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Purchasing Department Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Berks County

Buyer (Purchasing Department)

Reading, PA · On-site

... central purchasing functions and related duties in accordance with established department ... Train, assist and guide end users in the regulations and procedures regarding procurement. This ...

LHH US

Purchasing Assistant

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$28/hr

Coordinate with Accounting, Warehouse, Operations, and other internal departments * Maintain spreadsheets, reports, and purchasing trackers * Assist with inventory and supply tracking as needed

Innex, Inc.

PURCHASING ASSISTANT

Montclair, CA

$19 - $24.50/hr

... motivated Purchasing Assistant with 2+ years' experience that will provide purchasing ... Screens incoming calls, responds to routine inquiries from internal departments and external ...

DR Horton, Inc.

Purchasing Assistant

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20.50 - $26.50/hr

D.R. Horton, Inc. is currently looking for a Purchasing Assistant for their Purchasing Department. The right candidate will support the purchasing department with a variety of clerical tasks.

DR Horton, Inc.

Purchasing Assistant

Westerville, OH · On-site

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

D.R. Horton, Inc. is currently looking for a Purchasing Assistant for their Purchasing Department. The right candidate will support the purchasing department with a variety of clerical tasks.

DR Horton, Inc.

Purchasing Assistant

Smyrna, TN · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

D.R. Horton, Inc. is currently looking for a Purchasing Assistant for their Purchasing Department. The right candidate will support the purchasing department with a variety of clerical tasks.

DR Horton

Purchasing Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$18.50 - $23.75/hr

D.R. Horton, Inc. is currently looking for a Purchasing Assistant for their Purchasing Department. The right candidate will support the purchasing department with a variety of clerical tasks.

DR Horton, Inc.

Purchasing Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$18.50 - $23.75/hr

D.R. Horton, Inc. is currently looking for a Purchasing Assistant for their Purchasing Department. The right candidate will support the purchasing department with a variety of clerical tasks.

DR Horton, Inc.

Purchasing Assistant

Corpus Christi, TX · On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

D.R. Horton, Inc. is currently looking for a Purchasing Assistant for their Purchasing Department. The right candidate will support the purchasing department with a variety of clerical tasks.

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How much do purchasing department assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing department assistant in the United States is $21.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a purchasing department assistant do?

A Purchasing Department Assistant supports the purchasing team by handling administrative tasks such as processing purchase orders, maintaining supplier records, and tracking inventory levels. They help ensure that supplies and materials are ordered and delivered on time, and assist with vendor communications. This role often includes coordinating with other departments, preparing reports, and resolving issues with shipments or invoices. Overall, they play a key part in maintaining the smooth operation of the procurement process.

What are some common challenges faced by a purchasing department assistant, and how can they be addressed?

Purchasing Department Assistants often face challenges such as managing tight deadlines, handling multiple vendor communications, and ensuring accurate order processing. Staying organized and using procurement software can help streamline tasks and reduce errors. Additionally, proactively communicating with team members and suppliers helps resolve issues quickly and maintain smooth operations. Developing strong attention to detail and time-management skills is key to thriving in this fast-paced environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a purchasing department assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Purchasing Department Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of procurement processes, often supported by a relevant associate’s degree or administrative experience. Familiarity with procurement software, inventory management systems, and Microsoft Office tools is commonly required. Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to multitask help you stand out in supporting purchasing operations. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring accurate order processing, timely supplier coordination, and efficient workflow within the purchasing department.

What is the difference between Purchasing Department Assistant vs Procurement Coordinator?

AspectPurchasing Department AssistantProcurement Coordinator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer certifications like APICS CPIMBachelor's degree often preferred; certifications like CPSM are common
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, supporting purchasing teamOffice environment with more strategic procurement responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageRetail, manufacturing, logistics companiesLarge corporations, government agencies, manufacturing
Search & Comparison IntentEntry-level support role in purchasingMore involved procurement planning and vendor management

The Purchasing Department Assistant primarily provides administrative support within the purchasing team, often requiring basic credentials and focusing on day-to-day tasks. In contrast, the Procurement Coordinator handles more strategic procurement activities, requiring higher education and certifications. Both roles are common in similar industries, but the Procurement Coordinator typically has a broader scope and responsibilities.

How do you become a purchasing department assistant?

To become a purchasing department assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with strong organizational and communication skills. Some employers prefer candidates with experience in office administration or familiarity with procurement software. Gaining knowledge of supply chain processes and obtaining relevant certifications can also improve job prospects.

How much does a purchasing department assistant earn?

A purchasing department assistant typically earns between $35,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants with certifications or specialized skills can earn higher salaries. The role often involves using procurement software and supporting purchasing operations.

Is a purchasing department assistant job stressful?

A purchasing department assistant job can be stressful due to tight deadlines, managing multiple supplier relationships, and accuracy requirements in order processing. The role often involves attention to detail, organizational skills, and working under pressure, especially during high-demand periods or when resolving supply issues.

What cities are hiring for Purchasing Department Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Purchasing Department Assistant job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing Department jobs?

The most popular types of Purchasing Department jobs are:

What states have the most Purchasing Department Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Purchasing Department Assistant jobs include:

Purchasing Department Assistant jobs near you

Buyer (Purchasing Department)

Berks County

Reading, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description


POSITION SUMMARY:
Responsible for performing central purchasing functions and related duties in accordance with established department procedures, County code, policies, and state and federal regulations. Responsibilities include specification development, review of requisitions for accuracy, sourcing, soliciting quotations, price analysis, and procurement of goods and services. Work requires frequent contact with vendors and department representatives/end users. Duties are usually performed with considerable independence under the supervision of the Director & Procurement Manager.
POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:
Essential Functions
The duties and responsibilities of this position include, but are not necessarily limited to:
  • Procure required goods and services, in a cost-effective manner and within the parameters of established regulations and procedures, determining whether to seek alternate supplier sources and/or competitive price quotes.
  • Review requisitions as well as generates and submits purchase orders in the County's current Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) System.
  • Train, assist and guide end users in the regulations and procedures regarding procurement. This shall include training and support of end user department's entry and submission of requisitions in the County's ERP system.
  • Prepare Requests for Quotation (RFQ) and obtains vendor quotations. Evaluates quotations using price comparison methods; calculates the effects of transportation, minimum orders, discounts and lead times; and identifies the responsive, responsible vendor providing the lowest cost quotation.
  • Prepare, document, advertise, and administer Invitations to Bid (ITB) and Surplus Sales as assigned. Analyzes vendors' bids and makes recommendations to the Director and/or Procurement Manager to award contracts as the result of the public bidding process. This shall include but not be limited to all post award process/ procedures and documentation.
  • Assist the Director and/or Procurement Manager in the preparation, documentation, advertisement, and administration of Invitations to Bid (ITB) and Request for Proposals (RFP).
  • Standardize specifications among multi-department users of similar items providing the County with the benefits of economies of scale.
  • Expedite orders as required, troubleshoots and problem solves issues with purchase orders, settles discrepancies between invoices and purchase orders, and assures vendor compliance to specifications, schedules and other terms and conditions.
  • Maintain professional liaisons with sales agents and vendors to stay up to date on new products and product specifications. Research market to find new suppliers of goods and services used by the County and stay current and well versed on publicly procured contracts available under which to obtain quotes.
  • Maintain working knowledge and be able to apply and utilize cooperative and piggybackable contracts as needed in the procurement function.
  • Advise and educate internal customers on current products; features, price, and availability of goods and services; and correct process to complete and submit a requisition.
  • Arrange for samples and demonstrations of new products to internal customers. Keeps informed of the needs of internal customers.
  • Special Projects as assigned by the Director and/or Procurement Manager.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Associate degree in business administration or related field OR at least two years of equivalent experience.
  • Minimum of two years' experience procuring goods and services, processing requisitions, and requesting competitive quotes, with responsibility for at least $2 million of purchases annually.
  • Certified Public Purchasing Buyer (CPPB) certification by The Institute for Public Procurement (NIGP) or other equivalent professional certification preferred.
  • Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Working knowledge of public procurement procedures, best practices and regulations.
  • General knowledge of contract law, and Article 2 of the Uniform Commercial Code.
  • Ability and willingness to communicate with tact and diplomacy and to establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with internal and external customers, co-workers, supervisors, elected officials, other agencies, and the general public.
  • Ability and willingness to procure without prejudice, seeking to obtain the maximum, ultimate value for each dollar of expenditure.
  • Ability and willingness to speak, understand, read, and write English, knowledge and understanding of writing and grammar, and ability to perform basic and analytical arithmetic computations.
  • Ability and willingness to use good judgment in decision-making and to adhere to the highest ethical standard while performing purchasing functions.
  • Working knowledge in using PCs as well as Microsoft Office products (Excel, Word, Access and Outlook), and the Internet.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability and willingness to multi-task in a stressful environment and set priorities and meet deadlines.
  • Ability and willingness to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
  • Decision-making, analytical, and problem-solving skills at the level required to effectively perform the position responsibilities.
  • Organized, self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to work independently.
  • Ability to handle stress.
  • Physical presence in the office is required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
While performing the duties of this position, the incumbent will frequently be required to sit for extended periods of time, stand, walk, talk or hear, and work with office equipment and work with electronic media which can create eye strain. Occasionally, the employee will be required to lift or carry up to 25 lbs.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
Normal office environment.
This position description serves as a guideline for communicating the essential functions and other information about the position to the applicant/employee. It is not intended to create a binding employment contract nor cover every detail of the position and may be changed where appropriate.
About Us
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
The County of Berks provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, political affiliation or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
About Us:
Berks County is a combination of rich farm country, industry, beautiful parks, entertainment, and top-notch educational institutions. Whether you are interested in County services, the availability of our parks, tax rates, or other county information, this is the place to start.
About the Team
Mission Statement:
It is the mission of Berks County government and all County employees to administer and deliver services to the citizens of the County in the most effective, efficient and professional manner possible within the constraints of the financial resources available.

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