Professional Experience Program – Purchasing Agent

About the role

The Canal de Panamá offers a 12‑month Professional Experience Program (PEXP) for university students interested in gaining hands‑on experience in purchasing and contracting. As a Purchasing Agent you will support the acquisition of goods and services that keep the Panama Canal operating efficiently.

Key responsibilities

• Process decentralized purchase requests, verify documentation and ensure compliance with internal procedures and delegated authority.
• Identify economical supply sources, validate inventory levels and manage purchases with local and international suppliers using corporate systems.
• Issue purchase orders, track deliveries, coordinate payments, apply penalties and resolve contractual discrepancies.
• Prepare tender documents, review market studies, recommend suppliers and administer contracts that directly affect canal operations.
• Evaluate and qualify suppliers, handle physical and electronic documentation, process payments, claims and returns, and coordinate field visits, inspections and contractor support.

Required profile

• Panamanian nationality.
• Intermediate English (spoken, reading, writing).
• Valid driver’s license and ability to swim.
• Enrolled in the final year of a university degree with a GPA of at least 1.75 (University of Panama system).

Required skills

• Proficiency with common office computer applications (e.g., Microsoft Office).

What we offer

• Fixed‑term 12‑month contract.
• Opportunity to work on critical procurement processes for a world‑class infrastructure.
• Professional development and exposure to international suppliers.