Distribution Center Inventory Control Associate

About the Role

The Inventory Control and Quality Assurance (ICQA) Associate ensures inventory accuracy and product quality for NAPA’s automotive parts aftermarket in the distribution center. This role involves performing cycle counts, conducting audits, inspecting shipments, verifying stock levels, resolving discrepancies, monitoring storage conditions, and identifying quality issues. The ICQA Associate operates equipment safely and collaborates with warehouse teams to enhance operational efficiency and minimize errors.

Responsibilities

• Inventory Control:
  • Monitor daily inventory levels to ensure accuracy and prevent stockouts or overstock situations.
  • Conduct regular physical inventory counts and reconcile discrepancies between physical stock and system records.
  • Maintain detailed inventory records and ensure timely updates in the inventory management system.
  • Coordinate inventory movement in warehouse and production areas to optimize stock flow.
  • Assist in forecasting inventory needs based on historical data and demand trends.
• Quality Assurance:
  • Perform quality inspections on incoming, in-process, and finished products to ensure compliance with specifications.
  • Document and report any defects, deviations, or quality issues identified during inspections.
  • Collaborate with production and supply chain teams to resolve quality concerns and implement corrective actions.
  • Ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards related to product quality and handling.
  • Participate in internal audits and support external quality audits as required.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of inventory management systems and quality control procedures.
• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational skills and accurate record-keeping.
• Analytical skills to identify discrepancies, trends, and support problem resolution.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) and familiar with inventory management software.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively in team environments.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements related to product safety and quality is an asset.

Preferred Qualifications

• 1–3 years of distribution center experience.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Proven experience performing quality functions (inspection, control, assurance, audits).
• Passion for solving complex challenges.
• Test-and-learn mentality and agile way of working to improve team products.
• Prior experience with Powered Industrial Equipment.

Physical Demands / Working Environment

• Environment: Warehouse setting with continuous exposure to industrial noise (e.g., forklifts, conveyors, machinery), bright overhead lighting, and varying temperatures due to limited climate control. Employees work around moving equipment and must remain alert to audible and visual safety signals in a fast-paced environment.
• Lifting and Carrying: Ability to lift and carry objects of varying weights, up to 60 lbs. or more.
• Pushing and Pulling: Capability to push and pull carts, pallet jacks, or other equipment loaded with materials over extended distances or up ramps.
• Standing and Walking: Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, often for the duration of a shift.
• Bending and Stooping: Capacity to bend, stoop, squat, and reach to retrieve items from shelves, bins, or storage racks at various heights and angles.
• Climbing: Ability to climb ladders or stairs to access elevated storage areas, including open floor mezzanines, while following safety protocols.
• Operating Equipment: Proficiency in operating warehouse equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and order pickers. Certification or training may be required.
• Manual Dexterity: Ability to handle small objects, operate machinery controls, and perform tasks requiring precision and accuracy (e.g., picking, packing, labeling).
• Repetitive Motion: Ability to perform repetitive tasks (e.g., scanning barcodes, sorting items) safely throughout the shift.
• Physical Endurance: Stamina to work in a fast-paced environment, meet productivity targets, and work long hours, weekends, or overtime during peak periods.
• Safety Awareness: Commitment to following safety protocols to prevent workplace accidents and injuries.