Launch Your Federal Career: Purchasing Agent Opportunities with the U.S. Coast Guard

Are you looking for a challenging role that combines administrative precision with a mission of national importance? The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) is currently hiring a Purchasing Agent for the Aviation Logistics Center (ALC) in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. This is an excellent opportunity for procurement professionals to contribute to the maintenance and logistics support that keeps the Coast Guard operational.

Job Responsibilities

As a Purchasing Agent, you will serve as a crucial link in the agency’s supply chain. Your daily tasks will include:

Procurement Execution: Managing the acquisition of supplies and services using the Government Purchase Card (GPC).
Market Analysis: Conducting market research to identify cost-effective vendors and small business opportunities.
Compliance: Ensuring all purchases adhere to strict federal acquisition regulations and audit standards.
Records Management: Maintaining audit-ready electronic procurement files.
Training: Educating fellow staff members on proper procurement request procedures.

Comparison: Standard Procurement vs. Federal Purchasing

Feature	Private Sector Procurement	Federal Purchasing (USCG)
Regulatory Oversight	Company Policy	Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR)
Vendor Selection	Profit Maximization	Best Value & Socioeconomic Goals
Documentation	Internal Database	Audit-Ready Electronic Files
Security Clearance	Usually None	Public Trust Required

Requirements

To be eligible for the GS-07 grade, candidates must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-06 level. This includes experience with micro-purchasing thresholds, resolving shipping/billing discrepancies, and performing market research. Applicants must be U.S. Citizens, pass a Public Trust background check, and comply with all federal hiring directives.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $51,210 to $66,574 per year. Beyond the paycheck, the Department of Homeland Security provides an extensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans with Thrift Savings Plan contributions, paid federal holidays, and potential tuition reimbursement.

Application Tips

Respect the Limits: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this limit will not be reviewed.
Detailed Records: Include specific start and end dates (mm/yy) and hours worked per week for all previous roles.
Test Readiness: Be prepared to complete the USA Hire assessment promptly if invited.

Serving as a Purchasing Agent for the U.S. Coast Guard in Elizabeth City offers a unique blend of stability, mission-driven work, and professional growth. If you are ready to take the next step in your career, review your documentation and apply before the closing date.

Why This Purchasing Agent, Gs-1105-07 Job Matters

Launch your career with the U.S. Coast Guard in Elizabeth City—your expertise in procurement can help secure our nation's maritime future.

Purchasing Agent, Gs-1105-07 Job Overview

The U.S. Coast Guard’s Aviation Logistics Center (ALC) is seeking a detail-oriented Purchasing Agent to join the Aviation Logistics Division in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. This GS-07 position is vital to the operational success of the USCG, focusing on the procurement of specialized supplies and services, managing government purchase card transactions, and ensuring rigorous compliance with federal acquisition regulations. You will serve as a key member of a team dedicated to safeguarding the nation's interests at home and abroad.

Requirements for Purchasing Agent, Gs-1105-07

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must be registered with or exempt from Selective Service.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-06 level or equivalent.
Ability to pass a Public Trust background investigation.
Must be able to maintain a maximum two-page resume.
Direct deposit of salary is mandatory.
All qualification requirements must be met by the announcement closing date.

Preferred Qualifications for Purchasing Agent, Gs-1105-07

Experience with Government Purchase Card (GPC) procurement.
Proficiency in market research and identifying small business sources.
Demonstrated ability to resolve billing and shipping discrepancies independently.
Strong organizational skills for maintaining audit-ready electronic files.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for training personnel on procurement procedures.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
✓Life and long-term care insurance.
✓Retirement planning including the Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent).
✓Flexible Spending Accounts.
✓Generous paid federal holidays and personal leave.
✓Potential for tuition reimbursement and transportation subsidies.
✓Access to fitness centers and wellness programs.
✓Opportunities for professional training and development.

💡 How to Apply Purchasing Agent, Gs-1105-07 Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Purchasing Agent, Gs-1105-07 Job

Create or update your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
Gather supporting documentation (transcripts, SF-50, DD-214 if applicable).
Submit your application through the official portal before the closing date.
Complete any required USA Hire Assessments within 48 hours of notification.
Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume to two pages or less; longer resumes will result in automatic disqualification.
Ensure your SF-50 clearly shows your highest competitive grade and time-in-grade.
Review your application for legibility before submission.
Do not include personal information like photos, age, or Social Security numbers.
Set aside at least two hours to complete the USA Hire assessment if prompted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a degree required for this position?

No, there is no positive education requirement for this specific grade level. However, if you are using education to qualify, you must provide transcripts.

Can I submit my application via email?

No, all applications must be submitted through the online USAJOBS portal. Email and mail submissions are not accepted.

What is the work schedule for this role?

This is a full-time position; however, the agency offers competitive benefits including the potential for flexible work schedules.

What if I have a disability?

The Coast Guard welcomes applicants with disabilities and provides reasonable accommodations for the assessment process. Contact the HR representative listed in the official announcement for details.

Is there relocation assistance?

No, relocation expenses are not provided for this specific role.

Job from U.S. Coast Guard

The Aviation Logistics Center is the technical nerve center of the Coast Guard's aviation operations. By managing the supply chain and procurement needs of the fleet, the ALC ensures that USCG assets are ready to respond to maritime threats, search and rescue missions, and environmental protection efforts worldwide. Working as a civilian for the Coast Guard means joining a team dedicated to safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests.