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Purchasing Associate Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

The Purchasing Associate is a part the Division of Facilities Planning & Management (FP&M), Department of Physical Plant in the operational area of Stores at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The ...

Purchasing Assistant

Sturtevant, WI · On-site

$18.50 - $23.75/hr

Seda is looking for a Purchasing Assistant to join our growing team! This person will be ... Associate degree in business, supply chain or related field with 2+ years in Manufacturing or ...

Purchasing Assistant

Sturtevant, WI · On-site

$18.50 - $23.75/hr

Seda is looking for a Purchasing Assistant to join our growing team! This person will be ... Associate degree in business, supply chain or related field with 2+ years in Manufacturing or ...

Pharmacy Purchasing Coordinator

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$21.75 - $29.25/hr

Our Company PharMerica Overview PharMerica is hiring a full-time Pharmacy Purchasing Coordinator in ... Associate degree or two years of college education * One year of professional experience or ...

Pharmacy Purchasing Coordinator

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$21.75 - $29.25/hr

Our Company PharMerica Overview PharMerica is hiring afull-time Pharmacy Purchasing Coordinator ... Associate degree or two years of college education * One year of professional experience or ...

Work with Purchasing Associate and assist in maintaining item master data, reorderpoints, and inventory parameters. * Perform cycle count as needed * Ensure accurate transactions, inventory movements ...

Work with Purchasing Associate and assist in maintaining item master data, reorderpoints, and inventory parameters. * Perform cycle count as needed * Ensure accurate transactions, inventory movements ...

Purchaser

Madison, WI · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Associate or bachelor's degree in business, supply chain management, or related field * 3+ years of purchasing, supply chain, or equivalent construction/EPC experience (related industry preferred)

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Purchasing Associate information

See Wisconsin salary details

$13

$23

$32

How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in Wisconsin is $23.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $25.48 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 Wisconsin? The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Purchasing Associate job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Associate jobs in WI? For Purchasing Associate jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Purchasing Associate job openings in Wisconsin as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,932 per year, or $23 per hour.

$23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.Job Category:University StaffEmployment Type:RegularJob Profile:Procurement AssistantJob Summary:

The Purchasing Associate is a part the Division of Facilities Planning & Management (FP&M), Department of Physical Plant in the operational area of Stores at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The Purchasing Associate position is responsible for coordinating and managing procurement activities in support of departmental operations. This position ensures timely acquisition of goods and services while maintaining compliance with university policies, state regulations, and established procurement procedures. This role serves as a liaison between internal departments, suppliers, and stakeholders to support operational efficiency, inventory management, and strategic purchasing initiatives.

The Purchasing Associate exercises independent judgment in evaluating vendor options, analyzing pricing and product availability, and identifying cost effective purchasing solutions. The expected responsibilities of this role include processing purchase requests, obtaining quotes, managing supplier relationships, monitoring order status, resolving procurement issues, and maintaining accurate purchasing records. This position may also assist with contract coordination, inventory oversight, invoice reconciliation, and continuous process improvement efforts.

A qualified candidate will have strong organizational skills, attention to detail, communication abilities, and knowledge of procurement systems.


Ongoing/Renewable
Full-Time: 100% FTE
The work schedule is flexible and will be determined at the time of hire. Hours are generally scheduled Monday through Friday, typically within the hours of 6:00AM to 5:00PM. Occasional nights, weekends and holidays may be required for this position.

Key Job Responsibilities:
  • Enters purchase orders and supplier information into financial system of record in compliance with established standards and with appropriate segregation of duties
  • Maintains and files records in compliance with regulatory requirements
  • Assists purchasing agents, buyers, and procurement specialists with editing and preparation of service agreements and one-time purchasing agreements using established forms and templates
  • Provides response to questions from internal and external stakeholders
  • Manages requisition-to-purchase order process including dissemination to suppliers and changes resulting in changes to financial encumbrances
  • Prepares and monitors release of and responses to all types of solicitations
  • Creates and maintains library of purchasing-related forms and templates
Department:

Division of Facilities Planning & Management (FP&M), Physical Plant, Stores

Stores serves as a resource to the Physical Plant by assisting in the process of providing excellent building services to campus and is responsible for the procurement of services and materials used by the Physical Plant Shops, Operations, and Power Plant staff for general maintenance, departmental requests, and small projects.

The Physical Plant is a department within Facilities Planning and Management (FP&M)on the UW-Madison campus. The Division of Facilities Planning & Management (FP&M) is a full-spectrum service organization that builds, maintains, and operates the physical environment of UW-Madison in the university's education, research, and outreach activities.

Compensation:

$23.00 hourly minimum

The minimum rate for this position is $23.00, but it is negotiable based on experience and qualifications.


This position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including generous paid time off, competitively priced health/dental/vision/life insurance, tax-advantaged savings accounts, and participation in the nationally recognized Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) pension fund. For a summary of benefits, please see below for more information: University Staff Benefits Summary.

Required Qualifications:
  • Experience working with suppliers, vendors, or distribution channels in a procurement or operational environment

  • Knowledge of purchasing systems, inventory processes, and procurement of best practices

  • Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills

  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast paced environment

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience working within large institutional government or higher education settings

  • Previous purchasing, procurement, customer service, or related administrative experience is preferred

Education:
  • High School Diploma Preferred; or equivalent

How to Apply:

To begin the application process, click the "Apply" button.

Please note, there is only one attachment field. You must upload all of your documents in the attachment field, either as one combined document, or separate documents.

We are eager to learn more about how your experience may align with this position.

The following is required for your application to be considered complete:

  • A cover letter describing how your experience relates to the listed required and preferred job qualifications.

  • A resume detailing your educational and professional background.

The search committee will review all application materials after the posted deadline. We will notify selected applicants to participate further in the selection process directly. References will be requested of final candidates. All applicants will be notified after the search is complete and a candidate has been selected.

Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without need of employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of appointment.


Contact Information:

Passion Malotky, 608-890-1852, passion.malotky@wisc.edu
Relay Access (WTRS): 7-1-1. SeeRELAY_SERVICEfor further information

Institutional Statement on Diversity:

Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal OpportunityEmployer.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgroundsand encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website.

To request a disability or pregnancy-related accommodationfor any step in the hiring process (e.g., application, interview, pre-employment testing, etc.), please contact the Divisional Disability Representative (DDR)in the division you are applying to.Please make your request as soon as possible to help the university respond most effectively to you.

Employment may require a criminal background check. It may also require your references to answer questions regarding misconduct, including sexual violence and sexual harassment.
The University of Wisconsin System will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).
The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report contains current campus safety and disciplinary policies, crime statistics for the previous 3 calendar years, and on-campus student housing fire safety policies and fire statistics for the previous 3 calendar years. UW-Madison will provide a paper copy upon request; please contact the University of Wisconsin Police Department.