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Purchasing Manager Automotive Jobs in Riverside, CA

Sonic Automotive

Automotive Market Buyer

Ontario, CA · On-site

Company Description EchoPark Automotive is one of the fastest growing brands within the automotive ... Management or prior purchasing experience preferred * Excellent communication and customer service ...

Sonic Automotive

Automotive Market Buyer

Ontario, CA

Company Description EchoPark Automotive is one of the fastest growing brands within the automotive ... Management or prior purchasing experience preferred * Excellent communication and customer service ...

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All JobsPurchasing Manager Automotive JobsPurchasing Manager Automotive Jobs in Riverside, CA

Purchasing Manager Automotive information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$42.3K

$87.8K

$133K

How much do purchasing manager automotive jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for purchasing manager automotive in Riverside, CA is $87,845.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,800.00 and $104,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a purchasing manager a stressful job?

A purchasing manager in the automotive industry often faces stress due to tight deadlines, supply chain disruptions, and cost management pressures. The role requires strong negotiation skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle multiple priorities, which can contribute to a high-stress environment.

What does a purchasing manager do in automotive?

A purchasing manager in the automotive industry is responsible for sourcing and acquiring parts, materials, and supplies needed for vehicle manufacturing. They negotiate with suppliers, manage procurement processes, and ensure timely delivery to meet production schedules, often using tools like ERP systems and requiring strong negotiation skills. Their role helps control costs and maintain quality standards in automotive production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Purchasing Manager in the automotive industry, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Purchasing Manager in automotive, you need expertise in supply chain management, negotiation, procurement strategies, and a relevant degree such as business or engineering. Familiarity with ERP systems like SAP, supplier management software, and industry-specific certifications (e.g., CPSM) are typically required. Excellent communication, analytical thinking, and leadership skills help build strong supplier relationships and lead cross-functional teams. These abilities ensure cost-effective sourcing, timely production, and a competitive edge in a fast-paced automotive market.

How does a Purchasing Manager in the automotive industry typically collaborate with engineering and production teams?

As a Purchasing Manager in the automotive industry, you'll work closely with engineering and production teams to ensure that suppliers meet technical specifications, quality standards, and delivery timelines. This collaboration often involves participating in cross-functional meetings to discuss new product launches, cost-reduction initiatives, and supplier performance issues. Effective communication and negotiation skills are essential, as you'll need to bridge the gap between technical requirements and supplier capabilities while maintaining cost efficiency and production continuity.

What is the highest paying automotive job?

The highest paying automotive jobs often include executive roles such as Automotive Director or Vice President of Automotive Operations, which can earn six-figure salaries. Senior roles in automotive manufacturing, engineering, and supply chain management also tend to have high compensation, especially with extensive experience and advanced certifications.

What does a Purchasing Manager in the automotive industry do?

A Purchasing Manager in the automotive industry is responsible for sourcing and acquiring the materials, parts, and services required for vehicle manufacturing and production. They negotiate contracts with suppliers, ensure timely delivery of quality components, and manage supplier relationships to optimize costs and maintain production schedules. Their role is crucial in balancing cost-efficiency with quality and ensuring that supply chain operations run smoothly to support the company's manufacturing goals.

How much is a procurement manager paid?

A purchasing manager in the automotive industry typically earns between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Salaries can vary based on certifications, such as CPSM or CPM, and the complexity of procurement responsibilities.

What is the difference between Purchasing Manager Automotive vs Purchasing Specialist Automotive?

AspectPurchasing Manager AutomotivePurchasing Specialist Automotive
ResponsibilitiesOversees procurement strategies, manages supplier relationships, and leads purchasing teamsExecutes purchasing tasks, sources suppliers, and processes purchase orders
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in supply chain, procurement, or related field; often experience in managementBachelor's degree or diploma; procurement certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, often in manufacturing or automotive companiesOffice or plant-based, supporting procurement operations
Industry UsageCommonly used in automotive manufacturing companiesUsed across automotive suppliers and dealerships

The main difference between a Purchasing Manager Automotive and a Purchasing Specialist Automotive lies in scope and responsibility. The Purchasing Manager oversees procurement strategies and manages teams, while the Purchasing Specialist focuses on executing purchasing tasks and sourcing suppliers. Both roles require relevant procurement knowledge, but the manager position typically demands more experience and leadership skills.

What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Manager Automotive jobs in Riverside, CA? For Purchasing Manager Automotive jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Purchasing Manager Automotive jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Purchasing Manager Automotive jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Purchasing Manager Automotive jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Purchasing Manager Automotive job openings:
Purchasing Manager Automotive jobs near you

Associate Manager, Purchasing

Advanced Innovative Technology Corp

Redlands, CA

$73K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Location: Redlands, CA On-Site
Salary Range: $73,798 - $80,000/year
Reports to: Product Department Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time
Travel: None (0%)
The Role
The Associate Manager of Purchasing leads the procurement, tracking, and lifecycle management of automotive part samples critical to product development and quality assurance. This is a high-impact role requiring a blend of technical automotive knowledge and leadership to ensure proper oversight and execution of purchasing directives.
The Associate Manager ensures the seamless flow of materials from global and local vendors, manages order lifecycles from request to delivery, and provides stakeholders with data-driven updates. Beyond simple transactions, this role is responsible for strategic vendor negotiation, budget accountability, and leading a high-performing procurement team.
What You’ll Do
  • Strategic Sourcing amp; Evaluation: Identify and vet suppliers based on technical compliance, lead times, and pricing. Proactively seek bulk discounts and strategic partnerships to optimize the procurement budget.
  • Lifecycle Order Management: Oversee the full procurement cycle—from receiving requests from Product Management/QC to final delivery—ensuring all part specifications and quantities are strictly met.
  • Advanced Tracking amp; Reporting: Supervise the maintenance of the centralized purchasing log. Ensure all ETAs are accurate and internal stakeholders receive real-time updates on order statuses.
  • Team Leadership: Supervise direct reports, delegating tasks effectively to ensure 100% coverage of sourcing requests and vendor follow-ups. Work directly with appropriate parties for all daily payroll needs for their team.
  • Back-Order Mitigation: Rapidly assess alternatives for back-ordered parts. Lead the team in pivoting to new suppliers or sourcing methods to prevent project delays.
  • Financial Oversight amp; Compliance: Partner with Accounts Payable to ensure all invoices, receipts, and expense reports are submitted accurately and on time. Audit monthly spending against deliverables.
  • Logistics Coordination: Compile and verify detailed packing lists, collaborating with Development and QC teams to ensure parts are routed correctly upon arrival.
  • Vendor Relations: Build and maintain rapport with dealerships and local suppliers. Proactively follow up on delayed shipments and take corrective action to resolve logistics bottlenecks.
  • Continuous Improvement: Reevaluate purchasing habits regularly to identify better sourcing options and more efficient workflows.
Qualifications
  • Strategic Negotiation: Proven ability to build vendor rapport and negotiate favorable terms (e.g., bulk pricing, expedited shipping).
  • Automotive Expertise: Deep understanding of OEM/OES parts, makes, models, and dealer parts counter systems (e.g., EPCs).
  • Project Management: Ability to manage 20+ concurrent sample requests with a focus on a two-week turnaround.
  • Systems Proficiency: Intermediate to Advanced Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and Teams.
  • Communication: High-level verbal and written skills for cross-functional collaboration and external vendor management.
  • Self-Starter Mentality: A "no downtime" approach to checking in parts and initiating new requests immediately upon receipt.
Must Haves
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 3+ years of experience in automotive parts (sales, sourcing, service writing, or counter experience)
  • 3+ years of leadership or management experience with a focus on task delegation.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook)
  • Ability to professionally communicate verbally and written
Nice to Haves
  • Education: Degree or certificate in Automotive Technology
  • Certification: ASE Certification (P2 Parts Specialist or similar)
  • Experience: Background in accounting or heavy expense reporting
About TrakMotive
Since our founding in 1996, TrakMotive has operated as a global leader in the automotive aftermarket, specializing in the design, manufacture, and distribution of high-quality components. We are more than just a parts supplier; we are a full-service partner to the industry’s largest distributors and retailers, known for our 100% brand-new CV Axles, Drive Shafts, and Window Regulators.
Why Work with Us?
When you join us, you’re getting the best of both worlds: the stability of a company that’s been growing since 1996 and the excitement of a global team that’s still reaching for more. We take pride in the fact that many of our senior leaders are long-term employees who started their careers at TrakMotive. We aren’t just looking for someone to fill a seat—we’re looking for someone who wants to have real impact and grow their career alongside us
Physical Demands amp; Requirements
Physical Effort: Occasional to frequent lifting and carrying of up to 50 lbs. Position involves a combination of stationary work and frequent movement throughout the facility and across multiple levels. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Legal: Must be 18+ years of age and legally authorized to work in the United States.
Pre-employment: Ability to pass a post-offer background check and drug screen.
Equal Opportunity Employer AIT Corporation DBA TrakMotive is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to an inclusive and diverse workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, legally protected medical condition, family care status, military or veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal laws.
Fair Chance amp; Accommodations Pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act, we will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment. We also provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA).

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