Career roadmap
How to Become a Procurement Clerk
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a procurement clerk, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a procurement clerk: (1) finish high school, (2) build office skills, (3) get hired, (4) learn the ERP, (5) advance. Most people need about A few months on the job. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a procurement clerk
Finish high school
Or GED.
Build office skills
Excel and email.
Get hired
Procurement clerk.
Learn the ERP
On the job.
Advance
Buyer.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | A few months on the job |
Certifications and licenses
- Purchasing fundamentals course: Helpful.
- Excel certification: Helpful.
- CPSM: Later, for buyers.
- ERP training: Helpful.
Skills to build now
Start with purchase order processing, erp systems, and three-way matching, and practice organization and accuracy. Learning the procurement clerk vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Procurement Clerk: Entry.
- Buyer: Purchase.
- Senior Buyer: Categories.
- Purchasing Manager: Lead.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Procurement Clerk training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do procurement clerks need a degree?
No.
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.
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.
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.