Branch Inventory Control Specialist

Position Summary

The Branch Inventory Control Associate is responsible for maintaining the accuracy, organization, and integrity of inventory within an industrial distribution branch. This role oversees all inventory-related activities, including shipping, receiving, cycle counting, stock replenishment, inventory adjustments, and warehouse organization. The Inventory Specialist plays a critical role in ensuring product availability, operational efficiency, and exceptional customer service through accurate inventory management and adherence to company policies and procedures. As part of the branch team, at times other tasks and responsibilities may be given.

Key Responsibilities

Inventory Management

• Maintain overall responsibility for branch inventory accuracy and integrity.
• Conduct daily, weekly, and monthly cycle counts according to company procedures.
• Investigate and resolve inventory discrepancies, shortages, overages, and damaged product issues.
• Process inventory adjustments and maintain accurate inventory records within the ERP
• Monitor inventory levels and collaborate with purchasing and management to maintain optimal stock levels.
• Ensure proper product identification, labeling, storage, and location control.

Receiving Operations

• Receive inbound shipments and verify quantities, conditions, and accuracy against purchase orders and packing slips.
• Inspect incoming materials for damage and coordinate resolution of discrepancies with vendors and purchasing personnel.
• Accurately enter receiving transactions into company systems.
• Organize and stock received materials in designated warehouse locations.

Shipping Operations

• Pick, pack, and prepare customer orders for shipment according to company standards.
• Verify order accuracy before shipment.
• Coordinate with carriers to ensure timely and cost-effective deliveries.
• Generate shipping documentation, labels, and required paperwork.
• Maintain shipment records and tracking information.

Warehouse OrganizationMaintenance

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe warehouse environment.
• Ensure inventory locations are clearly marked and consistently maintained.
• Support warehouse layout improvements to maximize efficiency and storage utilization.
• Adhere to all safety policies, OSHA requirements, and company procedures.
• Operate material handling equipment safely, including forklifts and pallet jacks as required.

Process ImprovementCompliance

• Assist in developing and implementing inventory control best practices.
• Participate in annual physical inventory counts and audits.
• Identify opportunities to improve inventory accuracy, warehouse efficiency, and operational processes.
• Maintain compliance with company inventory control policies and quality standards.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 2 years of warehouse, shipping/receiving, or industrial distribution experience.
• Strong understanding of inventory management principles and warehouse operations.
• Experience using ERP, and or inventory management software.
• Strong computer skills with the ability to learn and navigate multiple business systems.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook and Excel.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds and perform physical warehouse duties.
• Valid driver's license and ability to operate material handling equipment.

Preferred

• Experience in industrial distribution, manufacturing, MRO, or supply chain environments.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including sorting, filtering, pivot tables, VLOOKUP and inventory reporting.
• Forklift certification or ability to obtain certification.
• Knowledge of cycle counting methodologies and inventory auditing procedures.

Computer Skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, and Excel).
• Ability to utilize ERP and inventory management systems for receiving shipping, inventory transactions, and reporting.
• Experience in maintaining accurate electronic inventory records and documentation.
• Ability to generate, analyze, and interpret inventory reports.
• Comfortable working with barcode scanners, RF devices, and warehouse management technology.
• Strong data entry skills with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.

Collaborate closely with Sales, Purchasing, and Branch Management to develop and execute strategies for reducing dead stock and slow-moving inventory, improving inventory turns, and maximizing inventory investment performance.