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Entry Level Purchasing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

$18/hr

We're growing rapidly and looking for motivated Entry-Level Technicians who are ready to learn from ... purchase and service discounts Additional company-sponsored benefits and perks What You'll Do:

Communicate daily with the Purchasing Staff and Production as to the disposition of open purchase orders. * Enter, Maintain, and Manage Vendor Item database. * Maintain inventory and purchases in ...

Communicate daily with the Purchasing Staff and Production as to the disposition of open purchase orders. * Enter, Maintain, and Manage Vendor Item database. * Maintain inventory and purchases in ...

Communicate daily with the Purchasing Staff and Production as to the disposition of open purchase orders. * Enter, Maintain, and Manage Vendor Item database. * Maintain inventory and purchases in ...

Manufacturer (Entry Level)

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Manufacturer Entry level production basis performs light electronic and/or electromechanical ... Great benefits including paid vacation and sick time, 401K match, Employee Stock Purchase Program ...

Manufacturer Entry level production basis performs light electronic and/or electromechanical ... Great benefits including paid vacation and sick time, 401K match, Employee Stock Purchase Program ...

Contract Specialist - Entry Level Location: Alameda, California (US Coast Guard Island) Type ... out purchase and task orders. * Communicate with USCG Program Management personnel about the ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Purchasing information

See California salary details

$13

$21

$29

How much do entry level purchasing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level purchasing in California is $21.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $23.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level purchasing job?

Entry level purchasing jobs are roles in which individuals assist with buying goods and services for a company, usually under the supervision of senior purchasing staff. Typical responsibilities include researching suppliers, preparing purchase orders, tracking inventory, and comparing prices to ensure cost-effective purchases. These positions often serve as a starting point for a career in procurement, and they require strong organizational, communication, and negotiation skills. Most entry level purchasing jobs require at least a high school diploma, though some employers may prefer candidates with a degree in business or a related field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level purchasing professional?

To thrive as an Entry Level Purchasing professional, you need a foundational understanding of supply chain management, negotiation, and basic financial acumen, often supported by a relevant degree such as business or supply chain. Familiarity with procurement software (like SAP or Oracle) and proficiency in Microsoft Excel are typically required. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate order processing, cost-effective purchasing decisions, and smooth collaboration with vendors and internal teams.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level purchasing professionals, and how can they be overcome?

Entry-level purchasing professionals often face challenges such as learning complex procurement systems, managing multiple vendor relationships, and handling tight deadlines. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to proactively communicate with suppliers, seek guidance from experienced colleagues, and stay organized by using task lists or procurement software. Building strong attention to detail and developing negotiation skills will also help new purchasing team members become more effective and confident in their role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Purchasing vs Purchasing Coordinator?

AspectEntry Level PurchasingPurchasing Coordinator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer associate degreeHigh school diploma; some roles prefer associate or bachelor's degree
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, collaborative teams, entry-level tasksOffice environment, more responsibility in procurement processes
Employer & Industry UsageRetail, manufacturing, government, logisticsCorporate procurement, manufacturing, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Purchasing typically involves basic procurement tasks and requires minimal experience, focusing on supporting purchasing activities. Purchasing Coordinator roles often involve more responsibility, including managing purchase orders and supplier communication, and may require some prior experience or certifications. Both roles are common in various industries and serve as stepping stones toward more advanced procurement careers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing jobs in California?

The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Purchasing jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Purchasing job openings:

Entry-Level Engineer

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
Construction • 1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Job description


Please note:
  • The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including the disabled and veterans.

Whiting-Turner Entry-Level Engineers are team members who help manage all aspects of construction projects. Reporting to a Project Manager and/or a Superintendent, the Entry-Level Engineer's major duties include:
  • Coordinating work with project owner representatives, architects, engineers, inspectors, and site subcontractors and/or directing the work of all trades assigned to a construction work site.
  • Managing estimating and bidding processes and tracking costs to manage project budget.
  • Resolving and clarifying design issues.
  • Identifying and resolving field issues and change orders.
  • Writing contracts and purchase orders using company boilerplate language to document all ordered work, schedules, projected costs, change orders and technical specifications.
  • Participating in meetings to coordinate work and manage labor concerns.
  • Ensuring work is completed in accordance with quality standards and contract specifications.
  • Implementing project schedules including each task associated with project completion.
  • Documenting the technical, financial and personnel aspects of each project.
  • Reviewing project drawings, specifications, submittals and change orders.
  • Reviewing each trade's work progress with respect to each project phase.
  • Providing field support to construction superintendents to help ensure contract compliance, quality control and maintenance of the site.
  • Tracking project phase completion against milestones.
  • Setting expectations for managing a safe work site.
  • Documenting each phase of the project.

Required Skills
Whiting-Turner will train qualified candidates to develop:
  • General knowledge of safety regulations, ANSI standards, local and state building codes, environmental codes, availability of industry-specific codes and guidelines.
  • General knowledge of general construction processes, practices and work sites.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Project, Suretrak, Primavera (or other scheduling software.

Required Experience
Basic qualifications for Entry-Level Engineer candidates include:
  • Bachelor of Science in an Engineering discipline, Engineering Technology or Construction Management, Construction Technology.
  • Knowledge of engineering principles.
  • Knowledge of basic business principles sufficient to project and monitor expenses.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Word and Excel.
  • Ability to read and understand technical specifications, blueprints, technical manuals, product/material installation instructions and engineering/architectural drawings.
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing
  • Experience with construction projects, mechanical/electrical systems, building materials, building mechanics or working with craft workers.

This job application routes to following locations:
    • Sacramento
    • Pleasanton
    • Millbrae
    • Sherman Oaks
    • Downtown Los Angeles
    • Irvine
    • Temecula
    • San Diego

The Company's salary ranges are dependent on a number of factors including but not limited to role, level and location. Individual pay is determined through interviews and an assessment of various factors, including but not limited to job-related skills, relevant education and experience, applicant's abilities and market and business considerations. The annual base salary range listed is subject to change at any time, in the Company's discretion, and does not alter in any way the at-will nature of the employment relationship. The foregoing information reflects base salary only and does not include other forms of available compensation to which employees may be entitled including but not limited to profit sharing, stock appreciation rights, retirement compensation, travel subsistence, and other compensations/benefits, which are dependent upon various factors including but not limited to years of service, location, performance, etc.
This salary range is for California only.