What are the responsibilities and job description for the Inventory Analyst position at Michael Foods and Careers?
Position Summary
The Inventory Analyst supports end‑to‑end inventory management, production monitoring, load planning, dock scheduling, and transportation coordination across multiple facilities. This role ensures timely, accurate product movement; maintains system and documentation integrity; supports warehouse and front‑desk operations; and collaborates closely with production, customer service, transportation, and warehouse teams. The analyst plays a key role in maintaining order fill rates, optimizing warehouse and transportation efficiency, and ensuring food safety and quality compliance.
*This role will train for the first 6 weeks at the Michael Foods facility in Gaylord, MN and then transition to the Chaska, MN Michael Foods facility*
*This will be a day shift 8:00am-4:30pm Monday-Friday role depending on the business need.*
Key Responsibilities
Inventory Management & System Accuracy
- Execute and verify inventory movements, adjustments, and reconciliations in SAP to maintain system accuracy.
- Monitor inventory levels at production sites and distribution centers; proactively manage replenishment based on demand, shelf‑life requirements, and service needs.
- Track product shelf life and customer‑required dating; ensure appropriate product rotation.
- Review replenishment reports, identify gaps or concerns, and communicate issues promptly.
- Troubleshoot and resolve inventory discrepancies, damages, and shipping errors.
- Support quarterly cycle counts, variance resolution, and month‑end transaction cleanup.
- Receive inbound materials as needed and communicate discrepancies to appropriate teams.
- Oversee documentation accuracy and ensure all transactions are posted or cleared before month‑end.
Production & Replenishment Monitoring
- Monitor production schedules, daily output, and potential variances.
- Adjust replenishment plans and inventory movements based on real‑time production information.
- Maintain communication with production teams to manage last‑minute schedule or output changes.
Load Planning & Shipment Execution
- Plan and build outbound loads using SAP, TRM, E2Open, or related tools.
- Communicate special load instructions and prepare temperature recorders for outbound shipments.
- Stage or coordinate load building activities for warehouse operators.
- Finalize shipments, verify shipping paperwork, and ensure documentation accuracy.
- Arrange movement of unsaleable or disposed finished goods in accordance with FSQ guidance.
Dock Scheduling & Transportation Coordination
- Manage or support dock scheduling, carrier appointment setting, and trailer programs using E2Open or similar systems.
- Communicate equipment needs, dock schedules, and loading/unloading requirements to carriers and warehouse teams.
- Coordinate outbound carrier services, frozen production movement, and on‑time loading performance.
- Work with carriers and internal teams to resolve delays or service issues.
Communication & Cross‑Functional Support
- Maintain daily communication with production, warehousing, customer service, and transportation teams.
- Provide front‑desk or floor coverage during peak periods, breaks, or absences.
- Support operational troubleshooting and provide clear, timely communication.
- Promote teamwork and effective communication across functional areas.
Compliance, Safety & Quality
- Follow all safe work practices, GMPs, and sanitation requirements.
- Ensure product quality and food safety; report any concerns immediately.
- Support compliance with internal controls, customer requirements, and regulatory expectations.
Other Responsibilities
- Support continuous improvement initiatives, including SOP updates and process optimization.
- Perform other duties as assigned by leadership.
Education & Experience Requirements
- High school diploma or GED (or equivalent).
- Minimum 1 year experience in inventory, warehousing, distribution, or plant operations.
- Preferred: 3–5 years of experience in a distribution center or production environment.
- Experience with SAP, TMS, TRM, or dock scheduling systems (e.g., E2Open).
- Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
- Ability to develop and support process improvements.
- Proficiency in standard Microsoft Office programs (Excel, Outlook, Word, Teams).
Skills & Competencies
- Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records.
- Effective collaborator; able to communicate clearly across departments.
- Ability to organize and prioritize work in a fast‑paced environment.
- Strong practical reasoning, adaptability, and comfort with frequent changes.
- Ability to read, write, and present information clearly.
- Proficient in basic math (rate, ratio, percent, conversions) and data interpretation.