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Purchasing Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hood Distribution

Purchasing Associate

Carnegie, PA · On-site

$59K - $67K/yr

We are seeking a skilled and experienced Purchasing Associate to manage the entire purchasing life cycle of professional woodworking products essential for our customer base. This includes but is not ...

QXO

Purchasing Associate

Denver, CO · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

... purchasing processes and efficiency * Stay informed on market trends, product availability, and pricing changes * Cross-train with team members and support onboarding of new associates * Share ...

Promachbuilt

Purchasing Associate

Raleigh, NC

$19.75 - $25.50/hr

Axon is searching for a Purchasing Assistant who offers support to the Materials Manager by executing regular Purchase order transitions for consistent items that require minimal supervision. Some of ...

Ellis Medicine

Purchasing Associate

Schenectady, NY · On-site

$16.24 - $24.11/hr

The Purchasing Associate is responsible for maintaining the day-to-day order process for equipment, supplies and services. Ensures the needs of the facility are purchased so that business can run ...

Johnstone Supply LLC

Purchasing Associate

Cranford, NJ

$20.75 - $26.75/hr

Responsibilities Purchasing Associates supports the business through inventory planning, purchasing, and supplier coordination while delivering excellent internal and external customer service. This ...

Helena Industries

Purchasing Associate

West Helena, AR · On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

ABOUT THE JOB The Purchasing Associate provides support to the plant operations team. WHAT YOUR DAY WILL LOOK LIKE * Reviews plant production schedule to ensure raw materials and actives are ...

QXO

Purchasing Associate

Denver, CO

$65K - $85K/yr

... purchasing processes and efficiency * Stay informed on market trends, product availability, and pricing changes * Cross-train with team members and support onboarding of new associates * Share ...

Johnstone Supply LLC

Purchasing Associate

Cranford, NJ · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Responsibilities Purchasing Associates supports the business through inventory planning, purchasing, and supplier coordination while delivering excellent internal and external customer service. This ...

Cannon Industries

Purchasing Associate

Rochester, NY · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

General Under the direction of the Purchasing Manager, assists the purchasing department in the purchase of materials, supplies parts or components for production and/or facilities expansion ...

Charles Products LLC

Purchasing Associate

Rockville, MD

$20.75 - $26.75/hr

The Purchaser will buy supplies from various vendors and suppliers. You will work independently in a highly collaborative environment that requires frequent communication with other departments. In ...

Coilcraft

Hawarden Purchasing Associate

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$19.75 - $25.50/hr

We're looking for a dependable, detail-oriented person to join our team as a Purchasing Associate! If you enjoy staying organized, working with data, and keeping things running smoothly, this could ...

SCA Innotive tech Inc

Purchasing Associate

Auburn, AL · On-site

$18.50 - $22/hr

Job Summary: Assist the Purchasing Manager with purchasing processes and inventory management to ensure smooth operations. Key Responsibilities: • Conduct warehouse inventory counts, compare with ...

Coilcraft

Hawarden Purchasing Associate

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$19.75 - $25.50/hr

We're looking for a dependable, detail-oriented person to join our team as a Purchasing Associate! If you enjoy staying organized, working with data, and keeping things running smoothly, this could ...

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Purchasing Associate information

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$13

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$32

How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in the United States is $22.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $25.24 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.
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What states have the most Purchasing Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Purchasing Associate jobs include:
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Purchasing Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing Associate job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,487 per year, or $22.8 per hour.
Purchasing Associate

Purchasing Associate

Hood Distribution

Carnegie, PA • On-site

$59K - $67K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Hood Distribution rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

307th of 368 rated retail wholesalers

Job description

Hood Distribution is an industrialwholesaledistributor of decorative hardwood plywood, hardwood lumber, thermally fusedlaminate, particleboard, medium-density fiberboard, high-pressure laminate, wood finishes and stains, solid surfaces, and other professional woodworking supplies. These products are distributed to cabinetmakers, millworkandcasework shops,institutionalcasegoodsmanufacturers, architectural designers, and other professional woodworkers.
We are seeking a skilled and experienced Purchasing Associate to manage the entire purchasing life cycle of professional woodworking products essential for our customer base. This includes but is not limited to sourcing, negotiating, creating and managing purchase orders and managing the inventory levels for the region.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Daily reviewof assigned product group's needs.
  • Regularly check inventory levels and keep track of data to avoid inventory shortages.
  • High dollar value and COD Made to Order's are properly approved by the credit department.
  • Manage supplier relationships through building contacts,negotiating and executing contracts,developing programs and ensuring suppliers on time deliverymeets the needs of the organization.
  • Execute a purchase order to the vendor, meet vendor requirements, control product and freight costs and/or negotiating costs with vendor.
  • Verification of order to include validationof costing, maintainingarrivaldates, verifying unexpected additional charges,managingvendor overages/shortages.
  • Review and act, if necessary, onlate& unconfirmedorder on open POreport.
  • Utilize company ERP system to maximizefull potential and efficiency.
  • Maintains knowledge of trends, prices, and delivery conditions to anticipate future material availability; directs purchasing programs accordingly.
  • Develops and maintains inventory databases for supplies and materials used.
  • Reviews purchase orders and contracts for compliance with company and departmental policies.
  • Collaborate with sales, customer service, andoperationsdepartment to maximize efficiency in the purchasing and inventory control department.
  • Communicate with suppliers to resolve problems that may arise regarding delivery, quality, price, or conditions of sale.
  • Address all A/P Invoice issues related to assigned product group.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
Required Skills/Abilities:
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Tactical and strategic
  • Proven negotiation skills
  • Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
  • Ability to exercise tact, courtesy, and ethics when dealing with vendors, co-workers, and customers.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software, as well as inventory software.
Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree required, preferably in business or related field with coursework in purchasing and/or inventory control management.
  • At least five years of buying or purchasing experience required (bulk or truck loads).
  • Global purchasing experience a plus.
  • Experience in a distributor atmosphere is highly preferred.
Physical Requirements:
  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
  • Must be able toliftupto 15 pounds at times.
  • Ability to travel (up to 10%) to visit vendors, customers or other company locations.

Salary Range: $59,000-$67,000

Additional Information:
Hood Industries offers a competitive salary and an excellent benefits package including medical, employee assistance program, dental, vision, cancer, life, 401k, flexible spending account, and LTD, available first of the month following completion of one month of continuous full-time employment.
Hood Industries requires that applicants consent to a background check and a drug screen to continue in the selection process. All employment offers are contingent on meeting our background check standards and successful passing of required drug test. If hired, you will be required to provide documentation indicating your legal right to work in the U.S.

An Equal Opportunity Employer
Employment Type: Full-Time

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