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Purchasing Associate Jobs in Sun Prairie, WI (NOW HIRING)

Provide leadership and direction to a purchasing associate, supporting daily procurement activities * Develop sourcing strategies that balance quality, cost, and on‑time delivery * Manage inventory ...

Required qualifications/skills: - Bachelor's or Associate's degree preferred (or equivalent experience) - 3-5 years of purchasing experience using an ERP system - Experience with plastics and/or MRO ...

Required qualifications/skills: - Bachelor's or Associate's degree preferred (or equivalent experience) - 3-5 years of purchasing experience using an ERP system - Experience with plastics and/or MRO ...

Purchaser

Madison, WI · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Associate or bachelor's degree in business, supply chain management, or related field * 3+ years of purchasing, supply chain, or equivalent construction/EPC experience (related industry preferred)

Retail Sales Associate

Madison, WI · On-site

$14.75 - $17/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 ...

Seasonal Sales Associate

Madison, WI · On-site

$13.50 - $16/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: • ...

Retail Sales Associate

Madison, WI · On-site

$15 - $17.50/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 ...

A full-service business and litigation law firm is seeking a highly qualified associate to join its ... leasing and purchase/sale transactions, real estate finance and/or development incentives. The ...

AmLaw 200 legal services provider seeks a highly-qualified Mid-level Associate to join its Real ... purchases and sales, real estate secured loans, modification and workout documents, leasing, as ...

Retail Sales Associate Part Time

Madison, WI · On-site

$14.75 - $17/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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Purchasing Associate information

See Sun Prairie, WI salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in Sun Prairie, WI is $22.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.94 and $24.57 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.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

Purchasing associates can earn around $3,000 a month depending on experience, location, and industry. Many such roles require strong organizational skills and familiarity with procurement software but do not typically require a college degree. Other jobs that pay similar wages without a degree include sales representatives, administrative assistants, and certain skilled trades like electricians or HVAC technicians with proper certification.

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.

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 cities near Sun Prairie, WI are hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs? Cities near Sun Prairie, WI with the most Purchasing Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Purchasing Associate job openings in Sun Prairie, WI as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 35% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,202 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Purchasing Associate (Temp)

Baker Manufacturing Comp Any LLC

Evansville, WI • On-site

$24 - $25/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Description

Baker Manufacturing CompanyPurchasing Administrator

Location: Evansville, WI
Department: Supply Chain / Operations
Reports To: Supply Chain Director

Compensation & Schedule
  • $24.00-$25.00 per hour
  • Full-Time, 40 hours per week
  • Monday - Friday
  • Flexible schedule: 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM or 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Position Summary

The Purchasing Administrator supports daily purchasing and supply chain activities to help ensure material availability, accurate system data, and timely supplier communication. This role assists buyers and operations teams with purchase order management, vendor follow-up, reporting, and administrative coordination to support manufacturing operations.

Key Responsibilities
  • Create and maintain purchase orders in the ERP system
  • Follow up with suppliers on order confirmations, pricing, and delivery dates
  • Track open purchase orders and communicate shortages or delays to internal teams
  • Assist with expediting materials and supplier issues
  • Coordinate with production, planning, customer service, and accounting teams
  • Maintain purchasing records, files, and documentation
  • Support reporting and administrative functions within the supply chain department
  • Perform other administrative and supply chain support duties as assigned
Qualifications
  • High school diploma required; associate degree or related business experience preferred
  • 1-3 years of administrative, purchasing, customer service, or manufacturing support experience preferred
  • Strong organizational, communication, and follow-through skills
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and ERP systems
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
  • Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving abilities
Preferred Experience
  • Experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment
  • ERP experience such as Epicor or similar systems
  • Basic understanding of purchasing, inventory, or supply chain processes
Work Environment
  • Office-based role within a manufacturing environment
  • Regular interaction with suppliers, production, warehouse, and operations personnel

Requirements

Qualifications
  • High school diploma required; associate degree or related business experience preferred
  • 1-3 years of administrative, purchasing, customer service, or manufacturing support experience preferred
  • Strong organizational, communication, and follow-through skills
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and ERP systems
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
  • Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving abilities