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