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Purchasing Assistant Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Purchasing Coordinator

Mclean, VA · On-site

$21.25 - $28.50/hr

The Purchasing Coordinator will coordinate procurement activities for network equipment, services, and materials supporting BIM Task Order requirements. This position is a hybrid position with most ...

New

D.R. Horton, Inc. is currently looking for a Purchasing Agent for their Purchasing Department. The right candidate will bid on new projects, maintain scopes of work, track blueprints and design ...

Purchasing Associate

Rockville, MD · On-site

$20.75 - $26.75/hr

The Purchaser will buy supplies from various vendors and suppliers. You will work independently in a highly collaborative environment that requires frequent communication with other departments. In ...

D.R. Horton, Inc. is currently looking for a Purchasing Agent for their Purchasing Department. The right candidate will bid on new projects, maintain scopes of work, track blueprints and design ...

Senior Purchasing Manager

Columbia, MD · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Provide leadership, coaching, and development for purchasing staff, and assist with hiring. * Analyze market trends, costs, pricing, and supplier capabilities to identify/implement cost saving ...

The Purchasing Manager is responsible for contracting trade partners for labor and material items for each cost code they manage. In this capacity, the individual will work with local trade partners ...

Purchasing Manager

Reston, VA · On-site

$90.24 - $119.66/hr

The Sr. Purchasing Manager is responsible for contracting trade partners for labor and material items for each cost code they manage. In this capacity, the individual will work with local trade ...

The Purchasing Manager is responsible for contracting trade partners for labor and material items for each cost code they manage. In this capacity, the individual will work with local trade partners ...

Showing results 41-60

Purchasing Assistant information

See Washington, DC salary details

$14

$24

$34

How much do purchasing assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing assistant in Washington, DC is $24.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $26.68 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 Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Assistant jobs in Washington, DC?

For Purchasing Assistant jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Purchasing Assistant job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,603 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Purchasing Coordinator

SMS DATA PRODUCTS GROUP, INC

West Mclean, VA • Hybrid

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

The Purchasing Coordinator will coordinate procurement activities for network equipment, services, and materials supporting BIM Task Order requirements. This position is a hybrid position with most work being remote, with attendance at our office in McLean, VA as needed for meetings, work sessions, etc.

Since 1976, SMS has specialized in modernizing legacy IT and sustaining complex enterprise environments for federal agencies. With the goal of building long-term partnerships with our customers, we invest in our employees by providing the training, tools, and support they need to keep critical missions operational, improve performance, and reduce risk. SMS is headquartered in McLean, Virginia, with offices and on-site operations at customer locations throughout the United States. For additional information on SMS, visit www.sms.com.

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Job Responsibilities

  • Coordinate procurement activities for network equipment, services, and materials supporting BIM Task Order requirements
  • Manage purchasing processes ensuring compliance with Federal Acquisition Regulations and company procurement policies
  • Process purchase orders, invoices, and procurement documentation
  • Coordinate with vendors and suppliers for equipment delivery, pricing, and terms
  • Ensure Trade Agreement Act compliance for all hardware procurements
  • Track equipment orders ensuring timely delivery to support installation schedules
  • Maintain procurement records and documentation
  • Coordinate with program management and engineering teams for equipment specifications and requirements
  • Manage vendor relationships ensuring quality and timeliness
  • Support Equipment List Tool and Bill of Materials development and procurement execution
  • Reconcile invoices and purchase orders ensuring accurate payments
  • Coordinate with supply chain management for inventory and logistics

Required Qualifications

  • Possesses Bachelor's degree in business administration, supply chain management, or related field.
  • Minimum 5 years of purchasing or procurement experience.
  • Knowledge of government contracting regulations preferred.
  • Some travel may be required for his position (5% or less)
  • DoD Secret security clearance required or the ability to successfully pass a background check and obtain an interim Secret clearance.

SMS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Req # 2026-5407