ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Associate Buyer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Citi Trends

Associate Buyer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

CITITRENDS is seeking a Merchandise Associate Buyer to support the merchandising team in sourcing, selecting, and executing product assortments that align with our brand and meet customer demand.

JCPenney

Associate Buyer - Hardlines

Dallas, TX · On-site

$69K/yr

Overview Associate Buyer J.C. Penney Company, Inc. Plano, Texas The Associate Buyer works with the Buyer or Sr. Buyer in identifying, executing and communicating long term and seasonal merchandise ...

National Carwash Solutions

Associate Buyer

Frisco, TX · On-site

Associate Buyer within the Parts & eCommerce team NCS supports car wash operators who wash millions of vehicles every year. As a leading full-service fluids and systems provider to the vehicle care ...

Spencer Gifts

Associate Buyer

Egg Harbor Township, NJ · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Additionally, the Associate Buyer helps guide and train Assistant Buyers and Senior Assistant Buyers. * Responsible for building, creating & managing merchandise assortments that align with market ...

Lucchese Bootmaker

Associate Buyer

El Paso, TX · On-site

Associate Buyer - Procurement Operations Department Name: Procurement Effective Date: 3/17/2026 Reports to (title): Associate Director, Sourcing & Procurement # of Direct Reports: 0 # Indirect ...

Aldi

Associate Buyer

Batavia, IL · On-site

$28.75/hr

Join our team as an Associate Buyer, where you'll have the opportunity to support the buying team and help shape our product assortment. This role offers a unique blend of creativity, problem-solving ...

Premier Marine

Associate Buyer

Big Lake, MN · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

Job Summary Our Associate Buyer supports the procurement of parts, materials, supplies, and equipment while meeting established quality, cost, and delivery requirements. This buyer/planner position ...

Premier Marine

Associate Buyer

Big Lake, MN · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

Job Summary Our Associate Buyer supports the procurement of parts, materials, supplies, and equipment while meeting established quality, cost, and delivery requirements. This buyer/planner position ...

Spencer's

Associate Buyer

Egg Harbor Township, NJ · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Additionally, the Associate Buyer helps guide and train Assistant Buyers and Senior Assistant Buyers. Responsible for building, creating & managing merchandise assortments that align with market and ...

Goodwill

Associate Buyer

Tacoma, WA

$30.72 - $33.38/hr

The Associate Buyer is responsible for creating and implementing inventory control processes and training store staff; analyzing inventory results and identifying risks and opportunities for ...

Dassault Aviation

ASSOCIATE BUYER

Reno, NV · On-site

$24 - $31/hr

The Associate Buyer is also responsible for assisting in the procurement activity from receipt of valid requisition to acceptable receipt of items ordered and returns when necessary. This position ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAssociate Buyer Jobs

Associate Buyer information

See salary details

$8

$23

$36

How much do associate buyer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate buyer in the United States is $23.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $28.61 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 to become an associate buyer?

To become an associate buyer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring a bachelor's degree in business, marketing, or a related field. Relevant skills include negotiation, data analysis, and familiarity with inventory management software; previous retail or purchasing experience can be advantageous. Entry-level positions often require demonstrating strong organizational and communication skills, and some roles may require certification or training in procurement practices.

Is an associate buyer higher than a buyer?

An associate buyer is typically an entry-level or supporting role in purchasing, while a buyer is usually a more experienced position responsible for selecting and negotiating with suppliers. The associate buyer generally reports to a buyer and has less decision-making authority, so it is not considered higher than a buyer.

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.

What are Associate Buyers?

Associate Buyers are entry- to mid-level professionals who assist in purchasing goods and services for retail stores, companies, or organizations. They work under the supervision of senior buyers or purchasing managers, helping with tasks like selecting products, negotiating with vendors, analyzing market trends, and monitoring inventory levels. Associate Buyers play a key role in ensuring that the right products are available at the right time and price, contributing to the overall profitability and efficiency of their organization.

What is an associate buyer?

An associate buyer is an entry-level or supporting role in the purchasing department responsible for assisting in selecting and purchasing products or materials for a company. They often work under senior buyers, analyze market trends, and use procurement tools to help ensure inventory needs are met efficiently.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-paying roles such as senior executives, investment bankers, specialized surgeons, and successful entrepreneurs can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced education, extensive experience, and strong industry networks. Compensation varies based on industry, location, and individual performance.
More about Associate Buyer jobs
What cities are hiring for Associate Buyer jobs? Cities with the most Associate Buyer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Buyer jobs? The most popular types of Buyer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Associate Buyer jobs? The top employers for Associate Buyer jobs are:
What states have the most Associate Buyer jobs? States with the most job openings for Associate Buyer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Associate Buyer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Buyer jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Buyer jobs? For Associate Buyer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Associate Buyer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Buyer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,853 per year, or $24 per hour.
Associate Buyer

Associate Buyer

Citi Trends

Manhattan, NY • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Citi Trends rating

4.1

Company rating: 4.1 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

104th of 104 rated fashion retailers

Job description

CITITRENDS is seeking a Merchandise Associate Buyer to support the merchandising team in sourcing, selecting, and executing product assortments that align with our brand and meet customer demand. This role plays a key part in driving sales and profitability through trend analysis, inventory management, and strong vendor partnerships.
The Merchandise Associate Buyer will collaborate closely with senior buyers, planners, and cross-functional teams to ensure merchandise is competitively priced, trend-right, and aligned with business goals. This is an excellent opportunity for a driven, analytical, and detail-oriented professional looking to grow within a fast-paced retail environment.
What You'll Do
Buying Strategy & Execution
  • Assist in developing and executing buying strategies aligned with company goals and market trends
  • Partner with senior buyers and merchandise planners to select and order products based on forecasts, customer demand, and inventory levels
  • Support assortment planning to ensure a compelling and balanced product mix

Vendor Management & Collaboration
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors and suppliers
  • Support negotiations to secure competitive pricing, terms, and product availability
  • Partner with vendors to ensure product quality and timely delivery

Analysis & Inventory Management
  • Analyze sales data, market trends, and competitor activity to identify opportunities and inform buying decisions
  • Monitor inventory levels and support reordering strategies to optimize stock and minimize risk
  • Assist in preparing product assortments and recommendations for leadership review

Cross-Functional Partnership
  • Collaborate with Merchandising, Planning, Marketing, and Store Operations to align product strategies with promotions and in-store execution
  • Support product flow and ensure timely delivery and presentation in stores
  • Contribute to promotional readiness by ensuring product availability for campaigns and events

Additional Responsibilities
  • Stay current on industry trends and evolving customer preferences
  • Support change management initiatives and contribute to a collaborative team culture
  • Perform additional duties as needed to support business priorities

What We're Looking For
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret sales data and market trends
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships internally and externally
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
  • Proficiency in merchandising systems and Microsoft Office, with advanced Excel and PowerPoint skills required
  • Detail-oriented with a proactive and solution-focused mindset
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment

Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Merchandising, Business Administration, Fashion Merchandising, or related field
  • 1-3 years of experience in buying, merchandising, or a related retail role
  • Experience with retail buying systems and data analysis tools preferred
  • Knowledge of fashion trends and consumer behavior is a plus

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to sit for extended periods and work on a computer
  • Frequent use of hands for data entry and system navigation
  • Ability to communicate clearly (verbal and written)
  • Occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment

Why CITITRENDS
At CITITRENDS, we are passionate about delivering value and trend-right product to our customers. This role offers the opportunity to grow within our merchandising organization while directly impacting product assortment, customer experience, and business performance.
Equal Employment Opportunity
CITITRENDS is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

What Citi Trends employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply