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Purchasing Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Purchasing Associate

Cranford, NJ · On-site

$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 ...

Purchasing Associate

Niles, IL · On-site

$50K - $100K/yr

SCM/Purchasing experience preferred but not required * Bilingual in Korean and English * Maintain strong working relationship with vendors * Coordinate the purchase orders for account/category ...

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 ...

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 ...

Purchasing Associate

Macomb, MI

$18.75 - $24.25/hr

Macomb Req ID: 29707 Job Responsibilities and Experience PRIMARY FUNCTION Lincoln Electric is seeking a proactive Purchasing Associate II to support our Baker Industries operation in Macomb, MI. In ...

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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 ERP ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Purchasing Associate information

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$13

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$32

How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 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.
What cities are hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs? Cities with the most Purchasing Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing jobs? The most popular types of Purchasing jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs? The top employers for Purchasing Associate jobs are:
What states have the most Purchasing Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Purchasing Associate jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Associate jobs? For Purchasing Associate jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Purchasing Associate job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% 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

Oshkosh Corporation

Murfreesboro, TN • On-site

$51K - $79K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Oshkosh Corporation rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

287th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

The Oshkosh Corporation Vocational segment leverages the power of our people, brands, and strength in technology to improve the safety, cleanliness, and productivity of our communities. The Vocational segment includes market leading brands McNeilus, Oshkosh S-Series, IMT, Pierce, MAXIMETAL, Oshkosh Airport Products, and Frontline Communications. Our purpose-built products serve our communities with carefully designed and engineered refuse trucks, front-discharge mixer trucks, fire apparatus, Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting trucks, service vehicles, and command trucks. Our products are designed to perform under the toughest conditions.
This position reports to the Purchasing Manager and will work onsite at the Murfreesboro, TN location.
The Purchasing Associate role is an entry level position that supports the purchasing and supply chain department areas of responsibility. It is primarily focused on coordinating purchasing activities. The typical role is responsible for daily coordination and administration of purchase transactions in support of business operations.
YOUR IMPACT
  • Process purchase order defers, expedites, cancellations.
  • Develop and run reports for unacknowledged orders and past due order management.
  • Interface with suppliers on purchasing activity through the supplier portal.
  • Conduct purchase price analytics and update material cost standards and cost variances in ERP.
  • Participate in supplier business review meetings to review and improve supplier performance.
  • Issue materials and services RFQs and conduct initial review of supplier response.
  • Execute supplier price changes, review price increase threats and support supplier negotiations.
  • Support supplier readiness for product launches.
  • Participate on project teams leading supply chain optimization initiatives such as cost reduction and on-boarding suppliers.
  • Minimal infrequent travel.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management or a related field.
  • OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Ability to travel 25%.

STANDOUT QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Internship experience or previous experience in supply chain.
  • Purchasing experience within the manufacturing industry.
  • Ability to effectively communicate.
  • Ability to work in a team environment.
  • Strong organizational skills with exceptional follow through and attention to detail.
  • Strong time-management and prioritization skills, able to multi-task and prioritize competing requirements and meet deadlines.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment where requirements are constantly changing.
  • Experience and proficiency with various web-based software applications including Microsoft Office Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, etc.

Pay Range:
$51,400.00 - $79,200.00
The above pay range reflects the minimum and maximum target pay for the position across all U.S. locations. Within this range, individual pay is determined by various factors, including the scope and responsibilities of the role, the candidate's experience, education and skills, as well as the equity of pay among team members in similar positions. Beyond offering a competitive total rewards package, we prioritize a people-first culture and offer various opportunities to support team member growth and success.
Oshkosh is committed to working with and offering reasonable accommodation to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to disability for any part of the employment process, please contact us at corporatetalentacquisition@oshkoshcorp.com.
Oshkosh Corporation is a merit-based Equal Opportunity Employer. Job opportunities are open for application to all qualified individuals and selection decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristic. To the extent that information is provided or collected regarding categories as provided by law it will in no way affect the decision regarding an employment application.
Oshkosh Corporation will not discharge or in any manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with Oshkosh Corporation's legal duty to furnish information.
Certain positions with Oshkosh Corporation require access to controlled goods and technologies subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations or the Export Administration Regulations. Applicants for these positions may need to be "U.S. Persons," as defined in these regulations. Generally, a "U.S. Person" is a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or an individual who has been admitted as a refugee or granted asylum.

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