Buyers and Purchasing Agents buy products and services for organizations to use or resell. They evaluate suppliers, negotiate contracts, and review the quality of products
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Print Occupation
- Buyers and Purchasing Agents
Manufacturing
What do they typically do
- Evaluate suppliers on the basis of the price, quality, and speed of delivery of their products and services
- Interview vendors and visit suppliers' plants and distribution centers to examine and learn about products, services, and prices
- Attend meetings, trade shows, and conferences to learn about new industry trends and make contacts with suppliers
- Analyze price proposals, financial reports, and other information to determine reasonable prices
- Negotiate contracts on behalf of their organization
- Work out agreements with suppliers, such as when products will be delivered
- Meet with staff and vendors to discuss defective or unacceptable goods or services and determine corrective action
- Evaluate and monitor contracts to be sure that vendors and suppliers comply with the terms and conditions of the contract and to determine the need for changes
- Maintain and review records of items bought, costs, deliveries, product performance, and inventories
Number of Jobs
Average Annual
Job Growth -0.2%
Job Openings 1,513
Education & Training
- Education Most require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.Associated Programs or MajorsLicense
Private Training Programs
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13779
Change -242