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Purchasing Associate Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Kelly Services

Purchasing Expeditor

Houston, TX · Hybrid

Kelly is currently seeking an experienced Purchasing Expeditor for a long-term opportunity in the ... Associate degree or equivalent combination of education and experience required * Minimum of 5+ ...

Texas Children's Hospital

Purchasing Assistant

Houston, TX · On-site

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

We are searching for a Purchasing Assistant -- someone who works well in a fast-paced setting. In ... Associate degree in business or a related field • Required 2 years' experience with a Supply ...

Kelly Services

Purchasing Expeditor

Houston, TX · Hybrid

Kelly is currently seeking an experienced Purchasing Expeditor for a long-term opportunity in the ... Associate degree or equivalent combination of education and experience required * Minimum of 5+ ...

Dashiell

Purchasing Administrator

Deer Park, TX · On-site

Primary Function The Purchasing Admin is an entry-level position within Dacon's Procurement ... Associate's degree in Supply Chain Management, Accounting, Business, or a related field (2 years of ...

KBR, Inc.

Associate Purchasing Specialist

Houston, TX · On-site

Associate Purchasing Specialist KBR Sustainable Technology Solutions (STS) provides holistic and value-added solutions across the entire asset life cycle. These include world-class licensed process ...

KBR

Associate Purchasing Specialist

Houston, TX · On-site

Associate Purchasing Specialist KBR Sustainable Technology Solutions (STS) provides holistic and value-added solutions across the entire asset life cycle. These include world-class licensed process ...

KBR

Associate Purchasing Specialist

Houston, TX · On-site

Associate Purchasing Specialist KBR Sustainable Technology Solutions (STS) provides holistic and value-added solutions across the entire asset life cycle. These include world-class licensed process ...

Marriott

Purchasing Agent

Houston, TX · On-site

We actively foster an environment where the unique backgrounds of our associates are valued and celebrated.Our greatest strength lies in the rich blend of culture, talent, and experiences of our ...

Academy, Ltd.

Sr Analyst IT Purchasing

Katy, TX

Associates degree or equivalent completed courses required * Bachelor's degree in Business, MIS, or other relevant field of study preferred Work Experiences: * 4 years of experience in IT Purchasing ...

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Purchasing Associate information

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How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in Houston, TX is $21.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $24.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a purchasing associate do?

A purchasing associate is responsible for sourcing and buying goods and services needed by a company. They evaluate suppliers, negotiate prices, and ensure timely delivery while maintaining accurate records using procurement software. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential for this role.

What are the 4 types of purchasing?

In purchasing, the four main types are direct purchasing, which involves acquiring raw materials for production; indirect purchasing, for goods and services supporting operations; strategic purchasing, focusing on long-term supplier relationships; and transactional purchasing, handling routine, one-time purchases. A Purchasing Associate often handles various types depending on company needs and procurement strategies.

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.

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 typically provides stable employment with competitive salaries.

Is a purchasing agent an entry level job?

A purchasing agent is typically an entry-level to mid-level position that involves negotiating with suppliers, managing purchase orders, and maintaining inventory. Entry-level roles often require some experience or training in procurement, supply chain, or related fields, and may involve learning industry-specific software tools. Advancement usually depends on experience, skills, and performance.

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 Houston, TX? The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Purchasing Associate job openings:
Purchasing Associate jobs near you
Purchasing Specialist

Purchasing Specialist

Sunny Sky Products LLC

Houston, TX

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Sunny Sky Products prides itself on our commitment and dedication to creating, manufacturing and delivering top quality products in the beverage industry. We have generated an extensive product portfolio that includes frozen dispensed beverages, cold dispensed, hot dispensed and beverage enhancers.

Position Summary:

Sunny Sky Products is seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Purchasing Specialist to support the Houston manufacturing facility in maintaining a consistent flow of raw materials required for beverage production. This position plays a critical role in materials planning, purchase order execution and inter-company raw material transfers. The Purchasing Specialist will work closely with the master scheduling team, category buyers, quality assurance, and warehouse personnel to ensure timely and accurate material availability that aligns with production demands.

Key Responsibilities:

Raw Material Procurement & Purchase Execution

  • Issue and manage purchase orders (POs) for raw materials, packaging, and indirect items required for the Houston facility.
  • Follow up with vendors to confirm order receipt, delivery timelines, and shipment tracking to avoid stockouts or delays.
  • Provide procurement and administrative support to corporate Category Buyers across assigned commodities.

Production & Material Planning Collaboration

  • Align closely with the master scheduling team to ensure raw material purchases support the latest production schedule and demand signals.
  • Maintain planning data such as lead times, safety stock levels, and order minimums in SAP S/4HANA.
  • Review and adjust open POs based on changes to production plans, supplier constraints, or updated forecasts.

Inter-Company Transfers & Inventory Movement

  • Coordinate the transfer of raw materials and finished goods between Sunny Sky facilities and 3PL locations.
  • Monitor inventory movements and ensure accurate receipt and documentation in SAP.
  • Reconcile any discrepancies in shipment quantity, timing, or material identification.

Accounts Payable Support

  • Collaborate with Accounts Payable to resolve invoice, PO, and receipt mismatches.
  • Investigate and clear blocked invoices and GR/IR discrepancies to ensure timely vendor payments.

Warehouse Coordination

  • Work with warehouse personnel to prioritize inbound materials needed for urgent production runs.

Qualifications:

  • Associate or bachelor’s degree in supply chain, Business, or related field preferred.
  • 2+ years of experience in procurement, materials planning, or supply chain operations; food or beverage industry experience strongly preferred.
  • Familiarity with SAP (S/4HANA preferred), Tracegains, or other ERP and supplier approval systems.
  • Strong follow-up, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to production-driven environment.

Key Competencies:

  • Procurement Accuracy & Execution
  • Supplier Communication & Follow-Up
  • Problem Solving & Issue Resolution
  • Collaboration & Teamwork
  • SAP/ERP System Proficiency

For more information about our company please visit our website at www.sunnyskyproducts.com

Sunny Sky Products is an equal-opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship.