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Purchasing Associate Jobs in Milwaukee, WI (NOW HIRING)

SEDA North America

Purchasing Assistant

Sturtevant, WI · On-site

$18.50 - $23.75/hr

Seda is looking for a Purchasing Assistant to join our growing team! This person will be ... Associate degree in business, supply chain or related field with 2+ years in Manufacturing or ...

SEDA North America

Purchasing Assistant

Sturtevant, WI · On-site

$18.50 - $23.75/hr

Seda is looking for a Purchasing Assistant to join our growing team! This person will be ... Associate degree in business, supply chain or related field with 2+ years in Manufacturing or ...

CARMA LABORATORIES INC

MRO Coordinator

Franklin, WI

Work with Purchasing Associate and assist in maintaining item master data, reorderpoints, and inventory parameters. * Perform cycle count as needed * Ensure accurate transactions, inventory movements ...

CARMA LABORATORIES INC

MRO Coordinator

Franklin, WI · On-site

Work with Purchasing Associate and assist in maintaining item master data, reorderpoints, and inventory parameters. * Perform cycle count as needed * Ensure accurate transactions, inventory movements ...

Medasource

Associate Buyer (Workday)

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

Title: Associate Buyer Duration: Through 2027 Location: Remote Summary Responsible for placing ... Performs purchase order follow up activities with suppliers including order and delivery ...

Tailored Brands

Seasonal Sales Associate

Racine, WI · On-site

$12.75 - $15/hr

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

Tailored Brands

Retail Sales Associate

Brookfield, WI · On-site

$14 - $16.25/hr

... purchase • Ongoing discounts on purchase made at any Tailored Brands store. What You Bring: • ... sales associates at all levels and contribute to a positive work environment Our Retail Sales ...

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All JobsPurchasing Associate JobsPurchasing Associate Jobs in Milwaukee, WI

Purchasing Associate information

See Milwaukee, WI salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in Milwaukee, WI is $22.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.18 and $24.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Purchasing Associate do?

A Purchasing Associate is responsible for supporting an organization’s procurement process by sourcing suppliers, obtaining quotes, and placing orders for goods and services. They maintain records of purchases, track inventory levels, and ensure that materials are delivered on time. Purchasing Associates often communicate with vendors, negotiate prices, and help resolve any issues with orders to ensure smooth operations. Their role is essential in maintaining cost efficiency and timely supply within a company.

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.

Is procurement a high stress job?

Purchasing associates often work in fast-paced environments where meeting deadlines and managing supplier relationships can create stress. The level of stress varies depending on the industry, workload, and organizational structure, but strong organizational and communication skills help manage job pressures effectively.

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 is the work of purchasing associate?

A purchasing associate is responsible for sourcing, evaluating, and purchasing goods and services needed by a company. They negotiate prices, manage supplier relationships, and ensure timely delivery to support operational needs. Proficiency in procurement software and strong negotiation skills are often required.

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 can provide stable employment in various industries.

Is a purchasing agent an entry-level job?

A purchasing agent is not always an entry-level position; it often requires some experience in procurement, supply chain, or related fields. Entry-level roles in purchasing may be titled purchasing assistant or coordinator, with more advanced roles requiring skills in negotiation, vendor management, and familiarity with procurement software. Certifications like CPSM or C.P.M. can also enhance qualifications for higher-level purchasing roles.

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 Milwaukee, WI? The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:
What cities near Milwaukee, WI are hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs? Cities near Milwaukee, WI with the most Purchasing Associate job openings:
Purchasing Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing Associate job openings in Milwaukee, WI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,787 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Purchasing Assistant

SEDA North America

Sturtevant, WI • On-site

$18.50 - $23.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Seda is looking for a Purchasing Assistant to join our growing team! This person will be responsible for maintaining accurate records of purchases and tracking invoices to ensure proper accounting and compliance with company policies. Seda North America is an air conditioned, exceptionally clean facility that designs and produces innovative paper packaging solutions, which include unique insulated coffee cups and food industry containers.

Why work here?

  • Great Place to Work Certified 4 years in a row!
  • Attendance Bonus Program- Earn 1 more week of PTO
  • On the job training; We promote from within!
  • 10 Paid Holidays; Paid PTO, Sick leave and Parental Leave
  • Medical, Dental, Vision offered; Company paid Basic Life and STD/LTD Disability Insurance
  • 401(K) Retirement Plan with company match starting day one
  • Education Assistance
  1. Specific Duties:
  • Review MRP, (material requirement planning) and track necessary purchase orders and blanket material releases for items assigned.
  • Obtains required documentation of any material as specified by the quality control department (certificate of analysis, packing list, MSDS, etc.)
  • Coordinates delivery and confirms with vendor that all materials are consistent with the specification and meeting delivery date
  • Update all POs with accurate/confirmed delivery dates
  • Produce reports as required i.e. open order status report
  • Collaborate cross-functionally, cross-company for timely, comprehensive adherence to internally agreed sourcing processes and procedures.
  • Create and recommend internal process efficiencies in total sourcing & procurement workflow.
  1. Skill Requirements:
  • Associate degree in business, supply chain or related field with 2+ years in Manufacturing or equivalent experience with data and ERP systems, food or foodservice packaging experience is a plus
  • Experience with inventory management systems is a plus
  • Ability to analyze data and make cost – effective decisions
  • Able to prioritize tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to solve problems and resolve issues quickly
  • Experience with systems like SAP or other ERP systems is a plus
  • Comfortable working with Microsoft 365 Office (ex: Word, Power Point)
  • Highly organized and detail oriented with Project Management experience a plus
  • Strong interpersonal skills and needs to interact within cross functional teams

This list of duties and responsibilities is not all inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities, as management may deem necessary from time to time. Seda North America provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetics or protected veteran status. In addition to federal law requirements, Seda North America complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment.

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