ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Purchasing Associate Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

sasholdings

Inbound Warehouse Associate

Chicago, IL

$19/hr

Product will be received against purchase orders and staged on shelves, floors, or racking lines to ... Inbound Warehouse Associate Responsibilities include: * Unload vendor trucks, receive products, and ...

Berman Auto Group

Sales Associate

Skokie, IL

$13.25 - $18.25/hr

Clear career path with opportunities for advancement Our Sales Associates guide customers through ... Your goal is to help customers feel informed, confident, and excited about their purchase. A ...

Berman Auto Group

Sales Associate

Skokie, IL · On-site

$13.25 - $18.25/hr

Clear career path with opportunities for advancement Our Sales Associates guide customers through ... Your goal is to help customers feel informed, confident, and excited about their purchase. A ...

Berman Auto Group

Sales Associate

Skokie, IL

$13.25 - $18.25/hr

Clear career path with opportunities for advancement Our Sales Associates guide customers through ... Your goal is to help customers feel informed, confident, and excited about their purchase. A ...

Joe Rizza Ford Lincoln

Sales Associate

Orland Park, IL · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

... purchasing process. About Us: The most effective s use this section to show why the company is a ... Automotive Sales Associate/ Product Specialist Compensation and Benefits: * Competitive Pay

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPurchasing Associate JobsPurchasing Associate Jobs in Illinois

Purchasing Associate information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in Illinois is $22.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.85 and $24.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a purchasing associate do?

A purchasing associate is responsible for sourcing and buying goods and services needed by a company. They evaluate suppliers, negotiate prices, and ensure timely delivery while maintaining accurate records using procurement software. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential for this role.

What are the 4 types of purchasing?

In purchasing, the four main types are direct purchasing, which involves acquiring raw materials for production; indirect purchasing, for goods and services supporting operations; strategic purchasing, focusing on long-term supplier relationships; and transactional purchasing, handling routine, one-time purchases. A Purchasing Associate often handles various types depending on company needs and procurement strategies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Purchasing Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Purchasing Associate, you need a solid understanding of procurement processes, inventory management, and basic financial principles, often supported by a degree in business or supply chain management. Familiarity with ERP systems, purchasing software, and proficiency in Microsoft Excel are typically required, along with possible certifications like the Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP). Strong negotiation, organizational, and communication skills help you build relationships with vendors and manage multiple priorities effectively. These skills ensure cost-effective purchasing decisions, smooth supply chain operations, and reliable vendor partnerships.

What is the difference between Purchasing Associate vs Purchasing Coordinator?

AspectPurchasing AssociatePurchasing Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesAssist in procurement, process purchase orders, maintain supplier infoCoordinate purchase activities, communicate with vendors, track orders
Required SkillsBasic procurement knowledge, organizational skillsCommunication skills, attention to detail, familiarity with procurement processes
CertificationsNone typically required, some may have APICS or CIPSSimilar certifications may be preferred but not mandatory
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, procurement departmentOffice environment, often working closely with procurement teams

While both roles support procurement functions, a Purchasing Associate primarily assists with order processing and supplier data, whereas a Purchasing Coordinator manages coordination and communication across procurement activities. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and focus within the purchasing process.

What Does a Purchasing Associate Do?

Purchasing associates monitors company inventory and orders new stock when necessary. As a purchasing associate, you contact vendors, create new order contracts, and ensure the company receives the supplies on time. You may also keep track of inventory budgets and file purchasing paperwork. Qualifications to become a purchasing associate include familiarity with basic office programs and industry experience.

Is purchasing a good career?

Purchasing is a viable career that involves sourcing and acquiring goods or services for organizations, often requiring skills in negotiation, supply chain management, and familiarity with procurement software. It offers opportunities for advancement into roles such as procurement manager or supply chain analyst and typically provides stable employment with competitive salaries.

Is a purchasing agent an entry level job?

A purchasing agent is typically an entry-level to mid-level position that involves negotiating with suppliers, managing purchase orders, and maintaining inventory. Entry-level roles often require some experience or training in procurement, supply chain, or related fields, and may involve learning industry-specific software tools. Advancement usually depends on experience, skills, and performance.

What are some common challenges faced by Purchasing Associates, and how can they be effectively managed?

Purchasing Associates often encounter challenges such as managing multiple vendor relationships, ensuring timely deliveries, and balancing cost with quality. Staying organized, maintaining clear communication with suppliers, and closely tracking inventory levels are key strategies to handle these issues. Additionally, collaborating with internal departments helps align purchasing decisions with organizational needs, leading to more efficient workflows and better outcomes.
More about Purchasing Associate jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Purchasing Associate job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Associate jobs in IL? For Purchasing Associate jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Purchasing Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing Associate job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,016 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

PARTS PURCHASING AGENT / ASSISTANT

ACME TRUCK BRAKE & SUPPLY CO

Elk Grove Village, IL • On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

PARTS PURCHASING AGENT / ASSISTANT

Acme Truck Brake & Supply is an Employee Owned and Operated truck parts store / warehouse located in Elk Grove Village, Illinois.  We are a fast moving, fast growing company supplying truck parts and machine shop service to Chicago and its suburbs.  We are looking for a full time Parts Purchasing Agent / Assistant meeting the following requirements.

Position Summary / Responsibilities

  • Assist in Daily Inventory Control
  • Placing Stock Orders with Select Vendors Based on Reorder Points
  • Price Modifications, Ensuring Pricing is Correct with all Vendors
  • Report Shortages and Damaged Shipments
  • Contact Vendors for Credits
  • Communicate Effectively in Person, by Phone or via Email, with all Store Associates, Management and Suppliers
  • Keep Track of Backorders and Follow up on them
  • Notify Inside Sales Personnel when Parts are Backordered.
  • Participate in Inventory Cycle Counts
  • Work to Continuously Improve Purchase Ordering Process
  • Perform other Duties as Assigned by Management

Experience / Skills

  • Purchasing Experience Preferred, but will Train
  • Strong Written and Verbal Communication Skills
  • Strong Organizational Skills, Attention to Detail, Ability to Manage Multiple Projects
  • Excellent Negotiation and Decision Making Skills
  • Critical Thinker with Creative Approach to Solving Business Problems as they Arise

Physical Demands

  • Must be able to Lift and Carry Merchandise up to 50 lbs.
  • Must be able to Walk up Stairs

Education

  • High School Diploma / GED Required

The hours for the Parts Purchasing Agent / Assistant are Monday thru Friday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm.  The Pay scale is $25 - $28 / hr, depending on experience.

Acme's benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, life, accident insurances, a retirement plan, paid time off  - holidays, vacation, sick and personal days. 

PLEASE DO NOT CALL COMPANY FOR INTERVIEW

RECRUITERS, DO NOT CONTACT THIS JOB POSTER

Company Description

We are a truck parts store/warehouse headquartered in Elk Grove Village, Illinois. We are a fast moving, fast growing company supplying truck and trailer parts and machine shop service to Chicago and its suburbs