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Purchasing Associate Jobs in Birmingham, AL (NOW HIRING)

Sonepar

Purchasing Manager

Birmingham, AL · On-site

Purchasing Manager Birmingham,AL About Crawford: If you are looking for a company who is committed ... Everyday Crawford associates provide the best customer experience while at the same time offering ...

Sonepar

Purchasing Manager

Birmingham, AL

Purchasing Manager Birmingham,AL About Crawford: If you are looking for a company who is committed ... Everyday Crawford associates provide the best customer experience while at the same time offering ...

Sonepar Canada, Inc.

Purchasing Manager

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$75 - $95/hr

Position Purchasing Manager Birmingham, AL Responsibilities * Develop purchasing department ... Four year college degree preferred with a minimum of 2-year associates degree or equivalent from a ...

Lennar

Purchasing Estimator

Hoover, AL · On-site

Purchasing Estimator We are Lennar Lennar is one of the nation's leading homebuilders, dedicated to ... Associate degree preferred * Full understanding of residential construction, architectural ...

Lennar USA

Purchasing Estimator

Hoover, AL · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Purchasing Estimator We are Lennar Lennar is one of the nation's leading homebuilders, dedicated to ... Associate degree preferred * Full understanding of residential construction, architectural ...

Lennar

Purchasing Estimator

Hoover, AL · On-site

Purchasing Estimator We are Lennar Lennar is one of the nation's leading homebuilders, dedicated to ... Associate degree preferred * Full understanding of residential construction, architectural ...

Gestamp

Purchasing Tech - McCalla, AL

Mccalla, AL · On-site

Associate or Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Engineering or related field preferred. * 0-2 years of purchasing or administrative experience. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES * Proficient ...

UAB NOVA RENT

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSOCIATE

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$18.35 - $22.11/hr

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSOCIATE The University of Alabama at Birmingham The University of Alabama at ... Fiscal, Procurement, and Records Support • Prepare and process requisitions, purchase orders ...

Tailored Brands

Seasonal Sales Associate

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$12.75 - $15/hr

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

Skidmore

Warehouse Associate - Forklift Operator

Moody, AL · On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

Alerts purchasing of any MAJOR discrepancies between receiving report and purchase order * Assures stock rotation by repositioning product on hand * Is courteous to all truck drivers Compliance ...

UAB NOVA RENT

Office Associate II (Temp)

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$19/hr

The University of Alabama at Birmingham Temporary Services is seeking temporary Office Associate II ... Prepare and process Oracle requisitions and purchase orders in accordance with authorized ...

Tailored Brands

Retail Sales Associate Part Time

Hoover, AL · On-site

$14 - $16.25/hr

... purchase • Ongoing discounts on purchase made at any Tailored Brands store. What You Bring: • ... Sales Associates are responsible for all aspects of the customer experience within ...

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All JobsPurchasing Associate JobsPurchasing Associate Jobs in Birmingham, AL

Purchasing Associate information

See Birmingham, AL salary details

$12

$21

$30

How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in Birmingham, AL is $21.40, 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?

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.

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 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 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.

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.
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For Purchasing Associate jobs in Birmingham, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Purchasing Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing Associate job openings in Birmingham, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,505 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Purchasing Manager

Sonepar

Birmingham, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Develop purchasing department policies and procedures for buyers and other branch personnel.

  • Participate in the RFP process to recommend or approve major vendor selections and evaluate vendor performance.

  • Review and approve purchasing documents, negotiate major vendor contracts, and manage inventory levels.

Job description

There's a Place for You at Crawford Electric Supply.
A career at Crawford Electric Supply is more than a job. You're investing in a brighter, more sustainable future together and joining a team that makes a real difference for our customers. Crawford Electric Supply offers electrical products and services to contractors. If it helps bring electricity to an office, home, factory or other building - you can find it here. We operate throughout the southeast region of the United States, and are part of the Sonepar group, the world's #1 electrical distributor with over 45,000 associates around the globe.
Being "Powered by Difference" means we respect and value diverse perspectives. Crawford Electric Supply we offer a supportive culture and great benefits, and as part of the larger Sonepar group, we can offer exciting opportunities to grow your career.
It's time to energize your future! Don't miss out on this electrifying opportunity - apply today! Stay connected with us - follow our journey, job openings, and latest news on LinkedIn and Facebook
Position:
Purchasing Manager
Birmingham,AL
About Crawford:
If you are looking for a company who is committed to building a relationship with you, who encourages having fun at work, who is powered by difference, and who is passionate about your future, it's time to apply at Crawford Electric Supply. Known in the electrical distribution industry for being a great place to work and build a career, Crawford prides itself on being a business partner rather than just an electrical supplier to its customers. Everyday Crawford associates provide the best customer experience while at the same time offering the widest variety of electrical products on the market. For the past 30 years, Crawford has built a culture of growth, opportunity, innovative thinking, and stability for its employees by truly living up to the company motto of, "Whatever it Takes!" through our mindset competencies below:
Adapt: Effectively embrace new situation and people
Dare: Appropriately challenge the status quo
Learn: Learn from others, from mistakes, and self-improve
Responsibilities
  • Develop purchasing department policies and procedures for buyers and other branch personnel to follow. Assure appropriate department records are maintained.
  • Participate in RFP process to recommend or approve selection of major vendors. Assess vendor capabilities and evaluate vendor performance through established "scorecard" method.
  • Establish and develop professional relationships with vendors, manufacturers and agents.
  • Negotiate terms of major vendor contracts or orders.
  • Recommend or approve major purchases of materials based on anticipated changes in pricing or unusual availability situations. Balance cash flow considerations with potential price savings.
  • Review and approve purchasing documents and agreements.
  • Responsible for Inventory Management.
  • Participate in Product Line Consolidation process.
  • Review branch product lines and secure competitive pricing.
  • Establish policies that allow us to maintain minimum inventory levels while avoiding shortages of necessary materials to service our customers
  • Responsible for achieving inventory ratios and goals.
  • Establish good rapport with branch managers and management team to develop trust and solid working relationships to accomplish common goals and strategic planning.
  • Understand logistics of products within each branch location. Evaluate and recommend preferred methods of handling and delivery methods. Evaluate preferred carrying costs for potential company savings.
  • Provide summary reports and recommendations to management.
  • Perform other duties, assigned projects and job responsibilities as requested by President, Management & Leadership
  • Represent team at internal management meetings, and responsible for executing decisions and action items as a result of these meetings.
  • Responsible for traveling and attending purchasing meetings and complying with all reporting requests and requirements pertaining to purchasing and inventory.
  • Attend industry related functions, such as NAED and other vendor events as requested by President.
  • Spearhead investigations for technology improvement that helps departmental productivity gains.
  • Continuous learning and education to build purchasing, negotiation and communication skills.

Qualifications
  • Extensive knowledge of electrical products and distribution industry
  • At least 5 years buying experience, with a minimum of 2 years as a supervisor of a purchasing department or supervising other personnel.
  • Eclipse experience preferred.

SPECIFIC QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED
  • Four year college degree preferred with a minimum of 2-year associates degree or equivalent from a college or technical school.
  • Minimum of 4 years of industry related experience, such as product, sales, purchasing, project or operations. Proven negotiating and contract writing skills.
  • Highly effective communicator, both verbal and written, and advanced management or supervisory experience.

Note: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed. Crawford is an equal opportunity employer
Crawford is a subsidiary of Sonepar USA.
What We Offer You
We offer great family-friendly benefits to full-time associates:
  • Healthcare plans
  • Dental & vision
  • Paid time off
  • Paid parental leave
  • 401(k) retirement savings with company match
  • Professional and personal development programs
  • Opportunity to become a shareholder
  • Employer-paid short- and long-term disability
  • Employer-paid life insurance for spouse and dependents
  • Robust wellness program
  • Gym reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

We're proud to be a military-friendly company, and our many employee resource groups (ERGs) help you make connections and feel supported.
Ready to join the fun? Apply today and become part of the Crawford Crew - where we work hard, laugh often, and always have a spark to share!
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Sonepar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability unrelated to ability, marital status, family responsibilities, pregnancy, genetic information, sexual orientation, order of protection status, protected veteran or military status, or an unfavorable discharge from military service, or any other categories protected by federal, state or local law.
Sonepar and our family of brands are committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. In keeping with our commitment, we will take the steps to assure that people with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. Accordingly, if a reasonable accommodation is required to fully participate in the job application or interview process, to perform the essential functions of the position, and/or to receive all other benefits and privileges of employment, please call 843-745-2420 or email recruiting@sonepar-us.com.
EEO is the Law
Applicants and employees are protected under Federal law from discrimination. To learn more, Click here.
Pay Transparency Non-Discrimination Provision
Sonepar follows Executive Order 11246, including the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision. To learn more, Click here.
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