FAQ
Procurement Clerk FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a procurement clerk.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a procurement clerk: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about procurement clerks
Do procurement clerks need a degree?
No.
Is the job declining?
BLS projects decline.
Can I become a buyer?
Yes, it’s a common path.
How much does a procurement clerk make?
The median annual wage for procurement clerks was $50,580 ($24.32 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $38,040 and the highest 10% earned more than $68,620.
How long does it take to become a procurement clerk?
Most people need about A few months on the job of training. A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a procurement clerk?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
Is procurement clerk a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -8.1% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 3,700 openings each year. Upsides include steady office work; a common challenge is that declining employment.
What skills does a procurement clerk need?
Key technical skills include purchase order processing, erp systems, three-way matching, and supplier communication. Employers also value organization, accuracy, and communication.
What certifications are available for procurement clerks?
Common credentials include Purchasing fundamentals course, Excel certification, CPSM, and ERP training. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Procurement Clerk fit quiz, compare with Purchasing Agent, or explore Procurement Clerk training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 43-3061 (Procurement clerks).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Procurement clerks (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.