Shipyard Buyer/Purchasing Agent

Company Overview
HKA Enterprises is a multinational organization with over 40 years of expertise delivering top-tier workforce solutions across diverse industries. Our key services include staffing, direct hire, payroll management, and procurement support for sectors such as shipbuilding, aerospace, manufacturing, and more.

Shipyard Buyer / Purchasing Agent
Location: Norfolk, VA
Employment Type: Full-Time
Industry: Shipyard / Marine Repair / Shipbuilding
Schedule: Day shift / On-site
Pay Range: $20 - $30/hour based on experience

Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced Shipyard Buyer / Purchasing Agent to support active shipyard operations by sourcing materials and services, issuing purchase orders, and ensuring on-time delivery to meet production schedules. This role works closely with planning, engineering, and production teams to prevent material delays and support successful project execution.
This is a hands-on procurement role focused on PO placement, vendor coordination, and expediting in a fast-paced shipyard environment.

Key Responsibilities
- Issue and manage purchase orders (POs) for materials, equipment, and services
- Source vendors and obtain pricing, lead times, and availability
- Expedite material deliveries to meet production and availability schedules
- Coordinate with planners, project managers, and production teams
- Resolve supplier issues, shortages, and delivery delays
- Maintain accurate procurement records and documentation
- Ensure purchases comply with contract requirements, specifications, and quality standards
- Support audits, inspections, and documentation requests as needed

Required Qualifications
- Experience as a Shipyard Buyer or Purchasing Agent
- Strong understanding of marine/industrial materials and services
- Experience issuing and managing purchase orders
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
- Strong vendor communication and follow-up skills
- Proficiency with ERP or purchasing systems
- Strong organizational and documentation skills
- Must be able to obtain access to government installations

Preferred Qualifications
- Shipyard, marine repair, or shipbuilding experience
- Government or naval contracting exposure (NAVSEA, FAR/DFARS a plus)
- Experience expediting long-lead or critical materials
- Familiarity with QA/QC or material certification requirements
- Ability to support multiple projects simultaneously

Candidates must successfully complete a background investigation and drug screening with company policy.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $ $30.00 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 40 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person