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Sourcing Associate Jobs in Carol Stream, IL (NOW HIRING)

Topco

Senior Sourcing Analyst - Produce

Itasca, IL · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

Overview Topco Associates is currently seeking a Senior Sourcing Analyst to join our Produce Team in Itasca, IL. This position will be a hybrid role, with the successful candidate conducting work in ...

Topco

Senior Sourcing Analyst - Produce

Itasca, IL · On-site

$80 - $95/hr

Overview Topco Associates is currently seeking a Senior Sourcing Analyst to join our Produce Team in Itasca, IL. This position will be a hybrid role, with the successful candidate conducting work in ...

GVW Group, LLC

Strategic Sourcing Manager

Highland Park, IL · On-site

$131K - $170K/yr

Manage new item setup processes and associate master data * Lead and develop a team that includes sourcing specialists, analysts, and master data support personnel What We're Looking For * Bachelor ...

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All JobsSourcing Associate JobsSourcing Associate Jobs in Carol Stream, IL

Sourcing Associate information

See Carol Stream, IL salary details

$16

$37

$65

How much do sourcing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for sourcing associate in Carol Stream, IL is $37.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.62 and $44.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sourcing associate?

To thrive as a Sourcing Associate, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in supply chain management or business, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with procurement software (such as SAP Ariba or Coupa), Excel, and vendor management systems is typically required. Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship-building abilities set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure effective supplier engagement, cost savings, and efficient procurement processes critical to organizational success.

What are some common challenges sourcing associates face when balancing supplier relationships and cost-effectiveness?

Sourcing Associates often navigate the challenge of maintaining strong supplier relationships while ensuring the company receives competitive pricing and quality. This involves negotiating contracts that benefit both parties and staying updated on market trends that may affect costs or supply chain reliability. Building trust with suppliers without compromising on organizational goals requires clear communication, attention to detail, and agile problem-solving. Additionally, Sourcing Associates must coordinate with internal teams to align procurement decisions with business needs and compliance standards.

What is the difference between Sourcing Associate vs Procurement Specialist?

AspectSourcing AssociateProcurement Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in supply chain, logistics, or related fieldsSimilar educational background, often with certifications like CPSM or CIPS
Work EnvironmentSupports sourcing activities, supplier research, and negotiationsHandles end-to-end procurement processes, including purchasing and contract management
Industry UsageCommonly used in supply chain and procurement departmentsWidely used across industries for purchasing and vendor management
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry to mid-level sourcing rolesCompared for procurement and purchasing roles

The main difference is that a Sourcing Associate focuses on identifying and evaluating suppliers, negotiating terms, and supporting sourcing strategies. A Procurement Specialist manages the entire purchasing process, including order placement, contract management, and vendor relations. Both roles require similar qualifications but differ in scope and responsibilities within the supply chain process.

How much does a sourcing associate make?

A sourcing associate typically earns between $45,000 and $65,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills can earn higher salaries. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and bonuses.

Is sourcing a stressful job?

Sourcing as a job involves identifying and evaluating potential suppliers or candidates, which can be demanding due to tight deadlines, high accuracy requirements, and the need for strong negotiation skills. While some find it challenging, effective organization and experience can help manage stress levels in this role.

What does a sourcing associate do?

A sourcing associate is responsible for identifying, evaluating, and selecting suppliers or vendors to meet a company's procurement needs. They analyze market trends, negotiate contracts, and use tools like procurement software to ensure cost-effective and timely sourcing of goods and services. Strong communication, negotiation skills, and attention to detail are essential in this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sourcing jobs in Carol Stream, IL?

The most popular types of Sourcing jobs in Carol Stream, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Sourcing Associate jobs in Carol Stream, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Sourcing Associate jobs in Carol Stream, IL are:

What cities near Carol Stream, IL are hiring for Sourcing Associate jobs?

Cities near Carol Stream, IL with the most Sourcing Associate job openings:

Sourcing Associate jobs near you

Sourcing Specialist - Packaging

Mars, Incorporated

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Mars Inc. rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

124th of 443 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Job Description:
As a Sourcing Specialist - Packaging at Mars, you'll join a collaborative, global organization and build your expertise within a complex and evolving packaging category. This is an opportunity to take meaningful ownership, gain exposure across the business and help translate category strategies into measurable value.
You'll work closely with the Senior Sourcing Manager, Buyers, suppliers and cross-functional partners across Operations, Supply, R&D, Quality and Finance. The ideal candidate is curious, analytical and ready to bring a point of view while continuing to grow as a strategic sourcing professional.
What are we looking for?
  • Bachelor's degree required.
  • 3+ years of procurement or strategic sourcing experience.
  • Demonstrated experience leading RFQs/RFPs, evaluating supplier proposals and supporting supplier selection decisions.
  • Experience preparing for and participating in supplier negotiations and commercial contracting.
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret spend, pricing, market data and commercial scenarios.
  • Ability to develop well-rounded sourcing recommendations that consider cost, quality, service, innovation, sustainability and supply continuity.
  • Strong communication, stakeholder-management and supplier-relationship skills, with the ability to work independently in an ambiguous, fast-moving environment.
  • Packaging, FMCG/CPG, direct-materials, manufacturing, cost-modeling, commodity-pricing or global sourcing experience is preferred.

What will be your key responsibilities?
  • Own assigned packaging subcategories, sourcing initiatives and workstreams with increasing independence.
  • Lead competitive RFQs and RFPs from market analysis and supplier engagement through proposal evaluation, supplier selection and award recommendation.
  • Analyze spend, supplier proposals, cost drivers, market indices and external developments to identify sourcing opportunities and commercial risks.
  • Develop sourcing scenarios, business cases and recommendations that balance value, service, quality, innovation, sustainability and supply-chain continuity.
  • Partner with internal cost-modeling and business teams to prepare negotiation strategies, lead supplier negotiations and support end-to-end contracting.
  • Maintain accurate pricing and commercial agreements following sourcing events.
  • Build productive supplier relationships and support supplier segmentation, performance management and portfolio optimization.
  • Collaborate across Procurement, Operations, Supply, R&D, Quality and Finance to implement sourcing decisions and deliver business commitments.
  • Support regional and global sourcing initiatives, including standardization, analytics, automation and continuous process improvement.

What can you expect from Mars?
  • Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.
  • Join a purpose-driven company where we're striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
  • A strong focus on learning and development from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.
  • An industry-competitive salary and benefits package, including a company bonus.

The base pay range for this position at commencement of employment is between the range listed below, however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including but not limited to job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position will include variable pay, medical and dental benefits, participation in 401k plan, and paid time off benefits. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an applicant receives an offer of employment.
The pay range listed is applicable to IL:USD 79,280.00 - USD 109,010.00

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