Qualifications, Education and Training Bachelor's degree in liberal arts, business administration or engineering, with an emphasis on purchasing, accounting, economics or statistics. Must be able to analyze numbers and technical data to make responsible buying decisions. Must have a good memory for details and be able to work independently. Beginners usually undergo an initial training period to learn the company's operating and purchasing requirements and procedures. Successful purchasing agents keep up with developments in their field through participation in seminars offered by professional societies and by taking courses at local colleges.
Computer literacy is helpful.