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Purchasing Associate Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Walmart

Associate Merchant - Hot Beverage (Tea)

Goshen, AR · On-site

$70K - $130K/yr

The (USA) Associate Merchant supports category management by facilitating supplier negotiations ... They manage purchase orders, support item setup, and contribute to promotional activities. The team ...

Walmart

Associate Merchant - Hot Beverage (Tea)

Lowell, AR · On-site

$70K - $130K/yr

The (USA) Associate Merchant supports category management by facilitating supplier negotiations ... They manage purchase orders, support item setup, and contribute to promotional activities. The team ...

Walmart

Associate Merchant - Hot Beverage (Tea)

Decatur, AR · On-site

$70K - $130K/yr

The (USA) Associate Merchant supports category management by facilitating supplier negotiations ... They manage purchase orders, support item setup, and contribute to promotional activities. The team ...

Walmart

Associate Merchant - Auto Care

Springdale, AR · On-site

$70K - $130K/yr

The team leads merchandising and purchasing for RV accessories and automotive coolant, focusing on category strategy and financial management to meet business goals. They collaborate across functions ...

New

Walmart

Associate Merchant - Auto Care

Goshen, AR · On-site

$70K - $130K/yr

The team leads merchandising and purchasing for RV accessories and automotive coolant, focusing on category strategy and financial management to meet business goals. They collaborate across functions ...

New

Walmart

Associate Merchant - Hot Beverage (Tea)

Elkins, AR · On-site

$70K - $130K/yr

The (USA) Associate Merchant supports category management by facilitating supplier negotiations ... They manage purchase orders, support item setup, and contribute to promotional activities. The team ...

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All JobsPurchasing Associate JobsPurchasing Associate Jobs in Arkansas

Purchasing Associate information

See Arkansas salary details

$11

$18

$26

How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in Arkansas is $18.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a purchasing associate do?

Purchasing associates monitors company inventory and orders new stock when necessary. As a purchasing associate, you contact vendors, create new order contracts, and ensure the company receives the supplies on time. You may also keep track of inventory budgets and file purchasing paperwork. Qualifications to become a purchasing associate include familiarity with basic office programs and industry experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a purchasing associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Purchasing Associate, you need a solid understanding of procurement processes, inventory management, and basic financial principles, often supported by a degree in business or supply chain management. Familiarity with ERP systems, purchasing software, and proficiency in Microsoft Excel are typically required, along with possible certifications like the Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP). Strong negotiation, organizational, and communication skills help you build relationships with vendors and manage multiple priorities effectively. These skills ensure cost-effective purchasing decisions, smooth supply chain operations, and reliable vendor partnerships.

What are some common challenges faced by purchasing associates, and how can they be effectively managed?

Purchasing Associates often encounter challenges such as managing multiple vendor relationships, ensuring timely deliveries, and balancing cost with quality. Staying organized, maintaining clear communication with suppliers, and closely tracking inventory levels are key strategies to handle these issues. Additionally, collaborating with internal departments helps align purchasing decisions with organizational needs, leading to more efficient workflows and better outcomes.

What is the difference between Purchasing Associate vs Purchasing Coordinator?

AspectPurchasing AssociatePurchasing Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesAssist in procurement, process purchase orders, maintain supplier infoCoordinate purchase activities, communicate with vendors, track orders
Required SkillsBasic procurement knowledge, organizational skillsCommunication skills, attention to detail, familiarity with procurement processes
CertificationsNone typically required, some may have APICS or CIPSSimilar certifications may be preferred but not mandatory
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, procurement departmentOffice environment, often working closely with procurement teams

While both roles support procurement functions, a Purchasing Associate primarily assists with order processing and supplier data, whereas a Purchasing Coordinator manages coordination and communication across procurement activities. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and focus within the purchasing process.

Is purchasing a good career?

Purchasing is a viable career that involves sourcing and acquiring goods or services for organizations, often requiring skills in negotiation, supply chain management, and familiarity with procurement software. It offers opportunities for advancement into roles such as procurement manager or supply chain analyst and can provide stable employment in various industries.
More about Purchasing Associate jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing jobs in Arkansas?

The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Arkansas are:

What cities in Arkansas are hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs?

Cities in Arkansas with the most Purchasing Associate job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Associate jobs in AR?

For Purchasing Associate jobs in AR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Purchasing Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing Associate job openings in Arkansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,267 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Purchasing Coordinator

Arkansas Children's

Little Rock, AR • On-site

$19.30 - $24.10/hr

Full-time

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

Arkansas Children's Hospital rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

303rd of 1,061 rated hospitals

Job description

ARKANSAS CHILDREN'S IS A TOBACCO FREE WORKPLACE. FLU VACCINES ARE REQUIRED. ARKANSAS CHILDREN'S IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL QUALIFIED APPLICANTS WILL RECEIVE CONSIDERATION FOR EMPLOYMENT WITHOUT REGARD TO RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, NATIONAL ORIGIN, AGE, DISABILITY, PROTECTED VETERAN STATUS OR ANY OTHER CHARACTERISTIC PROTECTED BY FEDERAL, STATE, OR LOCAL LAWS.
This position has been designated as safety sensitive and cannot be filled by a candidate who is a current user of medical marijuana.
CURRENT EMPLOYEES: Please apply via the internal career site by logging into your Workday Account (https://www.myworkday.com/archildrens/)and search the "Find Jobs" report.
Work Shift:
Day Shift
Time Type:
Full time
Department:
CC014260 Retail Pharmacy
Summary:
Full-time. Monday-Friday. 7:30am-4pm. Pharmacy Tech License Required
Salary:
Most new hires start between $19.30-$24.10 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.
Additional Information:
Acts as a buyer for the Pharmacy Department. Coordinates daily purchasing activities. Assures that needed medications and supplies are ordered and received. Assures that appropriate inventory control processes are in place and followed. Assures that all orders are received appropriately and invoices are processed for payment. Maintains and updates computer system to reflect the most current and correct pricing.
Required Education:
High school diploma or general education degree (GED)
Recommended Education:
Associate Degree
Required Work Experience:
Direct - 1 year of experience
Recommended Work Experience:
Required Certifications:
Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) - PTCB - Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), Pharmacy Technician - AR State Board of Pharmacy
Recommended Certifications:
Description
1. Places order with local wholesaler for medications and supplies and back orders directly with manufacturer for items in short supply immediately when local wholesaler unable to supply.
2. Assures that contract items are ordered.
3. Assures that substitution items are obtained when original item unavailable and substitution items are checked by the appropriate manager.
4. Notifies Pharmacy manager immediately of any items unavailable at time of purchase.
5. Adjusts stock levels and assures that stock levels are maintained at appropriate levels for usage in all areas.
6. Coordinates inventory control measures for drug shortages.
7. Coordinates loan/borrow process, recalls, and coordinates annual departmental inventory as needed.
8. Assures that packing slips and invoices are completed appropriately and invoices are processed for approval for payment timely and that no discounts are missed.
9. Updates purchasing information in computer database to assure correct and current pricing and has the manager verify any changes in product.
10. Substitutes for technician and/or clerks as needed.
11. Performs other duties as assigned.

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