Joshua Zirbes

Joshua Zirbes serves as a key procurement lead within the U.S. Coast Guard’s Base New Orleans (70Z029), responsible for managing facility infrastructure acquisitions critical to operational readiness and coastal resilience. He oversees the acquisition of shipyard maintenance systems, HVAC equipment, and utility modernization projects that sustain the Coast Guard’s shore-based infrastructure. His work directly supports the agency’s mission to ensure secure, efficient, and climate-resilient facilities along the Gulf Coast, with a strong emphasis on compliance with federal building standards and environmental regulations. Zirbes handles complex construction-related contracts under FAR Part 36 and integrates sustainability and lifecycle cost analysis into procurement decisions. While specific contractor names are not publicly available, Zirbes maintains a consistent partnership pattern with specialized industrial vendors and skilled trades contractors capable of delivering high-integrity ship repair infrastructure and commercial-grade heating and refrigeration systems. His procurement approach prioritizes technical expertise in marine facility systems, fostering long-term vendor relationships with firms experienced in federal maritime infrastructure projects and capable of meeting stringent Coast Guard specifications. Zirbes demonstrates an unwavering commitment to small business participation, with 100% of his acquisitions structured as total small business set-asides under FAR 19.5. This reflects a deliberate strategy to cultivate capacity among small, locally based contractors and ensure equitable access to federal opportunities in the Gulf region. His contracting patterns consistently favor small businesses with demonstrated capability in facility maintenance, mechanical systems installation, and industrial repair services. His primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 336611 (Ship Building and Repairing), reflecting his leadership in acquiring vessel support infrastructure, dry dock systems, and marine fabrication services. He also regularly procures NAICS 333415 equipment, including commercial refrigeration and climate control systems tailored for high-humidity, saltwater environments. Zirbes brings deep technical expertise in marine facility engineering, ensuring all acquisitions align with Coast Guard standards for durability, safety, and operational continuity.