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Government Buyer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

# Senior Buyer - Government ProgramsSt. Johns Ship Building Inc - Palatka, FL 32177-8485## Description***We are seeking an experienced Senior Buyer to lead procurement activities supporting government ...

Some of that experience is in software for government or enterprise buyers. * You write well, for a professional reader who reads statutes and staff reports every day. * You run search, email and ...

Develop creative, targeted outbound campaigns tailored to government buyer personas -- Capital Program Directors, Right‑of‑Way & Permitting Managers, Transportation Engineers, and GIS/Asset ...

Develop creative, targeted outbound campaigns tailored to government buyer personas -- Capital Program Directors, Right‑of‑Way & Permitting Managers, Transportation Engineers, and GIS/Asset ...

Principal Buyer [SC106]

Aiken, SC

$19 - $24.50/hr

Analyzes operational processes to provide analytical and strategic sourcing execution in support of the government buying practices currently in place. Prepares, reviews, and issues high value ...

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Buyer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$29/hr

Experience in the Defense/DoD, Aerospace, government and/or military industries * Experience buying PCB assemblies and/or electronics/assemblies is preferable (but not required). Company Description ...

New

This Buyer role focuses on sourcing and procuring components and materials that support a government-regulated manufacturing environment. The position oversees the full purchasing lifecycle, from ...

Buyer

Janesville, WI · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

This Buyer role focuses on sourcing and procuring components and materials that support a government-regulated manufacturing environment. The position oversees the full purchasing lifecycle, from ...

Interim Buyer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$68K - $109K/yr

Buyer (Government Contracting/Procurement) | Alexandria, VA | Contract Cherry Bekaert Recruiting & Staffing is seeking an experienced Buyer to support a highly respected nonprofit research ...

Interim Buyer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$68K - $109K/yr

Buyer (Government Contracting/Procurement) | Alexandria, VA | Contract Cherry Bekaert Recruiting & Staffing is seeking an experienced Buyer to support a highly respected nonprofit research ...

ExeQut deliberately kept municipal out of its cybersecurity commercial build because the government buyer is fundamentally different: longer cycles, procurement rules, budget calendars, and a ...

Buyer

Lancaster, NY

$70K - $75K/yr

... title Buyer Employment type Permanent Professional category Professional, Engineer & Manager ... Familiar with large volume negotiations, government regulations and reports. Special Knowledge ...

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Government Buyer information

See salary details

$34.5K

$68.4K

$102.5K

How much do government buyer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for government buyer in the United States is $68,384.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $79,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a government buyer?

Government buyers, also known as procurement officers or purchasing agents, are professionals responsible for acquiring goods and services on behalf of government agencies. They ensure that purchases comply with laws, regulations, and budgetary constraints while seeking the best value for taxpayers. Their work includes soliciting bids, evaluating vendors, negotiating contracts, and managing supplier relationships. Government buyers play a critical role in supporting public sector operations and ensuring transparency and fairness in procurement processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a government buyer?

To thrive as a Government Buyer, you need a solid understanding of procurement processes, contract law, and supply chain management, typically supported by a degree in business, public administration, or a related field. Familiarity with e-procurement platforms, government purchasing systems like SAM.gov, and certifications such as Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB) are often required. Strong negotiation, attention to detail, and ethical decision-making are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These abilities are vital for ensuring compliance, achieving cost-effective purchasing, and maintaining transparency and accountability in government acquisitions.

What are some common challenges faced by government buyers in the procurement process?

Government buyers often navigate strict regulatory requirements and must ensure compliance with policies such as public bidding laws and ethical procurement standards. Balancing cost-effectiveness with transparency, fairness, and supporting local or minority-owned businesses can be challenging. Additionally, government buyers must thoroughly document processes and decisions, work closely with legal, finance, and user departments, and manage tight deadlines while handling multiple projects simultaneously.

What is the difference between Government Buyer vs Procurement Specialist?

AspectGovernment BuyerProcurement Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires purchasing certifications, government procurement trainingOften requires similar certifications, with additional industry-specific knowledge
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in government agencies or public sector organizationsIn private companies, government contractors, or public sector entities
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, public sectorPrivate companies, corporations, or government contractors
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding government procurement rolesComparing procurement roles across sectors

While both roles involve purchasing and procurement, a Government Buyer focuses on acquiring goods and services for government agencies, adhering to strict regulations. A Procurement Specialist may work in various sectors, including private industry, and often handles broader procurement processes. The roles overlap in skills and certifications but differ mainly in their work environment and employer type.

More about Government Buyer jobs

What cities are hiring for Government Buyer jobs?

Cities with the most Government Buyer job openings:

What states have the most Government Buyer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Government Buyer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Government Buyer jobs?

For Government Buyer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Government Buyer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,384 per year, or $32.9 per hour.

Senior Buyer - Government Programs

On-site

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

# Senior Buyer - Government ProgramsSt. Johns Ship Building Inc - Palatka, FL 32177-8485## Description***We are seeking an experienced Senior Buyer to lead procurement activities supporting government contracts in a fast-paced shipyard or industrial manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, purchasing, and expediting materials, equipment, and subcontracted services required to support production, repair, and program execution. The ideal candidate will have strong experience in federal contracting procurement practices, with a working knowledge of FAR/DFARS requirements, supplier management, and schedule-driven operations.******The Senior Buyer must be capable of independently managing complex procurements, ensuring compliance, reducing cost, and supporting on-time delivery of mission-critical materials.*****KEY RESPONSIBILITIES*** **Procure materials, equipment, and services in support of government contracts, vessel construction, repair, and maintenance programs.*** **Interpret purchase requisitions, technical specifications, drawings, and statements of work to develop sourcing strategies.*** **Solicit quotations, analyze proposals, negotiate pricing, terms, and lead times, and issue purchase orders.*** **Ensure procurement actions comply with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), customer contract flow-downs, and company policies.*** **Maintain documentation supporting competition, price reasonableness, sole source justifications, and subcontract files.*** **Manage supplier performance related to quality, cost, delivery, and responsiveness.*** **Expedite critical material shortages and coordinate with planning, warehouse, engineering, quality, and production teams.*** **Support audits and reviews including CPSR, DCMA, DCAA, and internal compliance assessments.*** **Identify cost savings opportunities, alternate sources, and strategic sourcing initiatives.*** Review terms and conditions and escalate contractual or risk issues as needed. Track open orders, commitments, and supplier schedules to ensure program milestones are met.* Mentor junior buyers and provide guidance on compliant procurement practices.## Qualifications**CORE QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS*** **7+ years of purchasing/procurement experience, with significant experience supporting Government Contracting.*** **Working knowledge of FAR/DFARS, subcontracting requirements, and flow-down clauses.*** **Experience purchasing fabricated materials, marine equipment, industrial components, or technical services.*** **Strong negotiation, analytical, and supplier management skills.*** **Experience with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Excel.*** **Ability to read technical drawings, specifications, and bills of material.*** **Strong communication and cross-functional coordination skills.****PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS*** Prior experience in a shipyard, marine repair, naval construction, or heavy industrial manufacturing environment.* Experience supporting DoD, Navy, Coast Guard, MARAD, or federal prime contracts.* CPSR readiness or compliant purchasing system experience.* Knowledge of small business subcontracting requirements.* APICS, CPSM, or related certification. #J-18808-Ljbffr