Purchasing coordinator

What does a Purchasing Coordinator do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Purchasing Coordinator is responsible for coordinating and streamlining procurement processes within an organization. Tasks include analyzing needs, negotiating contracts, evaluating suppliers, and ensuring purchases are made according to company guidelines and budgets. The role often involves working closely with both internal departments and external suppliers to optimize costs and quality. The work environment is primarily office-based, characterized by a fast pace, and requires accuracy, problem-solving skills, and good communication abilities.

Salary Development Over Time

Over the past three years, the salary for Purchasing Coordinators has shown a clear upward trend. In 2022, the average salary was 44,600 SEK, increasing to 47 600 SEK in 2023 and further to 49 500 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 11% over the period. The salary increase can be linked to increased complexity in global supply chains and a growing need for qualified purchasing functions. Additionally, competition for experienced Purchasing Coordinators has intensified, pushing up salary levels. Despite this positive development, clear gender pay gaps still exist.

Purchasing Coordinator Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 49 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,100 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 56,900 SEK/month (male, private employee, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 298 SEK/hour (average, hourly employee)
• Gender pay gap: Men 52 200 SEK, women 47 000 SEK (women earn 90% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salaries vary mainly depending on employer and sector, generally somewhat higher in metropolitan areas.

Education and Qualifications

To work as a Purchasing Coordinator, a post-secondary education in economics, purchasing, logistics, or a related field is generally required. Many employers also value practical experience from purchasing or logistics functions, as well as good knowledge of business systems and negotiation techniques. Depending on the workplace, various certifications or specialized courses may be advantageous.

• Post-secondary education: Economics, purchasing, or logistics (2–3 years)
• Certifications: Purchasing-specific certificates (e.g., CISil, SILF or similar)
• Internship/Trainee: Practical experience in purchasing/logistics is often advantageous
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, preferably with an economic or technical focus
• Courses and self-study: Opportunities for further training in negotiation techniques and business systems

Common Benefits and Compensation

The most common benefits for Purchasing Coordinators include occupational pension, wellness allowance, and flexible working hours. Other common compensations include bonus agreements tied to achieved goals, subsidized lunches, employee discounts, and sometimes remote work options depending on the employer and industry.

Market Competition and Challenges

The market for Purchasing Coordinators is characterized by moderate competition, with demand expected to remain unchanged over the next five years according to the Employment Service. The role demands quick adaptation to changing conditions in supply chains and managing multiple projects simultaneously. A major challenge is balancing cost efficiency with quality and sustainability, especially during times of uncertain deliveries and global instability. Digitalization and automation are also transforming the profession, requiring continuous skills development. Additionally, high demands from management and operations make stress tolerance and prioritization skills crucial.

Tips for Aspiring Purchasing Coordinators

To succeed as a Purchasing Coordinator, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with practical abilities. A good first step is to acquire relevant education in economics or logistics and to seek internships or part-time jobs in purchasing during studies. Precision and a structured approach make it easier to handle large data sets and complex contracts. Clear communication and relationship-building are essential in negotiations and supplier contacts. Initiative and an interest in business development often open doors to greater responsibility and new career opportunities. Being flexible and able to adapt quickly to changes in the environment is also a significant asset. Finally, staying updated on trends and digital tools is crucial for competitiveness in the job market.

Key Facts about Purchasing Coordinators

• Educational level: Post-secondary education (2–3 years) recommended
• Work environment: Office-based, often with a high pace and cross-department collaboration
• Typical employment: Full-time, but consulting assignments also occur
• Demand: Moderate, approximately 550 job openings in the profession group
• Gender distribution: Clear salary differences between men and women

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years as a Purchasing Coordinator, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as Purchasing Manager, Strategic Buyer, or Project Manager within supply chain management. Some also choose to specialize in areas like sustainability purchasing or digital procurement systems. According to the Employment Service's forecast for the profession group buyers and procurement officers, job opportunities are assessed as moderate, with a balanced recruitment situation and unchanged demand over five years. However, digitalization and sustainability focus are expected to increase the demand for specialized skills in the future.

Common Questions about Purchasing Coordinators

• What does a Purchasing Coordinator earn?
  - The average salary is 49 500 SEK per month, but it varies depending on experience, education, and sector.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 52 200 SEK while women earn 47 000 SEK. Women thus earn approximately 90% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a Purchasing Coordinator?
  - Post-secondary education in economics, logistics, or purchasing is recommended, preferably 2–3 years.
• What is the job market like for Purchasing Coordinators?
  - The demand is assessed as medium-sized and the job market is balanced, with approximately 550 job openings in the profession group.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a Purchasing Coordinator?
  - The highest salary is 56,900 SEK and the lowest 38,100 SEK, depending on sector, education, and experience.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, and sometimes bonuses or remote work options.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Analytical ability, accuracy, communication skills, and stress resilience are especially important.