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Senior Purchasing Assistant Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Why Join Sunrise Senior Living At Sunrise Senior Living, we believe meaningful work starts with ... Employee Assistant Program / Discount Program * Paid time off (PTO), sick time, and holiday pay ...

Why Join Sunrise Senior Living At Sunrise Senior Living, we believe meaningful work starts with ... Employee Assistant Program / Discount Program * Paid time off (PTO), sick time, and holiday pay ...

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Senior Purchasing Assistant information

What are Senior Purchasing Assistants?

Senior Purchasing Assistants are professionals who support procurement activities within an organization, often handling more complex tasks than entry-level assistants. They help source suppliers, negotiate prices, process purchase orders, and ensure the timely delivery of goods and services. In addition, they may analyze purchasing trends, coordinate with various departments, and assist in maintaining supplier relationships. Their role is crucial for optimizing costs and ensuring smooth operations within the supply chain.

What is the role of a senior procurement assistant?

A senior procurement assistant supports the purchasing process by coordinating with suppliers, preparing purchase orders, and ensuring timely delivery of goods and services. They often analyze procurement data, maintain records, and may use procurement software to streamline operations, requiring strong organizational and communication skills.

How much does a purchasing assistant earn?

A purchasing assistant typically earns between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level roles may start lower, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

Is procurement a high stress job?

As a Senior Purchasing Assistant, the role can involve high-pressure situations, such as meeting tight deadlines and managing supplier relationships. The job requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail, but stress levels vary depending on the industry, company size, and workload. Effective time management and communication skills help mitigate stress in procurement roles.

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

To thrive as a Senior Purchasing Assistant, you need a solid background in procurement processes, inventory management, and supplier negotiation, often supported by a relevant business degree or certification. Familiarity with ERP systems, purchasing software, and office productivity tools is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for excelling in this role. These competencies ensure efficient procurement operations, cost control, and productive supplier relationships, which are essential for organizational success.

How does a Senior Purchasing Assistant typically collaborate with other departments to ensure timely procurement?

A Senior Purchasing Assistant regularly works with teams such as inventory management, finance, and operations to align purchasing activities with organizational needs. This involves coordinating with inventory teams to monitor stock levels, working with finance to manage budgets and approve expenditures, and collaborating with operations to prioritize urgent orders. Effective communication and proactive follow-ups are essential to prevent delays and maintain smooth supply chains. By fostering strong interdepartmental relationships, Senior Purchasing Assistants help ensure that procurement processes support overall business goals.

What does a purchasing assistant do?

A purchasing assistant supports the procurement process by helping to order supplies, track inventory, and communicate with vendors. They often use procurement software and maintain records to ensure timely and cost-effective purchasing. Attention to detail and organizational skills are essential for this role.

What is the difference between Senior Purchasing Assistant vs Purchasing Assistant?

AspectSenior Purchasing AssistantPurchasing Assistant
CredentialsRelevant certifications (e.g., CIPS), experience in procurementEntry-level certifications or none, basic procurement knowledge
Work EnvironmentSupports senior staff, handles complex purchase orders, involved in negotiationsAssists with routine purchasing tasks, data entry, and order processing
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, retail, logistics, and corporate procurement teamsCommon in similar industries, often as entry-level role

The main difference between a Senior Purchasing Assistant and a Purchasing Assistant lies in experience, responsibilities, and required credentials. Senior Purchasing Assistants typically handle more complex procurement tasks, participate in negotiations, and support strategic purchasing, whereas Purchasing Assistants focus on routine tasks and order processing. Both roles are essential in procurement teams across various industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of Senior Purchasing jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Senior Purchasing jobs in Washington are:

Sr. Construction Purchasing Agent

Kelso Industries

Lorton, VA • On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

  • Senior Purchasing Agent 

    Position Summary:

    The Senior Purchasing Agent is responsible for managing the procurement of
    materials, equipment, subcontracted services, and vendor relationships to
    support mechanical construction operations. This role plays a critical part in
    ensuring projects receive the right materials at the right time and at the
    most competitive cost while maintaining quality standards and supporting
    project profitability.
    The Senior Purchasing Agent works closely with Project Managers,
    Estimators, Operations Leadership, Fabrication, Vendors and field teams to
    coordinate purchasing activities for HVAC, plumbing, piping, fabrication, and
    industrial construction projects. The ideal candidate possesses strong
    procurement experience, excellent negotiation skills, and a thorough
    understanding of mechanical and plumbing materials and supply chain
    management.


    Key Responsibilities:


    Procurement & Purchasing
    Manage the procurement process for materials, equipment, tools,
    and subcontracted services required for mechanical construction
    projects.
    Solicit, review, and evaluate vendor and supplier quotations to
    ensure cost competitiveness and scope alignment.
    Issue purchase orders and maintain procurement documentation in
    accordance with company procedures.
    Coordinate purchasing activities to ensure materials and equipment
    are delivered on time to support project schedules.
    Identify and source alternative suppliers, products, and solutions to
    improve pricing, availability, and operational efficiency.
    Monitor market trends, pricing fluctuations, and supply chain
    conditions affecting procurement activities.


    Vendor & Supplier Management
    Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers,
    manufacturers, distributors, and subcontractors.
    Negotiate pricing agreements, rebates, terms, and strategic
    purchasing partnerships.
    Evaluate supplier performance related to quality, delivery,
    responsiveness, and cost effectiveness.
    Resolve vendor disputes, delivery issues, and procurement-related
    challenges.
    Maintain an approved vendor database and support supplier
    qualification efforts.


    Project Support & Coordination
    Collaborate with Estimating during preconstruction to obtain budget
    pricing and supplier input.
    Work closely with Project Managers to understand project
    requirements, schedules, and procurement priorities.
    Coordinate with Fabrication Shops and field operations to ensure
    timely availability of materials and equipment.
    Assist with long-lead item identification and procurement planning.
    Support project turnover and procurement planning meetings.


    Cost Control & Financial Management
    Support company profitability by obtaining competitive pricing and
    identifying cost-saving opportunities.
    Track purchasing commitments and assist with project cost
    reporting.
    Review invoices, purchase orders, and receiving documentation for
    accuracy.
    Ensure procurement activities align with project budgets and
    contractual requirements.
    Identify opportunities for standardization and strategic sourcing
    across the organization.


    Inventory & Logistics 
    Assist in managing inventory levels for commonly used materials and
    shop supplies.
    Coordinate material deliveries, storage requirements, and logistics
    planning.
    Work with warehouse and fabrication teams to optimize material flow
    and inventory management.
    Monitor shortages, backorders, and supply chain disruptions and
    develop mitigation plans.


    Process Improvement & Compliance 
    Support continuous improvement initiatives related to procurement
    efficiency and cost management.
    Maintain accurate purchasing records and reporting.
    Ensure compliance with company purchasing policies, contractual
    obligations, and ethical procurement practices.
    Participate in ERP, procurement software, and process improvement
    initiatives.


    Qualifications :
    3+ years of purchasing, procurement, or supply chain experience
    within mechanical contracting, construction, HVAC, plumbing, piping,
    or industrial environments.
    Strong knowledge of mechanical construction materials, equipment,
    and vendor networks.
    Proven experience negotiating pricing, contracts, and supplier
    agreements.
    Strong understanding of project-based procurement and construction
    operations.
    Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
    Excellent communication and relationship management abilities.
    Proficiency with ERP systems, purchasing software, Microsoft Excel,
    and Microsoft Office Suite-Kojo Experience Required.

  • Base Salary Range: $85,000-$120,000
  • Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO
 
Pay Transparency Statement: 
The compensation range provided represents the Company's good-faith estimate of the base salary for this position at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, qualifications, skills, geographic location, internal equity, and other business considerations.