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Purchasing Assistant Jobs in Pontotoc, MS (NOW HIRING)

Surge Staffing

Purchasing Sales Specialist

Guntown, MS · On-site

$19/hr

Monitor performance metrics and support continuous improvement efforts * Assist in identifying ... purchasing, sales, or supply chain (manufacturing preferred) * Strong negotiation, communication ...

Surge Staffing

Assistant Accounting Manager

Guntown, MS · On-site

Accounting Assistant Manager Location: Central Ohio Area (On-Site) Job Summary We are seeking an ... Collaborate with Supply Chain, Purchasing, Production Control, HR, and Plant Leadership teams. Data ...

Surge Staffing

Assistant Accounting Manager

Tupelo, MS · On-site

Accounting Assistant Manager Location: Central Ohio Area (On-Site) Job Summary We are seeking an ... Collaborate with Supply Chain, Purchasing, Production Control, HR, and Plant Leadership teams. Data ...

MbSolutions Inc

NAVY DSRC Administrative Admin

Center, MS · On-site

$17.75 - $24/hr

Review administrative directives and assist with implementation planning Clerical & Program Support ... Maintain internal tracking of program fiscal data, procurements, invoices, and purchase requests

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Purchasing Assistant information

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How much do purchasing assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing assistant in Pontotoc, MS is $18.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $20.34 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 require strong organizational skills to ensure timely and cost-effective purchasing for their organization.

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.

More about Purchasing Assistant jobs
What cities near Pontotoc, MS are hiring for Purchasing Assistant jobs? Cities near Pontotoc, MS with the most Purchasing Assistant job openings:
Purchasing Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing Assistant job openings in Pontotoc, MS as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 51% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,584 per year, or $18.6 per hour.
Purchasing Manager

Purchasing Manager

North American Electric, LLC

Tupelo, MS • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Purchasing & Supplier Development Manager

Onsite: Hernando, MS


Position Overview

The Purchasing & Supplier Development Manager is responsible for leading both tactical purchasing activities and supplier development initiatives for motor control components, electrical assemblies, and related product categories. This role ensures continuity of supply while driving supplier performance, cost competitiveness, quality improvements, and long-term sourcing strategies.


The ideal candidate is an experienced procurement professional who can effectively manage daily purchasing operations while identifying, qualifying, and developing new suppliers, negotiating commercial agreements, reviewing contracts, and reducing supply chain risk. This individual will serve as a key partner to Operations, Engineering, Quality, Product Management, and Sales to support business growth and profitability.


Key Responsibilities

Purchasing & Supply Management

  • Manage purchasing activities to ensure uninterrupted supply of materials and components required to support customer demand and production schedules.
  • Oversee purchase order placement, supplier order management, expediting, and delivery performance.
  • Monitor inventory levels and collaborate with planning and operations teams to maintain appropriate inventory investments.
  • Resolve material shortages, supply disruptions, and supplier performance issues.
  • Maintain accurate supplier information, pricing, lead times, and purchasing data within ERP systems.


Supplier Development & Management

  • Identify, evaluate, qualify, and onboard new suppliers to improve supply chain resilience, competitiveness, and capacity.
  • Develop strong supplier relationships and establish performance expectations related to quality, delivery, cost, and responsiveness.
  • Conduct supplier business reviews and implement corrective actions when performance falls below expectations.
  • Partner with suppliers to improve manufacturing processes, lead times, service levels, and overall performance.
  • Develop supplier scorecards and key performance metrics.


Commercial Negotiations & Contracts

  • Lead supplier negotiations involving pricing, payment terms, lead times, inventory agreements, warranty provisions, and service expectations.
  • Review and negotiate supplier contracts, supply agreements, confidentiality agreements, and commercial terms in collaboration with company leadership and legal resources.
  • Identify and execute cost reduction opportunities through negotiations, supplier development, value engineering, and supply base optimization.
  • Support annual budgeting and cost planning activities through market analysis and supplier engagement.


Strategic Supply Chain Initiatives

  • Develop sourcing strategies that support growth, profitability, and supply chain continuity.
  • Monitor market conditions, industry trends, commodity movements, tariffs, and geopolitical risks impacting supply.
  • Identify opportunities for supplier diversification and risk mitigation.
  • Support new product development initiatives by identifying and qualifying suppliers capable of meeting technical and commercial requirements.
  • Evaluate make-versus-buy opportunities and supplier capabilities.


Cross-Functional Collaboration

  • Partner with Engineering on component sourcing, supplier qualification, and product improvement initiatives.
  • Collaborate with Quality to address supplier quality concerns and corrective action activities.
  • Work closely with Operations and Planning to improve inventory performance and service levels.
  • Provide leadership with recommendations regarding supplier selection, supply risks, cost savings, and procurement strategies.


Qualifications

Required

  • Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, Operations Management, or related field.
  • 5+ years of purchasing, procurement, sourcing, or supply chain experience within a manufacturing environment.
  • Demonstrated experience leading and developing purchasing, procurement, or supply chain professionals, including performance management, coaching, goal setting, and team development.
  • Proven success identifying, qualifying, and developing suppliers.
  • Strong supplier negotiation and contract management experience.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage supplier relationships and drive performance improvements.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Proficiency with ERP systems and Microsoft Office applications.


Preferred

  • Experience with motor controls, electric motors, industrial automation products, drives, or related electrical components.
  • Global sourcing experience including suppliers in Asia, Mexico, and North America.


Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.


EOE Minorities/Females/Disabled/Protected Veterans Drug-Free/Tobacco-Free Workplace


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