Inventory Clerk (1st shift)

Colonial Group; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Colonial Group is seeking an Inventory Clerk to maintain accurate inventory records and support warehouse operations. The role includes cycle counts, data entry in the WMS, and handling non-conforming goods per internal protocols.

Responsibilities include receiving/shipping documentation, organizing storage, and improving inventory accuracy. A High School Diploma, attention to detail, basic computer skills, and forklift experience are preferred.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED or equivalent experience.
• Strong attention to detail and data entry accuracy.
• Ability to manage multiple inventory items and priorities simultaneously.
• Proficient in basic computer applications (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Word) and adaptability to learn warehouse systems.
• Understanding of FIFO, cycle counting, and stock rotation.
• Forklift experience and ability to pass a forklift assessment.
• Excellent communication and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Conduct regular cycle counts and physical inventory audits to verify stock levels and locations.
• Accurately input and maintain inventory data in the Warehouse Management System (WMS).
• Prepare and manage documentation for inventory transactions, including receiving/shipping documents and adjustments.
• Assist with receiving shipments, verify counts, inspect for damage, and update records.
• Maintain a clean, organized warehouse environment and proper product placement.
• Identify inventory issues and propose process improvements to enhance control.
• Perform product and location audits and root cause analysis for recurring issues.

Skills

Attention to detail

Data entry

Multitasking

Communication

Excel

Inventory control

Forklift operation

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

AS400

Job description

Schedule:

Monday- Friday 8am - 4:30pm

Compensation:

Base Hourly Wage or Compensation Range: $22.00 per hour
Shift Differential: No
Incentive eligible: No

Position Overview

The Inventory Clerk plays a critical role in maintaining accurate inventory records and supporting the overall efficiency of warehouse operations. This position is responsible for monitoring inventory levels, identifying and resolving discrepancies, and ensuring products are properly stored, labeled, and accounted for. The Inventory Clerk also oversees processes related to non-conforming products such as damaged goods and quality hold items to ensure compliance with internal protocols and industry standards.

Essential Job Duties & Responsibilities

• Conduct regular cycle counts and physical inventory audits to verify stock levels and locations. Investigate and reconcile any variances between physical counts and system records.

• Accurately input and maintain inventory data in the Warehouse Management System (WMS), ensuring up-to-date and error-free records.

• Prepare and manage documentation for inventory transactions, including receiving reports, shipping documents, and inventory adjustments.

• Assist with receiving shipments by verifying counts, inspecting for damage, and updating records accordingly. Support order fulfillment and shipping activities as needed.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free warehouse environment, including labeling, shelving, and proper product placement.

• Proactively identify inventory issues such as stock shortages, damaged or obsolete items, and propose process improvements to enhance inventory control.

• Perform product and location audits throughout the warehouse and resolve inconsistencies.

• Conduct root cause analysis for recurring inventory issues and recommend corrective actions.

• Support initiatives aimed at improving inventory accuracy and warehouse efficiency.

• Use system tools to trace and resolve inventory discrepancies, ensuring proper stock status and location accuracy.

• Manage the damaged goods process, ensuring accurate documentation and appropriate handling (e.g., disposal, salvage, or return to stock).

• Identify and segregate items under quality hold, and document their approved disposition.

• Execute inventory transfers to support production, fulfillment, and other operational needs.

• Perform miscellaneous warehouse tasks as assigned, contributing to overall team success.

• Safely operate powered industrial trucks and equipment, including forklifts, reach trucks, pallet jacks, and scissor lifts.

• Perform other related job duties as assigned or required.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED Equivalent – or equivalent relevant experience

• Strong attention to detail with high accuracy in data entry and inventory tracking

• Ability to manage multiple inventory items and priorities simultaneously

• Skilled in identifying discrepancies and solving problems through logical reasoning

• Effective verbal and written communication skills for reporting and team coordination

• Proficiency in basic computer applications (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Word) and adaptability to learn warehouse systems

• Understanding of inventory practices such as FIFO (first-in, first-out), cycle counting, and stock rotation

• Flexibility to adapt in a fast-paced, dynamic warehouse environment

• Team-oriented with the ability to collaborate across departments

• Demonstrates strong accountability and independence in managing responsibilities

• Fundamental math and reading skills necessary for task execution

• Commitment to workplace safety and following established procedures

• Capable of interpreting written and verbal instructions and performing basic root cause analysis

• Prior experience operating a forklift and ability to pass a forklift assessment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with AS400 and/or other Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

Physical Requirements

This position requires the physical ability to:

• Stand and/or walk for extended periods (up to 8 hours, depending on shift)

• Sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl as needed

• Climb stairs, ladders, and/or scaffolds at various heights including ground-level and racking zones (occasionally/frequently)

• Reach with hands and arms overhead and below waist level

• Lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds

• Occasionally lift heavier items with or without assistance

• Use fine motor skills/manual dexterity to operate equipment, tools, or keyboards

• Frequently use hands and fingers to handle, grasp, or control objects

• See clearly at close range and at distance, with peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus

• Hear and understand verbal instructions, alarms, and equipment signals in a noisy environment

Work Environment

This position operates in a hybrid environment, with responsibilities carried out in both a warehouse setting and an office environment. In the warehouse, the employee is exposed to:

• Varying temperatures, including but not limited to refrigerated or non-climate controlled areas

• Loud noise levels, such as machinery, forklifts, and conveyor systems

• Dust, odors, and airborne particles

• Concrete flooring and moving mechanical equipment

• Frequent exposure to powered industrial vehicles and warehouse traffic

The employee is required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as steel-toed shoes, safety glasses, and high-visibility vests.

In the office environment, the employee will use standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and printers. The noise level in the office is typically quiet to moderate, and the area is climate-controlled.

Location/Remote Eligibility

This role may be performed on-site only.

Schedule

Work hours may vary by shift assignment and may include evenings, weekends, holidays, and overtime based on business needs.