As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Purchasing Agent III in the United States is $60,790 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $29.
However, a Purchasing Agent III's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Purchasing Agent III's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Purchasing Agent III's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Purchasing Agent III | $57,611 |
| Intermediate Level Purchasing Agent III | $58,141 |
| Senior Level Purchasing Agent III | $60,790 |
| Specialist Level Purchasing Agent III | $63,850 |
| Expert Level Purchasing Agent III | $65,441 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Purchasing Agent IIIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Understanding how a Purchasing Agent III's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on January 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Purchasing Agent III, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Gas Purchasing & Contracts Manager | $168,400 | 177% |
| IT Acquisitions Manager | $139,280 | 129% |
| Ordering and Inventory Clerk IV | $68,100 | 12% |
Salaries for a Purchasing Agent III can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary increased from $52,505 in 2023 to around $52,787 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Purchasing Agent III salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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| 2023 | $52,505 |
| 2024 | $53,070 |
| 2025 | $52,787 |
| 2026 |
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| 2027 |
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Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Purchasing Agent III job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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Purchasing Agents often encounter stress due to tight deadlines for securing contracts and finalizing deals. The pressure to negotiate favorable terms can lead to extended work hours, impacting their well-being. With salaries ranging from $54,990 to $67,790, the financial rewards may not always offset the stress associated with the role.
The highest paid procurement jobs include roles like Director of Supply Chain, with salaries ranging from $182,000 to $206,000 per year, and Vice President of Procurement, earning between $130,000 and $194,000 annually. For Purchasing Agents, the salary ranges from $54,990 to $67,790, with a mid-salary of $61,190.
A Buyer III typically earns an annual salary ranging from $54,990 to $67,790, with a mid-salary of $61,190. This indicates a competitive compensation package, reflecting the responsibilities and expertise required for the role.
Purchasing Agents often experience stress due to tight deadlines for securing contracts and finalizing deals. The pressure to negotiate favorable terms can lead to extended work hours, especially considering their salary range of $54,990 to $67,790. The success of these negotiations is crucial, as it directly impacts company operations and profitability.
Purchasing agents are in high demand across various industries, offering a competitive salary range from $54,990 to $67,790, with a median salary of $61,190. Professionals skilled in analyzing financial reports and price proposals enjoy a promising career outlook in supply chain management and procurement, making it a rewarding job choice.
Purchasing agents typically work more than 40 hours a week to meet special sales or deadlines, often including evenings and weekends, especially before holiday seasons. They may also travel several days a month. The salary for this role ranges from $54,990 to $67,790, with a mid-salary of $61,190.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
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