As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Purchasing Assistant in Rhode Island is $73,274 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $35.
However, a Purchasing Assistant's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Purchasing Assistant's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Purchasing Assistant's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here’s how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Purchasin... Level Purchasing Assistant | $56,413 |
| Purchasin... Level Purchasing Assistant | $64,760 |
| Purchasin... Level Purchasing Assistant | $72,571 |
| Purchasin... Level Purchasing Assistant | $92,570 |
| Purchasin... Level Purchasing Assistant | $105,844 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Purchasing Assistants. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
For Purchasing Assistant roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 53% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Pharmaceuticals and Financial Services sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 30% above the average. In contrast, Purchasing Assistant positions in Transportation or Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Purchasing Assistant as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pharmaceuticals | $95,257 | $46.0 | 30% |
| Financial Services | $87,929 | $42.0 | 20% |
| Biotechnology | $84,266 | $41.0 | 15% |
| Energy & Utilities | $84,266 | $41.0 | 15% |
| Software & Networking | $82,800 | $40.0 | 13% |
Understanding how a Purchasing Assistant's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on August 01, 2026Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Purchasing Assistant job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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