Contact suppliers to schedule or expedite deliveries and to resolve shortages, missed or late deliveries, and other problems

Prepare purchase orders and send copies to suppliers and to departments that originate requests

Compare prices, specifications, and delivery dates to determine the best bid among potential suppliers

Perform buying duties when necessary

Prepare, maintain, and review purchasing files, reports, and price lists

Answer customer and supplier questions about order status, changes, or cancellations

Review requisition orders to check accuracy, terminology, and specifications

Decide if inventory quantities are sufficient, ordering more materials when necessary