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Purchasing Associate Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Affinity Recruiting

Purchasing Associate

Norwood, MA

$18/hr

Affinity recruiting is looking for a Purchasing Associate for a local manufacture in the Norwood, MA location. In this role you will perform a variety of purchasing tasks and other clerical functions ...

JSI Cabinetry

Purchasing Assistant

Fall River, MA · On-site

$50K - $58K/yr

Associate degree or higher. * Prior purchasing or supply chain experience a plus. * Proficiency in Microsoft Excel * Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. * Strong written and verbal ...

Cox Engineering

Purchasing Agent

Georgetown, MA · On-site

$60K - $70K/hr

High school diploma or equivalent required; associate's or bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field preferred. * 2+ years of purchasing, procurement, inventory, or ...

Premier Fence LLC

Purchasing Coordinator

Middleborough, MA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

Associate's Degree in Business, Supply Chain, Accounting, Operations, or related field preferred. * 2+ years of purchasing, procurement, inventory, manufacturing, construction, or supply chain ...

NorthEastern

Purchasing Specialist

Boston, MA

About the Opportunity Job Summary The Purchasing Specialist serves as the main point person and ... Associate's degree * Desktop software application skills in web browsers, Adobe, Microsoft Teams ...

Chefs' Warehouse

Purchasing Assistant

Mattapoisett, MA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

... associates, best-in-breed technology, rapid service, and support levels that solidify our long ... The Purchasing Assistant provides office support to the Purchasing Department with a variety of ...

Exyte GmbH

Explore your tasks and responsibilities Purchasing & Supplier Coordination * Communicate ... where associates excel based on personal merit, qualifications, experience, ability, and job ...

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Purchasing Associate information

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$14

$24

$35

How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in Massachusetts is $24.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.25 and $27.55 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 Massachusetts? The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Massachusetts are:
What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs? Cities in Massachusetts with the most Purchasing Associate job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Associate jobs in MA? For Purchasing Associate jobs in MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Purchasing Associate jobs near you
Purchasing Associate

Purchasing Associate

Affinity Recruiting

Norwood, MA

$18/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 hours ago

Job description

Looking for an entry level position and a chance to grow with an amazing and growing company?  Affinity recruiting is looking for a Purchasing Associate for a local manufacture in the Norwood, MA location.

In this role you will perform a variety of purchasing tasks and other clerical functions under the direction of the Purchasing Material Specialist.

This is a full-time position with an excellent benefits package!

M-F, 1st shift schedule!

$18 per hour or depending on experience!

Ideal candidate will have:

  • Excellent clerical skills!
  • Have basic computer skills!
  • Excellent data entry skills!
  • Familiar with MRP systems is a huge plus!

Responsibilities:

  • Contacting different vendors by phone and email!
  • Processing different purchasing requisitions daily!
  • Requesting different quotes!
  • Coordinate and monitor schedules with different vendors!

Please reply to this posting with an updated resume and a recruiter will reach out immediately!