Jobs, Careers and Occupations

Purchasing Agents

Purchasing Agents Nature of Work

Purchasing agents purchase general and specialized equipment, materials and services for use or for further processing by their employers, such as industrial, commercial or government establishments.

Purchasing Agents Work Conditions

Purchasing agents have a high level of contact with suppliers and other work areas within their employing organization.

Purchasing Agents Personal Requirements

• aptitude for working with computer systems
• enjoy clerical and administrative activities
• good organizational and communication skills
• good planning skills

Purchasing Agents Employment Requirements

• A bachelor's degree or college diploma in business administration, commerce or economics
• previous experience as a purchasing or an administrative clerk may be required

Purchasing Agents Duties and Tasks

Purchasing agents may perform the following tasks:

• attend sales demonstrations
• check supplier operations at their place or on-site
• contact suppliers to obtain information on price, quality and delivery capabilities for the goods/services they require
• decide which products to buy, place orders and follow these up to make sure that they are delivered to the right place at the right time
• find reliable sources to supply goods and services
• look at and recommend potential new sources or alternative materials, prices and products
• look at product catalogues and trade journals
• meet with sales representatives from the various suppliers to compare their products and companies
• negotiate contractual conditions and prices with suppliers
• use computers to plan material requirements and to record details of goods ordered and received, costs of products and supplier information

Purchasing Agent Example Titles

• Procurement Officer
• Purchaser
• Purchasing Officer

Purchasing Agents Related Occupations

• Purchasing Clerks
• Purchasing Managers
• Retail Buyers
• Sales Representatives
• Wholesale Buyers

Purchasing Related Industries

• Logistics
• Operations
• Sales