Purchasing Agents, Except Wholesale, Retail, and Farm Products
Did You Know:
- About 42 percent of purchasing managers, buyers and purchasing agents are employed in wholesale trade or manufacturing establishments.
- Employment is projected to grow 7 percent, which is as fast as the average.
- Opportunities should be best for those with a college degree in engineering, business, economics or one of the applied sciences.
- Prospects often need continuing education or certification to advance.
Industry Areas
- Federal Executive Branch (OES Designation)
- Management of Companies and Enterprises
- Local Government (OES Designation)
Day-to-Day Tasks
- Prepare purchase orders, solicit bid proposals, and review requisitions for goods and services.
- Interview vendors and visit suppliers' plants and distribution centers to examine and learn about products, services, and prices.
- Monitor and follow applicable laws and regulations.
Overall Kind of Work
Purchasing managers, buyers, and purchasing agents buy a vast array of farm products, durable and nondurable goods, and services for companies and institutions. They attempt to get the best deal f...
Work Environment
Military
Finance and accounting specialists work in offices on land or aboard ships.
Status
What is the difference between enlisted and officer?
Enlisted:Enlisted members enter the Military with a high school diploma (in some cases a GED), at a minimum. They are employed in almost every type of military career, often in hands-on roles.
Officers: Officers either enter the Military with a four-year college degree or greater or served previously as enlisted members, and are generally employed in management roles or highly specialized fields that require intensive training.
Officer
Enlisted
Military Breakdown
The number of people who currently hold this career in the Military.
428 Purchasing Agents, Except Wholesale, Retail, and Farm Products in the military
Service Branches
Finance and Accounting Specialists work in the following services:
Type of Work
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People: 
Things: 
Skills at a Glance
The levels of different skills helpful in this career.
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Equipment Operation & Maintenance:
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Technology Design & Control:
Leadership:
Workplace at a Glance
The level of different environmental factors you would experience on the job.
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Decision Making:
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