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Purchasing Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Century Fire Protection

Purchasing Manager

Powell, TN · On-site

Develop and implement purchasing strategies to control costs and ensure supply continuity. * Oversee daily purchasing operations, including purchase orders, vendor negotiations, and contract ...

X Energy LLC

Purchasing Manager

Oak Ridge, TN · Hybrid

Act as a surrogate for the Director by representing Purchasing in leadership meetings both internally and externally and serving as the backup when the Director is unavailable. * Perform as the ...

X Energy LLC

Purchasing Manager

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Act as a surrogate for the Director by representing Purchasing in leadership meetings both internally and externally and serving as the backup when the Director is unavailable. * Perform as the ...

Thermon Industries, Inc

Purchasing Manager

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$85 - $110/hr

Reporting to the Director, Materials Management, your Purchasing Manager expertise will help us produce world‑class heating and boiler solutions for our clients. Specifically, by coordinating ...

Thermon

Purchasing Manager

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Reporting to the Director, Materials Management, your Purchasing Manager expertise will help us produce world-class heating and boiler solutions for our clients. Specifically, by coordinating ...

Thermon

Purchasing Manager

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Reporting to the Director, Materials Management, your Purchasing Manager expertise will help us produce world-class heating and boiler solutions for our clients. Specifically, by coordinating ...

Thermon

Purchasing Manager

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Reporting to the Director, Materials Management, your Purchasing Manager expertise will help us produce world-class heating and boiler solutions for our clients. Specifically, by coordinating ...

ORAU

Facilities & Purchasing Coordinator

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site +1

$63K - $88K/yr

Tracking purchase requests through ORAU Procurement. * Coordinating documentation to ensure compliance with Procurement Policy (PRO-101) and Department of Energy (DOE) requirements. * Maintaining ...

ORAU

Facilities & Purchasing Coordinator

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site +1

$63K - $88K/yr

Tracking purchase requests through ORAU Procurement. * Coordinating documentation to ensure compliance with Procurement Policy (PRO101) and Department of Energy (DOE) requirements. * Maintaining ...

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All JobsPurchasing JobsPurchasing Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Purchasing information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$29.2K

$51.7K

$79.8K

How much do purchasing jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for purchasing in Oak Ridge, TN is $51,658.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,100.00 and $57,400.00 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 Oak Ridge, TN?

The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Purchasing jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Purchasing job openings:

Purchasing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,658 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Purchasing Manager

Century Fire Protection Llc

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$75 - $110/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Century Fire Protection rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 37 rated health and safety providers

Job description

Div. 4 - Knoxville, TNSummaryResponsible for overseeing all procurement activities to ensure timely, cost-effective, and quality acquisition of materials, equipment, and services; develops purchasing strategies, manages vendor relationships, and leads purchasing staff to support operational and financial objectives.Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.Develop and implement purchasing strategies to control costs and ensure supply continuity.Oversee daily purchasing operations, including purchase orders, vendor negotiations, and contract management.Manage and mentor purchasing staff, setting performance expectations and providing ongoing coaching.Evaluate and select vendors based on price, quality, service, and reliability.Monitor inventory levels and coordinate with operations to forecast material needs.Ensure compliance with company policies, contracts, and applicable regulations.Resolve vendor issues related to pricing, delivery, quality, or service performance.Analyze purchasing data and prepare reports on costs, savings, and supplier performance.Education and/or ExperienceHigh school diploma and 5+ years of experience in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain, with supervisory or project management experience preferred.Computer SkillsMicrosoft Office, Word, Excel.Physical DemandsWhile performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk or hear, stand, walk, climb, and reach with hands and arms; must be able to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds; specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision.Century Fire Protection is one of the largest and most successful full-service fire protection companies based in the Southeast and we are still growing! There are a wide range of positions and countless opportunities for career growth. Each employee is empowered to do their job and serve our clients. There is no better place to work in the industry!We are experts in design, fabrication, installation, and maintenance of all types of fire protection systems in virtually all commercial markets for each stage of a buildings life cycle. Headquartered in Duluth, GA, Century Fire has more than 20 offices across seven states including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia.BenefitsWe believe our people are our biggest asset and as such, we offer comprehensive benefits, education, and training to ensure employees succeed and grow. Benefits include:MedicalDentalVisionFlexible Spending AccountsVoluntary Life InsuranceShort-term & Long-term DisabilityPaid Time OffPaid Holidays401(K) with Company MatchEmployee Assistance ProgramEmployee Relief FundSupplemental Insurance including Critical Illness, Hospitalization & AccidentCentury Fire Protection is a GREAT place to work! Come and GROW WITH US! #J-18808-Ljbffr

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