Torchora
Back to Home

Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Warehouse Inventory Specialist

💰 $38,000 - $55,000

LogisticsWarehouseInventory ControlOperations

🎯 Role Definition

The Warehouse Inventory Specialist is responsible for maintaining accurate stock levels, executing cycle counts and physical inventories, reconciling discrepancies, and supporting warehouse operations to ensure timely order fulfillment. This role is the front-line steward of inventory accuracy, leveraging Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), ERP interfaces, barcode/RF scanning, and best-practice inventory control processes to minimize shrink, reduce stockouts, and enable efficient supply chain performance. The ideal candidate brings a mix of technical WMS proficiency, hands-on warehouse experience, strong analytical abilities, and a safety-first mindset.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Inventory Clerk / Stock Clerk
  • Shipping & Receiving Associate
  • Warehouse Associate / Picker-Packer

Advancement To:

  • Inventory Control Supervisor / Lead
  • Warehouse Operations Supervisor / Manager
  • Supply Chain Analyst / Inventory Analyst

Lateral Moves:

  • Logistics Coordinator
  • Purchasing / Procurement Assistant

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Conduct regular cycle counts according to schedule and methodology (ABC, location-based), accurately record results in the WMS/ERP, and initiate investigations for any variance exceeding established thresholds until resolved.
  • Plan, execute, and manage periodic full physical inventories including coordination of shutdown windows, staging of locations, reconciling physical counts to system quantities, and preparing variance reports for management review.
  • Reconcile inventory discrepancies by performing root-cause analysis, researching transaction history (receipts, shipments, adjustments), identifying system or process issues, and driving corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
  • Receive inbound shipments: verify packing lists and Bills of Lading, inspect product quality and quantities, log variations in the WMS, label items correctly, and coordinate exceptions with purchasing and vendors for claims or returns.
  • Perform put-away operations using RF scanners and WMS-directed put-away logic, ensuring items are stored in correct bin locations with accurate bin labels, and update system locations to maintain real-time stock accuracy.
  • Pick, pack, and stage customer orders or internal transfer requests following FIFO/LIFO/FEFO rules as applicable, verify picked quantities against pick tickets or electronic pick lists, and prepare accurate shipping documentation.
  • Manage returns processing (RMA handling): inspect returned items, quarantine suspect product, update inventory disposition (restock, return to vendor, scrap), and document disposition actions in the ERP.
  • Maintain and update inventory master data including SKU attributes, unit-of-measure conversions, carton quantities, lot and serial number tracking, and shelf-life/expiration date information to ensure accurate system representation.
  • Create and deliver regular inventory performance reports and KPIs (inventory accuracy, days of inventory on-hand, shrinkage rate, on-time shipments), using WMS/ERP reporting tools and spreadsheets for stakeholder review and continuous improvement.
  • Execute product cycle count sampling and statistical sampling methodologies to validate inventory accuracy across fast- and slow-moving SKUs, and adjust sampling rates based on velocity and historical variance.
  • Implement and follow inventory control procedures and standard operating procedures (SOPs), recommending process improvements and system configuration changes to improve accuracy and throughput.
  • Coordinate with Purchasing and Demand Planning to communicate stock levels, aging inventory, and potential stockouts; assist with reorder point reviews and recommended safety stock adjustments based on observed trends.
  • Support audits by internal and external auditors: prepare evidence, provide access to locations, explain variance resolutions, and implement audit recommendations to strengthen compliance and control environments.
  • Monitor and maintain hazardous materials and regulated product inventory records according to regulatory and company requirements, ensuring proper labeling, segregation, and documentation.
  • Operate warehouse equipment (forklifts, pallet jacks, order pickers) safely and efficiently to move inventory for cycle counts, restocks, and shipping preparations; maintain equipment inspection logs.
  • Lead or participate in continuous improvement projects focused on reducing shrink, optimizing storage density, improving pick-path efficiency, or automating manual inventory tasks.
  • Train and mentor warehouse staff on inventory best practices, cycle count methodology, correct use of scanners and mobile devices, and proper documentation for inbound/outbound transactions.
  • Manage slow-moving, obsolete, and excess inventory programs: identify candidate SKUs, coordinate disposition actions (liquidation, return to vendor, donation, disposal), and record adjustments with appropriate approvals.
  • Maintain accurate lot and serial traceability by recording incoming and outgoing lot/serial numbers, supporting product recalls or warranty claims when required, and ensuring chain-of-custody documentation is complete.
  • Oversee slotting and replenishment activities to maximize picking efficiency and accuracy, including reviewing SKU velocity, re-slotting proposals, and managing short-term replenishment tasks.
  • Investigate and resolve intra-warehouse discrepancies such as phantom inventory, mis-picks, and misplaced stock by performing targeted searches, reviewing transaction logs, and correcting records.
  • Collaborate with 3PL partners, carriers, and cross-dock operations to ensure inventory visibility across partners, monitor transfer accuracy, and reconcile intercompany and third-party inventories.
  • Ensure compliance with OSHA and company safety protocols during inventory operations, including PPE use, safe material handling, proper stacking and storage, and reporting of near misses or incidents.
  • Maintain clean, organized, and safe storage areas; perform routine cycle count housekeeping tasks such as label replacements, location audits, and stock rotation to ensure easy access and accurate picking.

Secondary Functions

  • Support seasonal peak operations and cross-train on shipping/receiving tasks to ensure business continuity during high-volume periods.
  • Assist with WMS upgrades, testing, and data migration activities by validating inventory records, participating in testing scripts, and documenting configuration-related inventory issues.
  • Participate in Kaizen events and Lean initiatives aimed at reducing handling steps, minimizing touches, and improving inventory accuracy across the warehouse footprint.
  • Provide ad-hoc inventory data and reports to finance, operations, and procurement teams to support month-end close, stock valuation, and inventory forecasting.
  • Support vendor-managed inventory (VMI) or consignment inventory programs by communicating system stock levels and supporting replenishment cadence with suppliers.
  • Work with IT to troubleshoot barcode/RF device issues, ensure scanning accuracy, and request enhancements to reporting or WMS functionality that impact inventory integrity.
  • Help coordinate third-party audits and certifications related to storage, handling, and traceability (e.g., ISO, SQF) by preparing inventory records and demonstrating control processes.
  • Support ad-hoc project work such as warehouse expansions, new SKU introductions, or product launches by validating receiving processes and initial inventory setup.
  • Assist in developing and delivering inventory training materials and quick reference guides for new hires and existing staff.
  • Participate in cross-functional meetings with operations, sales, and customer service to communicate inventory risks, fulfillment constraints, and mitigation plans.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Proficiency with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, NetSuite, or Infor for inventory transactions and reconciliation.
  • Hands-on experience using RF barcode scanners, mobile computers, and barcode label printers for receiving, put-away, picking, and cycle counts.
  • Strong competency in Excel (VLOOKUP, pivot tables, INDEX/MATCH, basic formulas) to manipulate inventory datasets and produce analysis and reports.
  • Knowledge of inventory control methodologies: cycle counting, ABC analysis, FIFO/FEFO/LIFO, safety stock calculations, and variance tracking.
  • Experience conducting physical inventories and reconciling system-to-physical counts, including data cleanup and journal entry preparation.
  • Familiarity with lot, batch, and serial number tracking for traceability and recall readiness.
  • Ability to read and interpret Bills of Lading (BOL), packing lists, purchase orders, and receiving documentation.
  • Forklift and warehouse equipment operation and safety certification (when applicable) and familiarity with equipment preventative maintenance basics.
  • Understanding of shipping and receiving processes, shipping documentation, carrier coordination, and RMA workflows.
  • Basic SQL or familiarity with data query tools (beneficial) to extract inventory data for investigations and custom reporting.
  • Knowledge of regulatory requirements for hazardous materials (HAZMAT) storage and handling, expiration-dated products, and compliance documentation.

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional attention to detail with a strong bias toward accuracy and data integrity.
  • Analytical thinker who can identify trends, diagnose root causes of inventory variances, and propose sustainable fixes.
  • Strong communication skills — able to convey inventory issues to operations, procurement, finance, and vendors in clear, actionable terms.
  • Problem-solving mindset with the ability to prioritize tasks and escalate issues when necessary to avoid supply chain disruptions.
  • Team player who can collaborate across shifts, functions, and with third-party partners while providing leadership on inventory best practices.
  • Time management and organizational skills to manage competing priorities and cycle count schedules in a fast-paced warehouse.
  • Adaptability and resilience to shifting priorities during peak seasons or operational interruptions.
  • Customer service orientation, ensuring internal and external stakeholders receive timely and accurate inventory information.
  • Integrity and accountability in reporting inventory adjustments and adhering to internal controls and audit requirements.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High school diploma or GED; equivalent relevant work experience accepted.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate degree or Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, Industrial Engineering, or related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Supply Chain Management
  • Logistics and Transportation
  • Business Administration
  • Industrial/Manufacturing Engineering
  • Inventory Management

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 1–5 years of warehouse or inventory control experience (varies by employer and complexity).

Preferred:

  • 2–4+ years of progressive inventory control or warehouse operations experience with hands-on use of WMS/ERP systems, cycle count programs, and physical inventory leadership. Experience in high-volume distribution centers, regulated products, or manufacturing environments is a plus.
Explore More Careers