Strategic Purchasing Agent – Public Sector Maritime

State of Washington; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid holidays

Vacation days

Tuition assistance

Healthcare options

State retirement programs

Job summary

Washington State Ferries (WSF), a division of the Washington State Department of Transportation, is seeking a Purchasing Agent to lead procurement for vessels, terminals, and facilities in support of safe, reliable ferry operations.

You will guide staff, manage complex procurements, conduct solicitations, bids, and contract awards, and ensure compliance with laws and regulations while upholding WSF's values.

Qualifications

• Experience applying procurement principles, ethics and laws to complex purchases.
• Ability to interpret contract language and manage bids and awards.
• Strong communication with diverse staff and vendors; public-sector context preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex procurements, including federal and grant-funded purchases.
• Review requisitions, issue purchase orders, and approve higher-value purchases.
• Prepare solicitations, bid evaluations, negotiate contracts; manage vendor relations.
• Guide staff, ensure compliance, and oversee high-visibility procurements.
• Resolve issues, manage asset tracking, and improve purchasing programs.

Skills

Respect & Equality

Service Orientation

Learning & Growth

Contract Interpretation

Procurement Ethics

Microsoft Office

Contract Language

Procurement Laws

Verbal & Written Communication

Automated Procurement Systems

Bid Analysis

Education

CPPB/CPPO certification

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

WSF EAM System

Job description

Washington State Ferries (WSF), a division of the Washington State Department of Transportation, is seeking a Purchasing Agent to lead procurement for vessels, terminals, and facilities in support of safe, reliable ferry operations.

You will guide staff, manage complex procurements, conduct solicitations, bids, and contract awards, and ensure compliance with laws and regulations while upholding WSF's values.