Maritime Purchasing Agent: Vessel Procurement & Negotiation

Matson, Inc.; Walnut Creek, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 68,000 - 92,000; Full time

Job summary

Matson, Inc. is seeking a Purchasing Agent to support procurement for assigned vessels, ensuring timely and cost-effective purchases of spare parts and materials. You will process REQNs, obtain quotes, issue POs, and maintain vendor records to support vessel operations.

Responsibilities include negotiating with suppliers, coordinating deliveries, and partnering with Accounting to process invoices. This role also involves annual vendor evaluations and supporting small business engagement.

Qualifications

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to interpret data, identify trends, and make sound business recommendations.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Process vessel requisitions (REQNs) daily to support operational requirements and ensure timely delivery of materials at competitive prices.
• Review open RFQs, identify qualified vendors, and obtain Vessel Manager approval prior to issuing purchase orders (POs).
• Convert approved engineering RFQs into purchase orders in a timely manner.
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and supplier agreements to achieve the best overall value for the Company.
• Collaborate with vessel personnel, Marine Engineering, and vendors to ensure the procurement of appropriate products and services that meet operational needs.
• Coordinate with suppliers and vessel personnel to track, confirm, and expedite deliveries as required.
• Partner with the Accounting team to support the timely processing and payment of invoices.
• Conduct annual vendor evaluations for assigned suppliers and maintain supporting documentation.
• Support the Company's Small Business program by identifying and engaging qualified small business suppliers.
• Research and develop new supplier sources and procurement opportunities to improve service levels and achieve cost savings.
• Establish and work toward annual performance objectives related to requisition, RFQ, and purchase order processing.
• Maintain accurate and current vendor information within Nautical Systems Enterprise (NSE).
• Process shoreside purchase orders for the Facilities & Maintenance (F&M) shop using Workday.
• Review and follow up on weekly past-due purchase order reports for both NSE and Workday systems.
• Ensure compliance with Company policies, procedures, and procurement standards.

Skills

Excel proficiency

Vendor management

Analytical skills

Data interpretation

Time management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree preferred

Tools

Nautical Systems Enterprise (NSE)

Workday

Job description

Matson, Inc. is seeking a Purchasing Agent to support procurement for assigned vessels, ensuring timely and cost-effective purchases of spare parts and materials. You will process REQNs, obtain quotes, issue POs, and maintain vendor records to support vessel operations.

Responsibilities include negotiating with suppliers, coordinating deliveries, and partnering with Accounting to process invoices. This role also involves annual vendor evaluations and supporting small business engagement.