Inventory Specialist
Location: Asbury, NJ
Department: Operations / Supply Chain
Reports To: Plant Manager
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Position Summary
The Inventory Specialist is responsible for maintaining accurate inventory records and supporting the efficient flow of raw materials, work-in-process, and finished goods throughout the Asbury, NJ manufacturing facility. This position plays a critical role in inventory control, cycle counting, material reconciliation, and inventory accuracy initiatives. Approximately 50% of the position is spent in the plant conducting physical inventory counts, verifying stock locations, and supporting warehouse and production inventory activities.
The ideal candidate is highly organized, comfortable working in both an office and manufacturing environment, and possesses strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Inventory Control
- Perform daily, weekly, and monthly cycle counts of raw materials, packaging materials, work-in-process, and finished goods.
- Investigate, reconcile, and resolve inventory discrepancies.
- Maintain accurate inventory records within the ERP system.
- Monitor inventory transactions and ensure timely and accurate system updates.
- Assist with annual physical inventories and external inventory audits.
- Generate inventory accuracy reports and identify trends requiring corrective action.
Warehouse & Plant Support
- Conduct regular inventory audits throughout the warehouse, production areas, and storage locations.
- Verify material locations, stock levels, lot numbers, and inventory status.
- Coordinate with production, shipping, receiving, and quality departments to ensure inventory integrity.
- Assist with receiving and material movement verification.
- Support material transfers and inventory adjustments as necessary.
Data Analysis & Reporting
- Analyze inventory variances and identify root causes.
- Develop recommendations to improve inventory processes, material flow, and inventory accuracy.
- Prepare and distribute inventory reports and key performance indicators (KPIs).
- Monitor slow-moving, obsolete, and excess inventory.
Process Improvement
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to inventory management and warehouse operations.
- Assist in the development and maintenance of inventory control procedures and work instructions.
- Support implementation of best practices for inventory management and material handling.
Compliance & Safety
- Follow all company safety policies and procedures.
- Maintain compliance with quality standards and inventory control requirements.
- Participate in safety training and required plant programs.
Qualifications
Education
- Associate degree in Supply Chain, Business, Operations, Logistics, or related field preferred.
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
Experience
- Minimum of 3 years of inventory control, warehouse, logistics, manufacturing, or supply chain experience.
- Experience performing cycle counts and inventory reconciliation in a manufacturing environment strongly preferred.
- Experience using ERP or inventory management systems required.
Skills and Competencies
- Strong attention to detail and high level of accuracy.
- Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office applications.
- Ability to analyze data and resolve discrepancies.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating across departments.
- Demonstrated problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to frequently walk throughout the manufacturing facility and warehouse.
- Ability to stand and move throughout the plant for extended periods.
- Ability to lift up to 35 pounds occasionally.
- Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to dust, noise, and varying temperatures.
- Ability to climb stairs and access inventory locations throughout the facility.
Working Conditions
- Approximately 50% office-based work and 50% plant-floor/warehouse activities.
- Regular interaction with production, quality, warehouse, shipping, receiving, and management personnel.
- Occasional overtime may be required during month-end close, physical inventories, or special projects.
Success Measures
· Maintains a high level of inventory accuracy through consistent cycle counting, timely reconciliation, and disciplined system updates.
· Completes scheduled cycle counts and inventory reviews on time and in accordance with established procedures.
· Identifies and resolves inventory discrepancies with clear root-cause analysis and practical corrective recommendations.
· Reduces recurring inventory adjustments by improving transaction accuracy, material tracking, and process compliance.
· Supports uninterrupted production by ensuring inventory availability, location accuracy, and timely communication with plant stakeholders.
Pay: $24.00 - $27.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
