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Purchasing Associate Jobs in Ontario (NOW HIRING)

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Associate or bachelor's degree in supply chain management, business, engineering, manufacturing, or a related field preferred. * Mid-level professional experience in purchasing , procurement ...

Responsibilities and Duties As a Sales Associate, you will: * Assist customers with their purchases and provide superior customer service. * Stock shelves and ensure store presentation consistently ...

Fashion Associate

Gloucester, ON · On-site

CA$17.75/hr

A Fashion Associate is a customer service champion that processes and stocks all fashion ... purchase decisions, resolving customer issues and referring concerns where appropriate. 2. ...

Consumables Associate

Cobourg, ON · On-site

CA$17.75/hr

This Associate will function as part of a team to stock and process merchandise and assist ... making purchase decisions. 3. Resolves customer issues and refers concerns to management where ...

Consumables Associate

Gloucester, ON · On-site

CA$17.75/hr

This Associate will function as part of a team to stock and process merchandise and assist ... making purchase decisions. 3. Resolves customer issues and refers concerns to management where ...

A Fashion Associate is a customer service champion that processes and stocks all fashion ... purchase decisions, resolving customer issues and referring concerns where appropriate. 2. ...

Consumables Associate

Simcoe, ON · On-site

CA$17.75/hr

This Associate will function as part of a team to stock and process merchandise and assist ... making purchase decisions. 3. Resolves customer issues and refers concerns to management where ...

A General Merchandise Associate provides exemplary customer service by adhering to the basic ... purchase decisions, resolving customer issues and referring concerns where appropriate. 2. Covers ...

(CAN) Fashion Associate

Kitchener, ON · On-site

CA$17.75/hr

A Fashion Associate is a customer service champion that processes and stocks all fashion ... purchase decisions, resolving customer issues and referring concerns where appropriate. 2. ...

A Fashion Associate is a customer service champion that processes and stocks all fashion ... purchase decisions, resolving customer issues and referring concerns where appropriate. 2. ...

A Fashion Associate is a customer service champion that processes and stocks all fashion ... purchase decisions, resolving customer issues and referring concerns where appropriate. 2. ...

A Fashion Associate is a customer service champion that processes and stocks all fashion ... purchase decisions, resolving customer issues and referring concerns where appropriate. 2. ...

A Fashion Associate is a customer service champion that processes and stocks all fashion ... purchase decisions, resolving customer issues and referring concerns where appropriate. 2. ...

(CAN) Fashion Associate

Pembroke, ON · On-site

CA$17.75/hr

A Fashion Associate is a customer service champion that processes and stocks all fashion ... purchase decisions, resolving customer issues and referring concerns where appropriate. 2. ...

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Purchasing Associate information

See Ontario salary details

$11

$21

$32

How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in Ontario is $21.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.52 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 Ontario? The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Ontario are:
What cities in Ontario are hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs? Cities in Ontario with the most Purchasing Associate job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Associate jobs in ON? For Purchasing Associate jobs in ON, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Purchasing Associate job openings in Ontario as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,401 per year, or $21.8 per hour.
Technical Purchasing Specialist - Industrial Manufacturing

Technical Purchasing Specialist - Industrial Manufacturing

Great Lakes Group

Hamilton, ON • On-site

CA$30 - CA$40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

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Job description

Technical Purchasing Specialist – Industrial Manufacturing

Position Summary

The Technical Purchasing Specialist supports industrial manufacturing operations by sourcing technical materials, components, equipment, and services. This mid-level role is responsible for supplier sourcing, vendor negotiation, purchase order management, cost control, and ensuring the timely availability of materials needed for production.

The ideal candidate has experience in industrial procurement, understands technical specifications and manufacturing requirements, and can build strong supplier relationships while balancing quality, cost, lead time, and operational needs.

Responsibilities

  • Identify, evaluate, and qualify suppliers for industrial components, raw materials, equipment, maintenance supplies, and technical services.
  • Lead supplier sourcing activities, including market research, supplier outreach, and competitive bid analysis.
  • Negotiate pricing, payment terms, lead times, minimum order quantities, warranties, and delivery conditions with vendors.
  • Prepare, issue, and manage requests for quotation (RFQs), purchase orders, and supplier agreements.
  • Review technical drawings, bills of materials, specifications, and engineering requirements to ensure accurate purchasing decisions.
  • Collaborate with engineering, production, quality, maintenance, and inventory teams to support manufacturing requirements.
  • Monitor open purchase orders and follow up with suppliers to prevent material shortages or production delays.
  • Evaluate supplier performance based on quality, delivery, cost, responsiveness, and service.
  • Identify cost-reduction opportunities through supplier consolidation, alternative sourcing, value analysis, and contract negotiation.
  • Maintain accurate purchasing records, supplier documentation, pricing data, and procurement reports.
  • Support inventory planning and help maintain appropriate stock levels for critical materials.
  • Resolve supplier issues involving pricing discrepancies, late deliveries, damaged goods, quality concerns, and invoice exceptions.
  • Assist with supplier relationship management and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Ensure purchasing activities comply with internal policies, quality standards, and applicable manufacturing requirements.

Qualifications

  • Associate or bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, business, engineering, manufacturing, or a related field preferred.
  • Mid-level professional experience in purchasing, procurement, strategic sourcing, or supply chain operations.
  • Experience purchasing technical materials, industrial parts, machinery, tooling, or manufacturing-related services.
  • Strong knowledge of supplier negotiation, quotation analysis, purchase order management, and vendor evaluation.
  • Ability to interpret technical specifications, bills of materials, drawings, and product requirements.
  • Familiarity with ERP systems, purchasing software, inventory systems, or material requirements planning tools.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities, supplier deadlines, and changing production requirements.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and other business productivity tools.
  • Knowledge of manufacturing processes, quality requirements, and supply chain principles.
  • Professional purchasing or supply chain certification, such as CPSM, CPIM, or CSCP, is a plus.

Preferred Skills

  • Industrial manufacturing procurement
  • Vendor management
  • Contract negotiation
  • Cost analysis
  • Supply chain management
  • Material requirements planning
  • Inventory control
  • Technical sourcing
  • Supplier performance management
  • Purchase order administration

Technical Purchasing Specialist, industrial procurement, supplier sourcing, vendor negotiation, industrial components, requests for quotation (RFQs), cost-reduction opportunities, supplier relationship management, purchasing, procurement, strategic sourcing, supplier negotiation, ERP systems, industrial manufacturing procurement, vendor management, contract negotiation, cost analysis, supply chain management, material requirements planning, inventory control, technical sourcing, supplier performance management, purchase order administration

Company Description

Hiring Transparency & AI Disclosure Statement
In compliance with applicable Canadian employment regulations, we confirm that this job posting represents a current, active vacancy within our organization.
We do not use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to screen, assess, rank, or make hiring decisions. All applications are reviewed and evaluated by human recruiters and hiring managers.
If our hiring practices change in the future to include AI-assisted tools, appropriate disclosure will be provided in accordance with applicable laws.