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.