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Purchasing Assistant Jobs in Suffolk, VA (NOW HIRING)

Purchasing Agent

Elizabeth City, NC · On-site +1

$51K - $81K/yr

Assuring small purchase actions comply with the legal and technical requirements of law and statutes. * Analyzing all procurement requests for adequacy, completeness, clarity, and funding.

Purchasing Agent I, II, III Work Location: Chesapeake, VA - In Office FLSA Status: Full-Time, Non ... Perform any other assignments or tasks as needed or requested by management to assist in ...

Senior Manager, Purchasing

Smithfield, VA · On-site

$140K - $182K/yr

The Senior Manager of Purchasing leads our MRO Data Analytics team and serves as the key owner of all data integrity efforts related to maintenance, repair, and operational supply information within ...

Purchasing Clerk

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

Position Description: This position is responsible for cleaning and preparing guest rooms, replenishing supplies, maintaining cleanliness standards, and helping create a comfortable and welcoming ...

New

Purchasing Clerk

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

Position Description: This position is responsible for cleaning and preparing guest rooms, replenishing supplies, maintaining cleanliness standards, and helping create a comfortable and welcoming ...

New

Showing results 21-40

Purchasing Assistant information

See Suffolk, VA salary details

$12

$20

$28

How much do purchasing assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing assistant in Suffolk, VA is $20.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $22.40 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 Suffolk, VA?

The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Suffolk, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Assistant jobs in Suffolk, VA?

For Purchasing Assistant jobs in Suffolk, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Purchasing Assistant jobs in Suffolk, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Purchasing Assistant jobs in Suffolk, VA are:

What cities near Suffolk, VA are hiring for Purchasing Assistant jobs?

Cities near Suffolk, VA with the most Purchasing Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Purchasing Assistant job openings in Suffolk, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,512 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Job SummarySEACORP 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 procurement, vendor management, material negotiations and inventory levels. Plans and execute the procurement of materials needed in support of orders and forecasts. Negotiates favorable material costs, establishes contractual terms, reduces inventory, and manages supplier on time deliveries and quality.

Job Responsibilities Include: 

  • Purchase materials and supplies following established Company guidelines and procedures, including obtaining quotes, initiating purchase orders with job numbers and cost codes, and handling negotiations with vendors regarding price points of materials and supplies.
  • Setting up and qualifying new vendors, which includes obtaining current COI and W9 as well as establishing payment and all other relevant terms and conditions.
  • Maintains an adequate number of approved suppliers to ensure company requirements are met. Locates, evaluates and suggests qualified vendors to supply the Company with required materials and services as required.
  • Monitor supplier performance by ensuring that product is delivered as scheduled and meets specification.
  • Maintain appropriate files and records of meetings with suppliers to ensure company requirements are met and that supplier is aware of their performance.
  • Manage inventory levels to support contract schedules and customer orders, while maintaining optimal and appropriate materials with lead-times.
  • Communicate status of projects and requirements internally.
  • Act as a liaison between suppliers and company project/technical leads to resolve procurement related problems. Initiate and execute supplier corrective actions as needed.
  • Determine root cause of material delays to prevent recurrence and negotiate adjusted delivery dates.