What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Material Handler - 1st Shift position at Stillwell Inc.?
About Us
Stillwell Inc. is a family-owned manufacturing company specializing in hydraulic systems and components built to perform in real-world conditions. Our success is driven by our people and the systems that support them. We value stewardship, integrity, humility, grit, and craftsmanship across every function of the business.
The Opportunity
The Lead Material Handler is responsible for coordinating and executing the efficient movement, storage, and control of raw materials, work-in-process (WIP), and finished goods within a manufacturing environment. This role provides day-to-day direction to material handling staff, ensures accurate inventory transactions, and supports production by maintaining material flow aligned with production schedules. The Lead Material Handler serves as a key liaison between warehouse, production, and inventory control functions.
Key Responsibilities:
Material Flow & Warehouse Operations
- Coordinate receipt, storage, and distribution of raw materials, components, and finished goods.
- Ensure timely delivery of materials to production lines based on work orders and schedules.
- Monitor material staging areas to ensure organization, accuracy, and FIFO/lot control compliance.
- Operate forklifts, pallet jacks, and other material handling equipment as needed.
Leadership & Team Coordination
- Provide daily direction and task assignments to material handlers.
- Support onboarding and training of new material handling employees.
- Monitor team performance and ensure adherence to safety and operational procedures.
- Escalate staffing, equipment, or process issues to supervisor or manager.
Inventory Control & Accuracy
- Assist with cycle counts and assist with full physical inventories.
- Investigate and resolve inventory discrepancies in coordination with inventory control or accounting.
- Ensure accurate ERP/MRP system transactions (receipts, transfers, picks, and adjustments).
- Maintain proper labeling, barcoding, and traceability of materials.
Production Support
- Work closely with production supervisors to ensure uninterrupted material availability.
- Prioritize urgent production needs and adjust material flow accordingly.
- Support kitting, staging, and replenishment activities.
Safety & Compliance
- Follow all OSHA and company safety policies and procedures.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free work environment (5S standards).
- Ensure proper handling of hazardous or regulated materials, if applicable.
Qualifications
- 3–5 years of experience in material handling, warehouse, or manufacturing logistics
- 1–2 years of informal or formal leadership experience preferred
- Forklift certification (or ability to obtain)
- Experience with ERP/MRP systems (Priority, Oracle, Epicor, etc.) preferred
- Strong understanding of inventory control practices (FIFO, lot tracking, cycle counts)
- Ability to read work orders, pick lists, and production schedules
- Basic computer skills (Excel, inventory systems)
Skills & Competencies
- Leadership and team coordination
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Problem-solving and prioritization under pressure
- Effective communication across production and warehouse teams
- Time management and accountability
- Commitment to safety and operational discipline
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs regularly
- Standing, walking, bending, and operating material handling equipment for extended periods
- Ability to work in a manufacturing/warehouse environment with varying temperatures
Work Environment
- Manufacturing floor and warehouse settings
- May include shift work, overtime, or weekend coverage based on production needs
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $22.00 - $28.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
Salary : $22 - $28