WHAT IS AN INVENTORY WORKER JOB?
An inventory worker job involves managing a company's inventory by keeping track of products, supplies, and equipment. The primary goal of an inventory worker is to ensure that stock levels are maintained and products are available when customers need them. Inventory workers may work in a variety of industries, including retail, wholesale, manufacturing, and logistics.
Inventory workers are responsible for monitoring inventory levels and ensuring that orders are fulfilled on time. They may also be responsible for conducting inventory counts, reconciling inventory discrepancies, and maintaining accurate records. This job requires attention to detail, strong organizational and communication skills, and the ability to work well in a team.
WHAT USUALLY DO IN THIS POSITION?
Inventory workers have a variety of responsibilities, including:
- Monitoring inventory levels and ensuring that stock levels are maintained
- Processing and fulfilling orders in a timely manner
- Conducting inventory counts and reconciling inventory discrepancies
- Maintaining accurate inventory records using inventory management software
- Coordinating with other departments to ensure that inventory needs are met
- Communicating with suppliers to manage deliveries and resolve issues
- Maintaining a clean and organized warehouse or storage area
TOP 5 SKILLS FOR THE POSITION
To be successful in an inventory worker job, you'll need a combination of technical and soft skills. Here are the top five skills you'll need:
1. Attention to detail - Inventory workers must be detail-oriented to ensure that inventory records are accurate and stock levels are maintained.
2. Organizational skills - Inventory workers must have strong organizational skills to keep track of inventory levels and orders.
3. Communication skills - Inventory workers must be able to communicate effectively with other departments and suppliers to manage inventory needs.
4. Time management skills - Inventory workers must be able to manage their time effectively to ensure that orders are fulfilled on time.
5. Familiarity with inventory management software - Many inventory worker jobs require experience using inventory management software to track inventory levels and orders.
HOW TO BECOME THIS TYPE OF SPECIALIST?
To become an inventory worker, you'll typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may require a college degree in a related field, such as logistics or supply chain management.
You can gain experience in inventory management by working in entry-level positions in retail, warehousing, or logistics. Many companies offer on-the-job training for inventory workers to learn how to use inventory management software and other tools.
To advance in your career as an inventory worker, you may want to consider obtaining certification in inventory management. The Association for Operations Management offers a Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) certification, which demonstrates expertise in inventory management and supply chain operations.
AVERAGE SALARY
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for stock clerks and order fillers, which includes inventory workers, was $27,290 as of May 2020. However, salaries can vary depending on the industry, location, and experience level.
ROLES AND TYPES
Inventory worker jobs can vary depending on the industry and company. Some common roles and types of inventory worker jobs include:
- Retail inventory associate - responsible for managing inventory in a retail setting, including restocking shelves and processing orders
- Warehouse inventory coordinator - responsible for managing inventory in a warehouse setting, including conducting inventory counts and coordinating with other departments
- Logistics inventory specialist - responsible for managing inventory in a logistics setting, including coordinating deliveries and managing inventory records
- Manufacturing inventory clerk - responsible for managing inventory in a manufacturing setting, including tracking raw materials and finished products
LOCATIONS WITH THE MOST POPULAR JOBS IN USA
Inventory worker jobs are available in many locations throughout the United States. Some of the top cities for inventory worker jobs include:
1. New York, NY
2. Los Angeles, CA
3. Chicago, IL
4. Houston, TX
5. Atlanta, GA
WHAT ARE THE TYPICAL TOOLS
Inventory workers use a variety of tools to manage inventory, including:
- Inventory management software - used to track inventory levels and orders
- Barcode scanners - used to scan products and update inventory records
- Forklifts - used to move heavy or bulky items in a warehouse or storage area
- Pallet jacks - used to move pallets of products in a warehouse or storage area
- Handheld devices - used to access inventory records and process orders
IN CONCLUSION
Inventory worker jobs are an important part of many industries, and require a combination of technical and soft skills. If you're detail-oriented, organized, and enjoy working with others, a career as an inventory worker may be a good fit for you. With on-the-job training and certification opportunities, you can advance in your career and increase your earning potential.