Prepare purchase orders, solicit bid proposals, and review requisitions for goods and services.

Purchase the highest quality merchandise at the lowest possible price and in correct amounts.

Analyze price proposals, financial reports, and other data and information to determine reasonable prices.

Maintain and review computerized or manual records of purchased items, costs, deliveries, product performance, and inventories.

Research and evaluate suppliers, based on price, quality, selection, service, support, availability, reliability, production and distribution capabilities, and the supplier's reputation and history.

Confer with staff, users, and vendors to discuss defective or unacceptable goods or services and determine corrective action

Evaluate and monitor contract performance to ensure compliance with contractual obligations and to determine need for changes.

Monitor shipments to ensure that goods come in on time, and resolve problems related to undelivered goods.

Interview vendors and visit suppliers' plants and distribution centers to examine and learn about products, services, and prices.