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Purchasing Assistant Jobs in Rensselaer, NY (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Project Manager

Troy, NY · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Compare bid documents with construction documents to identify discrepancies and assist in preparing change orders and purchase orders. * Maintain accurate project records, including contracts ...

Showing results 41-60

Purchasing Assistant information

See Rensselaer, NY salary details

$13

$21

$30

How much do purchasing assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing assistant in Rensselaer, NY is $21.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $23.37 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 popular job titles related to Purchasing Assistant jobs in Rensselaer, NY?

For Purchasing Assistant jobs in Rensselaer, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Rensselaer, NY are hiring for Purchasing Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rensselaer, NY with the most Purchasing Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Purchasing Assistant job openings in Rensselaer, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,368 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Branch Administrative Assistant

Curtis Lumber Co Inc.

Schuylerville, NY

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Curtis Lumber rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 51 rated home improvement retailers


Job description

Overview

Perform daily and weekly administrative responsibilities in a timely and accurate manner. Assist on the sales floor providing exceptional customer service while engaging in face to face, phone, and electronic sales.  Assist management as needed. 


Responsibilities

  • Ensure accuracy of cash handling, bank deposits, timeliness of deposits, etc.
  • Ensure security of cash, cash drawer(s), change, petty cash, deposits, and refunds
  • Ensure that all cash, charge, COD, and POA invoices are processed daily
  • Ensure proper filing and posting of daily transactions for accurate tracking within specified time frames
  • Ensure policy and procedures are followed for all cash handling transactions
  • Handle returned checks and bankcard disputes for location
  • Order office supplies
  • Reconcile EOD paperwork to appropriate reports
  • Reconcile EOD Totals and report to Accounting
  • Research over/short discrepancies
  • Refund calls
  • Maintain POS system down kits
  • Provide administrative support to management team
  • Provide all A/R information necessary for accurate and concise records of customer transactions with respect to authorization/approval and supporting documentation necessary to secure accounts.
  • Ensure credits and payments are applied in an accurate and timely fashion
  • Ensure proper handling of accounts with specific needs such as: Voucher, State Contract, Purchase Order
  • Ensure that returned merchandise and customer credits are processed accurately and in a timely manner
  • Track and maintain all tax-exempt accounts, numbers, and files
  • Work closely with all branches/customers with respect to applying payments/credits and account balancing
  • Review past due accounts and ensure collections are being completed in a timely manner and documented accordingly

Qualifications

  • 1 year relevant work experience
  • Effective communication and negotiation skills
  • Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations
  • Proficient keyboard and computer skills including Microsoft office and other Company and discipline specific software applications

What Curtis Lumber employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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