A professional who compiles and analyzes statistical data to determine feasibility of buying products and to establish price objectives for contract transactions. Responsibilities include:

• Compiles information from periodicals, catalogs, and other sources to keep informed on price trends and manufacturing processes.
• Obtains data for cost analysis studies by determining manufacturing costs within divisions of company.
• Confers with vendors and analyzes vendor's operations to determine factors that affect prices.
• Prepares reports, charts, and graphs of findings.
• Evaluates findings and makes recommendations to purchasing personnel regarding feasibility of manufacturing or buying needed products.
• May recommend use of alternative parts, materials, or manufacturing methods to reduce costs.