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Purchasing Associate Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

KASCO

Buyer/Purchasing Associate

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

Purchases parts to supply distribution centers and numerous technician locations. * Prepares and places purchase orders and warehouse transfer orders. * Communicates all order confirmations and ...

KASCO

Buyer/Purchasing Associate

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

Purchases parts to supply distribution centers and numerous technician locations. * Prepares and places purchase orders and warehouse transfer orders. * Communicates all order confirmations and ...

Guarantee Electrical

Purchasing Coordinator

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

Associate degree in business, accounting, or a related field (or equivalent experience) * 1-3 years of experience in purchasing, construction, or a related field * Experience in electrical ...

GoJet Airlines

PURCHASING AGENT

Bridgeton, MO · On-site

GOJET AIRLINES - PURCHASING AGENT LOCATION - ST. LOUIS, MO - HANGAR The Purchaser reports to the ... • Associate's Degree preferred · Experience in Accounting, Finance, A/P and A/R functions ...

New

Guarantee Electrical

Purchasing Coordinator

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

Associate degree in business, accounting, or a related field (or equivalent experience) * 1-3 years of experience in purchasing, construction, or a related field * Experience in electrical ...

Quanta Services

Purchasing Coordinator

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

High school diploma or equivalent required; associate's or bachelor's degree in business, supply chain, logistics, or a related field preferred. * 2+ years of experience in procurement, purchasing ...

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Purchasing Associate information

See Missouri salary details

$12

$21

$30

How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in Missouri is $21.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $23.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Purchasing Associate do?

A Purchasing Associate is responsible for supporting an organization’s procurement process by sourcing suppliers, obtaining quotes, and placing orders for goods and services. They maintain records of purchases, track inventory levels, and ensure that materials are delivered on time. Purchasing Associates often communicate with vendors, negotiate prices, and help resolve any issues with orders to ensure smooth operations. Their role is essential in maintaining cost efficiency and timely supply within a company.

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.

Is procurement a high stress job?

Purchasing associates often work in fast-paced environments where meeting deadlines and managing supplier relationships can create stress. The level of stress varies depending on the industry, workload, and organizational structure, but strong organizational and communication skills help manage job pressures effectively.

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 is the work of purchasing associate?

A purchasing associate is responsible for sourcing, evaluating, and purchasing goods and services needed by a company. They negotiate prices, manage supplier relationships, and ensure timely delivery to support operational needs. Proficiency in procurement software and strong negotiation skills are often required.

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 can provide stable employment in various industries.

Is a purchasing agent an entry-level job?

A purchasing agent is not always an entry-level position; it often requires some experience in procurement, supply chain, or related fields. Entry-level roles in purchasing may be titled purchasing assistant or coordinator, with more advanced roles requiring skills in negotiation, vendor management, and familiarity with procurement software. Certifications like CPSM or C.P.M. can also enhance qualifications for higher-level purchasing roles.

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 Missouri? The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Missouri are:
What cities in Missouri are hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs? Cities in Missouri with the most Purchasing Associate job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Associate jobs in MO? For Purchasing Associate jobs in MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Purchasing Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing Associate job openings in Missouri as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,543 per year, or $21.4 per hour.
Settlements (Purchasing) Associate

Settlements (Purchasing) Associate

Kelly Services

Kansas City, MO

$28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Settlements Associate – Contract (Kansas City, MO | $28.00 - $30.00)

Kelly Services is seeking a detail-oriented Settlements Associate for an on-site contract role at 4800 Main St, Kansas City, MO 64112. This position offers a pay rate of $28.00 per hour and is expected to run through March 2027, with potential for extension (not a permanent role).

Key Responsibilities:

  • Perform settlements and reconciliation duties in a fast-paced logistics or finance environment
  • Utilize Excel daily for tracking, analysis, and reporting of settlements
  • Apply purchasing and two-way matching skills to ensure transactional accuracy
  • Contribute to a positive, collaborative, and safety-driven workplace
  • Support process and efficiency improvements under company guidelines

Required Qualifications:

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (formulas, data manipulation, analysis)
  • Previous purchasing background with hands-on two-way matching experience
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to work with confidential information

Schedule:

  • On site Monday–Thursday, 8 AM–5 PM; one remote work day per week

Additional Details:

  • Standard background check and drug screening will be required
  • This is a contract assignment with scheduled end date; assignment could be extended, but is not a permanent staff position.
  • Candidates must be authorized to work in the US.

Ready to join a collaborative team in Kansas City? Apply today to help deliver excellence in settlements operations!


As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability. As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account. In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local plan. Click here for more information on benefits and perks that may be available to you as a member of the Kelly Talent Community.

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About Kelly

Work changes everything. And at Kelly, we’re obsessed with where it can take you. To us, it’s about more than simply accepting your next job opportunity. It’s the fuel that powers every next step of your life. It’s the ripple effect that changes and improves everything for your family, your community, and the world. Which is why, here at Kelly, we are dedicated to providing you with limitless opportunities to enrich your life-just ask the 300,000 people we employ each year.
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