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Purchasing Associate Jobs in Iowa City, IA (NOW HIRING)

Tri-City Group

Purchasing Specialist

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

Associate degree in Accounting, Business, Finance, or a related field (preferred but not required). * 5+ years of purchasing experience, preferably in construction. * Experience with large-scale ...

Tri-City Group

Purchasing Specialist

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

Associate degree in Accounting, Business, Finance, or a related field (preferred but not required). * 5+ years of purchasing experience, preferably in construction. * Experience with large-scale ...

Tri-City Group

Purchasing Specialist

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

Associate degree in Accounting, Business, Finance, or a related field (preferred but not required). * 5+ years of purchasing experience, preferably in construction. * Experience with large-scale ...

Kraft Heinz

Purchasing Coordinator

Cedar Rapids, IA

$30.50/hr

Purchasing Coordinator Location: Kraft Heinz - Cedar Rapids 4601 C Street SW Cedar Rapids, IA ... associates. 100% Food Service, 4 bag soup lines, 1 tub line, 18 Kettles, 5 Filling lines, and 4 ...

Tailored Brands

Seasonal Sales Associate

Coralville, IA · On-site

$12.25 - $14.50/hr

... purchase • Ongoing discounts on purchase made at any Tailored Brands store. What You Bring: • ... Sales Associates are responsible for all aspects of the customer experience within ...

Tailored Brands

Retail Sales Associate Part Time

Coralville, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $15.75/hr

Retail Sales Associate - Part-time We invest in our people and continuously work towards fostering ... purchase • Ongoing discounts on purchase made at any Tailored Brands store. What You Bring: • ...

Torrid

Sales Associate

Coralville, IA

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

Associate discount 50%, additional monthly discount coupon, mental health resources, sick time* * 401K with Company match, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Tuition reimbursement *Sick time ...

Torrid

Sales Associate

Cedar Rapids, IA

$14 - $18.75/hr

Associate discount 50%, additional monthly discount coupon, mental health resources, sick time* * 401K with Company match, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Tuition reimbursement *Sick time ...

Torrid

Sales Associate

Coralville, IA · On-site

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

Associate discount 50%, additional monthly discount coupon, mental health resources, sick time* * 401K with Company match, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Tuition reimbursement *Sick time ...

Torrid

Sales Associate

Coralville, IA

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

Associate discount 50%, additional monthly discount coupon, mental health resources, sick time* * 401K with Company match, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Tuition reimbursement *Sick time ...

Torrid

Sales Associate

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Associate discount 50%, additional monthly discount coupon, mental health resources, sick time* * 401K with Company match, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Tuition reimbursement *Sick time ...

Torrid

Sales Associate

Coralville, IA

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

Associate discount 50%, additional monthly discount coupon, mental health resources, sick time* * 401K with Company match, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Tuition reimbursement *Sick time ...

Torrid

Sales Associate

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

Associate discount 50%, additional monthly discount coupon, mental health resources, sick time* * 401K with Company match, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Tuition reimbursement *Sick time ...

Torrid

Sales Associate

Coralville, IA · On-site

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

Associate discount 50%, additional monthly discount coupon, mental health resources, sick time* * 401K with Company match, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Tuition reimbursement *Sick time ...

Torrid

Sales Associate

Cedar Rapids, IA

$14 - $18.75/hr

Associate discount 50%, additional monthly discount coupon, mental health resources, sick time* * 401K with Company match, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Tuition reimbursement *Sick time ...

Walmart

Stocking Team Associate

Iowa City, IA · 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

Coralville, IA · 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 ...

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Purchasing Associate information

See Iowa City, IA salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in Iowa City, IA is $22.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.04 and $24.71 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.
More about Purchasing Associate jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing jobs in Iowa City, IA?

The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Iowa City, IA are:

What cities near Iowa City, IA are hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs?

Cities near Iowa City, IA with the most Purchasing Associate job openings:

Purchasing Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing Associate job openings in Iowa City, IA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 57% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,466 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Purchasing Specialist

Tri-City Group

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Tri-City Group is seeking a Purchasing Specialist for an immediate opening in Cedar Rapids, IA. The Purchasing Specialist will day-to-day job site needs.

Job Duties:

  • Issue and approve Purchase Orders (POs) according to company guidelines.
  • Coordinate with Project Management to maintain optimal inventory levels.
  • Evaluate vendors based on price, reliability, capability, and transaction history, with guidance from the Procurement Team.
  • Source multiple vendors for critical materials to enhance efficiency and minimize potential delays.
  • Negotiate volume, cash transaction discounts, and other cost-saving opportunities with vendors.
  • Ensure that all purchasing documents are accurate, complete, and contain reasonable terms and conditions.
  • Communicate availability and delivery issues promptly to the Project Management Team.
  • Maintain pricing histories and vendor records for reference and strategic purchasing decisions.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.


Requirements: 

  • Associate degree in Accounting, Business, Finance, or a related field (preferred but not required).
  • 5+ years of purchasing experience, preferably in construction.
  • Experience with large-scale construction projects.
  • Experience in commercial, industrial, and mission-critical projects is required.
  • Electrical Construction purchasing experience is required.


Skills & Competencies:

  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.
  • Ability to problem-solve under deadlines.
  • Professional tact and consideration in vendor interactions.
  • Initiative and sound judgment in purchasing decisions.


Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM (Occasional evenings/weekends as needed). This is a full-time position, and work hours may vary based on business needs.

Candidates must successfully pass a drug screening and reference check before employment. Tri-City Group is an equal-opportunity employer.