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Purchasing Department Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Specialist - Purchasing

Palatine, IL · On-site

$58K - $73K/yr

Works with departments, vendors, and consultants to develop specifications and prepare Requests for ... Leads sourcing initiatives by identifying opportunities for competitive purchasing, contract ...

Purchasing Agent

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Works with other staff in the Purchasing Department. * Compiles, verifies, calculates, and distributes hard costs for additional homebuilding activities including costs for permits, driveways, public ...

Works with departments, vendors, and consultants to develop specifications and prepare Requests for ... Leads sourcing initiatives by identifying opportunities for competitive purchasing, contract ...

Purchasing Agent

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Works with other staff in the Purchasing Department. * Compiles, verifies, calculates, and distributes hard costs for additional homebuilding activities including costs for permits, driveways, public ...

Works with departments, vendors, and consultants to develop specifications and prepare Requests for ... Leads sourcing initiatives by identifying opportunities for competitive purchasing, contract ...

Purchasing Agent

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Works with other staff in the Purchasing Department. * Compiles, verifies, calculates, and distributes hard costs for additional homebuilding activities including costs for permits, driveways, public ...

Purchasing Manager

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$80K - $125K/yr

... department, ensuring smooth operations and teamwork. • Develop and execute purchasing strategies that support the company's goals, ensuring the timely acquisition of materials and supplies. • ...

Purchasing Manager

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$80K - $125K/yr

... purchasing department, ensuring smooth operations and teamwork. · Develop and execute purchasing strategies that support the company's goals, ensuring the timely acquisition of materials and ...

Works with departments, vendors, and consultants to develop specifications and prepare Requests for ... Leads sourcing initiatives by identifying opportunities for competitive purchasing, contract ...

Prepare inventory reports for Director of Pharmacy. * Assist the SRAlab Purchasing Department in resolving discrepancies for lost or misdirected products. * Assist in training and orienting new ...

Pharmacy Purchaser

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22.74 - $37.84/hr

Prepare inventory reports for Director of Pharmacy. * Assist the SRAlab Purchasing Department in resolving discrepancies for lost or misdirected products. * Assist in training and orienting new ...

The Purchaser will negotiate with vendors to purchase all materials, supplies, equipment, and ... Verifies requisitions from other departments for appropriate approvals. * Update and maintain ...

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Showing results 1-20

Purchasing Department information

See Illinois salary details

$12

$20

$29

How much do purchasing department jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing department in Illinois is $20.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does the Purchasing Department do?

The Purchasing Department is responsible for acquiring the goods and services a company needs to operate efficiently. This includes sourcing suppliers, negotiating contracts, managing purchase orders, and ensuring timely delivery of materials. The department works closely with other departments to ensure quality, cost-effectiveness, and timely procurement, helping the organization maintain smooth operations and control expenses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Purchasing Department?

To thrive in the Purchasing Department, you need strong analytical skills, negotiation abilities, and a background in supply chain or business administration, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with procurement software (such as SAP or Oracle), inventory management systems, and certifications like Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) are typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help professionals build strong vendor relationships and manage complex purchasing processes. These skills ensure cost-effective procurement, minimize supply chain disruptions, and contribute to the organization's operational efficiency.

What are some common challenges faced in a Purchasing Department role, and how can they be addressed?

One common challenge in a Purchasing Department role is managing supplier relationships to ensure timely delivery and consistent quality while maintaining cost efficiency. Professionals in this department often need to balance competing priorities between internal stakeholders and external vendors. Effective communication, strong negotiation skills, and a proactive approach to problem-solving are essential for overcoming these challenges. Additionally, staying updated on market trends and utilizing procurement technology can help streamline processes and mitigate risks.

What is the difference between Purchasing Department vs Purchasing Coordinator?

AspectPurchasing DepartmentPurchasing Coordinator
RoleOversees procurement processes across the organization, manages purchasing policies, and coordinates with suppliers.Supports procurement activities by processing purchase orders, tracking deliveries, and assisting with supplier communication.
CredentialsTypically requires purchasing certifications or related experience; educational background varies.Often requires similar certifications or experience, with a focus on administrative and communication skills.
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, collaborating with multiple departments and suppliers.Office environment, working closely with purchasing managers and suppliers.
Industry UsageCommonly used across industries for procurement management.Frequently used as an entry or support role within procurement teams.

The Purchasing Department is responsible for overall procurement strategies and supplier relationships, while the Purchasing Coordinator handles day-to-day order processing and administrative tasks. Both roles require similar credentials and work in office settings, but the department has a broader strategic focus compared to the coordinator's support role.

What are the positions in the purchasing department?

The purchasing department typically includes positions such as Purchasing Agent, Buyer, Procurement Specialist, Purchasing Manager, and Procurement Coordinator. These roles involve tasks like supplier selection, order processing, negotiation, and inventory management, often requiring knowledge of procurement software and supply chain principles.

What do you do in a purchasing department?

A purchasing department is responsible for acquiring goods and services needed by a company. Roles typically involve evaluating suppliers, negotiating prices, managing purchase orders, and ensuring timely delivery to support business operations. Strong negotiation skills and knowledge of procurement software are often essential for this job.
Infographic showing various Purchasing Department job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,304 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Purchasing Manager

Vernon Hills, IL • On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Position Type: Direct Hire
Shift/Hours: 1st shift
Location: Vernon Hills, IL


Responsible for proactively managing the Purchasing team, and overseeing all day-to-day Purchasing transactions, US Customs information and reporting. Determines purchasing strategies that are in line with the Global and local business strategies to ensure timely and cost-efficient supply of all goods, components, materials, etc., requested qualities, either from company sources or third-party sources.


REQUIREMENTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • In conjunction with the purchasing team, the Purchasing Manager will perform daily, weekly and monthly purchasing tasks including but not limited to:
    1. Process for generation of RFPs based upon inquiries from in-house departments and obtains and processes vendor quotations.
    2. Preparation and issuance of purchase orders based upon approved purchase requisitions received from in-house departments and based on SAP MRP requisitions.
    3. Establish a process to ensure that proactive actions are taken to address all SAP MRP exception reports.
    4. Receipt and review of vendor order acknowledgements. Ensures that vendor order acknowledgement conforms to RWMIC purchase order, volumes, delivery time and product/service quality. Negotiates and resolves any discrepancies proactively, informing all internal stakeholders frequently.
  • Participates in the make or buy decisions for components and gives recommendations.
  • Proactively runs vendor analysis, constantly seeking for optimized vendor portfolio and makes recommendations for new vendors, aligns with internal key stakeholders. Performs a thorough due diligence of pre-selected vendors. Completes vendor site audits as required.
  • Continuously monitors the supply base and external events to proactively address and correct potential issues and avoid any supply disruptions.
  • Works closely with the Supply Chain Manager in determining Minimum Order Quantities (MOQ) and contributes to weekly SIOP Meetings.
  • Establishes Terms and Conditions (T&C’s) for vendors and suppliers and aligns those with the Head of Finance.
  • Conducts preliminary negotiations with different vendors regarding the best possible price, quality requirements, payment terms and delivery.
  • Works with in-house departments for comparative vendor sourcing, if feasible.
  • Responsible for definition, actualization of purchasing processes in alignment with company policies and key stakeholders.
  • Manages inbound Freight-Forwarder companies, their performances and compliances with our requirements. Ensures proper alignment with colleagues from GmbH to guarantee smooth operation and transparent communication, especially in cases of urgent needs/deliveries, strives for constant optimization of service and conditions.
  • Reviews supplier contracts for conformance with company policies and maintains active vendor contract files; all agreements – Master Purchase Agreements, Service Level Agreements, and other applicable agreements.
  • Maintains and updates a contract matrix, which allows to have an overview of contract type, contract due dates, list of involved stakeholders with the objective to prepare in a timely manner for upcoming contract renegotiations.
  • Builds and maintains professional stakeholder management/communication with vendors at all times.
  • Conducts regular on-site visits at key vendors together with members from the QA/QC team.
  • Works closely with materials management and quality departments to quickly resolve any discrepancies in quantity or quality received from vendors.
  • Prevents and resolves vendor issues, seeks (internal and external) legal support as needed.
  • Personnel management duties for the Purchasing team including but not limited to hiring, staffing, performance management, training and career development, ensures proper backup options in absence of personnel.
  • Promotes and models RWMIC Core Values in all interactions and responsibilities.



ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Delivers highest degree of ethics in receiving and passing on vendor “incentives”, following guidelines and policies of Richard Wolf.
  • SAP Key User for Purchasing related processes. Develops SAP training documents and trains Buyers on SAP Purchasing related topics.
  • Prepares monthly KPI’s and reports on purchasing activities for the Supply Chain Manager.
  • Responsible for all Purchasing department record-keeping, including the occasional destruction of records per Company policies.
  • Develops, implements, and maintains Purchasing targets as well as short and long-term range budget planning. Develops and implements projects and programs to ensure efficient and accurate functioning of the Purchasing department.
  • Establishes strong work relationships with Headquarters/GmbH in Germany, striving for continued business optimization, modernization, and continued digitalization.
  • Aware of and complies with the RWMIC Quality Manual and regulations & requirements as they apply to this job type/position.
  • Completes all planned Quality & Compliance training within the defined deadlines.
  • Other duties as assigned by the Supply Chain Manager.


QUALIFICATIONS:

  • B.S. or B.A. in a related field required.
  • Minimum of five years managerial experience in Purchasing is required, including experience in development purchasing strategies, as well as the operational part.
  • Advanced negotiation skills with a proven track record of achieving cost savings, favorable contract terms, and successful risk mitigation.
  • Experience in establishing and maintaining or enhancing strategic relationships.
  • Minimum of 3 years of team leadership, with the ability to motivate, inspire, and develop a diverse team.
  • Experience with the FDA and ISO 13485:2016 highly preferred.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams at all levels. Proficiency in both verbal and written English & German languages is highly preferred.
  • Advanced PC skills (MS Office suite of products) required.
  • Proficiency in SAP highly preferred.
  • Experience with and understanding of multi-cultural and multi-generational differences and the ability to work within this environment is crucial for successful employment.
  • The following physical demands are required:
    • Stand/Sit/Walk 8 hours per day
  • All RWMIC Employees have the responsibility to themselves and the company to work safely.


WORK@WOLF

We are proud to offer a competitive pay structure along with a well-rounded benefits package designed to support our employees’ career growth, health, and work-life balance. Our benefits include:

  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with Company Match
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
  • Company-Paid Life & Disability Insurance
  • Paid Time Off and Paid Parental Leave
  • Flexible Work Options – Telecommuting and Flexible Schedules
  • Tuition Reimbursement for Continuing Education
  • Wellness Program and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)


At Richard Wolf, we believe in creating a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, status as a protected veteran, or any other legally protected status. We welcome all qualified candidates to apply for open positions.