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Purchasing Department Manager Jobs in California

Aston Carter

Purchasing Coordinator

Los Angeles, CA

$30 - $32/hr

Purchasing Coordinator The Purchasing Coordinator supports the purchasing department by managing purchase orders in SAP, performing Excel-based tasks, and providing administrative and customer ...

New

Aston Carter

Purchasing Coordinator

Vernon, CA · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Purchasing Coordinator The Purchasing Coordinator supports the purchasing department by managing purchase orders in SAP, performing Excel-based tasks, and providing administrative and customer ...

New

DR Horton

Land Development Purchasing Manager

Corona, CA · On-site

$150K/yr

The right candidate will oversee the Purchasing Department and all sourcing for equipment, goods ... Manage bid process for architectural plans to subcontractors and vendors * Track and report key ...

Irvine Ranch Water District

Purchasing Coordinator

Irvine, CA · On-site

$37.37 - $51.14/hr

... 01063 Department: Purchasing Opening Date: 08/19/2026 Closing Date: 9/2/2026 11:59 PM Pacific ... Day-to-day operations are supervised by the General Manager. Additional information can be found at ...

New

Lux

Purchasing Manager

South San Francisco, CA

... management of agreements and vendors Establish short and long term purchasing objectives with ... You will head up the Purchasing Department and collaborate closely with the Sourcing Director to ...

Performance Food Group

Purchasing Assistant

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$26 - $29/hr

Manage input and shipment processing of all special orders. * Collaborate with internal departments ... purchasing environment or related field. Company Description Core-Mark continues to grow as the ...

Robert Half

Purchasing & Inventory Manager

Nipomo, CA · On-site

$35 - $42/hr

Partner with the purchasing department and cross-functional stakeholders to align procurement ... Ability to manage multiple priorities, follow through on deadlines, and stay organized in a fast ...

PACE Supply

Purchasing Assistant

Rohnert Park, CA · On-site

$21 - $27.25/hr

Collaborate with Buyers to manage inventory replenishment for various branches and product ... Purchasing Department. * Support Buyers in maintaining optimal relationships with suppliers ...

Dollar Tree

Department Manager

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

As a Department Manager at one of Dollar Tree's Distribution Centers, you'll manage and oversee ... Employee Stock Purchase Program * Educational Assistance * Access to PerkSpot, an employee discount ...

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Purchasing Department Manager information

What does a purchasing department manager do?

A Purchasing Department Manager oversees the procurement process within an organization, ensuring that goods and services are acquired at the best possible prices and quality. They manage a team of buyers or purchasing agents, negotiate contracts with suppliers, and develop purchasing strategies to meet organizational goals. Additionally, they monitor inventory levels, evaluate supplier performance, and work closely with other departments to forecast needs and maintain cost efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a purchasing department manager?

To thrive as a Purchasing Department Manager, you need expertise in procurement processes, supplier negotiation, inventory management, and typically a bachelor's degree in business or supply chain management. Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, procurement software, and relevant certifications such as CPM or CPSM is highly valued. Strong leadership, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help in building vendor relationships and leading teams. These capabilities are crucial for optimizing purchasing operations, ensuring cost savings, and maintaining smooth supply chain performance.

What are some common challenges faced by purchasing department managers, and how can they be addressed?

Purchasing Department Managers often encounter challenges such as managing supplier relationships, balancing cost savings with quality, and adapting to supply chain disruptions. Staying proactive by regularly evaluating suppliers and fostering transparent communication helps mitigate risks. Leveraging technology for procurement processes and maintaining flexibility in sourcing strategies can also enhance efficiency and resilience. Collaborating closely with other departments, like production and finance, ensures alignment with organizational goals and smoother operations.

What is the difference between Purchasing Department Manager vs Purchasing Agent?

AspectPurchasing Department ManagerPurchasing Agent
ResponsibilitiesOversees procurement strategies, manages purchasing team, develops policiesExecutes purchase orders, negotiates with suppliers, sources products
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, purchasing certifications (e.g., CPSM), leadership experienceBachelor's degree, purchasing or supply chain certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentManagement level, strategic planning, team supervisionOperational role, supplier interactions, order processing
Industry UsageCommon in larger organizations with dedicated procurement departmentsFound in various industries, often in retail, manufacturing, logistics

The Purchasing Department Manager focuses on strategic oversight and team management within procurement, while the Purchasing Agent handles day-to-day purchasing activities and supplier negotiations. Both roles require relevant certifications and industry experience, but the manager's role is more strategic and supervisory, whereas the agent's role is more operational and execution-focused.

How much do purchasing department managers earn?

Purchasing department managers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, industry, and location. They often require strong negotiation skills and knowledge of procurement software to succeed in their roles.

How much do purchasing department managers make in the US?

Purchasing department managers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, industry, and location. They often require strong negotiation skills and knowledge of supply chain management tools. Salaries can vary widely based on company size and geographic region.

Is a purchasing department manager a stressful job?

A purchasing department manager often faces stress due to managing supplier relationships, meeting deadlines, and controlling costs. The role requires strong negotiation skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle supply chain disruptions, which can contribute to a high-pressure environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing Department jobs in California?

The most popular types of Purchasing Department jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Purchasing Department Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Purchasing Department Manager job openings:

Purchasing Department Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing Department Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Manager of Purchasing

Earls Organic Produce

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

SUMMARY OF EXPECTATIONS


The Manager of Purchasing is responsible for the day-to-day leadership, execution, and performance of the Purchasing Department within a fast-paced organic produce distribution company. This role manages and develops a team of Buyers while ensuring accurate purchasing, strong inventory position, competitive pricing, quality product flow, and alignment with company sales and margin objectives.
The Purchasing Manager serves as the primary operational leader and representative of the Purchasing Department across multiple departments including Sales, Receiving, Logistics, Quality Control, Outbound Operations, IT, and Accounting. Success in this role requires strong leadership, communication, accountability, strategic thinking, and a constant focus on continuous improvement and service to both internal and external partners.
This individual works collaboratively with the Director of Purchasing to execute company strategy, develop department goals, and drive operational excellence. The Purchasing Manager is expected to build strong grower and vendor relationships that create competitive advantages and differentiate the company in the marketplace.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES


Department Leadership and Team Management

  • Lead, manage, and support a team of Produce Buyers in the daily execution of purchasing activities.
  • Establish clear direction, expectations, accountability, and follow-through within the Purchasing Department.
  • Conduct regular one-to-one meetings, coaching sessions, and performance reviews with Buyers to ensure optimum performance and professional growth.
  • Foster a culture rooted in continuous improvement, urgency, teamwork, accountability, and service.
  • Mentor and coach Buyers on purchasing accuracy, inventory management, product quality expectations, competitive purchasing strategies, pricing accuracy, margin management, and unit movement objectives.
  • Reinforce the importance of communication, preparation, and execution in all daily operations and meetings.
  • Work in the office daily to be alongside the teams and product.


Purchasing & Inventory Execution

  • Oversee the daily purchasing of organic produce to ensure proper inventory levels that support customer demand and service expectations.
  • Ensure products are purchased accurately, competitively, and in alignment with company quality standards.
  • Monitor inventory movement, shorts, overstocks, shrink, and aging products to optimize profitability and customer satisfaction.
  • Partner with Sales and Operations teams to anticipate demand shifts, promotions, seasonality, and supply challenges.
  • Maintain focus on achieving company sales, unit movement, and gross margin goals.


Cross-Department Leadership

  • Serve as the key Purchasing Department representative and operational leader with Sales, Receiving/Inbound Operations, Logistics/Transportation, Quality Control, Outbound Operations, IT, and Accounting.
  • Work closely with the Sales Manager, Inbound Manager, and Logistics Manager to align operational execution and customer service objectives.
  • Support cross-functional problem solving, communication flow, and operational efficiency throughout the company.
  • Participate in operational meetings and provide purchasing insight, preparation, and leadership.


Grower and Vendor Relationships

  • Build and maintain strong strategic relationships with growers, shippers, and vendors.
  • Seek opportunities to strengthen the company’s competitive position through sourcing, programs, partnerships, and market intelligence.
  • Negotiate effectively while maintaining long-term supplier relationships rooted in trust and performance.
  • Constantly evaluate market conditions, supply opportunities, and emerging trends to create differentiation in the marketplace.


Strategy and Performance Management

  • Collaborate with the Director of Purchasing to establish department goals and execute company objectives.
  • Provide input, engagement, and leadership in strategic planning initiatives.
  • Monitor Buyer performance metrics and operational KPIs including service levels, fill rates, inventory turns, gross margin performance, unit movement, shorts, and credits.
  • Drive accountability through measurable results and consistent follow-up.


Qualifications:

  • 5+ years of purchasing or produce procurement experience preferred.
  • Prior leadership or management experience strongly preferred.
  • Strong understanding of organic produce, seasonality, supply chains, and market conditions.
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-accountability environment.
  • Strong analytical, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Proficiency in ERP and inventory management systems preferred.
  • Proficiency with Adobe, Microsoft Excel, Outlook, Word, and PowerPoint preferred.
  • Perform other duties as developed, directed, and assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY


Core Leadership Expectations

  • Lead with care, urgency, accountability, and professionalism.
  • Communicate clearly and proactively.
  • Prepare thoroughly for meetings and operational execution.
  • Support and develop team members through coaching and mentorship.
  • Operate with a service mindset toward both internal and external partners.
  • Constantly looking for opportunities to improve, innovate, and differentiate the company.
  • Willing and interested in working onsite (in the office) to be alongside the team and the product.


Other Skills & Abilities

Must be able to work variable hours, days, weekends & Holidays. Ability to multitask and prioritize in a time-pressured environment. Excellent organizational skills. High accuracy in work with attention to detail. Ability to complete projects in a timely manner. Ability to get along and work cooperatively with others. Positive and professional attitude. Ability to respond and positively to constructive feedback. Ability to manage a project from its initiation to completion with minimal supervision. Solution-oriented attitude with willingness to proactively solve issues. Consistently remain up to date about new techniques in the produce industry.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS


  • Stand and walk or sit alternatively depending on specific needs of day. Estimate 70% of time is spent on feet and 30% sitting at desk.
  • Have constant need to perform the following physical activities: bending/stooping/squatting, climbing stairs, pushing, pulling, lifting and reaching above shoulders.
  • Have frequent need to perform standing and walking activities.
  • Consistent need to perform the following physical activities: writing/typing, grasping/turning, finger dexterity.
  • Lifting/carrying up to 50 lbs frequently and over 50 lbs occasionally.
  • Vision requirements: consistent need to complete forms, view computer and phone screens. Frequent need to see small detail. Frequent need to see things clearly beyond arm’s reach.
  • Hearing requirement: consistent need to communicate over telephone and in-person.


WORK ENVIRONMENT


The noise level in the work environment is generally moderate but may be high during certain times of the day due to business level. This position is exposed to temperatures varying from 34 to over 80 degrees and humidity levels carrying from 80% to 95%. There are periods of time where you may be in coolers for extended periods to check quality of product, inventory levels, etc.