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Purchasing Associate Jobs in Cullowhee, NC (NOW HIRING)

Bubba Gump

Retail Associate

Gatlinburg, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $16.50/hr

Retail Sales Associate - Bubba Gump Shrimp Company About Us : Bubba Gump Shrimp Company is a ... purchases. You will play a key role in creating a memorable shopping experience for our guests.

Bubba Gump

Retail Associate

Gatlinburg, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $16.50/hr

Retail Sales Associate - Bubba Gump Shrimp Company About Us : Bubba Gump Shrimp Company is a ... purchases. You will play a key role in creating a memorable shopping experience for our guests.

Walmart

Stocking Team Associate

Sylva, NC · On-site

$15 - $28/hr

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 ...

Walmart

Stocking Team Associate

Clayton, GA · On-site

$14 - $27/hr

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 ...

Walmart

Stocking Team Associate

Waynesville, NC · On-site

$15 - $28/hr

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 ...

Walmart

Stocking Team Associate

Franklin, NC · On-site

$15 - $28/hr

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 ...

Walmart

Stocking Team Associate

Pisgah Forest, NC · On-site

$15 - $28/hr

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 ...

Walmart

Fashion Team Associate

Clayton, GA · On-site

$14 - $27/hr

... Associate Benefits & perks At Walmart, we offer competitive pay as well as performance-based ... Financial benefits include 401(k), stock purchase and company-paid life insurance. Paid time off ...

Walmart

Fashion Team Associate

Sylva, NC · On-site

$15 - $28/hr

... Associate Benefits & perks At Walmart, we offer competitive pay as well as performance-based ... Financial benefits include 401(k), stock purchase and company-paid life insurance. Paid time off ...

Hiawassee Hardware

Hiawassee- Sales Associate

Hiawassee, GA · On-site

$12.25 - $14.25/hr

... purchasing decisions * Answer questions about merchandise, pricing, and promotions * Operate the ... of the sales associate. The greeting should include an open-ended question such as "How may I ...

RaceTrac, Inc.

Store Associate

Clayton, GA · On-site

$15.50/hr

As a Store Associate, you'll be at the heart of our guest experience, helping keep our stores clean ... purchases • Address guest concerns with urgency and involve managers as needed • Foster a team ...

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Purchasing Associate information

See Cullowhee, NC salary details

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How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in Cullowhee, NC is $18.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $20.62 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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What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing jobs in Cullowhee, NC?

The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Cullowhee, NC are:

What cities near Cullowhee, NC are hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs?

Cities near Cullowhee, NC with the most Purchasing Associate job openings:

Purchasing Associate jobs near you

Associate Director of Purchasing - #000050

Western Carolina University

Cullowhee, NC • On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 8 days ago

Western Carolina University rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

102nd of 622 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Information
Posting Number EHRA1053P Quick Link for Internal Postings https://wcu-sb.peopleadmin.com/postings/33407 Classification Title Associate Director Working Title Associate Director of Purchasing - #000050 Department Purchasing & Accounts Payable Anticipated Hiring Range Based on qualifications/experience, internal equity, and departmental budget restrictions. About WCU
Western Carolina University continues to rank high on Forbes 'Best Employers' lists each year. Including:
2025 - Ranked 1st in the top 100 employers in North Carolina in Forbes 'America's Best Employers by State' list.
2024 - Ranking in the top 8.5% on Forbes 'America's Best Midsize Employers' list, WCU was ranked 34 out of the top 400 employers across all industries.
2023 - Ranked in the top 20% on Forbes 'America's Best Midsize Employers' list, WCU was ranked 97 out of the top 500 employers across all industries.
2022 - Ranked 14th in the top 100 employers in North Carolina in Forbes 'America's Best Employers by State' list.
Western Carolina University is the UNC system's westernmost campus and has been consistently ranked as one of the top 15 public regional institutions in the South.
Employees of WCU are provided a comprehensive benefits package as well as other resources, policies and programs to ensure a happy and healthy work/life balance. Benefit eligible employees have access to dental, vision and health insurance plans - eligibility begins on the first of the month following date of hire. Retirement plan contributions begin on the eligibility date following election and include employer contributions for either a defined contribution or a defined benefit plan. Optional disability plans are also available.
Eligible employees have access to tuition waivers for up to three courses per academic year; employee may enroll at any of the constituent UNC System campuses. Also offered are free group exercise classes multiple times per week, a discounted membership to the campus recreation center, free vaccine and booster shots offered on campus, pretax flexible spending accounts, 12 paid holidays and 24 hours of paid community service leave each year. Leave earning employees (staff and 12-month faculty) who work at least half of the working days of their first month of employment will begin accruing vacation and sick leave immediately. Paid parental leave after 12 months of continuous service.
WCU offers an abundance of training and development programs, certifications, workshops and conferences - many of which are offered free of charge.
Position Summary
The primary location of this position is on-site in Cullowhee, NC. This position is designated as being exempt from the State of North Carolina Human Resources Act.
The Associate Director of Purchasing supports the Director in leading and managing all aspects of the University's procurement operations, overseeing a purchasing budget of approximately $40 million. This position maintains full charge of the purchase order process and daily workflow, while providing buying expertise across a broad range of commodities - including information technology, furniture, athletics equipment and apparel, and various facilities-related goods and services - ensuring compliance with state statutes, university policies, and ethical procurement standards.
The Associate Director supervises a clerical support staff of three, coordinating operational activities, workload prioritization, and performance development in alignment with departmental goals. This position also carries responsibility for contract lifecycle management, advising campus stakeholders on contractual compliance and working to standardize and negotiate agreements that align with the University's financial and operational objectives. Additionally, this position is responsible for campus-wide training and communications related to purchasing systems and procedures, as well as for recommending, developing, and implementing improvements to policies, programs, and processes that advance the efficiency, effectiveness, and service-oriented mission of the Purchasing department. The Associate Director acts on behalf of the Director in their absence.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree; or Associate's degree and two years of related experience; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.
Preferred Qualifications Position Type Permanent Full-Time Number of Hours Per Week 40 Number of Months Per Year 12
Posting Text
Open Date 03/20/2026 Close Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions to Applicants
Application materials must be submitted online. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until a candidate has been selected for hire.
Please include a cover letter, current resume, and a list of three professional references with complete contact information.
For questions or additional information please contact Tamrick Mull at tmull@email.wcu.edu
Background/E-Verify
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks.
Western Carolina University uses E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify. Proper documentation of identity and employability are required at the time of employment.
Credential Verification
All new employees are required to have listed credentials/degrees verified within 30 days of employment. All new employees who will be teaching are required to provide official transcripts within 30 days of employment. Transcripts should be provided for the highest earned degree and/or the degree which is being used to satisfy credential/qualification requirements.
EOE
Western Carolina University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race; color; ethnicity; religion; sex; pregnancy; sexual orientation; gender identity or expression; national origin; age; disability; genetic information; political affiliation; National Guard or veteran status, consistent with applicable federal, state and local laws, regulations, and policies, and the policies of The University of North Carolina. Persons with disabilities requiring accommodations in the application and interview process please call (828) 227-7218 or email at jobs@email.wcu.edu.
University Safety
The Western Carolina University Annual Safety Report is available online at University Annual Safety Report or in hard-copy by request at the office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, 227 HFR Administration Building, Cullowhee, NC 28723 (828-227-7147) or the Office of University Police, 111 Camp Annex, Cullowhee, NC 28723 (828-227-7301). The report, required of all universities participating in Title IV student financial aid programs, discusses crime statistics, procedures for reporting suspicious or criminal activity, security, police authority, crime prevention strategies, university policies on substance abuse and sexual offenses, workplace violence and fire safety.

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