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Wholesale and Retail Buyers, Except Farm Products

Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed

Compare to another career

Buy merchandise or commodities, other than farm products, for resale to consumers at the wholesale or retail level, including both durable and nondurable goods. Analyze past buying trends, sales records, price, and quality of merchandise to determine value and yield. Select, order, and authorize payment for merchandise according to contractual agreements. May conduct meetings with sales personnel and introduce new products. May negotiate contracts. Includes assistant wholesale and retail buyers of nonfarm products.

Pay & job outlook

We don't have national pay or outlook data for this role yet.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.

Top skills
NegotiationActive ListeningSpeakingPersuasionCritical ThinkingActive LearningJudgment and Decision MakingReading ComprehensionComplex Problem SolvingSocial Perceptiveness
Top knowledge areas
Sales and MarketingCustomer and Personal ServiceEnglish LanguageMathematicsAdministration and ManagementComputers and ElectronicsEconomics and AccountingCommunications and Media
Core tasks

• Buy merchandise or commodities for resale to wholesale or retail consumers.

• Negotiate prices, discount terms, or transportation arrangements with suppliers.

• Examine, select, order, or purchase merchandise consistent with quality, quantity, specification requirements, or other factors, such as environmental soundness.

• Recommend mark-up rates, mark-down rates, or merchandise selling prices.

• Obtain information about customer needs or preferences by conferring with sales or purchasing personnel.

• Authorize payment of invoices or return of merchandise.

• Monitor and analyze sales records, trends, or economic conditions to anticipate consumer buying patterns, company sales, and needed inventory.

• Collaborate with vendors to obtain or develop desired products.

Frequently asked questions

What education is typically required for Wholesale and Retail Buyers, Except Farm Products?

Typical entry-level education: Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed.