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Purchasing Jobs in Reading, PA (NOW HIRING)

StarrTrax

Purchaser

Lebanon, PA · On-site

$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)

StarrTrax

Be Seen First

Purchaser

Lebanon, PA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

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)

SCHOTT AG

Purchaser

Lebanon, PA

Manage all local purchasing and supply management activities, including sourcing, quoting, supplier selection, purchase order processing, and on-time delivery of materials and services * Serve as the ...

SCHOTT AG

Purchaser

Lebanon, PA · On-site

Manage all local purchasing and supply management activities, including sourcing, quoting, supplier selection, purchase order processing, and on-time delivery of materials and services * Serve as the ...

CRST

CDL A Lease Purchase Truck Driver

Reading, PA

$200K - $219K/yr

CDL-A Lease Purchase Truck Driver - $0 Down / No Credit Check / Walk Away Lease CRST The Transportation Solution Inc. is offering CDL-A truck drivers a chance to own their truck through our flexible ...

Aston Carter

Document Control Administrator

Pottstown, PA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

This role works closely with Production, Customer Service, Purchasing, and Supply Chain teams to ensure documentation accuracy, coordinate inventory information, and provide administrative support ...

R-V Industries Inc

Buyer

Honey Brook, PA · On-site

Create purchase orders, for products and services, based on the production required dates. * Work with multiple departments to supply component parts by delivery schedule requirements * Participate ...

KAG Food Products

CDL A Drivers

Quakertown, PA

$144.23 - $156.25/hr

Become an Owner Operator with a Lease Purchase Opportunity ! We are partnering with experienced CDL-A drivers who want to build their business as Owner Operators. Through our trusted lease purchase ...

KAG Food Products

CDL A Drivers

Allentown, PA

$144.23 - $156.25/hr

Become an Owner Operator with a Lease Purchase Opportunity ! We are partnering with experienced CDL-A drivers who want to build their business as Owner Operators. Through our trusted lease purchase ...

KAG Food Products

CDL A Drivers

Macungie, PA

$144.23 - $156.25/hr

Become an Owner Operator with a Lease Purchase Opportunity ! We are partnering with experienced CDL-A drivers who want to build their business as Owner Operators. Through our trusted lease purchase ...

Hexcel Corporation

Buyer

Saint Clair, PA · On-site

Negotiate and issue appropriate blanket purchase orders with suppliers providing on-going plant support activities and materials. * Negotiate and manage various suppliers performing services on a ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsPurchasing JobsPurchasing Jobs in Reading, PA

Purchasing information

See Reading, PA salary details

$29.3K

$51.9K

$80.2K

How much do purchasing jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 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:

Purchasing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing job openings in Reading, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,891 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Buyer (Purchasing Department)

Berks County

Reading, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 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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