Inventory Control Specialist

Job Description: Inventory Control Specialist (Manufacturing Plant)

Job Title: Inventory Control Specialist

Reports To: Plant Controller

Location: New Troy, MI - Vickers Engineering

Posting: Internal/External Candidates

Position Summary

The Inventory Control Specialist is responsible for maintaining accurate, controlled, and compliant inventory records across raw materials, work-in-process (WIP), and finished goods within the manufacturing plant. Reporting directly to the Plant Controller, this role serves as a critical financial control function, ensuring inventory accuracy supports reliable financial reporting, audit readiness, and operational performance. This position partners cross-functionally with Operations, Production, Supply Chain, and Quality to ensure proper material flow, accurate system transactions, and timely resolution of discrepancies.

Inventory Accuracy & Control

• Execute the plant's cycle count program aligned with ABC classification
• Perform daily, weekly, and monthly inventory counts per schedule
• Maintain inventory accuracy in alignment with plant targets (e.g., ≥98.5%)
• Investigate discrepancies and perform root cause analysis
• Support corrective actions to eliminate recurring inventory issues

Inventory Transactions & System Integrity

• Validate and process inventory transactions (receipts, issues, transfers, scrap)
• Ensure accuracy of inventory movements within ERP system (Plex or equivalent)
• Reconcile physical inventory balances to system records
• Maintain proper material identification, labeling, and traceability

Variance Analysis & Issue Resolution

• Identify and analyze inventory variances across all inventory categories
• Partner with Production, Warehouse, and Quality to resolve discrepancies
• Escalate material or systemic issues impacting inventory integrity
• Document findings and contribute to continuous improvement efforts

ERP / Data Management

• Maintain accurate item master data (locations, min/max levels, lead times)
• Support BOM and routing accuracy related to inventory tracking
• Ensure disciplined and consistent system use across departments
• Assist with ERP improvements, reporting, and standardization

Internal Controls & Audit Support

• Follow and enforce inventory control procedures and standard work
• Maintain audit-ready documentation for all inventory adjustments
• Support internal and external audits, including physical inventory validation
• Ensure compliance with company policies and segregation of duties

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Support Production to ensure material availability and flow
• Coordinate with Purchasing on inventory levels and shortages
• Assist Finance during month-end close (inventory reconciliation, reporting)
• Communicate risks, discrepancies, and inventory issues proactively

Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Accounting, Operations, or related field preferred
• 2+ years of inventory control experience in a manufacturing environment
• ERP system experience required (Plex preferred)

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving capability
• Knowledge of inventory processes (cycle counting, WIP tracking, FIFO)
• Ability to perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions
• Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills
• High level of organization and accountability

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Inventory accuracy (%)
• Cycle count completion and adherence to schedule
• Inventory variance reduction
• Transaction accuracy and timeliness
• Audit results and compliance adherence

Work Environment

Fast-paced manufacturing environment with frequent shop floor interaction; physical inventory verification, walking, and occasional lifting required.