What are the responsibilities and job description for the Inventory Control Specialist position at Lifeway Foods Inc?
Lifeway Foods (NASDAQ: LWAY), which has been recognized as one of Forbes’ Best Small Companies, is America’s leading supplier of the probiotic beverage known as Kefir. In addition to its line of drinkable Kefir, the company also produces cheese, drinkable yogurt, and a ProBugs line of Kefir for kids. Lifeway’s tart and tangy fermented dairy products are sold across the United States, Mexico, Ireland, and the United Kingdom.
Summary
The Inventory Control Specialist is responsible for ensuring inventory accuracy, integrity, and traceability within a food manufacturing environment. This role maintains real-time inventory records in DEACOM, supports warehouse and production operations, and ensures compliance with company policies and applicable FDA/GMP standards. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, systems-driven, and experienced in cycle counting, ERP transactions, and cross-functional coordination.
Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Monitor and maintain accurate inventory levels in DEACOM (ERP)
- Perform cycle counts and assist with full physical inventories
- Investigate, analyze, and resolve inventory discrepancies
- Maintain accurate lot and serial number tracking
- Monitor inventory variances and recommend corrective actions
- Process receipts, transfers, adjustments, and shipments in DEACOM
- Ensure timely and accurate real-time system updates
- Monitor batch, production, and material consumption entries
- Audit system transactions for accuracy and compliance
- Partner with warehouse staff to ensure proper storage, labeling, and material handling
- Ensure FIFO (First-In, First-Out) compliance
- Support internal and external inventory audits
- Assisting in maintaining organized and compliant warehouse processes
- Coordinate raw material availability to support production schedules
- Review reorder points and safety stock levels
- Provide inventory data to assist with purchasing and demand planning
- Communicate potential shortages or overstock risks proactively
- Maintain inventory documentation to support FDA, GMP, and company audits
- Ensure full traceability of raw materials and finished goods
- Follow and enforce inventory control procedures and internal policies
- Assisting in continuous improvement initiatives related to inventory accuracy
- Conduct behavior in compliance with Lifeway Employee Policy
- Perform additional duties as assigned
Qualification and Education Requirements
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field preferred
- 2–5 years of inventory control experience in a manufacturing environment
- Food manufacturing experience strongly preferred
- ERP system experience required (DEACOM experience highly preferred)
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- High attention to detail and accuracy
- Proficiency in ERP systems and Microsoft Excel
- Understanding of FIFO, lot control, and traceability requirements
- Knowledge of GMP and audit processes preferred
- Ability to work cross-functionally with warehouse, production, and purchasing teams
- Preferred language ability: Russian
Lifeway Foods, Inc is a growing Chicago-based beverage manufacturer with 40 years of experience. We are an industry leader in the production of high-quality Kefir. We are an equal-opportunity employer and offer a competitive benefits package. Visit us at www.lifewaykefir.com.
Interested or know someone who might be?
Please apply online today!