Purchasing managers plan, direct, and coordinate the buying of materials, products, or services for wholesalers, retailers, or organizations. They oversee the work of procurement-related occupations including buyers and purchasing agents.

Most purchasing managers work full time. Many work more than 40 hours per week.

Purchasing managers need a bachelor's degree and work experience as a buyer or purchasing agent.

The median annual wage for purchasing managers was $108,120 in May 2015.

Employment of purchasing managers is projected to show little or no change from 2014 to 2024. These workers will be needed to oversee the purchasing of goods and services for business operations or for resale to customers. Employment growth will vary with the type of purchasing manager and the specific industry.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for purchasing managers.

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

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