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Purchasing Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Purchasing Planner is responsible for ensuring materials and inventory are available to support production schedules and customer demand. This position coordinates purchasing activities, monitors ...

Purchaser

Harlan, IA ยท On-site

The role provides material planning and purchasing functions for an OEM of heavy industrial process machinery. Specifically, responsible for the sourcing of machined parts, fabricated components ...

CDL-A Lease Purchase Truck Driver - $0 Down / No Credit Check / Walk Away Lease CRST The Transportation Solution Inc. is offering CDL-A truck drivers a chance to own their truck through our flexible ...

CDL-A Lease Purchase Truck Driver - $0 Down / No Credit Check / Walk Away Lease CRST The Transportation Solution Inc. is offering CDL-A truck drivers a chance to own their truck through our flexible ...

CDL-A Lease Purchase Truck Driver - $0 Down / No Credit Check / Walk Away Lease CRST The Transportation Solution Inc. is offering CDL-A truck drivers a chance to own their truck through our flexible ...

Showing results 41-60

Purchasing information

See Iowa salary details

$28.6K

$50.8K

$78.4K

How much do purchasing jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for purchasing in Iowa is $50,752.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,400.00 and $56,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a purchasing?

A Purchasing job involves the process of acquiring goods and services for a company or organization. Professionals in purchasing are responsible for sourcing suppliers, negotiating contracts, evaluating quality, and ensuring that needed materials are delivered on time and within budget. Their work is essential for maintaining smooth operations and helping organizations control costs. Purchasing roles can exist in many industries, ranging from manufacturing to retail and government. These jobs often require strong negotiation, analytical, and communication skills.

What are some common challenges faced by purchasing professionals and how can they be addressed?

Purchasing professionals often encounter challenges such as supply chain disruptions, fluctuating prices, and managing relationships with multiple vendors. Staying proactive by building strong supplier partnerships, maintaining clear communication, and using data-driven decision-making tools can help mitigate these issues. Additionally, collaborating closely with other departments like finance and operations ensures alignment on purchasing needs and helps streamline procurement processes.

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

To thrive as a Purchasing professional, you need strong analytical skills, negotiation abilities, and a solid understanding of supply chain management, typically supported by a degree in business, supply chain, or a related field. Familiarity with procurement software such as SAP, Oracle, or Coupa, and certifications like Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) are common requirements. Attention to detail, effective communication, and relationship-building are vital soft skills for managing supplier interactions and resolving issues. These competencies ensure cost-effective procurement, risk mitigation, and smooth operations within the organization.

What is the difference between Purchasing vs Procurement Specialist?

AspectPurchasingProcurement Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or associate degree; certifications like C.P.M. are commonOften requires a bachelor's degree; certifications like CPSM are advantageous
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, handling purchase orders and supplier interactionsOffice and strategic planning, supplier negotiations, and contract management
Industry UsageUsed across various industries for buying goods and servicesMore strategic role, involved in sourcing and supplier relationship management

Purchasing focuses on the transactional aspect of buying goods and services, such as issuing purchase orders. Procurement specialists take a broader, strategic approach, including sourcing, negotiations, and supplier management. While both roles are essential in supply chain operations, procurement specialists often handle more complex negotiations and strategic planning compared to purchasing professionals.

Are purchasing jobs in demand?

Purchasing jobs are generally in demand across various industries as companies seek professionals to manage procurement, supply chain, and vendor relationships. These roles often require skills in negotiation, inventory management, and familiarity with procurement software, and employment growth depends on economic conditions and industry needs.

Is purchasing a good career?

Purchasing is a viable career that involves sourcing and acquiring goods or services for organizations, often requiring skills in negotiation, supply chain management, and familiarity with procurement software. It offers opportunities in various industries, with roles that can lead to management positions and require certifications like CPSM or C.P.M. for advancement.

What career paths exist in purchasing?

Career paths in purchasing include roles such as Purchasing Agent, Procurement Specialist, Category Manager, and Supply Chain Manager. Advancement often involves gaining experience, certifications like CPSM or CPM, and developing skills in negotiation, supplier management, and inventory control.

What does a purchasing job do?

A purchasing job involves sourcing, negotiating, and buying goods or services for a company to ensure quality and cost efficiency. Professionals in this role often use procurement software and need strong negotiation and organizational skills to manage supplier relationships and maintain inventory levels.

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

The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Purchasing jobs in Iowa?

For Purchasing jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Purchasing jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Purchasing job openings:

Infographic showing various Purchasing job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,752 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Purchasing Planner

Virnig Manufacturing

Fort Madison, IA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Located in the heart of Central Minnesota, Virnig Manufacturing has been designing and producing skid steer loader attachments since 1989. From engineering and cutting raw materials to machining, welding, and painting the finished product, all steps of the manufacturing process are done in-house. Today, the family-owned and operated business has grown into a premium attachment manufacturer supplying North America and beyond. By integrating the latest manufacturing technologies and using top-of-the-line materials, Virnig has distinguished themselves as a cut above the rest in the manufacturing industry.
The Purchasing Planner is responsible for ensuring materials and inventory are available to support production schedules and customer demand. This position coordinates purchasing activities, monitors supplier performance and delivery schedules, maintains accurate ERP data, and resolves purchasing and inventory discrepancies. The Purchasing Planner works closely with Production, Engineering, Quality, Sales, Receiving, and Accounts Payable to ensure the timely flow of materials while maintaining accurate inventory levels and supporting efficient manufacturing operations.
Benefits Package Includes:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Generous PTO including vacation and paid holidays
  • Short- and long-term disability coverage
  • Life insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Opportunities for growth and development
  • Bonus opportunity

Key Responsibilities:
  • Track open purchase orders to ensure timely delivery of materials and proactively resolve shipping or delivery issues.
  • Monitor vendor order status and communicate delivery schedules and material availability to internal departments.
  • Maintain accurate supplier, inventory, and item information within the ERP system.
  • Review and revise purchase orders to ensure accuracy and reconcile discrepancies with packing slips, receipts, invoices, and shipping documentation.
  • Investigate and resolve discrepancies involving pricing, quantities, damaged materials, freight charges, taxes, billing, and payment issues.
  • Coordinate returns, exchanges, warranty claims, and supplier credits as needed.
  • Review vendor invoices for accuracy and submit approved invoices to Accounts Payable for timely processing.
  • Reconcile vendor statements and assist with resolving billing discrepancies.
  • Coordinate with Receiving to verify deliveries and document shortages, overages, damaged materials, or other receiving issues.
  • Monitor inventory levels of in-house fabricated components to ensure production requirements are met.
  • Review daily inventory reports and identify items requiring replenishment.
  • Track production output against inventory requirements and customer demand.
  • Analyze inventory trends to maintain appropriate inventory levels while minimizing excess stock.
  • Communicate inventory status, material shortages, and supply concerns with Production, Sales, and leadership.
  • Collaborate with Engineering and Quality regarding engineering changes, part revisions, and specification updates that affect inventory.
  • Assist Sales by providing accurate information regarding part availability and expected supply.
  • Create and maintain consumable supply part records within the ERP system.
  • Build and maintain positive working relationships with suppliers and internal customers.
  • Recommend process improvements to improve inventory accuracy, material flow, and purchasing efficiency.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements
Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Two or more years of experience in production planning, purchasing, inventory control, or manufacturing preferred.
  • Experience using ERP or MRP systems required.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks.
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to build positive relationships with suppliers and internal departments.
  • Ability to work independently while contributing to a team environment.

Skills:
  • Understanding of manufacturing processes, inventory management, and purchasing principles.
  • Ability to interpret inventory reports, purchase orders, invoices, and shipping documents.
  • Strong mathematical and analytical abilities.
  • Ability to identify discrepancies and resolve issues efficiently.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
  • Strong customer service mindset with both internal and external customers.
  • Continuous improvement mindset with the ability to identify opportunities for process improvements.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to sit, stand, and walk throughout the workday.
  • Frequent use of computers and office equipment.
  • Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds.
  • Ability to access manufacturing and warehouse areas as needed.
  • Working Conditions
  • Primarily office environment with frequent interaction on the manufacturing floor.
  • Regular communication with suppliers, production personnel, engineering, receiving, quality, and sales.
  • Occasional overtime may be required to support business needs.

VIRNIG MANUFACTURING IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, marital status, familial status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, disability, military service, veteran status, gender identity, status with regard to public assistance, or any other class protected by law. The company provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with known disabilities, unless doing so would cause undue hardship for the Company.