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Purchasing Manager Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Purchasing Manager

Livingston, CA · On-site

$103K - $129K/yr

The Purchasing Manager provides leadership and oversight for Indirect Supplies, MRO, and Site Services procurement; managing an annual spend of $200M+. This role is responsible for delivering ...

Purchasing Manager

Livingston, CA · Hybrid

$103K - $129K/yr

The Purchasing Manager provides leadership and oversight for Indirect Supplies, MRO, and Site Services procurement; managing an annual spend of $200M+. This role is responsible for delivering ...

Procurement Buyer - Ingredients

Livingston, CA · On-site

$29.75 - $39.25/hr

Supports the Purchasing Manager in managing the food ingredients category by handling day-to-day purchasing execution and operational support activities. Responsibilities include supplier ...

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Purchasing Manager information

See Merced, CA salary details

$42.8K

$88.9K

$134.6K

How much do purchasing manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for purchasing manager in Merced, CA is $88,919.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,600.00 and $105,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a purchasing manager?

Purchasing Managers are professionals responsible for acquiring products, materials, or services needed by their organization at the best possible price and quality. They analyze suppliers, negotiate contracts, and oversee purchasing staff to ensure the organization’s procurement needs are met efficiently and cost-effectively. Their role is crucial in maintaining supply chain operations and often involves collaborating with other departments to align purchasing strategies with organizational goals.

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

To thrive as a Purchasing Manager, you need strong negotiation, analytical, and supply chain management skills, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field. Familiarity with procurement software (such as SAP Ariba), contract management systems, and relevant certifications like CPSM or CPM is advantageous. Leadership, effective communication, and relationship-building are critical soft skills that set top performers apart. These capabilities ensure cost-effective sourcing, risk mitigation, and productive supplier partnerships essential for organizational success.

How does a purchasing manager typically interact with other departments within an organization?

Purchasing Managers work closely with various departments such as finance, operations, and production to ensure procurement aligns with organizational needs and budgets. They regularly coordinate with inventory and warehouse teams to manage stock levels and avoid shortages or overstocking. In addition, they may collaborate with legal and compliance teams to ensure supplier contracts meet company standards. Strong communication and negotiation skills are essential for fostering positive relationships and ensuring smooth cross-departmental workflows.

What is the difference between Purchasing Manager vs Procurement Specialist?

AspectPurchasing ManagerProcurement Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain, or related field; certifications like CPSM are commonSimilar educational background; certifications like CPSM or CPSC are also valued
Work EnvironmentManages purchasing teams, develops procurement strategies, and oversees large contractsFocuses on sourcing, supplier research, and executing purchase orders
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, retail, and logistics companiesCommon in supply chain and procurement departments within similar industries

The Purchasing Manager and Procurement Specialist roles share similar credentials and work environments but differ in scope. The Purchasing Manager oversees procurement strategies and team management, while the Procurement Specialist focuses on sourcing and executing purchases. Both roles are vital in supply chain operations and often work closely together.

What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing jobs in Merced, CA?

The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Merced, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Manager jobs in Merced, CA?

For Purchasing Manager jobs in Merced, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Purchasing Manager jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Purchasing Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Purchasing Manager job openings in Merced, CA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,919 per year, or $42.7 per hour.

Purchasing Manager

Livingston, CA • On-site

Foster Farms
Food and Drink Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

$103K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Foster Farms rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Salary Range: $103,000-$129,000 per year
Purpose of Position:
The Purchasing Manager provides leadership and oversight for Indirect Supplies, MRO, and Site Services procurement; managing an annual spend of $200M+. This role is responsible for delivering financial benefits through strategic sourcing, competitive bidding, and negotiations to secure best-value contracts. The position manages a team of Purchasing Agents, Buyers, and Sourcing Coordinators, ensuring compliance with company policies and procedures while supporting internal and external requirements.
Primary Objectives
  • Drive cost reductions through strategic sourcing, supply chain optimization, product innovation, technology, and process improvements.
  • Establish KPIs for supplier performance and conduct regular business reviews to ensure continuous improvement.
  • Ensure compliance with company policies, regulatory requirements, and ethical sourcing standards.
  • Develop and maintain category strategies for key spend areas to optimize cost and supplier relationships.
  • Provide coaching and mentoring to direct reports, leveraging individual strengths and fostering professional growth.

Essential Functions
  • Direct and manage purchasing functions to meet business requirements and achieve sourcing objectives.
  • Minimize acquisition costs for materials and services; negotiate and administer bids, purchase orders, and long-term contracts for Indirect Supplies, MRO, and Site Services.
  • Leverage data analytics and market intelligence to identify cost-saving opportunities and improve decision-making.
  • Collaborate with Finance and Operations to align procurement strategies with overall business objectives.
  • Drive continuous improvement and department performance using Six Sigma and lean methodologies.
  • Negotiate and manage over 100 supplier master agreements across multiple categories and plant locations.
  • Support Risk Management on contractor insurance, safety, chemical compliance, and reporting.
  • Standardize supply methods, contracts, and payment terms across business platforms.
  • Utilize SAP and Microsoft Office for procurement and reporting.
  • Lead special projects as needed.

Minimum Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in business, Engineering, or related field.
  • 5-7 years of procurement experience with Indirect Supplies/MRO/Site Services
  • On-site work required at Livingston corporate office.
  • Strong negotiation skills, knowledge of business law, and experience creating service and supply contracts.
  • Proficiency in MS Office applications and advanced Excel skills.
  • Strong leadership, project management, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to simplify complex data.
  • Knowledge of procurement procedures, accounting, and tax principles.

Preferred Qualifications
  • MBA
  • Understanding of agriculture and meat processing industries
  • Broad knowledge of Indirect procurement categories
  • Experience with e-procurement tools and digital sourcing platforms.

Physical & Work Requirements
  • Ability to sit for extended periods
  • Consistent and reliable attendance
  • Ability to work in fast-paced, high-pressure environments
  • Flexibility to prioritize workloads and attend off-site meetings
  • Periodic travel required

Foster Farms ACTION Guiding Principles
  • Accountability: Deliver on commitments.
  • Collaboration: Achieve more by working as a team.
  • Truth-Seeking: Be open-minded and act with humility.
  • Initiative: Be proactive and lead with a growth mindset.
  • Ownership: Take responsibility for results.
  • Nimble: Operate with speed and agility.

Why Join Foster Farms?
This is a high-impact opportunity to shape the future of the ready-to-eat business at a leading food company, directly supporting our mission, vision, and values. You will play a critical role in delivering safe, high-quality food and great moments for millions of families.
#LI-KP1
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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