O*NET Career Intelligence

Purchasing Agents, Except Wholesale, Retail, and Farm Products

SOC 13-1023.00

Purchase machinery, equipment, tools, parts, supplies, or services necessary for the operation of an establishment. Purchase raw or semi-finished materials for manufacturing.

Zone 4 Business and Financial Operations

Skills

Knowledge

Job Zone

Green

Top Skills 8

Reading Comprehension

4.0

Active Listening

4.0

Speaking

4.0

Critical Thinking

3.9

Writing

3.8

Active Learning

3.8

Judgment and Decision Making

3.8

Management of Financial Resources

3.8

Knowledge Areas 8

English Language

4.1

Administration and Management

3.8

Economics and Accounting

3.8

Law and Government

3.8

Customer and Personal Service

3.6

Transportation

3.6

Production and Processing

3.5

Mathematics

3.5

Key Tasks

1Prepare purchase orders, solicit bid proposals, and review requisitions for goods and services.

2Purchase the highest quality merchandise at the lowest possible price and in correct amounts.

3Monitor and follow applicable laws and regulations.

4Research and evaluate suppliers, based on price, quality, selection, service, support, availability, reliability, production and distribution capabilities, and the supplier's reputation and history.

5Negotiate, renegotiate, and administer contracts with suppliers, vendors, and other representatives.

Also Known As

Area Field Person Area Field Worker Buyer Contract Administrator Contract Analyst Contract Specialist Contractor Buyer Contracts Administrator Contracts Manager Equipment, Supplies, and Tools Purchasing Agent