Inventory Control and Quality Assurance Manager

About the role

The Inventory Control and Quality Assurance (ICQA) Associate will play a critical role in ensuring inventory accuracy and product quality for NAPA’s automotive parts aftermarket in the distribution center. Reporting to the ICQA Manager, the ICQA Associate will be expected to take ownership of ICQA tasks such as performing cycle counts, conducting audits, inspecting incoming and outgoing shipments using handheld scanning technology, verifying stock levels, resolving inventory discrepancies, monitoring proper storage conditions, and identifying quality issues to uphold NAPA’s high standards.

Responsibilities

The ICQA Associate will be responsible for:

• Monitoring daily inventory levels to ensure accuracy and prevent stockouts or overstock situations.
• Conducting regular physical inventory counts and reconciling discrepancies between physical stock and system records.
• Maintaining detailed inventory records and ensuring timely updates in the inventory management system.
• Coordinating inventory movement in warehouse and production areas to optimize stock flow.
• Assisting in forecasting inventory needs based on historical data and demand trends.

In terms of quality assurance, the ICQA Associate will:

• 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

The ideal candidate will have:

• A 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.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) and familiarity 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 include:

• 1 – 3 years of distribution center experience.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Proven experience performing various 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 Powered Industrial Equipment experience.

Physical Demands / Working Environment

The position operates in a warehouse setting with continuous exposure to industrial noise, bright overhead lighting, and varying temperatures due to limited climate control. Employees regularly work around moving equipment and mechanical operations and must remain alert to audible and visual safety signals in a fast-paced environment.

Physical demands include:

• Lifting and carrying objects of varying weights, up to 60 lbs or more.
• Pushing and pulling carts, pallet jacks, or other equipment loaded with materials throughout the warehouse.
• Standing and walking for extended periods, often for the duration of a shift.
• Bending and stooping to retrieve items from shelves, bins, or storage racks.
• Climbing ladders or stairs to access elevated storage areas or perform maintenance tasks.
• Operating warehouse equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and order pickers.
• Manual dexterity to handle small objects, operate machinery controls, and perform tasks requiring precision and accuracy.
• Repetitive motion to perform tasks such as scanning barcodes, sorting items, or packaging products throughout the shift.
• Physical endurance to work in a fast-paced environment and meet productivity targets.
• Safety awareness to follow safety protocols and guidelines to prevent workplace accidents and injuries.