ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Associate Buyer Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Tjx

Early Morning Markdown Associate

Narragansett, RI · On-site

$16 - $16.50/hr

Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care & cell phone discounts; pet & legal insurance; credit union; referral bonuses. Those who meet ...

Bradford Soap Works Inc

Senior Buyer

West Warwick, RI · On-site

Senior Buyer Date: June 12, 2025 Department: Purchasing Reports to: CFO Position Summary: The Senior Buyer is a dual-role leader responsible for both hands-on procurement activities and management of ...

Bradford Soap Works Inc

Senior Buyer

West Warwick, RI · On-site

Senior Buyer Date: June 12, 2025 Department: Purchasing Reports to: CFO Position Summary: The Senior Buyer is a dual-role leader responsible for both hands-on procurement activities and management of ...

Coreandmain

Buyer

Pawtucket, RI · On-site

Core & Main's 5,700 associates are committed to helping their communities thrive with safe and reliable infrastructure. Visit coreandmain.com to learn more. Job Summary Responsible for purchasing and ...

Taco Family of Companies

Buyer Planner

Cranston, RI · On-site

$55K - $76K/yr

Hybrid Position Summary The Buyer/Planner is responsible for driving all planning requirements for various product lines, and the sourcing and procurement of materials, goods, and services to ensure ...

Taco Family of Companies

Buyer Planner

Cranston, RI · On-site

$55K - $76K/yr

Hybrid Position Summary The Buyer/Planner is responsible for driving all planning requirements for various product lines, and the sourcing and procurement of materials, goods, and services to ensure ...

Aspen Enterprises LTD

Packaging Buyer

Cranston, RI · On-site

Packaging Buyer/Procurement Manager Reports To: Director of Procurement Department / Group: Procurement Position Type: Full-Time Location: Preferred: San Antonio, TX ( Glenview, IL and Remote Option ...

Aspen Enterprises LTD

Packaging Buyer

Lincoln, RI · On-site

Packaging Buyer/Procurement Manager Reports To: Director of Procurement Department / Group: Procurement Position Type: Full-Time Location: Preferred: San Antonio, TX ( Glenview, IL and Remote Option ...

REX STAFFING

Buyer Jr

North Kingstown, RI · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

It is critical that this Jr. Buyer have a proactive approach to long term and contingency planning - addressing day-to-day operating issues as well as providing strategic input to demand and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAssociate Buyer JobsAssociate Buyer Jobs in Rhode Island

Associate Buyer information

See Rhode Island salary details

$8

$23

$36

How much do associate buyer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate buyer in Rhode Island is $23.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.85 and $28.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate buyer?

As an associate buyer, you are part of the supply chain and logistics department of a company. Your primary duties are to help manage inventory and purchase high-quality products at the lowest price for your employer. Other responsibilities may include developing merchandising plans, resolving issues with deliveries, and tracking and analyzing trends and consumer needs. Associate buyers may work for grocery stores, big box stores, specialty shops, and in various industries ranging from manufacturing to medical.

How does an associate buyer typically collaborate with other departments during the purchasing process?

As an Associate Buyer, collaboration with other departments is crucial to ensure purchasing decisions align with company goals. You’ll frequently work with inventory planners to monitor stock levels, coordinate with the merchandising team on product selections, and communicate with vendors arranged by the procurement department. Additionally, you may partner with finance to track budgets and with logistics to ensure timely delivery of goods. Effective communication and teamwork are essential for managing timelines, resolving issues, and optimizing the overall supply chain.

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

To thrive as an Associate Buyer, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain, or a related field. Familiarity with procurement software, inventory management systems, and Excel is typically required, and some employers prefer candidates with Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) credentials. Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship-building abilities help you collaborate effectively with vendors and internal teams. These skills ensure cost-effective purchasing decisions, efficient supply chain operations, and successful vendor partnerships.
More about Associate Buyer jobs

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

The most popular types of Buyer jobs in Rhode Island are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Buyer jobs in Rhode Island?

For Associate Buyer jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Buyer jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Buyer jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Associate Buyer jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Associate Buyer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Buyer jobs in RI?

For Associate Buyer jobs in RI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Associate Buyer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Buyer job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,822 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Associate Buyer: HBA / Cosmetics (Relocation Supported)

Ocean State Job Lot

North Kingstown, RI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Ocean State Job Lot rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 142 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

402nd of 734 rated retailers

Job description

Company Overview:
Ocean State Job Lot ("OSJL" or the "Company") is a dynamic $850+ million general merchandise retailer with a strong foothold across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. With over 170 stores currently and ambitious plans to reach 180 locations, OSJL offers exciting opportunities for growth and contribution. We are an opportunity-driven retailer owning over 50% of our operating locations, totaling 8 million square feet, demonstrating our stability and long-term vision. At OSJL, you will be part of a team committed to delivering exceptional value to our customers while driving positive change and a more responsible future for retail within our communities.
Job Description:
The Associate Buyer - HBA("Health and Beauty Aids")/Cosmetics role at Ocean State Job Lot ("OSJL" and "Company") plays a pivotal role within the Buying team, serving as a trusted backup to the Buyers. This position's small, defined area of fiscal responsibility will be the Specialty HBA and Cosmetics segment, offering comprehensive exposure to the buying function, from category management and trend analysis to vendor relations and purchase order execution. The Associate Buyer role is essential for managing tactical day-to-day operations and optimal inventory levels to drive profitable growth in this high-visibility category. This role collaborates closely with the Buyers as well as the Replenishment and Planning and Allocation teams to ensure flow of high-quality products that meet OSJL's customers' needs.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Independently exercise discretion in matters of importance such as the financial execution (i.e., "open to buy" ("OTB"), profitability, inventory turn) for the entire Specialty HBA and Cosmetics product area, while assisting the Buyer with all other products in the broader department.
  • Assist the Buyer in developing and executing buying strategies demonstrating the ability to increase sales and maximize profitability specifically within the niche of the HBA/Cosmetics segment.
  • Conduct thorough product research (including regulatory compliance), evaluate market trends, and gather competitive intelligence to identify growth opportunities, especially relating to new an emerging Health and Beauty Aid brands as well as trending Cosmetics.
  • Establish new HBA/Cosmetics categories and support the rebuying and maintenance of established, high-performing specialty items.
  • Own the product flow from initial planning and Purchase Order ("PO") creation to final delivery, ensuring timely and efficient product availability to meet demand, especially for time-sensitive seasonal or promotional beauty items.
  • Write, review, and update all purchase orders; process and track POs to ensure timely delivery while adhering to budget constraints, and resolving any issues or discrepancies with vendors.
  • Collaborate closely with the Replenishment, Planning, and Allocation teams to manage product delivery timelines, maximize profitability, and ensure adequate in-stock levels for all Specialty HBA/Cosmetics products.
  • Develop and utilize reporting tools to analyze business data, identify growth opportunities and risks in assortment, and create comprehensive reports on product performance and sales trends for Buyer review.
  • Directly engage with vendors for routine communication regarding product samples, tracking shipments, resolving concerns, and communicating changes in pricing and terms for the specialty HBA/Cosmetics brands.
  • Assist the Buyer in evaluating vendor performance to maximize profitability and turn, and make recommendations for adjustments as needed. Partner with legal in regards to compliance with quality or ingredient standards.
  • Review and suggest HBA/Cosmetics items for advertised circulars/flyers and partner with the Visual Merchandising team to provide display guidelines (e.g., endcaps, tester displays) and ensure accurate execution in-store and online.
  • Provide essential administrative support to the Buyer, including scheduling appointments, preparing presentations, managing documentation, and screening/directing incoming inquiries.

Qualifications:
  • An Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., Buying, Business, Finance) is preferred.
  • 3 or more years of previous experience in a buying department, allocation, or general retail environment is required.
  • 2 or more years of previous experience with HBA and cosmetics buying required.
  • Previous experience with an OTB system is highly preferred.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Excel (e.g., pivot tables, complex formulas) is required.
  • Familiarity with analytical and buying platforms (e.g., Paragon, Qlikview, Retail Ideas, or similar ERP/planning tools) is a plus.
  • Possess a mindset focused on career growth and a genuine passion for the HBA and Cosmetics buying field.

Work Environment:.
  • Works in an office environment remaining stationary at a desk, table, or computer workstation for extended periods of time. Frequently uses near vision for reading and computer tasks.
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential function
  • The role is responsible for setting up a professional and ergonomically safe work environment and to be available during working hours.
  • Travel domestically approximately 5 times a year to attend trade shows and key vendor meetings.

This job description does not list all the duties of the job. You may be asked by supervisors or managers to perform other job duties and tasks, some of which may be essential to the position. Leadership has the right to revise this job description at any time. The job description is not a contract, either express or implied. You are an at-will employee, meaning either you or the Company may terminate your employment at any time, with or without notice.
#INDCORP
The annual salary range for this position is between $80,000 - $100,000. Salary commensurates with years of relevant experience.
OSJL Featured Total Rewards & Perks:
  • Competitive Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Including but not limited to Medical, Dental, Vision, and much more.
  • 401K Program
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Associate Store 30% Discounts
  • Enjoy complimentary access to OSJL-owned vacation properties, along with discounted gym memberships and 20% off at OSJL affiliated restaurants.
  • Free lunch Fridays

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What Ocean State Job Lot employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Ocean State Job Lot logo

About Ocean State Job Lot

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Ocean State Job Lot, headquartered in North Kingstown, Rhode Island, United States, is a well-renowned firm operating within the retail industry. The company, officially launched in 1977, has since grown to operate more than 140 stores across the US northeast. It offers a variety of products that range from health and beauty supplies, kitchenware, clothing, and seasonal items to toys, pet supplies, and household essentials. The company's mission is to provide its customers with a unique treasure hunt experience by offering quality products at exceptional value. Beyond this, Ocean State Job Lot is known for its philanthropic efforts, through schemes like the 'Three Square Meals' hunger relief program, and the OSJL Charitable Foundation, which have significantly contributed to enhancing the quality of life within their community.

Industry

Retail

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

North Kingstown, RI, US

Year founded

1977

View All Ocean State Job Lot Jobs

Apply