Purchasing agents and officers purchase general and specialized equipment, materials, land or access rights and business services for use or for further processing by their establishment. They are employed throughout the public and private sectors.

You usually need a university degree or college diploma in business administration, commerce or economics. You may need experience as a purchasing or administrative clerk. To specialize in the purchase of materials or business services, you may need a related university degree or college diploma. For example, a purchaser of industrial products may need a bachelor's degree or college diploma in engineering. You may also need a Certificate in Purchasing [Certified Professional Purchaser (CPP)] from the Purchasing Management Association of Canada. This designation program is intended for practitioners in supply management who want to advance in their careers and obtain further education and expertise in the discipline. With experience, you may move up the ranks to become a manager. Most recent entrants have a community college diploma or undergraduate university degree.