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Purchasing Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

As a key member of the purchasing team, you will follow up on outstanding receipts for purchase orders, expedite purchase order changes, and will be integral to projects related to purchasing and ...

Planner/Buyer (Madison, Alabama (AL), US)

Madison, AL · On-site

$51K - $70K/yr

As a key member of the purchasing team, you will follow up on outstanding receipts for purchase orders, expedite purchase order changes, and will be integral to projects related to purchasing and ...

This role provides support across purchasing, quality management, and proposal activities - giving the right candidate broad exposure to how a defense contractor operates and a clear path to grow ...

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This role provides support across purchasing, quality management, and proposal activities giving the right candidate broad exposure to how a defense contractor operates and a clear path to grow into ...

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Purchasing information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$28.6K

$50.7K

$78.3K

How much do purchasing jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for purchasing in Decatur, AL is $50,654.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,300.00 and $56,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Purchasing job?

A Purchasing job involves the process of acquiring goods and services for a company or organization. Professionals in purchasing are responsible for sourcing suppliers, negotiating contracts, evaluating quality, and ensuring that needed materials are delivered on time and within budget. Their work is essential for maintaining smooth operations and helping organizations control costs. Purchasing roles can exist in many industries, ranging from manufacturing to retail and government. These jobs often require strong negotiation, analytical, and communication skills.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In purchasing, high-level executive roles such as Chief Procurement Officer or Vice President of Procurement can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially in large corporations. These positions typically require extensive experience, strategic negotiation skills, and often involve overseeing large budgets and teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Purchasing professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Purchasing professional, you need strong analytical skills, negotiation abilities, and a solid understanding of supply chain management, typically supported by a degree in business, supply chain, or a related field. Familiarity with procurement software such as SAP, Oracle, or Coupa, and certifications like Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) are common requirements. Attention to detail, effective communication, and relationship-building are vital soft skills for managing supplier interactions and resolving issues. These competencies ensure cost-effective procurement, risk mitigation, and smooth operations within the organization.

What is a career in purchasing?

A career in purchasing involves sourcing, negotiating, and acquiring goods and services for an organization to meet its operational needs. Professionals in this field analyze supplier options, manage vendor relationships, and often use procurement software to ensure cost-effective and timely acquisitions.

What is the job of purchasing?

The purchasing job involves sourcing, negotiating, and acquiring goods or services needed by a company to support its operations. It requires skills in supplier management, cost analysis, and familiarity with procurement software. The role ensures that the organization obtains quality products at the best prices while maintaining supply chain efficiency.

What are some common challenges faced by purchasing professionals and how can they be addressed?

Purchasing professionals often encounter challenges such as supply chain disruptions, fluctuating prices, and managing relationships with multiple vendors. Staying proactive by building strong supplier partnerships, maintaining clear communication, and using data-driven decision-making tools can help mitigate these issues. Additionally, collaborating closely with other departments like finance and operations ensures alignment on purchasing needs and helps streamline procurement processes.

What is the difference between Purchasing vs Procurement Specialist?

AspectPurchasingProcurement Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or associate degree; certifications like C.P.M. are commonOften requires a bachelor's degree; certifications like CPSM are advantageous
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, handling purchase orders and supplier interactionsOffice and strategic planning, supplier negotiations, and contract management
Industry UsageUsed across various industries for buying goods and servicesMore strategic role, involved in sourcing and supplier relationship management

Purchasing focuses on the transactional aspect of buying goods and services, such as issuing purchase orders. Procurement specialists take a broader, strategic approach, including sourcing, negotiations, and supplier management. While both roles are essential in supply chain operations, procurement specialists often handle more complex negotiations and strategic planning compared to purchasing professionals.

What are the 4 types of purchasing?

In purchasing roles, the four main types are strategic purchasing, which involves long-term planning and supplier relationships; tactical purchasing, focusing on day-to-day procurement activities; operational purchasing, handling routine orders and transactions; and emergency purchasing, which addresses urgent needs. Understanding these types helps purchasing professionals manage different procurement scenarios effectively.
What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing jobs in Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing jobs in Decatur, AL? For Purchasing jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Purchasing jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Purchasing jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Purchasing jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Purchasing job openings:
Manufacturing Materials Buyer (Aerospace/UAS)

Manufacturing Materials Buyer (Aerospace/UAS)

COLSA Corporation

Madison, AL

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

COLSA is seeking a Manufacturing Materials Buyer in Huntsville, Alabama to help in the design and delivery of cutting-edge uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) as we shape the future of drone flight for our Nation. You'll play a critical role in sourcing materials, components, and building strategic supplier relationships that keep production moving and help ensure every aircraft is built to the highest standards of quality, reliability, and performance.

Job Duties & Responsibilities 

Manage end-to-end procurement of manufacturing materials and flight-critical components, from RFQs and supplier selection through purchase order issuance and delivery.

         Use Deltek Costpoint to process purchase requisitions, issue purchase orders, maintain procurement records, and track purchasing activities.

         Source manufacturing materials and flight-critical components, including avionics, electronic assemblies, sensors, composite materials, machined parts, hardware, fasteners, propulsion components, batteries, wiring harnesses, and related aerospace hardware.

         Evaluate supplier quotations, negotiate pricing, lead times, and commercial terms, and recommend suppliers for inclusion on the approved vendor list.

         Build and maintain strategic supplier relationships while monitoring performance and resolving quality, delivery, and supply issues.

         Identify, evaluate, and qualify new suppliers while maintaining the approved vendor list and developing alternate sources to strengthen the supply base and reduce supply chain risk.

         Partner with the Program Manager, Production Manager, Manufacturing Scheduler, Engineering, and Quality teams to ensure purchased materials meet technical, schedule, quality, and cost requirements.

         Convert engineering bills of material (BOMs) into purchasing BOMs to support manufacturing operations, material traceability, and contract compliance.

         Apply knowledge of FAR, DFARS, ITAR/EAR, and supplier flow-down requirements when supporting federal contract procurement.

         Identify opportunities to reduce material costs, improve supplier performance, and strengthen supply continuity without compromising quality or production schedules.

         May provide guidance and mentoring to less experienced procurement personnel.

At COLSA, people are our most valuable resource and centered at our core value. We invite you to unite your talents with opportunity and be a part of our "Family of Professionals!" Learn about our employee-centric culture and benefits here: https://www.colsa.com/culture_benefitsÂ