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Purchasing Jobs in Reading, PA (NOW HIRING)

Purchasing Coordinator

Macungie, PA · On-site

$20.50 - $27.50/hr

Summary The Purchasing Coordinator position is responsible for supporting the purchasing team and managing administrative tasks related to vendor and supplier agreements, contracts, pricing, item ...

Purchasing Coordinator

Red Hill, PA · On-site

$20.50 - $27.50/hr

Summary The Purchasing Coordinator position is responsible for supporting the purchasing team and managing administrative tasks related to vendor and supplier agreements, contracts, pricing, item ...

Purchasing Specialist We are seeking a qualified Purchasing Specialist to join our team in Lancaster. The ideal candidate will be responsible for procuring goods and services for our organization. If ...

Description Job Summary We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Purchasing Agent to join our dynamic electronics manufacturing team. In this role, you will be responsible for managing ...

Purchaser

Lebanon, PA

$33.65 - $38.46/hr

Experience (5+ years) in Material Planning or Purchasing * Experience (3+ years) related to leadership and/or management (preferred) * Experience and knowledge with MRP/MPS (preferably SAP)

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Showing results 1-20

Purchasing information

See Reading, PA salary details

$29.3K

$51.9K

$80.2K

How much do purchasing jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for purchasing in Reading, PA is $51,891.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,300.00 and $57,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a purchasing?

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 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 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 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.

Are purchasing jobs in demand?

Purchasing jobs are generally in demand across various industries as companies seek professionals to manage procurement, supply chain, and vendor relationships. These roles often require skills in negotiation, inventory management, and familiarity with procurement software, and employment growth depends on economic conditions and industry needs.

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 in various industries, with roles that can lead to management positions and require certifications like CPSM or C.P.M. for advancement.

What career paths exist in purchasing?

Career paths in purchasing include roles such as Purchasing Agent, Procurement Specialist, Category Manager, and Supply Chain Manager. Advancement often involves gaining experience, certifications like CPSM or CPM, and developing skills in negotiation, supplier management, and inventory control.

What does a purchasing job do?

A purchasing job involves sourcing, negotiating, and buying goods or services for a company to ensure quality and cost efficiency. Professionals in this role often use procurement software and need strong negotiation and organizational skills to manage supplier relationships and maintain inventory levels.

What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing jobs in Reading, PA?

The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Reading, PA are:

What are popular job titles related to Purchasing jobs in Reading, PA?

For Purchasing jobs in Reading, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Purchasing jobs in Reading, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Purchasing jobs in Reading, PA are:

What cities near Reading, PA are hiring for Purchasing jobs?

Cities near Reading, PA with the most Purchasing job openings:

Infographic showing various Purchasing job openings in Reading, PA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 7% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,891 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Purchasing Assistant

Quakertown, PA • On-site

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Description

Purchasing Assistant 

QUAKERTOWN, PA


Quakertown, PA

Penn Stainless is seeking a qualified Purchasing Assistant like YOU to join our team! Founded in 1949, Penn Stainless Products, Inc. is a growing specialty metal full-line service center with locations in Quakertown and Jackson Center, PA. Penn Stainless Products practices on-going process improvements to ensure that we supply our customers with the highest level of stainless-steel products and in-house processing. Apply today to learn more about this excellent opportunity.


Description

We are looking for a Purchasing Assistant to work within our purchasing department to help support our order processing. This includes submitting purchase orders, vendor communications, inventory and record keeping. We are seeking an onsite candidate, with full-time work hours M-F 8:00am-5:00pm.


Job Responsibilities:

  • Generate purchasing reports and processing purchase orders 
  • Communicate with vendors regarding pricing, product availability, delivery schedules, and order status
  • Maintain pricing from various vendors 
  • Resolve order discrepancies 
  • Assist purchasing managers with sourcing and procurement tasks 
  • Help maintain inventory, purchasing records and reports 
  • Ensure compliance with company purchasing policies and procedures
  • Perform other administrative duties 

Knowledge and Experience:

  • Good communication skills
  • Excellent attention to detail and analytical skills
  • Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel
  •  Associate or Bachelor's degree in Business or related field (or equivalent experience).  
  • Prior experience in order processing and vendor negotiation

What we offer:

  • Health Benefits after 30 days (Medical, Dental and Vision)
  • Paid Vacation
  • 401(K) with Company Match
  • Profit Sharing and Quarterly Incentive Bonus Programs
  • Short term & Long-term Disability
  • Company paid Life Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Weekly Pay

Further information on Penn Stainless benefits can be found at: www.pennstainlessbenefits.com


This position reports out of the Quakertown, PA location. Typical hours are Mon-Fri from 8 AM to 5, with 1 hour for lunch. Apply today to learn more about this excellent opportunity!