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Purchasing Associate Jobs in Lake Forest, IL (NOW HIRING)

Labor Solutions, LLC

Be Seen First

Purchasing Assistant

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

High school diploma or GED required; associate's degree in business, supply chain, or a related field preferred. * 1-3 years of purchasing, procurement, administrative, or manufacturing experience ...

Harper College

Specialist - Purchasing

Palatine, IL · On-site

$58K - $73K/yr

Leads sourcing initiatives by identifying opportunities for competitive purchasing, contract ... Harper offers associate degree and certification programs, advanced career programs, workforce ...

Harper College

Specialist - Purchasing

Palatine, IL · On-site

Harper offers associate degree and certification programs, advanced career programs, workforce ... Five years' experience in purchasing a variety of general and specialized items, shipping and ...

Harper College

Specialist - Purchasing

Palatine, IL · On-site

Harper offers associate degree and certification programs, advanced career programs, workforce ... Five years' experience in purchasing a variety of general and specialized items, shipping and ...

Bosch Group

Buyer- Purchasing

Lincolnshire, IL · On-site

Our associates take on their customers' challenges with passion and persistence until the right ... As a Buyer, this role will support Purchasing, Sales, Manufacturing, and Engineering departments in ...

Bosch Group

Buyer- Purchasing

Lincolnshire, IL · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Our associates take on their customers' challenges with passion and persistence until the right ... As a Buyer, this role will support Purchasing, Sales, Manufacturing, and Engineering departments in ...

Bosch Group

Buyer- Purchasing

Lincolnshire, IL · On-site

$90K/yr

Our associates take on their customers' challenges with passion and persistence until the right ... As a Buyer, this role will support Purchasing, Sales, Manufacturing, and Engineering departments in ...

Bosch Group

Buyer- Purchasing

Lincolnshire, IL · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Our associates take on their customers' challenges with passion and persistence until the right ... As a Buyer, this role will support Purchasing, Sales, Manufacturing, and Engineering departments in ...

Bosch Group

Buyer- Purchasing

Lincolnshire, IL · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Our associates take on their customers' challenges with passion and persistence until the right ... As a Buyer, this role will support Purchasing, Sales, Manufacturing, and Engineering departments in ...

Shure

Buyer II, Indirect Purchasing

Niles, IL · Hybrid

$69K - $111K/yr

Ensuring purchasing events follow company policies * Enforcing use of preferred suppliers and ... We offer an Associate-first culture, flexible work arrangements, and opportunity for all. Shure is ...

Shure

Buyer II, Indirect Purchasing

Niles, IL · Hybrid

$69K - $111K/yr

Ensuring purchasing events follow company policies * Enforcing use of preferred suppliers and ... We offer an Associate-first culture, flexible work arrangements, and opportunity for all. Shure is ...

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All JobsPurchasing Associate JobsPurchasing Associate Jobs in Lake Forest, IL

Purchasing Associate information

See Lake Forest, IL salary details

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$31

How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in Lake Forest, IL is $22.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.28 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 Lake Forest, IL? The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Lake Forest, IL are:
What cities near Lake Forest, IL are hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs? Cities near Lake Forest, IL with the most Purchasing Associate job openings:
Purchasing Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing Associate job openings in Lake Forest, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,019 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Purchasing Assistant

Labor Solutions, LLC

Libertyville, IL • On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

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Job description

Position Summary

The Purchasing Coordinator supports the purchasing and supply chain functions by processing purchase orders, communicating with vendors, tracking shipments, maintaining purchasing records, and ensuring materials are available to support manufacturing operations. This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Create and process purchase orders accurately and timely.

• Follow up with vendors regarding order confirmations, pricing, lead times, and delivery schedules.

• Monitor open purchase orders and expedite shipments when necessary.

• Maintain accurate purchasing records, vendor files, and pricing information.

• Coordinate with warehouse, production, and engineering teams to ensure material availability.

• Verify order acknowledgments and reconcile discrepancies with vendors.

• Assist with inventory replenishment and monitor stock levels.

• Obtain price quotes from suppliers and compare pricing.

• Assist in sourcing new suppliers as needed.

• Resolve invoice discrepancies by working with vendors and the accounting department.

• Track incoming shipments and communicate delivery updates to internal departments.

• Assist with vendor performance tracking and supplier evaluations.

• Maintain purchasing reports and spreadsheets.

• Ensure purchasing activities comply with company policies.

• Perform other administrative and purchasing duties as assigned.


Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; associate’s degree in business, supply chain, or a related field preferred.

• 1–3 years of purchasing, procurement, administrative, or manufacturing experience preferred.

• Experience in a manufacturing environment is a plus.

• Strong in Microsoft Excel.

• Proficiency with ERP systems.

• Strong organizational, communication, and time management skills.

• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

• Detail-oriented with excellent problem-solving abilities.


Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Understanding of purchasing and inventory processes.

• Ability to communicate professionally with vendors and internal departments.

• Strong data entry accuracy and attention to detail.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Basic math and analytical skills.

• Customer service mindset with a proactive approach.


Physical Requirements

• Occasionally lift and carry up to 25 pounds.

• Ability to walk through and work in warehouse and production areas as needed.


Company Description

Labor Solutions, LLC is a leader in the professional, temporary, and direct hire industry throughout the Midwest area. Our clients range from individual entrepreneurs to large corporations, and while we are big enough to serve Fortune 100 companies, we are small enough to stay nimble in an always-changing market.

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