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Entry Level Purchasing Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Contracts Analyst

Mclean, VA · On-site

$69K - $84K/yr

... purchasing and project teams to support the overall successful bid and buyout process for our projects. This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for a detail-oriented individual looking to build ...

Contracts Analyst

Mclean, VA · On-site

$69K - $84K/yr

... purchasing and project teams to support the overall successful bid and buyout process for our projects. This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for a detail-oriented individual looking to build ...

Entry Level Realtor

Reston, VA · On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Prepare and manage all necessary real estate documents, including contracts, purchase agreements, and closing statements. * Networking: Build a robust network of connections within the real estate ...

Entry Level Realtor

Reston, VA · On-site

$85K - $114K/yr

Prepare and manage all necessary real estate documents, including contracts, purchase agreements, and closing statements. * Networking: Build a robust network of connections within the real estate ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Purchasing information

See Washington, DC salary details

$14

$24

$34

How much do entry level purchasing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level purchasing in Washington, DC is $24.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.58 and $26.49 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 Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Purchasing job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,603 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Entry Level Acquisition Support Specialist

Pae

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

This position is contingent upon the identification of a candidate whose expertise meets our strategic needs, at which point a dedicated, funded opening will be established. We are proactively seeking a standout professional for whom we will finalize a formal role.

Amentum is seeking an entry-level Acquisition Support Specialist to provide dedicated acquisition contract management support to the Portfolio Acquisition Executive (PAE) for Munitions PMX-311 Terminal Defense Systems (TDS) (previously PEO IWS 11) Program Office. PAE Munitions PMX-311 is comprised of the Close-In Weapon System (CIWS), Directed Energy, Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS), Gun Weapon Systems (GWS), and the international cooperative Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) program with Germany. We are looking for qualified individuals to provide day-to-day support to the Program's Acquisition Team in the planning, execution, and support of Team contractual actions for the RAM and CIWS programs.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Assist in the development, review, and processing of acquisition documentation, generation of briefings, coordination of actions and support of program meetings

  • Support senior staff in the development of Procurement Requests utilizing the NAVAIR Acquisition Management System (AMS) Suite of tools including development of Statements of Work (SOWs), contract Sections B through L, Security documents and Contract Data Requirements Lists (CDRLs)

  • Work with the Program Office acquisition staff and Contracting Officer to track acquisition milestones and to resolve contract development/execution issues

  • Support the set-up and execution of Acquisition team meetings from agenda and presentation development to recording of minutes and action items

Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree and demonstrated general professional work experience

  • Proficient in the use of technical applications including excellent written and oral communication skills and experience with MS Teams, SharePoint, Microsoft application

  • Good organizational skills and the ability to perform detail-oriented work

  • Ability to obtain an active DoD Secret U.S. Government Clearance. Note: U.S. Citizenship is required to obtain.

  • Ability to travel <10%

Preferred Qualifications:

  • At least one year experience in Contract Management support with government programs

  • Current Secret US Government Clearance

Compensation Details:

$50,000 - $70,000

The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.

Benefits Overview:

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)

  • Educational reimbursement

  • Parental leave

  • Employee stock purchase plan

  • Tax-saving options

  • Disability and life insurance

  • Pet insurance

Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.

Original Posting:

08/25/2026 - Until Filled

Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs.

Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language atLabor Laws Posters.