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Purchasing Department Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

$90 - $120/hr

The Area Purchasing Manager is pivotal in ensuring the profitable execution of purchasing ... Sets department goals and works to lead improvements across the supply function and within a ...

New

$110 - $135/hr

Establish procedures which increase the efficiency of the purchasing department and allow the department to function at the highest level of productivity. * Improve purchasing strategies and ...

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Sales & Purchasing Administrator Department: Sales & Purchasing Reports To: CEO/General Manager FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Position Summary The Sales & Purchasing Administrator provides administrative ...

$80 - $85/hr

Purchasing and Inventory Manager Corporate Office, West Warwick, RI, US 3 days ago Requisition ID ... department stores, and clubs, not only in the United States, Canada, and Mexico but also in various ...

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$85 - $110/hr

Supplier and Purchasing Department Interface: Develop technical specifications to allow for competitive bidding on key controls system components. Communicate with suppliers to ensure appropriate ...

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Purchasing Department information

See Kentucky salary details

$11

$18

$26

How much do purchasing department jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing department in Kentucky is $18.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $20.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does the Purchasing Department do?

The Purchasing Department is responsible for acquiring the goods and services a company needs to operate efficiently. This includes sourcing suppliers, negotiating contracts, managing purchase orders, and ensuring timely delivery of materials. The department works closely with other departments to ensure quality, cost-effectiveness, and timely procurement, helping the organization maintain smooth operations and control expenses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Purchasing Department?

To thrive in the Purchasing Department, you need strong analytical skills, negotiation abilities, and a background in supply chain or business administration, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with procurement software (such as SAP or Oracle), inventory management systems, and certifications like Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) are typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help professionals build strong vendor relationships and manage complex purchasing processes. These skills ensure cost-effective procurement, minimize supply chain disruptions, and contribute to the organization's operational efficiency.

What are some common challenges faced in a Purchasing Department role, and how can they be addressed?

One common challenge in a Purchasing Department role is managing supplier relationships to ensure timely delivery and consistent quality while maintaining cost efficiency. Professionals in this department often need to balance competing priorities between internal stakeholders and external vendors. Effective communication, strong negotiation skills, and a proactive approach to problem-solving are essential for overcoming these challenges. Additionally, staying updated on market trends and utilizing procurement technology can help streamline processes and mitigate risks.

What is the difference between Purchasing Department vs Purchasing Coordinator?

AspectPurchasing DepartmentPurchasing Coordinator
RoleOversees procurement processes across the organization, manages purchasing policies, and coordinates with suppliers.Supports procurement activities by processing purchase orders, tracking deliveries, and assisting with supplier communication.
CredentialsTypically requires purchasing certifications or related experience; educational background varies.Often requires similar certifications or experience, with a focus on administrative and communication skills.
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, collaborating with multiple departments and suppliers.Office environment, working closely with purchasing managers and suppliers.
Industry UsageCommonly used across industries for procurement management.Frequently used as an entry or support role within procurement teams.

The Purchasing Department is responsible for overall procurement strategies and supplier relationships, while the Purchasing Coordinator handles day-to-day order processing and administrative tasks. Both roles require similar credentials and work in office settings, but the department has a broader strategic focus compared to the coordinator's support role.

What are the positions in the purchasing department?

The purchasing department typically includes positions such as Purchasing Agent, Buyer, Procurement Specialist, Purchasing Manager, and Procurement Coordinator. These roles involve tasks like supplier selection, order processing, negotiation, and inventory management, often requiring knowledge of procurement software and supply chain principles.

What do you do in a purchasing department?

A purchasing department is responsible for acquiring goods and services needed by a company. Roles typically involve evaluating suppliers, negotiating prices, managing purchase orders, and ensuring timely delivery to support business operations. Strong negotiation skills and knowledge of procurement software are often essential for this job.
Infographic showing various Purchasing Department job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,812 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Supervisor, Materials (Purchasing)

Summit Polymer

Elizabethtown, KY • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Summit Polymers rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 84 rated plastic manufacturers


Job description

Summit Polymers is a leading, global supplier of automotive interior systems including consoles, door panels, and instrument panels. With over 50 years serving the industry, we deliver engineering and product excellence to our customers, on time, in budget, with the latest innovations.
JOIN A TEAM WHERE YOU'LL BE CHALLENGED AND valued.
A career with Summit Polymers means working with smart people in a culture that thrives on challenging, meaningful work. At Summit, we look for growth potential with every hire. We don't just fill seats, we set people on career paths. We're always on the lookout for smart people who are committed to continuous improvement, customer service and quality.
JOB DESCRIPTION
JOB TITLE: Supervisor, Materials (Purchasing) FLSA STATUS: Exempt
REPORTS TO: Manager, Materials
SUMMARY
This person is responsible for supervisory work involved in the maintenance, forecasts and accuracy of inventory. Position interfaces with molding, assembly, quality assurance, shipping/receiving, engineering, production control, and accounting to assure accurate daily, weekly, and monthly records of inventory are maintained. Additional responsibilities will include: coordinating, ordering, and gathering purchase orders to assure that materials are readily available for production.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
Under general supervision is responsible for the following major tasks:
  • Supervises and directs the activities of Materials Coordinators, Purchasing.
  • Directs, instructs, and trains new and promoted employees, and monitors, evaluates, and corrects employee performance and behavior as necessary.
  • Process purchase order requisitions through computer, noting prices and ship dates.
  • Expedites orders as required.
  • Prints purchase orders and verifies all daily receiving reports for processing to cost accounting.
  • Maintains and updates all purchasing records and documents (including vendor records, files, catalogues, literature, and price lists).
  • Responsible for raw material files and records pertinent to transactions and operations.
  • Processes receiving slips and invoices.
  • Prepares correspondence to expedite purchased materials, revise or change purchase orders, effect cancellations, improve terms, and obtain bids.
  • Processes monthly purchased items (including all raw materials and components) physical inventory counts into the computer system.
  • Maintains and updates departmental records on employee performance including the initiation of new records and reporting procedure.
  • Investigates and implements disciplinary actions in accord with corporate personnel policies and procedures.
  • Participates in and coordinates company programs, e.g., communications, job training, vacation scheduling, etc.
  • Prepares reports on accidents, injuries, inventory on hand, disciplinary support data, etc.
  • Performs other tasks and duties as required, necessitated, or directed.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
High school graduate with a minimum of two or more years inventory experience. One year experience in purchasing or similar field.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Possesses the ability to gather and analyze information and make decisions from a limited number of choices.
  • A minimum score of 50 on the Wonderlic Select Assessment (Traditional score of 20 on the Cognitive portion).

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
This position typically does not require any travel.
DISCLAIMER
The information contained in this job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of the duties and responsibilities of the job, nor are they intended to be an all-inclusive list of the skills and abilities required to do the job. Management may, at its discretion, assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Agreement to complete all post-hire required training.

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