Goods Scanner | Warehouse & Logistics Associate

🎯 Role Definition

The Goods Scanner is a critical operational role responsible for maintaining the integrity and accuracy of our inventory through the proficient use of handheld scanning technology. This position involves the systematic tracking of all product movements within the facility, including receiving, put-away, picking, packing, and shipping. The ideal candidate is a diligent and reliable individual who understands that their precision directly impacts order fulfillment, customer satisfaction, and overall supply chain efficiency. You will be a key player in a dynamic team, ensuring our operations run smoothly and effectively.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

General Labor or Warehouse Associate roles
Retail Stock or Merchandising positions
Recent graduates or individuals new to the workforce

Advancement To:

Inventory Control Lead or Specialist
Warehouse Team Lead or Shift Supervisor
Shipping & Receiving Coordinator

Lateral Moves:

Forklift Operator (with certification)
Quality Control Inspector
Logistics Coordinator Assistant

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Utilize handheld radio frequency (RF) scanning devices to accurately capture and record data for all inbound and outbound products, ensuring real-time inventory visibility.
Systematically scan barcodes on merchandise, cartons, and pallets to meticulously track item movement throughout the facility's lifecycle.
Verify that product information (SKU, quantity, lot number) on physical items perfectly matches the data within the warehouse management system (WMS).
Conduct detailed visual inspections of all incoming shipments for damage, defects, or discrepancies, and formally report any findings to the shift supervisor for resolution.
Process and sort received goods efficiently, preparing them for storage by scanning them into designated staging areas or directly to put-away locations.
Accurately pick customer orders from shelves, bins, or racks by following scanner-guided prompts and confirming each item scan to ensure 100% order accuracy.
Ensure all picked orders are correctly staged for the packing department by scanning items into specific totes, carts, or containers that are digitally linked to a customer order.
Generate and affix correct shipping labels, packing slips, and other required documentation after scanning and verifying the contents of outbound orders.
Consolidate and pack items into appropriate shipping containers, performing a final scan of each item to guarantee order completeness before sealing for transit.
Adhere to strict operational timelines and performance metrics for all scanning tasks, contributing directly to the overall efficiency and throughput of the supply chain.
Match physical goods against digital or paper purchase orders and shipping manifests, scanning and validating each line item to formally confirm receipt.
Document and manage inventory exceptions within the WMS, such as overages, shortages, or incorrect items received, using the scanner's interface to log issues.
Process customer returns (reverse logistics) by scanning items back into inventory, carefully inspecting their condition, and routing them for restocking or disposition.
Assist in the loading and unloading of trucks, methodically scanning goods as they enter or exit the facility to maintain a perfect digital chain of custody.

Secondary Functions

Actively participate in scheduled cycle counting programs and annual physical inventory audits, using the scanner to provide a precise count of on-hand stock.
Perform daily operational checks and basic maintenance on RF scanners and related equipment, including battery charging and cleaning, to ensure optimal performance.
Troubleshoot basic scanner connectivity and performance issues, escalating complex technical problems to IT support or a team lead for prompt resolution.
Maintain a clean, safe, and highly organized work area, ensuring scanning equipment, batteries, and charging stations are properly stored and managed.
Support the training and onboarding of new team members by demonstrating proper scanning techniques and explaining standard operating procedures.
Communicate effectively with team members, leads, and supervisors regarding inventory levels, order status, and any operational challenges that arise.
Operate basic material handling equipment, such as manual pallet jacks or carts, to safely transport goods to and from designated scanning stations.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

RF Scanner Proficiency: Prior experience and demonstrated skill in operating handheld RF scanning devices for inventory tracking, picking, and put-away.
WMS Experience: Familiarity with navigating and transacting within a Warehouse Management System (WMS) or similar inventory software.
Basic Computer Literacy: Ability to interact with computer workstations for data entry, looking up information, and printing labels.
Basic Math Skills: Competency in performing simple arithmetic to verify counts and quantities quickly and accurately.
-Material Handling Equipment Operation: Experience with manual pallet jacks, carts, and other non-automated warehouse equipment is a plus.

Soft Skills

Exceptional Attention to Detail: Meticulous and precise in verifying SKUs, counts, and locations to prevent inventory discrepancies and ensure quality.
Physical Stamina: Capable of standing, walking, bending, and lifting objects (typically up to 50 lbs) for an entire shift in a large facility.
Time Management & Urgency: Ability to work efficiently and meet productivity targets in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
Reliability & Punctuality: A consistent, dependable, and punctual team member who demonstrates a strong work ethic.
Problem-Solving Acumen: The ability to identify, flag, and clearly report discrepancies, damages, or system errors in a timely manner.
Teamwork & Communication: A collaborative mindset with the ability to communicate clearly with colleagues and supervisors about workflow and challenges.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent (GED).

Preferred Education:

Vocational certificate or coursework in logistics or supply chain management.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Logistics and Supply Chain
Business Administration

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 0-2 years

Preferred: 6+ months of experience in a warehouse, distribution center, or retail stockroom environment where RF scanners were used. We are willing to train highly motivated candidates who demonstrate a strong aptitude for the role.