This practice Buyer job interview is from an actual civil service interview. 

The practice interview is provided by the Complete Civil Service Interview Guide.  The Guide is written by experts who have developed civil service exams, written interview questions, and conducted civil service interviews at all levels.  This step-by-step Guide will teach you how to succeed in the civil service interview including:

• How civil service interviews are different from private industry interviews and how to handle the differences.
• How to identify possible interview questions before your civil service interview.
• How to answer any civil service interview question confidently and without nervousness.
• Answers to the toughest interview questions and situations.
• How civil service interviews are scored and what words to use to raise your score even higher.

More from the Complete Civil Service Interview Guide on governmentjob.us including more practice interviews and civil service interview questions and answers. 

Job Description

A Buyer purchases various services, goods, materials, furniture, and equipment for the school district through written and oral requests; operates a personal computer using various Microsoft applications and district systems; identifies vendors and obtains pricing consistent with competitive bidding or other district procurement policies; prepares bids or specifications; contacts vendors regarding problems with orders.  Works with the requesting department and as needed the District’s attorneys.

Practice Buyer Job Interview

• Tell us about your qualifications for the position of Buyer for the District?  Focus on the aspects of your experience that apply to Buyer.
• What is the Uniform Commercial Code?
• What items of information are required on a requisition to ensure a complete and accurate purchase?
• Tell us about your experience in developing specifications.
• What was the most challenging procurement that you’ve had?  How did you meet the challenge?
• What are the elements of a contract?
• What does 30 days 2% mean?
• What are some of the methods and tools that you’ve used to increase the competitiveness of bidding? 
• Tell us about your experience with service or consulting contracts?  Do you prefer working on service contracts or material contracts?
• What steps do you take to ensure that the requesting department receives what they want?
• Do you have anything to add?  Summarize by emphasize your qualifications as they apply to this job.   Also cover anything you missed from your opening.  Don’t forget any education or formal training.