What is a purchasing assistant job?
A purchasing assistant job involves being responsible for supporting the purchasing team in a company. The main duties of a purchasing assistant are to process purchase orders, communicate with suppliers, and track inventory levels. This position is essential for ensuring that the company is operating efficiently and that the purchasing process is executed effectively.
What usually do in this position?
A purchasing assistant typically works in an office setting and helps the purchasing team with administrative tasks. They are responsible for managing the purchase order process, which includes creating purchase orders, monitoring purchase order status, and communicating with suppliers. Additionally, they may be responsible for maintaining inventory levels, researching potential suppliers, and negotiating prices.
Top 5 skills for the position:
- Attention to detail
- Organizational skills
- Effective communication
- Negotiation skills
- Time management
How to become a purchasing assistant specialist
To become a purchasing assistant, you typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Additionally, some employers may require previous experience in a similar role. To stand out as a candidate, it’s beneficial to have strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication skills. Some employers may also require a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as business or supply chain management.
Average salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for purchasing assistants was $41,710 in May 2020. The salary range for this position can vary based on factors such as experience, industry, and location.
Roles and types
Purchasing assistants can work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, retail, and healthcare. Some common job titles in this field include purchasing coordinator, procurement assistant, and supply chain assistant. Depending on the company, a purchasing assistant may work with a team of purchasing professionals or be the sole purchasing support staff member.
Locations with the most popular jobs in the USA
The states with the highest employment level for purchasing assistants include California, Texas, and New York. However, job availability can vary based on industry and company location.
What are the typical tools?
Purchasing assistants use a variety of software and tools to perform their job duties. Some common tools include enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, Microsoft Excel, and communication tools such as email and instant messaging. Additionally, some purchasing assistants may use specialized procurement software.
In conclusion
Purchasing assistant jobs are essential for ensuring that a company’s purchasing process runs smoothly. This position requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication skills. With the right education and experience, a career as a purchasing assistant can be fulfilling and rewarding. If you’re interested in this field, consider researching job opportunities in your area and building the necessary skills to succeed.