Purchasing Agent

Job Skills

Purchasing agents need to be proficient in word processing, spreadsheet software, and the Internet. Besides good communication skills and the ability to analyze data, other skills include mathematical knowledge, knowledge of supply-chain management, and the ability to negotiate and perform financial analyses. They should be excellent decision-makers and planners, and also possess leadership qualities.

Income

In 2002, purchasing agents, except those who worked in wholesale, retail, and farm products, earned a median annual salary of $45,090. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10 percent, who earned less than $27,950, and the highest 10 percent, who earned more than $73,990. The following shows the median annual salaries for the industries employing the highest numbers of purchasing agents:

• Federal Government - $101,290
• Aerospace product and parts manufacturing - 98,000
• Management of companies and enterprises - 97,420
• Local government - 90,030
• General medical and surgical hospitals - 89,520

Training and Education

The type of degree candidates are required to have depends on the size of the organization that hires them. Large wholesale and retail stores usually require applicants to have a bachelor's degree with an emphasis on business, while manufacturing firms prefer candidates with a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering, business, economics, or an applied science. However, for those who wish to advance to management positions, a master's degree is essential. New employees spend 1 to 5 years learning their specific business from experienced employees, and gradually receive greater responsibility.

Employment

In 2002, purchasing agents held about 264,000 jobs. 42 percent were employed in wholesale trade and manufacturing, 15 percent worked in retail, and the rest worked in service establishments, such as hospitals and government.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, the number of purchasing agents is expected to increase more slowly than the average. Purchasing information is now easier to obtain, thanks to electronic commerce over the Internet. This has greatly increased the productivity of purchasing agents and slowed demand for these positions. In addition, companies can now deal with fewer suppliers on a less frequent basis, due to the introduction of exclusive supply contracts and log-term contracting.