Purchasing Agents, Except Wholesale, Retail, and Farm Products

Job Description:

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

Associated Tasks:

• Prepare purchase orders, solicit bid proposals, and review requisitions for goods and services.
• Purchase the highest quality merchandise at the lowest possible price and in correct amounts.
• Monitor and follow applicable laws and regulations.
• Research and evaluate suppliers based on price, quality, selection, service, support, availability, reliability, production and distribution capabilities, and the supplier’s reputation and history.
• Negotiate, renegotiate, and administer contracts with suppliers, vendors, and other representatives.
• Analyze price proposals, financial reports, and other data and information to determine reasonable prices.
• Maintain and review computerized or manual records of items purchased, costs, deliveries, product performance, and inventories.
• Write and review product specifications, maintaining a working technical knowledge of the goods or services to be purchased.
• Formulate policies and procedures for bid proposals and procurement of goods and services.
• Evaluate and monitor contract performance to ensure compliance with contractual obligations and to determine need for changes.