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

Purchasing Assistant

Madison, WI · On-site

$19.25 - $24.75/hr

Associate degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field preferred. * One to three years of purchasing, procurement, inventory control, administrative, or related experience required.

Purchasing Assistant

Madison, WI · On-site

$19.25 - $24.75/hr

Associate degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field preferred * 1-3 years of purchasing, procurement, inventory control, administrative, or related experience * Manufacturing or ...

Purchasing Assistant

Madison, WI · On-site

$19.25 - $24.75/hr

Associate degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field preferred. * One to three years of purchasing, procurement, inventory control, administrative, or related experience required.

... purchase quantities while considering changes in market conditions • Self-motivated, results ... of associate degree or equivalent professional work experience • Must be 21 years or older • ...

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)

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 - Evolve Cannabis & Nutrition Evolve is seeking a friendly, dependable Retail Sales Associate to assist customers, explain products, process purchases, restock merchandise, and ...

Retail Sales Associate

Madison, WI · On-site

$15 - $18.75/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 ...

Retail Sales Associate

Madison, WI · On-site

$15 - $18.75/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

$13.25 - $15.75/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 ...

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

$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 ...

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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 Sep 5, 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?

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing jobs in Sun Prairie, WI?

The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Sun Prairie, WI are:

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,202 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

$19.25 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

POSITION: Purchasing Assistant
About UPC
UPC has been designing and manufacturing retail store fixtures and point-of-purchase displays in Madison, Wisconsin, for almost 50 years, since 1978. Started as a family business, we have grown and have established ourselves worldwide. We are employee centric and are looking for strong candidates and long-term commitments. Our employee's tenure says it all!
Position Summary.
  • Purchase materials, supplies, equipment, and services to support company operations.
  • Source vendors, obtain quotes, and maintain supplier relationships.
  • Coordinate deliveries, inventory, and logistics to ensure materials are available when needed.
  • Maintain purchasing records, process invoices, and resolve purchasing or vendor issues.
  • Work with internal teams to support projects and production schedules.
  • Identify cost-saving opportunities and monitor market trends.
  • Perform other purchasing and administrative duties as assigned.
  • Demonstrate strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and sound decision-making.

Facility & Work Environment
  • Standard Office Environment
  • Occasional exposure to manufacturing, production, and warehouse environments. The position requires periodic communication and collaboration with production team members.

Education & Experience
  • High school diploma or GED required; Associate degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field preferred.
  • One to three years of purchasing, procurement, inventory control, administrative, or related experience required.
  • Manufacturing or industrial purchasing experience is a plus.
  • Experience working with vendors, purchase orders, freight coordination, and inventory management.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, and Word) and experience using ERP, MRP, or accounting software.

Benefits
We offer a competitive benefits package that includes:
  • 401(k) and Roth
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Health insurance benefits
  • Paid holidays
  • And more

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE REFER TO UPC WEBSITE, or contact us in the following way:
Phone: 608-222-5658
Fax: 608-222-3933
Email:
Universal Presentation Concepts (UPC) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.