Associate buyers are considered entry level positions and what they are offered for compensation can depend on several different things. If you are looking for someone who is new in this position than minimum wage is acceptable. If they hold a college degree that is resourceful to being a buyer in your market than their pay should reflect that or any experience that they may hold. On average most associate buyers (at an entry level position) with at least 12 months experience or a 2 year degree earn roughly $10-$12 hour in the Midwest, after 12 months most employers offer a .50 hourly increase in pay.