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How to Get a Government Purchasing Job
by Anne-Marie Monroe
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Overview
The U.S. government offers many federal employment opportunities for a purchasing job across the country. Responsibilities usually include performing the purchasing function of acquiring goods and services necessary to complete a government project. The purchasing agent or analyst must develop a procurement strategy, prepare and manage contracts and select and acquire suppliers. The most important aspect of this role is obtaining materials at the most economical price and ensuring the best overall value in accordance with the government's procurement policies, standards and procedures. By following these simple steps, you'll be on your way to landing a government purchasing job.
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Instructions
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Step 1
Search for available government purchasing jobs at http://www.usajobs.gov/, the official job site of the U.S. Federal Government. You may browse U.S. government jobs by agency, location or occupation or use a key word search. Review your options and choose the posting you would like to pursue. Each posting will include pertinent information such as which government agency is recruiting for the position, number of vacancies, location of the job, job description and salary range. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply. While pay rates will vary, the annual salary range for a government purchasing job begins at $27,504.00 and may go as high as $68,289.00.
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Step 2
Ensure that your qualifications meet the list of job requirements. The main job requirement for a government purchasing job is previous experience procuring supplies and services to meet purchase, rental or lease needs to complete ongoing projects. Additional job requirements include the ability to determine supply markets, place purchase orders, manage agreements, negotiate with suppliers and assess vendor responsibility. In addition to providing details of related work history, candidates are encouraged to highlight any accomplishments that show specific expertise relevant to the position. Applicants who do not have the proper qualifications will not be eligible for an interview.
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Step 3
Be clear on the terms of the position. For example, some candidates are required to take a written test and some job postings indicate that no promotion potential exists for the position.
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Step 4
Create a resume that ties your qualifications and work history to the job requirements. Mail, fax or submit it online for consideration. For those who have no resume, an application form called the OF-612 is available on the USAJOBS website.
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