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Purchasing Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Compass Group

Purchasing Manager

Ames, IA · On-site

$60K/yr

Purchasing Manager @ Iowa State University Salary: $60,000 Different perspectives make us better. We're committed to creating an equal opportunity and fair treatment environment, where learning and ...

Compass Group

Purchasing Manager

Ames, IA · On-site

$60K/yr

Purchasing Manager @ Iowa State University Salary: $60,000 Different perspectives make us better. We're committed to creating an equal opportunity and fair treatment environment, where learning and ...

Compass Group

Purchasing Manager

Ames, IA

$60K/yr

Purchasing Manager @ Iowa State University Salary: $60,000 Different perspectives make us better. We're committed to creating an equal opportunity and fair treatment environment, where learning and ...

Seaboard Foods

Purchasing Coordinator - Ames, IA

Ames, IA · On-site

$20.50 - $27.75/hr

YOUR OPPORTUNITY We currently have an exciting Purchasing Coordinator opportunity in our Ames, IA office. In this highly impactful role, you will convert customer requisitions of medications and ...

Tuson Manufacturing Company

Be Seen First

Order Fulfillment & Materials Planning Coordinator

Story City, IA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

The ideal candidate will excel in customer communication, order management, purchasing, and coordination with manufacturing teams. This individual will help ensure excellent customer service while ...

Mrs. Clark's Foods

Buyer - Supply Chain

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$57K - $72K/yr

Description The Supply Chain Buyer will be responsible for coordinating purchasing activities for the company demonstrating efforts to sustain and enhance Mrs. Clark's Foods' position as a supplier ...

Mrs Clark's Foods

Buyer - Supply Chain

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$57K - $72K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description The Supply Chain Buyer will be responsible for coordinating purchasing activities for the company demonstrating efforts to sustain and enhance Mrs. Clark's Foods ...

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Purchasing information

See Ames, IA salary details

$29.8K

$52.9K

$81.7K

How much do purchasing jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for purchasing in Ames, IA is $52,855.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,100.00 and $58,700.00 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 Ames, IA?

The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Ames, IA are:

What are popular job titles related to Purchasing jobs in Ames, IA?

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

What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Purchasing jobs?

Cities near Ames, IA with the most Purchasing job openings:

Purchasing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,855 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Purchasing Manager

Compass Group

Ames, IA • On-site

$60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,093 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

347th of 495 rated business services

Job description

Purchasing Manager @ Iowa State University

Salary: $60,000

Different perspectives make us better. We're committed to creating an equal opportunity and fair treatment environment, where learning and growing together is just part of our every day. An environment where you can be your authentic self. 

About Levy
The disruptor in defining the sports and entertainment hospitality experience, Levy is recognized as the market leader and most critically acclaimed hospitality company in its industry. Twice named one of the 10 most innovative companies in sports by Fast Company magazine and one of the top three Best Employers for Diversity in America by Forbes, Levy's diverse portfolio includes award-winning restaurants; iconic sports and entertainment venues, zoos and cultural institutions, theaters, and convention centers; as well as the Super Bowl, Grammy Awards, US Open Tennis Tournament, Kentucky Derby, and NHL, MLB, NBA, NFL, and MLS All-Star Games. 

Detailed Responsibilities 

* Understands all menus, product offerings, packaging and pricing 

* Practices proper product control and handling of all inventory and equipment 

* Achieves assigned budget goals

* Contributes to required daily reporting

* Contributes to the completion of required department reports and assists in compiling information at month-end closing 

* Ensures all products are properly stored, rotated and dated in accordance with the Levy guidelines

* Monitors inventory procedures for accountability 

* Interviews, hires, trains and develops team members according to Levy guidelines 

Job Summary

Job Summary:

Key Responsibilities:

  • Understands all menus, product offerings, packaging and pricing
  • Employs good safety and sanitation practices
  • Achieves daily sales and assigned cost goals
  • Contributes to the completion of required department reports and assists in compiling information at month-end closing
  • Ensures all products are properly stored, rotated and dated in accordance with the Levy guidelines
  • Monitors inventory procedures for accountability
  • Interviews, hires, trains and develops team members according to Levy guidelines

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in Supply Chain or Purchasing
  • Degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Hospitality or similar is preferred
  • High level of computer literacy
  • Excellent interpersonal and stakeholder management skills
  • Curiosity for new technology and industry trends

At Levy, team = family. And we'll always take care of family, learn more about Levy benefits offered.

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/ AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • Flexible Time Off Plan
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
  • Personal Leave
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information. 

https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_Levy.pdf

Levy is a member of Compass Group USA. Compass Group/Levy is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass/Levy, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable acccommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsiblities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity.

 We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act. We encourage applicants with a criminal history (and driving history) to apply.

Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. 

Levy maintains a drug-free workplace.

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