The general purpose of the occupational analysis is to provide workable, basic information dealing with the many and varied duties performed in the purchasing occupation. The document opens with a brief introduction followed by a job description. The bulk of the document is presented in table form. Fourteen duties are broken down into a number of tasks and for each task a two-page table is presented, showing on the first page: tools, equipment, materials, objects acted upon; performance knowledge (related also to decisions, cues and errors); safety--hazard; and on the second page: science; math--number systems; and communications (performance modes, examples, and skills and concepts). The duties include: maintaining purchase, price, stock and consumption, and vendor records; maintaining catalog file and inventory control; conducting market studies and cost analysis; developing supply sources; securing quotation; choosing between contract and open market purchase; issuing purchase orders; corresponding with vendors; and fostering human relations. A glossary of purchasing terms is appended. (BP)