Career profile · SOC 13-1020

Buyers and purchasing agents

Buyers and purchasing agents is an occupation catalogued under SOC 13-1020. The role reports a median annual salary of $75,650 in the US and is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (about as fast as average). Entry typically requires a Bachelor's degree, and shows high AI exposure (0.73 on a 0-1 scale) — significant portions of core tasks are already being automated.

Median salary
$75,650
per year
Growth outlook
Average
BLS 10-yr
Education
Bachelor's degree
AI exposure
7.3/10
automation risk

Frequently asked questions

How much does Buyers and purchasing agents earn?

The median annual salary for Buyers and purchasing agents in the US is $75,650.

What is the job outlook for Buyers and purchasing agents?

The role is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (about as fast as average). Current US employment is approximately 522,200 workers.

How do I become buyers and purchasing agents?

The typical entry education is a Bachelor's degree. Building a foundation in the top skills below will strengthen your application.

Will AI replace Buyers and purchasing agents?

Our AI-durability model gives Buyers and purchasing agents a score of 0.73 on a 0-1 scale (higher = more exposure). That places it at high AI risk — many core tasks are already being automated by generative AI and workflow tools. Focus on AI-adjacent skills or plan a pivot to an AI-durable adjacent role.

How hard is it to enter this field?

Buyers and purchasing agents has moderate barrier to entry — moderately gated — a bachelor's degree or equivalent training is typically required.

Is Buyers and purchasing agents right for you?

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