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Purchasing Associate Jobs in Baltimore, MD (NOW HIRING)

Our associates enjoy a comprehensive benefits package including 401(k) with company match, pension, paid parental leave, competitive health insurance rates, employee stock purchase plan, tuition ...

Purchasing Manager

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Our associates enjoy a comprehensive benefits package including 401(k) with company match, pension, paid parental leave, competitive health insurance rates, employee stock purchase plan, tuition ...

Purchasing Manager

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Our associates enjoy a comprehensive benefits package including 401(k) with company match, pension, paid parental leave, competitive health insurance rates, employee stock purchase plan, tuition ...

Our associates enjoy a comprehensive benefits package including 401(k) with company match, pension, paid parental leave, competitive health insurance rates, employee stock purchase plan, tuition ...

Knowledge of accounting and working with purchase orders required * Associates degree in related field a plus, but not required * Must be comfortable using Excel * Experience using Banner a plus, but ...

Warehouse Associate

Odenton, MD · On-site

$21.25/hr

The Warehouse Associate performs the loading and unloading of delivery trucks and moves and stores ... Benefits on the first day of employment! * 401k matching contributions * 15% off the purchase price ...

Front End Associate

Gwynn Oak, MD · On-site

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

The Front End Associate supports key operational goals by efficiently handling cashier duties ... purchases into customer vehicles * Process customer returns and ensure items are restocked ...

Throughout their shift, Production Associates will rotate to various positions (dough maker, dough ... purchase price of stock * Company bonus * Referral bonuses * Career growth! Videos To Watch

Throughout their shift, Production Associates will rotate to various positions (dough maker, dough ... purchase price of stock * Company bonus * Referral bonuses * Career growth!

Retail Sales Associate Part Time

MD · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

... purchase • Ongoing discounts on purchase made at any Tailored Brands store. What You Bring: • ... sales associates at all levels and contribute to a positive work environment Our Retail Sales ...

Seasonal Sales Associate

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Seasonal Sales Associate We invest in our people and continuously work towards fostering an ... purchase • Ongoing discounts on purchase made at any Tailored Brands store. What You Bring: • ...

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Purchasing Associate information

See Baltimore, MD salary details

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How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in Baltimore, MD is $22.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $25.10 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing jobs in Baltimore, MD? The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Baltimore, MD are:
What cities near Baltimore, MD are hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs? Cities near Baltimore, MD with the most Purchasing Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Purchasing Associate job openings in Baltimore, MD as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,185 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

$90K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

DAP is looking to hire a Purchasing Manager on a contract basis, to lead and drive procurement category management for DAP's packaging materials.

Responsibilities

Category Strategy and Management

  • Develop, document, communicate & maintain category strategies for assigned commodity. Work with cross-functional stakeholders, including Operations, Marketing, R&D, & RPM Center Led Procurement, to ensure strategies are aligned to DAP & RPM objectives. Build category strategy to include savings projects, supplier optimization, specification optimization, demand management and other key levers. 


Supply Security and Risk Management

  • Ensure security of supply of packaging materials in general and support uninterrupted supply for DAP's manufacturing and 3rd party facilities. Develop risk mitigation plans including but not limited to expanding supplier base, additional facilities from supplier, inventory stocking at supplier , etc.


Cost and Value Improvement

  • Deliver materials savings to support the company's margin objectives. Continuously develop a pipeline of savings projects for 2-3 year.   Drive down total cost of ownership, improve cash flow, improve supplier performance & identify new partners.


New Product Development

  • Partner with stakeholders in DAP New Product Development projects requiring packaging suppliers' key engagement.      Develop a robust supply base to support New Product Development, in partnership with Marketing & R&D.


Reporting

  • Maintain all necessary reporting to support Procurement leadership, RPM Center Led Procurement, Finance, and others. Ensure compliance to all appropriate policies, procedures & regulations.


Other

  • Ensure timely entry/update of data changes in ERP system (SAP Purchase Info Record), including price, terms, vendor, and commodity data. Summarize price, terms, and vendor changes on a regular basis to ensure ready access to current information. 
  • Investigate discrepancies between purchase orders and invoices with Accounts Payable and Cost Accounting. 
  • Approve payment of invoices in question, coordinate (from Purchasing perspective) artwork changes with packaging suppliers, plants, and Marketing. Maintain purchase history data to include generating SAP based queries for PPV Reports, etc. 
  • Maintain commodity price files and comparative pricing history with suppliers. Assist in developing standard costs for annual budget review. 
  • Maintain packaging commodity files. Maintain packaging specifications with Marketing and raw material specifications with R&D. Perform other duties as assigned. 
  • Maintain deep knowledge on the commodity market affecting the category

Requirements 

  • Preferred/ Not required: CPM Purchasing Certificate.
  • Bachelor's degree in supply chain, Operations Research, Mathematics, Engineering, or Business Management.
  • 3 to 5+ years of strategic and in-depth, hand-on purchasing experience
  •  Sound knowledge of general office practices and procedures, preferably in a manufacturing or purchasing environment. 
  • Basic computer skills (AS400 and PC based) with capability of working with SAP, thorough knowledge of MS Office Suite, including extensive experience with Excel, and Lotus Notes.
  • Good communication skills to interact effectively with internal and external supplier contacts. 
  • Ability to generate complex spreadsheets and detailed reports to communicate pricing trends/market information
     

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance 
  • Company Provided Life Insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Company-paid short-term and long-term disability
  • 401(k) plans
  • Employer-funded pension plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement
     

Pay Range

  • $90,000 to $120,000 per year
     

About DAP

DAP is a market leading manufacturer, innovator and marketer of home repair and construction products including caulks, sealants, spray foam insulation, adhesives, and patch and repair products. DAP is part of RPM International Inc., a $6.1 billion, multinational company with subsidiaries that are world leaders in specialty coatings, sealants, building materials and related services.

You will find DAP products in the hands of professional painters, remodelers, builders, and do-it-yourselfers, and in 60,000 retail outlets, ranging from home centers and mass merchandisers to your local hardware, pro contractor channels and paint stores. DAP's eight manufacturing and distribution facilities in the United States of America and Canada service North America and the world.

At DAP, we hire the best people and give them a collaborative and rewarding work environment that empowers them to succeed! We support associates in continuous professional growth and collaborate on the steps it takes to get to the next level in their careers. Our associates enjoy a comprehensive benefits package including 401(k) with company match, pension, paid parental leave, competitive health insurance rates, employee stock purchase plan, tuition reimbursement, free wellness programs and more! Learn more about DAP's history, culture and benefits at www.dap.com/careers/

DAP - On the job since 1865.