Buyers and purchasing agents buy products and services for organizations to use or resell. They evaluate suppliers, negotiate contracts, and review the quality of products.

Most buyers and purchasing agents work full time. Some work more than 40 hours per week.

Although a high school diploma may be sufficient for some positions, many employers require buyers and purchasing agents to have a bachelor's degree. Most entry-level positions require some form of on-the-job training.

The median annual wage for buyers and purchasing agents was $59,620 in May 2015.

Employment of buyers and purchasing agents is projected to grow 2 percent from 2014 to 2024, slower than the average for all occupations. These workers will be needed to buy goods and services for business operations or for resale to customers. Employment growth will vary with the type of purchasing agent and the specific industry.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for buyers and purchasing agents.

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of buyers and purchasing agents with similar occupations.

Learn more about buyers and purchasing agents by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.