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What does a Purchasing Buyer do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 2 min read

A purchasing buyer is responsible for the procurement of materials and services for their organization. They work with suppliers to negotiate contracts, prices, and delivery schedules. They also monitor inventory levels and ensure that orders are placed in a timely manner.

Purchasing Buyer job duties include:

  • Research potential vendors
  • Request quotes from vendors
  • Analyze quotes from vendors
  • Select vendors
  • Negotiate prices and terms with vendors
  • Place orders with vendors
  • Track and expedite orders
  • Resolve issues with vendor orders
  • Maintain vendor relationships
  • Update purchasing records

Purchasing Buyer Job Requirements

A purchasing buyer typically needs at least a high school diploma, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and most buyers complete on-the-job training. Certification from the American Purchasing Society can improve job prospects. Experience in customer service, data entry, and math is also helpful.

Purchasing Buyer Skills

  • Communication
  • Negotiation
  • Problem solving
  • Research
  • Time management
  • Organization
  • Multitasking
  • Detail oriented
  • Computer skills
  • Written and verbal communication skills
  • Interpersonal skills

Related: Top Purchasing Buyer Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Purchasing Buyer

A purchasing buyer is responsible for the procurement of materials and services for an organization. They work with suppliers to negotiate contracts, select vendors, and manage inventory. In order to become a purchasing buyer, one must have a bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field. Additionally, experience in supply chain management or procurement is helpful. Strong negotiation and communication skills are essential, as is the ability to use data to make decisions.

Related: Purchasing Buyer Resume Example

Related: Purchasing Buyer Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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