The requirements you will have to meet to become a pricing specialist will depend on the company with which you seek a job. In most cases, you will need at least a high school or a General Educational Development® (GED®) diploma. Some employers will also view your job application more favorably if you earn a college degree in a field such as finance or business. As far as experience is concerned, you may need a job history of working in a retail or marketing position. Additionally, you will likely need analytical abilities, computer skills and knowledge of business practices to become a pricing specialist.
The education you will need to become a pricing specialist will depend on the employer with whom you seek a job. Some companies may not require you to have a college degree as long as you have the skills necessary to succeed in this type of work. Others may require you to have a college degree in a related field, such as finance, marketing, or business. You might have success with landing a job after you have earned an associate's degree in one of these fields, but some employers may prove more interested in you if you earn a bachelor's degree instead. Since educational requirements can vary so much, you may benefit from calling around to companies that hire for this position and asking what they seek in a candidate.
You also will typically need related experience to become a pricing specialist. As with education, the length and type of experience you need will depend on the company with which you apply. In some cases, you may need experience working in retail sales for this type of job. Likewise, some employers will give you preference if you have worked in a marketing-related position in the past. If you've had the opportunity to learn about the work of a pricing specialist via an internship, this may also help you stand out among other job candidates.
The skills you need to become a pricing specialist are usually varied. Most employers will expect you to have strong analytical abilities and an in-depth understanding of business practices. You will likely need solid customer service and computer skills as well. In addition, you will need a good understanding of the industry in which you will work and the company for which you will perform your duties. Time management and organizational skills are typically required for this job as well.
