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Assistant Buyer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Core-Mark

Buyer

Carroll, IA · On-site

As a Buyer, you will strategize with our sales team and division leadership to determine the ... the warehouse, and assist Accounts Payable with approval of bills. * Identifying & creating ...

New

Performance Food Group

Buyer

Carroll, IA · On-site

As a Buyer, you will strategize with our sales team and division leadership to determine the ... the warehouse, and assist Accounts Payable with approval of bills. * Identifying & creating ...

Staffingine LLC

Alley Buyer

Columbus Junction, IA · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Alley Buyer Job Location: Columbus Junction, IA Job Type: Full-Time * Sort, count, weigh, and permanently identify hogs. * Pen animals in appropriate segregation programs. * Learn and apply Tyson ...

Robinson, Inc.

Buyer

Altoona, IA

You will also support material evaluation and flow, assist in resolving quality issues, and ... Five (5) or more years of buying experience. * Ability to read and understand part drawings. * Mid ...

Robinson, Inc.

Buyer

Altoona, IA · On-site

You will also support material evaluation and flow, assist in resolving quality issues, and ... Five (5) or more years of buying experience. * Ability to read and understand part drawings. * Mid ...

Robinson Inc.

Buyer

Altoona, IA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

As the Buyer based at Robinson's Altoona, Iowa plant, you will be responsible for procuring non ... You will also support material evaluation and flow, assist in resolving quality issues, and ...

M&K Truck Centers

Used Truck Buyer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Used Truck Buyer Regular Full-Time INDIV CONTRIBUTOR Cedar Rapids, IA, US 4 days ago Requisition ID: 3016 Salary Range: $150,000.00 To $180,000.00 Annually Join a powerhouse in the trucking industry.

Sonepar

Buyer

Sioux City, IA · On-site

The Buyer role involves strategically managing a company's inventory, supplier relationships, and procurement processes to optimize product availability, cost-efficiency, and operational smoothness.

Terex Corporation

Buyer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

The Buyer position is responsible for purchasing and negotiating materials, equipment, and supplies from vendors. Candidate will need to be familiar with standard concepts, practices and procedures ...

Terex Corporation

Buyer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

The Buyer position is responsible for purchasing and negotiating materials, equipment, and supplies from vendors. Candidate will need to be familiar with standard concepts, practices and procedures ...

Epiroc Drilling Solutions, LLC

Buyer

Delhi, IA · On-site

Join Our Team as a Buyer at Epiroc! We're looking for a proactive, detailoriented Buyer who thrives on building strong vendor relationships and ensuring our teams have the materials they need to ...

ITA Group

Buyer, Event Purchasing

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Buyer, Event Purchasing Full Time Professional Atlanta, GA, US POSITION DESCRIPTION The Buyer acts as the primary client liaison and presale lead for assigned programs. The Buyer negotiates critical ...

New

Sonepar Canada, Inc.

Buyer

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

The Buyer role involves strategically managing a company's inventory, supplier relationships, and procurement processes to optimize product availability, cost-efficiency, and operational smoothness.

Lithium Nevada, LLC

Buyer

Nevada, IA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Buyer Company Overview Lithium Americas is a North American resource and materials company focused on developing, building and operating lithium deposits and chemical processing facilities. The ...

New

Sonepar

Buyer

Sioux City, IA · On-site

The Buyer role involves strategically managing a company's inventory, supplier relationships, and procurement processes to optimize product availability, cost-efficiency, and operational smoothness.

Terex

Buyer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

The Buyer position is responsible for purchasing and negotiating materials, equipment, and supplies from vendors. Candidate will need to be familiar with standard concepts, practices and procedures ...

Terex Corporation

Buyer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

The Buyer position is responsible for purchasing and negotiating materials, equipment, and supplies from vendors. Candidate will need to be familiar with standard concepts, practices and procedures ...

Terex

Buyer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

The Buyer position is responsible for purchasing and negotiating materials, equipment, and supplies from vendors. Candidate will need to be familiar with standard concepts, practices and procedures ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsBuyer JobsAssistant Buyer JobsAssistant Buyer Jobs in Iowa

Assistant Buyer information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$22

$30

How much do assistant buyer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant buyer in Iowa is $22.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant buyer?

Assistant Buyers are entry-level professionals in the retail and merchandising industry who support Buyers in selecting, ordering, and managing inventory for stores or brands. Their responsibilities often include conducting market research, analyzing sales trends, communicating with suppliers, and handling administrative tasks to ensure the buying process runs smoothly. Assistant Buyers play a crucial role in helping organizations meet sales goals by ensuring the right products are available at the right time. They typically work closely with other departments such as marketing and logistics.

What does an assistant buyer do?

An assistant buyer supports the buyer and coordinates purchasing and service orders to maintain supplies of products, food, equipment, and other materials. Depending on the industry, your responsibilities may include establishing accounts with outside vendors, negotiating price and scheduling, and maintaining detailed documentation of all purchases. Assistant buyers research and secure products and services to sustain smooth daily operations, so communicating with teams and supporting departments, as well as outside vendors and suppliers, is crucial. Coordinating deliveries and tracking inventory are common duties for assistant buyers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant buyer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Buyer, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a relevant degree in business, merchandising, or a related field. Familiarity with inventory management systems, Excel, and purchasing software is typically required, along with knowledge of supply chain processes. Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills help you build effective vendor relationships and manage multiple tasks efficiently. These skills are crucial for making data-driven buying decisions, maintaining optimal inventory levels, and supporting the overall profitability of the business.

What are some common challenges an assistant buyer may face when managing supplier relationships?

Assistant Buyers often encounter challenges like coordinating timelines with suppliers, managing fluctuating inventory levels, and ensuring product quality standards are met. They must balance cost negotiations while maintaining positive supplier relationships and adapting quickly to changes in market demand or supply chain disruptions. Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills are essential to navigate these challenges effectively and support the buying team’s objectives.

What is the difference between Assistant Buyer vs Purchasing Coordinator?

AspectAssistant BuyerPurchasing Coordinator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles prefer associate or bachelor’s degreeHigh school diploma; some roles may prefer associate degree or relevant experience
Work EnvironmentRetail, manufacturing, or wholesale companies; office settingOffice environment; often in retail or corporate procurement departments
Job FocusAssisting in selecting and purchasing products; supporting buyersCoordinating purchase orders, tracking deliveries, and maintaining records
Common UsageUsed in retail, fashion, and wholesale industriesCommon in retail, manufacturing, and corporate procurement

The main difference between an Assistant Buyer and a Purchasing Coordinator lies in their focus. Assistant Buyers assist in selecting products and supporting purchasing decisions, while Purchasing Coordinators handle order processing, tracking, and record-keeping. Both roles are essential in procurement processes but serve different functions within the supply chain.

How to get a job as an assistant buyer with no experience?

To become an assistant buyer with no experience, focus on developing skills in inventory management, negotiation, and basic merchandising through online courses or internships. Entry-level retail or customer service roles can also provide relevant experience and demonstrate your understanding of the industry to employers.
More about Assistant Buyer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Buyer jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Buyer jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Buyer jobs in Iowa?

For Assistant Buyer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Buyer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Buyer jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Assistant Buyer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Assistant Buyer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Buyer jobs in IA?

For Assistant Buyer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Assistant Buyer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Buyer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,200 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Buyer

Core-Mark

Carroll, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Core-Mark rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 128 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 49 rated food wholesalers

Job description

Job Description:

Position Summary:
As a Buyer, you will strategize with our sales team and division leadership to determine the viability of new products, research vendors, present proposals, and implement programs for retail consumers. You will work with large and small vendors alike to create sustainable and successful partnerships to add value for our vendors, our customers, and ourselves. A successful candidate will have effectively demonstrated an ability analyze and create strategies intended to improve category performance through the development and execution of strategic business plans.
Position Responsibilities:
  • Reviewing & maintaining inventory levels to ensure sufficient turns, ordering, and customer needs.
  • Maintaining promotions, plans, and allowances in mainframe systems.
  • Communicating with suppliers and carriers to arrange purchase orders (PO’s), track PO’s from order confirmation for the warehouse, and assist Accounts Payable with approval of bills. 
  • Identifying & creating solutions to a variety of inventory conditions.
  • Building successful supplier relationships; growing a diverse array of items and suppliers.
  • Managing financial performance of assigned categories and vendors.
  • Collaborating with suppliers to develop and execute marketing programs.
  • Developing and communicating specific performance metrics and goals relevant to each supplier.
  • Providing category leadership to shape the product portfolio for our customers.
  • Negotiating elements of assigned supplier relationships.
  • Providing analysis and recommendations on relevant products.
  • Monitoring new developments, trends, and market activity.
  • Maintaining industry knowledge of Core-Mark and governmental rules.
  • Preparing reports and records related to buying and inventory activities.
  • Traveling when required for the position. 
#CMALL

Qualifications:

• Experience/training within the field. Pay based on commensurate experience.
• 2 or more years of combined buying, planning, sales, and allocation responsibilities.

Company description


Core-Mark continues to grow as the industry leader in fresh and broadline solutions for the convenience retail industry. With a reputation for empowering customers, employees, and communities, Core-Mark has become the largest, most comprehensive marketer of consumer goods in North America — offering a full range of products, programs, and solutions to convenience operators across the U.S. and Canada.

Awards and Accolades

Performance Food Group and/or its subsidiaries (individually or collectively, the "Company") provides equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all applicants and employees, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state and federal laws and regulations. Please click on the following links to review: (1) our EEO Policy; (2) the "EEO is the Law" poster and supplement; and (3) the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.

What Core-Mark employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Core-Mark logo

About Core-Mark

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Core-Mark, a Performance Food Group Company, is part of a Fortune 150 company that continues to grow as an industry leader in fresh and broad-line solutions to the convenience retail industry. Our reputation of empowering customers, employees, and communities has allowed us to build over $17 Billion in revenue. Through our distribution centers, we offer a full range of products, programs, and solutions to customers across the U.S. and Canada.

Industry

Food and beverage wholesalers

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Westlake, TX, US

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