How do they match: Purchasing Agents, Except Wholesale, Retail, and Farm Products

  • Purchase machinery, equipment, tools, parts, supplies, or services necessary for the operation of an establishment. Purchase raw or semifinished materials for manufacturing. May negotiate contracts.

  • Confer with staff, users, and vendors to discuss defective or unacceptable goods or services and determine corrective action.
  • Formulate policies and procedures for bid proposals and procurement of goods and services.
  • Interview vendors and visit suppliers' plants and distribution centers to examine and learn about products, services, and prices.
  • Prepare purchase orders, solicit bid proposals, and review requisitions for goods and services.
  • Research and evaluate suppliers, based on price, quality, selection, service, support, availability, reliability, production and distribution capabilities, and the supplier's reputation and history.
  • Review catalogs, industry periodicals, directories, trade journals, and Internet sites and consult with other department personnel to locate necessary goods and services.
  • Write and review product specifications, maintaining a working technical knowledge of the goods or services to be purchased.

  • Estimate demand for products or services.
  • Negotiate contracts with clients or service providers.
  • Obtain information about goods or services.
  • Purchase products or services.