Purchasing Agent Jobs in Ames, IA

A Purchasing Agent in the manufacturing industry is responsible for procuring the necessary materials, supplies, and equipment required for the production process. They work closely with suppliers, negotiating contracts, evaluating product quality and ensuring timely delivery. They also analyze market trends, oversee inventory levels, and develop procurement strategies that support the business's operations and overall objectives. To minimize costs and risks, these professionals need to have a good understanding of the company's needs and the supply market conditions.

Essential skills for a Purchasing Agent include excellent negotiation and communication abilities, strong analytical thinking, and proficiency in procurement software. Familiarity with supply chain procedures and quality assurance is also pivotal. A degree in Business Administration or a related field is generally expected, and certifications such as Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) or Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) can enhance career prospects. Potential prior roles en route to becoming a Purchasing Agent could include Procurement Clerk, Inventory Analyst, or Junior Buyer.

1-3 of 3 Jobs

Merchandise Manager

  • Ames, IA
  • 12 days ago
  • Ames, IA
  • 12 days ago

At Five Below our growth is a result of the people who embrace our purpose: We know life is way better when you are free to Let Go & Have Fun in an amazing experience, filled with unlimited...

Merchandise Manager

  • Ames, IA
  • 17 days ago
  • Ames, IA
  • 17 days ago

OVERVIEW Experience a place of energy, passion, and excitement. A place where the joy of discovery and uncommon artistry blend to create exhilarating buying experiences—for true beauty...

Procurement Analyst

  • Story City, IA (11 miles from Ames, IA)
  • 24 days ago
  • Story City, IA (11 miles from Ames, IA)
  • 24 days ago

Time raw material delivery in accordance to scheduled production while conforming to raw material holding and inventory level objectives....

Demographic Data for Ames, IA

Moving to Ames, IA? Find some basic demographic data about Ames, IA below.


Local
National
70,648
1,560
Medium

Purchasing Agent Online Courses and Training Opportunities

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Purchase management
On this online course you will find all necessary tools o correctly plan demand, and you will acquire knowledge for forecasting, strategic sourcing, management and provider evaluation. For a...
The School for Change Agents
Free access to course content for everyone and free upgrade for NHS & affiliated staff. Check eligibility for a free upgrade here. Apply for free upgrade here. The School is free for everyone to...
AI Agents with LangChain and LangGraph Course
This course explores the use of LangChain and LangGraph for building advanced AI agent systems. It introduces learners to graph theory, state machines, and agentic systems, enabling them to build...

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Salary for Purchasing Agent Jobs in Ames, IA

Estimated salary range based on data from US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and iHireManufacturing research efforts.

Highest Education Level

Purchasing Agents in Ames, IA offer the following education background
Bachelor's Degree
40.7%
High School or GED
18.2%
Master's Degree
16.4%
Associate's Degree
11.5%
Vocational Degree or Certification
10.1%
Some College
2.0%
Doctorate Degree
0.6%
Some High School
0.5%

Average Work Experience
Here's a breakdown of the number of years' experience offered by Purchasing Agents in Ames, IA
4-6 years
45.4%
2-4 years
27.3%
6-8 years
9.1%
None
9.1%
1-2 years
4.6%
10+ years
4.6%