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Purchasing Associate Jobs in Columbus, NE (NOW HIRING)

Online Order Filling Team Associate

Columbus, NE · On-site

$16 - $29/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... associates have one focus: to fill and dispense online orders. They locate, prepare, and package ... Financial benefits include 401(k), stock purchase and company-paid life insurance. Paid time off ...

Mobile Associate - Retail Sales

Columbus, NE · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... stock purchase plan, 401(k), and access to free, year-round money coaches. That's how we're ... Once completed, Mobile Associates promote to the Mobile Expert role and become eligible for an ...

Meat/Produce Team Associate

Columbus, NE · On-site

$16 - $29/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... associates are focused on keeping the Fresh area fully stocked. They also rotate product and ... Financial benefits include 401(k), stock purchase and company-paid life insurance. Paid time off ...

Retail Sales Associate - Part Time

Columbus, NE · On-site

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Join our team as a Retail Sales Associate, where you'll play a key role in delivering WOW! Customer ... and Stock Purchase Plan * AutoZoners Living Well Program for free mental health support

Retail Sales Associate - Part Time

Columbus, NE · On-site

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Join our team as a Retail Sales Associate, where you'll play a key role in delivering WOW! Customer ... and Stock Purchase Plan * AutoZoners Living Well Program for free mental health support

Customer Service Associate

Columbus, NE · On-site

$14.75 - $20.25/hr

Registers customer purchases on assigned cash register, collects cash and distributes change as requested; processes voids, returns, rain checks, refunds, and exchanges as needed. * Keeps counters ...

Customer Service Associate

Columbus, NE · On-site

$14.75 - $20.25/hr

Registers customer purchases on assigned cash register, collects cash and distributes change as requested; processes voids, returns, rain checks, refunds, and exchanges as needed. * Keeps counters ...

Showing results 21-40

Purchasing Associate information

See Columbus, NE salary details

$13

$23

$32

How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in Columbus, NE is $23.06, 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 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.

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 Columbus, NE?

The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Columbus, NE are:

What cities near Columbus, NE are hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs?

Cities near Columbus, NE with the most Purchasing Associate job openings:

LEAD SALES ASSOCIATE-FT in SCHUYLER, NE S08070

Dollar General

Schuyler, NE • On-site

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Dollar General rating

4.0

Company rating: 4.0 out of 10

Based on 4,596 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 39 rated national retailers


Job description

Work Where You Matter
At Dollar General, our mission is Serving Others! We value each and every one of our employees. Whether you are looking to launch a new career in one of our many convenient Store locations, Distribution Centers, Store Support Center or with our Private Fleet Team, we are proud to provide a wide range of career opportunities. We are not just a retail company; we are a company that values the unique strengths and perspectives that each individual brings. Your difference truly makes a difference at Dollar General. How would you like to Serve? Join the Dollar General Journey and see how your career can thrive.
Company Overview
Dollar General Corporation has been delivering value to shoppers for more than 80 years. Dollar General helps shoppers Save time. Save money. Every day.® by offering products that are frequently used and replenished, such as food, snacks, health and beauty aids, cleaning supplies, basic apparel, housewares and seasonal items at everyday low prices in convenient neighborhood locations. Learn more about Dollar General at www.dollargeneral.com/about-us.html.
Job Details
GENERAL SUMMARY:
The Lead Sales Associate helps maintain a clean, well-organized store with a customer-first focus. The duties of the Lead Sales Associate include assisting customers in locating and purchasing merchandise, operating a cash register, stocking and recovering merchandise, cleaning the store, and performing other duties as assigned by the Store Manager to maximize store profitability and customer satisfaction while protecting company assets. Lead Sales Associates perform the duties of a Sales Associate and act in a lead capacity in the absence of the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager.
DUTIES and ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
  • Provide superior customer service leadership; greet and assist customers.
  • Operate cash register and scanner to itemize and total customer's purchase, collect payment from customers and make change, bag merchandise, and assist customers with merchandise as necessary.
  • Follow company work processes to receive, open and unpack boxes, cartons and totes of merchandise; stock merchandise, restock and rotate merchandise on shelves, and build merchandise displays.
  • Clean the store; take out trash; dust and mop store floors; clean restroom and stockroom; and help set up sidewalk displays.
  • Assist in implementation and maintenance of planograms.
  • Open and close the store under specific direction of the Store Manager.
  • Perform additional duties typically performed by the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, in their absence.

Qualifications
KNOWLEDGE and SKILLS:
  • Effective interpersonal and oral communication skills.
  • Understanding of safety policies and practices.
  • Ability to read and follow planogram and merchandise presentation guides.
  • Ability to perform mathematical calculations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and percentages.
  • Ability to perform cash register functions.
  • Knowledge of cash, facility, and safety control policies and practices.
  • Knowledge of cash handling procedures including cashier accountability and deposit control.
  • Ability to drive own vehicle to the bank to deposit money.

WORK EXPERIENCE and/or EDUCATION:
High school diploma or equivalent and six months of supervisory experience (or related experience/training) preferred.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
  • Frequent walking and standing
  • Frequent bending, stooping, and kneeling to run check out station, stock merchandise and unload trucks; which may also require the ability to push and/or pull rolltainers for stocking merchandise
  • Frequent handling of merchandise and equipment such as handheld scanners, pricing guns, box cutters, merchandise containers, two-wheel dollies, U-boats (six-wheel carts), and rolltainers
  • Frequent and proper lifting of up to 40 pounds; occasional lifting of up to 55 pounds
  • Occasional climbing (using step ladder) up to heights of six feet
  • Fast-paced environment; moderate noise level
  • Occasional exposure to outside weather conditions
  • Occasional or regular driving/providing own transportation to make bank deposits, attend management meetings and travel to other Dollar General stores.

Dollar General Corporation is an equal opportunity employer.

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About Dollar General

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

What started as a single store is now a 20+ billion dollar Fortune 119 company. With 140,000+ employees and counting, we’re growing fast and so can you. There are endless opportunities for you, including award-winning training programs and career paths in retail, distribution, transportation or corporate. The possibilities are endless!

Industry

Retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Goodlettsville, TN, US