reporting of data for the State's Business Enterprise Program, and, when possible work to enhance the College's minority representation in line with the BEP requirements.
Essential Duty?
Yes
Description of Job Duty
Maintain knowledge to effectively interpret various laws, regulations, policies and procedures related to public procurement.
Essential Duty?
Yes
Description of Job Duty
Work with College staff to develop and maintain the College's purchasing department website.
Essential Duty?
Yes
Description of Job Duty
In collaboration with Associate Vice President of Finance, design and develop processes and financial planning models to calculate budgetary needs for furnishing and equipping capital projects.
Essential Duty?
Yes
Description of Job Duty
Assist in the college planning and assessment program by developing annual work unit objectives that impact long-range priority goals.
Essential Duty?
No
Description of Job Duty
Perform other duties as assigned.
Essential Duty?
No

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