Wool Buyer (Merchant)
Merchant wool buyers collect, assess and value wool being sold by farmers.
Tasks & duties
Merchant wool buyers:
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evaluate wool samples by determining colour, yield (amount of actual wool in a sample without water, grease and dirt), micron (thickness) and length
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weigh samples, write dockets and put the wool in correct stacks and bins
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write details on a quote sheet and determine the wool price
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telephone wool growers with confirmation of prices
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return to farms to collect the bales
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send invoices to the wool grower and main office (if employed by a company)
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may go to farms to do clean ups (collect odd bits of wool at farmer's sheds)
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may prepare an audit of accounts
Skills & knowledge
Merchant wool buyers need to have:
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skill in evaluating wool to appraise it according to colour, micron and length
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knowledge of wool classification
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knowledge of sheep breeds
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knowledge of the local farming area
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an understanding of the wool market, and up-to-date knowledge of market prices and trends
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organisational skills
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communication skills
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basic accounting skills
Entry requirements
There are no specific requirements to become a merchant wool buyer, although a relevant national certificate course is preferred and a wool classing ticket may be needed.
You also need to have a current driver's licence.
Training on the job
Skills are gained on the job. Merchant wool buyers may also attend courses to keep up to date with industry trends and information.
Useful experience
Useful experience for merchant wool buyers includes work as a shearer, wool handler or wool classer. Farming experience can also be helpful.
Related courses
Economics
Wool and Fibre Harvesting
Wool and Fibre Science
For more information, please refer to myfuture.
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