Materials Lead

About the role

The Materials Lead is responsible for receiving materials, storage, and control of raw material, WIP, and finished goods. This role ensures efficient receiving, accurate inventory control, and timely distribution of materials to support production schedules. The ideal candidate combines hands-on warehouse experience with strong organizational and leadership skills to maintain accuracy, reduce waste, and support continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily receiving operations, including unloading, inspection, and verification of incoming materials (aluminum extrusions, glass, hardware, packaging, etc.)
• Ensure all deliveries are checked against purchase orders and packing slips for accuracy and quality
• Coordinate with purchasing and vendors to resolve discrepancies or damaged goods
• Maintain proper documentation and system entry for all received materials
• Maintain accurate, real-time inventory records in ERP/MRP systems
• Conduct regular cycle counts and lead full physical inventories as required
• Investigate and resolve inventory discrepancies and implement corrective actions
• Optimize storage layout for efficiency, accessibility, and safety
• Monitor inventory levels and collaborate with purchasing to prevent shortages or overstock
• Ensure timely and accurate staging of materials for production orders
• Coordinate internal material movement between warehouse and production floor
• Work closely with production supervisors to prioritize material needs and minimize downtime
• Lead, train, and supervise warehouse and materials staff
• Assign daily tasks and monitor team performance to ensure productivity and accuracy
• Promote a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement
• Assist in hiring, onboarding, and performance evaluations
• Identify opportunities to improve material flow, reduce waste, and increase efficiency
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for receiving, inventory, and material handling
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and company policies
• Support lean manufacturing and 5S initiatives
• Perform any additional related duties, as assigned

Requirements

• Ability to manage others, delegate responsibility, and provide support
• Ability to meet deadlines
• High level of energy, positive attitude, and selfless approach for the benefit of the company
• Must contribute meaningfully to the company and the profession
• Must demonstrate talent for understanding, motivating, and inspiring clients, consultants, and staff
• Must be an integral and recognizable part of the company’s reputation and image
• Synthesizes complex or diverse information; collects and researches data; uses intuition and experience to complement data; designs workflows and procedures
• Manages difficult or emotional customer situations; responds promptly to customer needs; solicits customer feedback to improve service
• Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; gathers and analyzes information skillfully; develops alternative solutions; works well in group problem-solving situations
• Approaches others tactfully; reacts well under pressure; treats others with respect and consideration; accepts responsibility for own actions
• Follows policies and procedures; completes administrative tasks correctly and on time; supports company goals and values
• Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; listens to understand; writes clearly and informatively; demonstrates group presentation skills

Qualifications

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent
• 2+ years of related experience and/or training
• Proficiency with computer operations (ERP, MS Word & Excel, and Outlook)

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. regularly
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and material handling

Work Environment

This job operates in a warehouse/production environment. Some administrative tasks may require time spent in an office setting.