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Purchasing Associate Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Lewis Bakeries

Purchasing Coordinator

Evansville, IN · On-site

$20 - $27/hr

Associate's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Procurement, Accounting, or related field preferred. * 1-3 years of experience in purchasing, procurement, inventory management, accounting support, or ...

Lewis Bakeries

Purchasing Coordinator

Evansville, IN · On-site

$20 - $27/hr

Associate's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Procurement, Accounting, or related field preferred. * 1-3 years of experience in purchasing, procurement, inventory management, accounting support, or ...

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All JobsPurchasing Associate JobsPurchasing Associate Jobs in Indiana

Purchasing Associate information

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$13

$21

$30

How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in Indiana is $21.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $24.04 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 Indiana? The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Purchasing Associate job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Associate jobs in IN? For Purchasing Associate jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Purchasing Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing Associate job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,187 per year, or $21.7 per hour.
Purchasing Agent- IN

Purchasing Agent- IN

Dave Carter & Associates, Inc.

Goshen, IN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Purchasing Agent- Indiana
Dave Carter amp; Associates is looking for an experienced Purchasing Agent to join our team!

Dave Carter amp; Associates is a multi-line national distributor to multiple industries, including manufactured housing, modular builders, recreational vehicles, commercial construction, cargo trailers, and specialty vehicle industries.

Incorporated in September of 1978 as a distributor in the Southeastern United States, Dave Carter amp; Associates grew into a national distributor within the next five years. Currently, Dave Carter amp; Associates has 11 distribution centers that serve all of the United States and Canada, with our international division focusing on handling imports amp; exports. We are a leader and dominant supplier in the products we sell, with a large market share in most products to the industries.
Dave Carter amp; Associates has recently strengthened its product portfolio by adding Thetford’s leading sanitation, refrigeration, and cooking product lines. This expansion follows Thetford LLC’s acquisition of DCA, a strategic move that unites a global innovator in RV systems with a highly respected North American distribution network.

Dave Carter amp; Associates firmly believes our strongest asset is our team of employees who have embodied our company’s culture of prioritizing strong customer service, industry knowledge, continuous training, financial accountability and building both lasting positive personal and professional relationships.
Position Overview
We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Purchasing Agent to join our team in Goshen, Indiana and support procurement operations across multiple product lines. This role is responsible for sourcing materials, managing vendor relationships, monitoring inventory levels, and ensuring products are purchased efficiently and cost-effectively to support company operations.
The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills, along with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced distribution environment. This position plays a key role in maintaining supply chain efficiency while supporting company growth and customer satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities
  • Execute purchasing and procurement activities across multiple product categories
  • Build and maintain strong vendor and supplier relationships
  • Negotiate pricing, lead times, and purchasing terms to achieve optimal value
  • Monitor inventory levels and collaborate with internal departments to maintain appropriate stock levels
  • Analyze purchasing trends, pricing fluctuations, and market conditions
  • Coordinate with sales, operations, and warehouse teams to support business needs and customer demand
  • Track product availability and manage supplier lead times to minimize disruptions
  • Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives while maintaining product quality standards
  • Process purchase orders accurately and ensure timely order fulfillment
  • Maintain purchasing records, vendor documentation, and procurement reports
  • Assist in resolving supplier discrepancies, shipping issues, and invoice concerns
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives related to procurement and inventory management
Qualifications
  • Minimum of 2 years of purchasing or procurement experience, preferably in a manufacturing or distribution environment
  • Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel
  • Experience working with inventory management or ERP systems preferred
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively
  • Strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail
  • Ability to communicate professionally with vendors, customers, and internal teams
Key Competencies
  • Strategic thinking and decision-making abilities
  • Strong negotiation and vendor management skills
  • Ability to analyze data and identify purchasing trends
  • Effective collaboration and communication skills
  • Self-motivated with the ability to work independently
  • Adaptability in a fast-paced and continuously evolving environment
  • Commitment to accuracy, accountability, and customer service excellence
WORK SCHEDULE amp; CONDITIONS
This position operates Monday through Friday. However, flexibility is essential. This is an onsite role located in Goshen, Indiana.
Work primarily occurs in an office setting, with desk-based activities such as computer use and occasional light walking and lifting. This role will require occasional travel for training or to attend industry events.
ADA amp; EEO
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The above requirements represent the required knowledge, skills, and/or abilities. Reasonable accommodation will be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities to complete the application process and, if hired, perform the essential functions of their job.
Dave Carter amp; Associates provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Candidates must pass a background check and drug test after receiving a conditional offer.
DISCLAIMER
This job description is not intended or designed to change, in any way, your status as an “at-will employee” or to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time, with or without notice.

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