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Purchasing Associate Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Assists in the execution of continuous improvement projects relating to purchasing JOB ... associates that empowers them all with the ability to do their jobs safely. McKenney's is an Equal ...

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Procurement, Operations, Engineering, or a related field preferred. * 3+ years of experience in purchasing, inventory management, supply ...

Minimum of an Associate's Degree preferred * Minimum of three years of related experience in the field * Must have full knowledge of purchasing procedures, food, beverage, and printing products

Sales Associate

Morrow, GA · On-site

$100K/yr

Top Sales Associates earn upwards of $100k per year!* We are a leading automotive dealership ... Present vehicle attributes, model options, features, purchase and finance options. * Conduct test ...

Sales Associate

Morrow, GA · On-site

$100K/yr

Top Sales Associates earn upwards of $100k per year!* We are a leading automotive dealership ... Present vehicle attributes, model options, features, purchase and finance options. * Conduct test ...

Sales Associate

Morrow, GA · On-site

$100K/yr

Top Sales Associates earn upwards of $100k per year!* We are a leading automotive dealership ... Present vehicle attributes, model options, features, purchase and finance options. * Conduct test ...

Sales Associate

Morrow, GA · On-site

$100K/yr

Top Sales Associates earn upwards of $100k per year!* We are a leading automotive dealership ... Present vehicle attributes, model options, features, purchase and finance options. * Conduct test ...

Sales Associate

Morrow, GA · On-site

$100K/yr

Top Sales Associates earn upwards of $100k per year!* We are a leading automotive dealership ... Present vehicle attributes, model options, features, purchase and finance options. * Conduct test ...

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Purchasing Associate information

See Georgia salary details

$11

$19

$27

How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in Georgia is $19.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $21.30 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing jobs in Georgia? The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Georgia are:
What cities in Georgia are hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs? Cities in Georgia with the most Purchasing Associate job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Associate jobs in GA? For Purchasing Associate jobs in GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Purchasing Associate job openings in Georgia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,097 per year, or $19.3 per hour.
Purchasing Specialist

Purchasing Specialist

McKenney's, Inc.

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


McKenney's rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

JOB SUMMARY
Responsible for advising on buyout for HVAC equipment, subcontractors, and mechanical and plumbing construction materials for the fabrication shops and construction projects. Serve as the primary liaison and company representative for our key suppliers, ensuring strong and effective partnerships. Assists in the execution of continuous improvement projects relating to purchasing
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
Project Buyout
• Reviews vendor quotes, quality metrics, lead times, drawings, specifications, preferred partnership agreements, bundling opportunities, and makes buyout recommendations to project teams
• Partners with Preconstruction and construction project teams to advise on vendor selection
• Provides product alternatives to reduce project costs or escalation concerns
• Requests and reviews product submittals and IOMs by comparing them to contract documentation
• Creates material tracking logs and writes material POs and subcontracts.
• Assists project teams with escalating performance concerns to vendors and manufacturers
• Collects feedback from project teams on vendor performance through making site visits and attending project meetings
• Researches and resolves invoice and purchase order discrepancies
Vendor Engagement
• Works with the project teams and the legal department to manage vendor and subcontractor terms and conditions
• Creates material lists and sends RFPs annually for buying agreements of construction materials
• Hosts annual performance reviews with key suppliers
• Develops and maintains a good relationship with all supplier partners.
Bundling & Rebates
• Collects and reports on preferred partnership agreement spend to the Purchasing Manager
• Identifies opportunities for discounted pricing through bundling multiple jobs together for vendor award
• Analyzes company spend data to identify spend patterns and provide cost savings
• Maintains the equipment and material pricing databases, pricing indices, and escalation tracking databases
Other
• Assists with the execution and troubleshooting of process improvement projects
• Creates and reviews Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for purchasing department processes as required.
• Performs all job duties within McKenney's values and operates with integrity
• Performs additional duties as requested
• Actively communicates any issues with the Purchasing Manager
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience
• Bachelor's Degree preferred in Supply Chain Operations, Logistics, Business Administration, Industrial Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering
• Solid MS Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) and computer skills
• 3-5 years of procurement experience, specifically in a project-based or job-specific procurement environment, knowledge of spreadsheets, email, and web-based applications
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Computer skills, including PC experience in Windows environments with a working knowledge of spreadsheets, e-mail, and web-based applications
• Able to identify methods of implementation to solve issues and proactively plan to satisfy requirements
• Detail-oriented with demonstrated ability to effectively manage multiple priorities
• Able to interpret construction drawings, specifications, and bill of materials (BOM)
• Effective and professional communication skills
• Effective interpersonal and teamwork skills with internal and external customers
• Ability to access, analyze, and act to resolve daily and ongoing issues
• Ability to initiate process improvements
• Must be self-motivated, team-oriented, and able to respond quickly to changing customer demands
• Ability to use time productively, maximize efficiency, and meet challenging work goals
• Working knowledge of procurement techniques, procedures, policies, accounting, and business contract law.
• Ability to take on additional responsibilities as needed, as well as determine and manage priorities with minimal guidance
• Professional appearance and demeanor
• Must have exceptional work ethic and demonstrate the highest standard of conduct and integrity, while upholding McKenney's company values.
PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS
• Familiarity with the mechanical contracting and construction industry
• Knowledge of piping, plumbing, sheet metal materials, and commodities
• Knowledge of HVAC equipment and/or plumbing fixtures
• Knowledge of Smartsheet
• Construction procurement experience
WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL EFFORTS
• Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office environment
• No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
• No or very limited physical effort required.
• Periodic visits to active jobsites and exposure to conditions characteristic of such visits.
Moving Safety Forward, our initiative for continuous improvements in our safety culture, reminds us that we are on a journey toward a zero-incident culture. In all we do, we must work to build a partnership with our employees, customers and business associates that empowers them all with the ability to do their jobs safely.
McKenney's is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to workforce diversity. Qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to age, color, religion, sexual orientation, disability, national origin, or gender identity. McKenney's is a smoke-free and drug-free workplace.

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