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Purchasing Associate Jobs in Crossville, TN (NOW HIRING)

Sales Associate

Crossville, TN · On-site

$12 - $14/hr

The Sales Associate contributes to achieving sales targets by promoting products, upselling, and ensuring customer satisfaction throughout the purchasing process. Additionally, this role involves ...

Stocking associates must be able to lift heavy objects in excess of 50 pounds. Ability to operate ... Financial benefits include 401(k), stock purchase and company-paid life insurance. Paid time off ...

Stocking associates must be able to lift heavy objects in excess of 50 pounds. Ability to operate ... Financial benefits include 401(k), stock purchase and company-paid life insurance. Paid time off ...

... associates run our registers. They smile, greet and thank customers, ring up items, process ... Financial benefits include 401(k), stock purchase and company-paid life insurance. Paid time off ...

... associates run our registers. They smile, greet and thank customers, ring up items, process ... Financial benefits include 401(k), stock purchase and company-paid life insurance. Paid time off ...

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Purchasing Associate information

See Crossville, TN salary details

$12

$20

$29

How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in Crossville, TN is $20.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $22.79 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing jobs in Crossville, TN?

The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Crossville, TN are:

What job categories do people searching Purchasing Associate jobs in Crossville, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Purchasing Associate jobs in Crossville, TN are:

What cities near Crossville, TN are hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs?

Cities near Crossville, TN with the most Purchasing Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Purchasing Associate job openings in Crossville, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,891 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Purchasing Specialist

Crossville, TN • On-site


CoLinx, LLC
1 - 5K employees

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks


$22.18 - $23.35/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description
Basic purpose
Under the direction of the Purchasing Manager, work with internal customers, suppliers and the Purchasing team to ensure that all requested materials and services are approved, sourced with best pricing and service, delivered, and meet quality requirements.
Essential Job Responsibilities % of time
Create purchase orders in NetSuite from internal requisitions. 70%
Work with suppliers to schedule delivery and services on time as needed.
Build relationships with suppliers and internal customers. Maintain knowledge of
operational needs.
Inventory boxes and pallets and other shipping supplies such as tape, labels, 3%
etc., to place orders and ensure adequate supply on hand at all times
Prepare and issue bid packages to potential vendors. Compare completed bids to 2%
determine vendors who can provide CoLinx with the best quality goods/services at
the lowest total cost of ownership
Resolving invoice and material discrepancies with vendors, verify and enter receipts 15%
Responsible for office supplies, ordering/stocking/monitoring cost of these supplies 5%
Activate/order cell phones, assist with travel arrangements, run errands, other duties 5%
as needed.
Some occasional overtime will be required. Opportunities for voluntary overtime will be available based on business needs.
Requirements
Education & Experience Requirements
Experience with NetSuite is a strong plus.
High school diploma required.
Associates degree or higher diploma preferred.
Procurement experience preferred.
Excellent communication and organizational skills, typing/data entry, attention to detail.
Microsoft Excel and Word intermediate proficiency.
Ability to work overtime, meet deadlines and work with minimal supervision.
Must be a team player with a positive attitude.
Physical requirements
Body postures
Over a reasonable period, how do you spend your time?
Position Percent of time
Sitting 75%
Standing [not walking] 5%
Walking 10%
Position Percent of time Climbing 0%
Kneeling/Stooping 5%
Driving a vehicle 5%
Must Total 100%
Body Movements
During normal performance of duties what is typical amount of weight lifted or moved.
Please use these definitions to describe your typical working conditions.
[Rarely=0-5%, Occasionally=6-20%, Frequent=21-50%, Very Frequent=51-80%]
Lifting
___ 0-10 lbs.
_X_ 11-20 lbs.
___ 21-40 lbs.
___ over 41 lbs.
Lifting frequency
___ Rarely
X Occasionally
___ Frequently
___ Very Freq.
Bending
X Rarely
___ Occasionally
___ Frequently
___ Very Freq.
Pushing or Pulling Loads
X Rarely
___ Occasionally
___ Frequently
___ Very Freq.
Reaching over head
X Rarely
___ Occasionally
___ Frequently
___ Very Freq.
Kneeling
___ Rarely
X Occasionally
___ Frequently
___ Very Freq.
Percent of time
Indicate the amount of time spent in the following activities. The total will be 100% of your time.
Activities Percent of time
Talking on the telephone 5%
Working on a computer 75%
Typing 5%
Meeting with non-employees 5%
Meeting with employees 10%
Must Total 100%
Supervisory Responsibilities
None
Measurables
Turnaround on processing requests
Level of down time due to lack of supplies
Cost savings related to goods purchased
Customer, owner, supplier feedback
Attendance


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