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Purchasing Assistant Jobs in Cullowhee, NC (NOW HIRING)

The Assistant Store Manager will support the Store Manager in areas of sales, customer service ... Utilize electronic outside purchase order ledger to ensure special orders and outside purchases are ...

Vendor Management & Purchasing • Source, onboard, and maintain relationships with vendors and ... Assist with guest product inquiries and return requests as needed. What You Need • Bachelor ...

As a(an) Medical Assistant with Mission Spine you can be a part of an organization that is devoted ... Employee Stock Purchase Plan, flexible spending accounts, preferred banking partnerships ...

... Employee Stock Purchase Plan, flexible spending accounts, preferred banking partnerships ... assist physicians in providing high-quality, patient-centered care, aligning with our mission to ...

... Employee Stock Purchase Plan, flexible spending accounts, preferred banking partnerships ... Our Talent Acquisition team is reviewing applications for our Medical Assistant opening. Qualified ...

As a(an) Medical Assistant with Mission Spine you can be a part of an organization that is devoted ... Employee Stock Purchase Plan, flexible spending accounts, preferred banking partnerships ...

... Employee Stock Purchase Plan, flexible spending accounts, preferred banking partnerships ... Our Talent Acquisition team is reviewing applications for our Medical Assistant opening. Qualified ...

... Employee Stock Purchase Plan, flexible spending accounts, preferred banking partnerships ... assist physicians in providing high-quality, patient-centered care, aligning with our mission to ...

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Purchasing Assistant information

See Cullowhee, NC salary details

$10

$17

$24

How much do purchasing assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing assistant in Cullowhee, NC is $17.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $19.23 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing jobs in Cullowhee, NC?

The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Cullowhee, NC are:

What cities near Cullowhee, NC are hiring for Purchasing Assistant jobs?

Cities near Cullowhee, NC with the most Purchasing Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Purchasing Assistant job openings in Cullowhee, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,508 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Purchasing Specialist I - #000202

Cullowhee, NC • On-site


Western Carolina University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

102nd of 622 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Respectful managers


Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
Posting Information
Posting Number
EHRA1115P
Quick Link for Internal Postings
https://jobs.wcu.edu/postings/35095
Classification Title
Purchasing Specialist I
Working Title
Purchasing Specialist I - #000202
Department
Purchasing & Accounts Payable
Anticipated Hiring Range
Based on qualifications/experience, internal equity, and departmental budget restrictions.
About WCU
Western Carolina University continues to rank high on Forbes 'Best Employers' lists each year. Including:
• 2025 - Ranked 1st in the top 100 employers in North Carolina in Forbes 'America's Best Employers by State' list.
• 2024 - Ranking in the top 8.5% on Forbes 'America's Best Midsize Employers' list, WCU was ranked 34 out of the top 400 employers across all industries.
• 2023 - Ranked in the top 20% on Forbes 'America's Best Midsize Employers' list, WCU was ranked 97 out of the top 500 employers across all industries.
• 2022 - Ranked 14th in the top 100 employers in North Carolina in Forbes 'America's Best Employers by State' list.
Western Carolina University is the UNC system's westernmost campus and has been consistently ranked as one of the top 15 public regional institutions in the South.
Employees of WCU are provided a comprehensive benefits package as well as other resources, policies and programs to ensure a happy and healthy work/life balance. Benefit eligible employees have access to dental, vision and health insurance plans - eligibility begins on the first of the month following date of hire. Retirement plan contributions begin on the eligibility date following election and include employer contributions for either a defined contribution or a defined benefit plan. Optional disability plans are also available.
Eligible employees have access to tuition waivers for up to three courses per academic year; employee may enroll at any of the constituent UNC System campuses. Also offered are free group exercise classes multiple times per week, a discounted membership to the campus recreation center, free vaccine and booster shots offered on campus, pretax flexible spending accounts, 12 paid holidays and 24 hours of paid community service leave each year. Leave earning employees (staff and 12-month faculty) who work at least half of the working days of their first month of employment will begin accruing vacation and sick leave immediately. Paid parental leave after 12 months of continuous service.
WCU offers an abundance of training and development programs, certifications, workshops and conferences - many of which are offered free of charge.
Position Summary
The primary location of this position is the main Cullowhee, NC campus.
Position will be responsible for the procurement of goods and services in accordance with the state of North Caroline Procurement Regulations and Western Carolina University policies and procedures. Procurement process involves significant work with an automated purchasing system.
Must have knowledge of generally accepted purchasing practices and bid procedures. Must possess the ability to work with computers and various software programs. Requires excellent communication skills, both oral and written; and must possess ability to interpret and explain university and state rules, regulations, and policies relevant to purchasing.
Minimum Qualifications
Must be eligible to work in the United States without sponsorship.
Bachelor's degree; or Associate's degree and two years of related experience; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.
Preferred Qualifications
Position Type
Permanent Full-Time
Number of Hours Per Week
Number of Months Per Year
12
Posting Text
Open Date
08/18/2026
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
Application materials must be submitted online. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until a candidate has been selected for hire.
Please include a cover letter, current resume and a list of three professional references with complete contact information.
For questions or additional information please contact John Hamm at jahamm@email.wcu.edu
Background/E-Verify
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks.
Western Carolina University uses E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify. Proper documentation of identity and employability are required at the time of employment.
Credential Verification
All new employees are required to have listed credentials/degrees verified within 30 days of employment. All new employees who will be teaching are required to provide official transcripts within 30 days of employment. Transcripts should be provided for the highest earned degree and/or the degree which is being used to satisfy credential/qualification requirements.
EOE
Western Carolina University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race; color; ethnicity; religion; sex; pregnancy; sexual orientation; gender identity or expression; national origin; age; disability; genetic information; political affiliation; National Guard or veteran status, consistent with applicable federal, state and local laws, regulations, and policies, and the policies of The University of North Carolina. Persons with disabilities requiring accommodations in the application and interview process please call (828) 227-7218 or email at jobs@email.wcu.edu.
University Safety
The Western Carolina University Annual Safety Report is available online at University Annual Safety Report or in hard-copy by request at the office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, 227 HFR Administration Building, Cullowhee, NC 28723 (828-227-7147) or the Office of University Police, 111 Camp Annex, Cullowhee, NC 28723 (828-227-7301). The report, required of all universities participating in Title IV student financial aid programs, discusses crime statistics, procedures for reporting suspicious or criminal activity, security, police authority, crime prevention strategies, university policies on substance abuse and sexual offenses, workplace violence and fire safety.


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