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Purchasing Associate Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

BCforward

Buyer II / Purchasing Agent

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$18.79/hr

Associates degree with 1-2 years direct working experience or bachelor's degree required (new ... inventory purchases. Capable of applying concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and ...

Lifesteps Inc

Manager, Purchasing and Fleet

Butler, PA · On-site

Associates Degree in Business Administration or related field and (5) five years' experience in Fleet, Purchasing, Safety or related experience OR * Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration or ...

Lancaster County

Dep Director Purchasing

Lancaster, PA · On-site

$69K - $104K/yr

The Deputy Director of Purchasing is responsible for performing all facets of County government ... Associate's degree in business administration or in a related field; AND Three or more years of ...

Berks County

Buyer (Purchasing Department)

Reading, PA · On-site

Associate degree in business administration or related field OR at least two years of equivalent ... Certified Public Purchasing Buyer (CPPB) certification by The Institute for Public Procurement ...

Lancaster County

Dep Director Purchasing

Lancaster, PA · On-site

$69K - $104K/yr

The Deputy Director of Purchasing is responsible for performing all facets of County government ... Associate's degree in business administration or in a related field; AND Three or more years of ...

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All JobsPurchasing Associate JobsPurchasing Associate Jobs in Pennsylvania

Purchasing Associate information

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$13

$22

$32

How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in Pennsylvania is $22.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.52 and $25.29 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 Pennsylvania? The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs? Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Purchasing Associate job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Associate jobs in PA? For Purchasing Associate jobs in PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Purchasing Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing Associate job openings in Pennsylvania as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,601 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Picker/ Packer Inventory Associate

Eye Designs Group

Collegeville, PA • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Eye Designs LLC, a premier interior design, and manufacturing facility located in Collegeville, PA has a great opportunity for a Picker/Packer Inventory Associate to join our team.
This position is on-site first shift, Monday through Thursday 7a-3:30p, Friday's 6a-2:30p.

As a company that prides itself on superior customer service, we seek candidates who share a desire to please customers and want to contribute to the company’s success.
As a Picker/Packer Inventory Associate you will contribute to our success by:
  • Providing staff with the necessary parts, pieces, or products to complete orders, tasks, or projects.
  • Preparing materials for shipment.
  • Communicating with the Director of Procurement or Sr. Inventory Purchasing Associate when inventory levels fall below designated limits.
  • Maintaining and organizing parts/inventory room.
  • Reporting any defects found with products being picked/packed to production supervisors.
  • Performing quality control on products and/or work completed ensuring company standards are met before transferring to a production area or client.
  • Assisting with daily clean-up of shop area at end of shift, which includes but is not limited to sweeping floors, dusting/cleaning shelves or work stations, organizing materials/supplies, or other general duties.
  • Assisting Utility Associates with the completion of various tasks as needed.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Minimum Education & Experience Requirements:
  • High School Diploma/GED.
  • One year of manufacturing experience, preferably in an Order/Inventory Picking role.
  • Ability to work 9-hour shifts and weekends as required.
  • Ability to lift up to 50lbs.
  • Dependable.
  • Flexible.
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team and as an individual contributor.
  • Ability to work with people from various backgrounds.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Ability to work on multiple tasks with conflicting deadlines.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks.
Eye Designs offers a competitive compensation package to include:
  • 15 PTO Days.
  • Paid Holidays.
  • Medical Insurance.
  • Dental Insurance.
  • Vision.
  • 100% employer paid Short Term Disability, Life and AD&D.
  • Voluntary Life, Accident, Cancer and Hospitalization coverage.
  • 401K with company match and discretionary profit sharing.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Casual Dress Code.
Our company is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected status.