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Purchasing Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cesna Group

Purchasing Associate (CA)

Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site

$50K - $100K/yr

Purchase material within the company budget for each project material phase. * New material vendor approval management * Negotiate favorable shipment dates when possible. * Follow up with vendors ...

Midjourney

Procurement Associate

Fremont, CA · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

The Procurement Associate is responsible for owning procurement and purchasing operations for the Hardware team end-to-end: from sourcing and vendor management through purchase order processing ...

Midjourney

Procurement Associate

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

The Procurement Associate is responsible for owning procurement and purchasing operations for the Hardware team end-to-end: from sourcing and vendor management through purchase order processing ...

Midjourney

Procurement Associate

Alameda, CA · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

The Procurement Associate is responsible for owning procurement and purchasing operations for the Hardware team end-to-end: from sourcing and vendor management through purchase order processing ...

Midjourney

Procurement Associate

San Jose, CA · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

The Procurement Associate is responsible for owning procurement and purchasing operations for the Hardware team end-to-end: from sourcing and vendor management through purchase order processing ...

Midjourney

Procurement Associate

Hayward, CA · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

The Procurement Associate is responsible for owning procurement and purchasing operations for the Hardware team end-to-end: from sourcing and vendor management through purchase order processing ...

Midjourney

Procurement Associate

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

The Procurement Associate is responsible for owning procurement and purchasing operations for the Hardware team end-to-end: from sourcing and vendor management through purchase order processing ...

Midjourney

Procurement Associate

Sonoma, CA · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

The Procurement Associate is responsible for owning procurement and purchasing operations for the Hardware team end-to-end: from sourcing and vendor management through purchase order processing ...

Midjourney

Procurement Associate

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

The Procurement Associate is responsible for owning procurement and purchasing operations for the Hardware team end-to-end: from sourcing and vendor management through purchase order processing ...

Midjourney

Procurement Associate

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

The Procurement Associate is responsible for owning procurement and purchasing operations for the Hardware team end-to-end: from sourcing and vendor management through purchase order processing ...

Midjourney

Procurement Associate

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

The Procurement Associate is responsible for owning procurement and purchasing operations for the Hardware team end-to-end: from sourcing and vendor management through purchase order processing ...

Qcells

Sr. Associate of Procurement

San Francisco, CA

$68K - $75K/yr

This position is Associate level who will support the Procurement, Logistics, and Sales Operations ... Place purchasing orders with the vendors and monitor PO status to follow up the projects

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Purchasing Associate information

See California salary details

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How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in California is $22.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $24.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a purchasing associate do?

A purchasing associate is responsible for sourcing and buying goods and services needed by a company. They evaluate suppliers, negotiate prices, and ensure timely delivery while maintaining accurate records using procurement software. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential for this role.

What are the 4 types of purchasing?

In purchasing, the four main types are direct purchasing, which involves acquiring raw materials for production; indirect purchasing, for goods and services supporting operations; strategic purchasing, focusing on long-term supplier relationships; and transactional purchasing, handling routine, one-time purchases. A Purchasing Associate often handles various types depending on company needs and procurement strategies.

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 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.

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.

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 typically provides stable employment with competitive salaries.

Is a purchasing agent an entry level job?

A purchasing agent is typically an entry-level to mid-level position that involves negotiating with suppliers, managing purchase orders, and maintaining inventory. Entry-level roles often require some experience or training in procurement, supply chain, or related fields, and may involve learning industry-specific software tools. Advancement usually depends on experience, skills, and performance.

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.
More about Purchasing Associate jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing jobs in California? The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Purchasing Associate job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Associate jobs in CA? For Purchasing Associate jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Purchasing Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing Associate job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,866 per year, or $22.5 per hour.
Purchasing Associate / Bilingual English & Mandarin Chinese

Purchasing Associate / Bilingual English & Mandarin Chinese

Allstate Floral Inc.

Cerritos, CA • On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

New

Job description

ABOUT ALLSTATE FLORAL
Allstate Floral is a leading home décor company that has become known for its innovative designs and breadth of high-quality artificial flowers and home décor accessories. Products include decorative flowers, plants, trees, home accents and holiday décor sold through a broad spectrum of global retailers, distributors, and interior designers. Allstate Floral fosters an energetic work environment of creativity and collaboration. As the leading importer with the largest in-stock decorative flowers, greenery and home decor, Allstate Floral is always looking to recruit and retain exceptional people who are skilled, confident, innovative and committed to providing excellent customer service.
POSITION OVERVIEW
The Purchasing Associate role is an onsite position at Allstate Floral that helps maintain our supply inventory levels and negotiate deals with potential vendors. The Purchasing Associate will be responsible for data entry, learning company purchasing policies and procedures, and maintaining supply inventory levels required for effective company operation. The Purchasing Associate is charged with conducting regular price comparisons to ensure that the company is always getting the best price for each product that is purchased.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  1. Data entry
  2. Maintain strong relationships with our vendors
  3. Review purchasing agreements with vendors and maintain open lines of communications with those vendors.
  4. Develop an active process for measuring supply inventory and determining purchasing needs based on quarterly and annual numbers.
  5. Stay up-to-date with industry trends and establish long-term purchasing arrangements with vendors when it is beneficial to the company.
  6. Compare product deliveries with issued purchase orders and contact vendors when there are discrepancies.

COMPETENCIES
  1. Strong communication skills.
  2. Proven track record for strong negotiation skills preferred
  3. Extremely detail and task oriented.
  4. Technical proficiency.
  5. A strong sense of team and a desire help build a dynamic, unique organization.
  6. Excellent math skills.
  7. Fast and accurate typing.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
  1. Bilingual English & Mandarin. Must speak, read, and write Mandarin
  2. High School Diploma/GED required; Associate Degree + preferred
  3. 3+ years in a purchasing role
  4. Data entry experience
  5. Experience with shipping/trucking is a plus

BENEFITS
  • Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance
  • Term Life Insurance
  • 401(k)
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays

SALARY RANGE (depending on experience): $23 - $28 hourly
Allstate Floral is an equal opportunity employer,
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