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Purchasing Assistant Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Perform, manage, and maintain file documentation in accordance with company policies and DCMA Contractor Purchasing System Review (CPSR) requirements. Support multiple projects in parallel in an ...

Minimum (2) years of applicable experience in contract procurement or similar purchasing background of mechanical and electronic parts in support of test instrumentation, development, and ...

Minimum (2) years of applicable experience in contract procurement or similar purchasing background of mechanical and electronic parts in support of test instrumentation, development, and ...

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Administrative Assistant

Madison, AL · On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

E. invoices, purchase, requisitions/orders, inventory information) to corporate accounting ... - Assist with phone system operations, including answering calls and directing them to the ...

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Purchasing Assistant information

See Decatur, AL salary details

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How much do purchasing assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing assistant in Decatur, AL is $20.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.12 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

What skills are essential for a purchasing assistant?

A purchasing assistant needs strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and good communication abilities to coordinate with suppliers and internal teams. Proficiency in using procurement software and basic understanding of supply chain processes are also important for effective job performance.

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.

How much does a purchasing assistant earn?

A purchasing assistant typically earns between $30,000 and $50,000 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 negotiation, inventory management, and familiarity with procurement software can influence compensation.

What does a purchasing assistant do?

A purchasing assistant supports the procurement process by helping to order supplies, track inventory, and communicate with vendors. They often use procurement software and maintain records to ensure timely and cost-effective purchasing. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are essential for this role.

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 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 most commonly searched types of Purchasing jobs in Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL? For Purchasing Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Purchasing Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Purchasing Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Purchasing Assistant jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Purchasing Assistant job openings:
Buyer/Purchaser

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

For more than 30 years, ERC has been delivering the advantage needed to solve our customers' and the nation's toughest challenges. ERC is a trusted partner to the Defense and Space communities. We provide the advanced engineering, innovative technology, and subject-matter expertise to deliver the mission results our customers need to keep the nation safe and secure.

Our unique solutions enhance readiness, optimize performance, and help ensure success in the air, on the ground and in space. An essential part of our success is our corporate culture built on respect, empowerment, and collaboration. Our culture elevates our people, ensuring they provide best-in-class service and solutions to our customers.

We always strive to do the right thing. We believe that are our people are our best asset and human connection our greatest strength. Check us out on ERC.US Your role: In your role as a Buyer/Purchaser, you will directly support the U

S. Army Redstone Test Center (RTC) Wide Engineering and Support Services Contract on Redstone Arsenal, AL with the procurement and documentation of essential materials and services to support the RTC mission. What you'll do all day: Work as part of an enterprise team of order clerks and buyers supporting multiple divisions and customers.

Execute, track, and expedite purchase orders and small dollar credit card purchases for materials and services from purchase request through close-out reconciliation. Perform, manage, and maintain file documentation in accordance with company policies and DCMA Contractor Purchasing System Review (CPSR) requirements. Support multiple projects in parallel in an environment that changes quickly in response to customer needs.

Prepare Request for Quotes (RFQs) and evaluate responses. Track procurement progression and status. Negotiate pricing, terms and conditions, contract terms, clauses and other contractual requirements.

Conduct market research and document. Prepare and write price analysis justifications. Review and write non-competitive award or sole source justifications in accordance with DCMA Contractor Purchasing System Review (CPSR) requirements.

Validate justifications, requirements, funding, and budget. Communicate with requestors, engineering and technical teams, customers, and suppliers. Maintain a close working relationship with internal and external customers.

You will love this job if you: Are a self-starter and require little oversight to complete given tasks. Enjoy a fast-paced work environment. Love working with diverse groups of individuals, including engineers and technicians.

Are good at communicating with people. Have a positive attitude. Enjoy multitasking.

Minimum requirements for this position: High school diploma. 2 years of applicable experience in contract procurement or similar purchasing background of mechanical and electronic parts in support of test instrumentation, development, and manufacturing. Strong working knowledge of Microsoft (MS) Windows Operating Systems (OS) and MS Office products, like Excel.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Experience, working knowledge, and understanding of government regulations including Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR). Ability to adapt to changing work efforts and manage shifting priorities.

Strong organizational and workflow skills. Self-motivated and comfortable with redundant work and last-minute variety. Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret Government security clearance.

Must have a valid driver's license. Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret Clearance (U.S. Citizenship is required for all applicants) Desired skills and experience for this position: Junior to mid-level knowledge and experience of procurement in support of a government contract

Experience with Deltek Costpoint Time & Expense, SharePoint, and Costpoint Procurement. Previous experience and track record of success creating cost and price analysis justifications. Previous experience reviewing and writing non-competitive award or sole source justifications.

Excellent computer skills and experience working in Excel. Prefer Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in Procurement, Business Administration, Accounting or other related field. What we offer: Competitive salaries.

Continuing education assistance. Professional development allotment. Multiple healthcare benefit packages.

401K with employer matching. Paid time off (PTO) along with federally recognized holiday schedule.