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Purchasing Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

AstroNova, Inc.

Manager - Purchasing

West Warwick, RI · On-site

Position Summary/Objective The Purchasing Manager is responsible for leading day-to-day purchasing and supplier management activities to support AstroNova's manufacturing operations in West Warwick.

AstroNova, Inc.

Purchasing Manager

West Warwick, RI · On-site

Position Summary/Objective The Purchasing Manager is responsible for leading day-to-day purchasing and supplier management activities to support AstroNova's manufacturing operations in West Warwick.

AstroNova, Inc.

Manager - Purchasing

Warwick, RI · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Position Summary/Objective The Purchasing Manager is responsible for leading day-to-day purchasing and supplier management activities to support AstroNova's manufacturing operations in West Warwick.

GT Safety

Purchasing Clerk

Pawtucket, RI · On-site

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

Purchase inventory, supplies, and materials based on company needs. * Monitor inventory levels and replenish stock as needed. * Research and negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery schedules with ...

GT Safety

Purchasing Clerk

Pawtucket, RI · On-site

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

Purchase inventory, supplies, and materials based on company needs. * Monitor inventory levels and replenish stock as needed. * Research and negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery schedules with ...

SEACORP

Purchasing Agent

Middletown, RI · On-site

SEACORP is hiring a Purchasing Agent to execute procurement of all materials and equipment necessary for supporting on-site defense contracting tasks. Performs diversified buying duties which include ...

Composites One

Purchasing Specialist

Bristol, RI · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

As a Purchasing Specialist , you will provide administrative and operational support to the Consolidated Purchasing Team. You will be responsible for ensuring smooth purchasing transactions, accurate ...

SEACORP

Purchasing Agent

Middletown, RI

SEACORP is hiring a Purchasing Agent to execute procurement of all materials and equipment necessary for supporting on-site defense contracting tasks. Performs diversified buying duties which include ...

Lucas Milhaupt

Planning Manager

Providence, RI · On-site

The Planner/Material Manager is responsible for the day-to-day purchasing and planning for our Warwick RI facility. This role will assist with developing and implementing supplier and commodity ...

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All JobsPurchasing JobsPurchasing Assistant JobsPurchasing Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island

Purchasing Assistant information

See Rhode Island salary details

$12

$21

$29

How much do purchasing assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing assistant in Rhode Island is $21.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a purchasing assistant?

As a purchasing assistant, you buy products for your company to sell or use in operations. Your job duties entail communicating with vendors to obtain goods at the best prices, tracking product inventory, monitoring sales trends, and placing orders on products. Purchasing assistants often play a role in choosing which products to stock. The career requires you have some formal qualifications and education, generally a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field, excellent computer skills, and prior sales experience. It is necessary to develop knowledge of your specific industry, including normal sales and revenue trends.

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

To thrive as a Purchasing Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of procurement processes, often supported by a relevant associate degree or experience in supply chain management. Familiarity with procurement software, inventory management systems, and Excel is typically required. Effective communication, time management, and problem-solving abilities are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate order processing, timely supplier coordination, and efficient support for the purchasing department’s operations.

What are some common challenges purchasing assistants face when coordinating with suppliers, and how can these be managed effectively?

Purchasing Assistants often encounter challenges such as delayed shipments, miscommunications about order specifications, or fluctuating prices. To manage these issues effectively, it's important to maintain clear and consistent communication with suppliers, document all agreements, and proactively follow up on delivery timelines. Building strong relationships with preferred vendors and staying organized with detailed records can help resolve issues quickly and minimize disruptions to the supply chain.

What is the difference between Purchasing Assistant vs Procurement Clerk?

AspectPurchasing AssistantProcurement Clerk
CredentialsHigh school diploma, some roles may require certifications in purchasing or supply chainHigh school diploma, familiarity with procurement processes
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, supporting purchasing teamsOffice environment, handling procurement documentation
Employer & Industry UsageRetail, manufacturing, logistics companiesGovernment agencies, large corporations, public sector
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level purchasing rolesRelated to procurement process support roles

The Purchasing Assistant and Procurement Clerk roles share similarities in supporting purchasing and procurement activities, often requiring similar credentials and working in office environments. However, Purchasing Assistants typically focus on assisting with purchase orders and supplier communication, while Procurement Clerks handle procurement documentation and record-keeping. Both roles are essential in supply chain operations across various industries.

How much does a purchasing assistant make in the US?

A purchasing assistant in the US typically earns between $35,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level roles may start lower, while experienced assistants or those in specialized sectors can earn higher salaries. Skills in inventory management and familiarity with procurement software can influence compensation.

How much does a purchasing assistant make?

In Pennsylvania, a purchasing assistant typically earns between $35,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level roles may start lower, while experienced assistants with certifications or specialized skills can earn higher salaries.

Is a purchasing assistant job stressful?

A purchasing assistant job can be stressful due to tight deadlines, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring accurate inventory levels. The role often requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail to handle multiple tasks efficiently. However, stress levels vary depending on the company, workload, and individual coping strategies.
More about Purchasing Assistant jobs

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

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For Purchasing Assistant jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Purchasing Assistant jobs in Rhode Island are:

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Cities in Rhode Island with the most Purchasing Assistant job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Assistant jobs in RI?

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Purchasing Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing Assistant job openings in Rhode Island 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 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,763 per year, or $21 per hour.

Temporary Purchasing Specialist

Claflin Service Company

Warwick, RI • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Temporary

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

We are looking for a talented and highly motivated temporary Purchasing Assistant to join our Purchasing Team. This role is responsible for following up on a high volume of purchase orders. They will record order confirmations and status, follow up on and resolve issues with purchase orders, and act as a liaison between our outside vendors and our internal Sales and Customer Service Teams.

Location: Warwick, RI
Reports to: Purchasing Manager

Responsibilities:

  • Adequately and efficiently process and record a high volume of emailed order confirmations, estimated ship dates and tracking of purchase orders
  • Answer inbound phone calls from vendors and suppliers
  • Research and resolve issues with open purchase orders
  • Follow up with vendors and suppliers on purchase orders to supply payment, obtain status, request invoices, and confirm product deliveries
  • Develop, foster, and maintain excellent relationships with vendors and suppliers
  • Accurately and effectively communicate with internal sales teams regarding status of or issues with purchase orders
  • Perform other miscellaneous tasks and projects assigned by the Purchasing Manager

Requirements:

  • High school diploma or GED, Associates’ preferred
  • 1-3 years of purchasing experience
  • Previous purchasing experience in healthcare industry a plus
  • Excellent grammar, verbal, written, and data entry skills
  • Intermediate level proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel)
  • Knowledgeable in A+ and Salesforce software a plus

Who you are:

  • Positive team player with a strong and consistent work ethic
  • Comfortable working in a high paced work environment
  • Exercise good judgment to determine appropriate action
  • Problem solver, highly organized, and strong attention to detail
  • Proactive in identifying opportunities for improvement and driving process improvements

Apply