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Purchasing Associate Jobs in Columbus, NE (NOW HIRING)

Walgreens

Customer Service Associate

Columbus, NE · On-site

$15 - $17.50/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 ...

Dollar General

SALES ASSOCIATE in GENOA, NE S25048

Genoa, NE · On-site

$14.25 - $19.50/hr

Operate cash register and flatbed scanner to itemize and total customer's purchase; bag merchandise. * Collect payment from customer and make change. * Assist with ordering merchandise using hand ...

Applebee's

Kitchen Manager

Columbus, NE

This position will direct the activities of back-of-the-house hourly associates, ensuring cleanliness and sanitation, implementing purchasing and cost controls, and following up with corrective ...

Son

Clerk Magistrate II-Ex Officio

Fullerton, NE · On-site

$60K/yr

Dental and vision insurance plans available to purchase * Short-Term and Long-Term Disability ... Associate's Degree in judicial, public, or business administration or a related field; and 3 years ...

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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.
More about Purchasing Associate jobs

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:

Purchasing Associate jobs near you

Customer Service Associate

Walgreens

Columbus, NE • On-site

$15 - $17.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Walgreens rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 2,200 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

98th of 112 rated pharmacies

Job description


  • Models and delivers a distinctive and delightful customer experience.
  • Registers sales on assigned cash register, provides customers with courteous, fair, friendly, and efficient checkout service.
Customer Experience
  • Engages customers and patients by greeting them and offering assistance with products and services. Resolves customer issues and answers questions to ensure a positive customer experience.
  • Models and shares customer service best practices with all team members to deliver a distinctive and delightful customer experience, including interpersonal habits (e.g., greeting, eye contact, courtesy, etc.) and Walgreens service traits (e.g., offering help proactively, identifying needs, servicing until satisfied, etc.).
Operations
  • Provides customers with courteous, friendly, fast, and efficient service.
  • Recommends items for sale to customer and recommends trade-up and/or companion items.
  • 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 and shelves clean and well merchandised, takes inventory, and maintains records. Checks in and prices merchandise as required or as directed by store manager or communicated by the shift leader.
  • Implements Company asset protection procedures to identify and minimize profit loss.
  • Ensures compliance with state and local laws regarding regulated products (e.g., alcoholic beverages and tobacco products).
  • Constructs and maintains displays, including promotional, seasonal, super structures, and sale merchandise. Completes resets and revisions as directed.
  • Assists with separation of food items (e.g., raw foods from pre-cooked) and product placement as specified by policies/procedures (e.g., raw and frozen meats on bottom shelves). For consumable items, assists in stock rotation, using the first in, first out method and restock outs.
  • Has working knowledge of store systems and store equipment.
  • Provides customer service in the photo area, including digital passport photo service, poster print and creative machine, suggestive sell of promotional photo products.
  • Assumes web pick-up responsibilities (monitors orders in Picture Care Plus, fills orders (pick items), delivers orders to customers as they arrive at store).
  • Assists with exterior and interior maintenance by ensuring clean, neat, orderly store condition and appearance.
  • Complies with all company policies and procedures; maintains respectful relationships with coworkers.
  • Completes special assignments and other tasks as assigned.
Training & Personal Development
  • Attends training and completes PPLs requested by Manager or assigned by corporate.

External Basic Qualifications
  • Must be fluent in reading, writing, and speaking English. (Except in Puerto Rico)
  • Requires willingness to work flexible schedule, including evenings and weekend hours

Preferred Qualifications
  • Prefer six months of experience in a retail environment.
  • Prefer to have prior work experience with Walgreens.
  • Prefer to be fluent in reading, writing, and speaking English. (Except in Puerto Rico)
  • Requires willingness to work flexible schedule, including evenings and weekend hours.
We will consider employment of qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
An Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans.
The actual compensation that you will be offered will depend on a variety of factors including geography, skills and abilities, education, experience and other relevant factors. This role will remain open until filled. To review benefits, please click here jobs.walgreens.com/benefits. If you are applying on a job board or unable to click on the link, please copy and paste this URL into your browser jobs.walgreens.com/benefits

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