Inventory Clerk, Cycle Counting

Columbus McKinnon; Wisconsin; On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Columbus McKinnon in Hartland, WI is seeking an Inventory Clerk, Cycle Counting to support inventory accuracy in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. You will plan and execute daily cycle counts, analyze variances, and generate reporting to drive continuous improvements across planning, purchasing, receiving, warehouse, and finance teams.

The role requires strong Excel skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 2+ years in manufacturing or inventory control.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and work in a manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Plan, schedule and execute daily cycle counts.
• Analyze variances and investigate discrepancies.
• Prepare cycle count reporting and metrics.
• Maintain accurate cycle count records and documentation.
• Collaborate with planning, purchasing, receiving, and finance.

Skills

Detail oriented

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Independent worker

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate degree (preferred)

Tools

Excel

ERP systems

Inventory software

Job description

Position: Inventory Clerk, Cycle Counting

Location: Hartland, WI, US, 53029

Join a team that values balance, open communication, and your future!

Dorner Manufacturing, a Columbus McKinnon Organization, is growing, and we're looking for people who want more than just a job—they want a workplace where they can thrive. Enjoy a culture that prioritizes your work-life balance, leaders who communicate openly, and a company committed to continuous growth and innovation. Discover a career where you can make a difference and still make time for what matters most!

Job Summary/Overview:

The Inventory Clerk, Cycle Counting is responsible for monitoring and supporting inventory accuracy across the organization through the execution of cycle counts, variance analysis, reporting, and investigation activities. This role serves as an independent partner to Operations by identifying discrepancies, monitoring inventory accuracy trends, and providing visibility into areas requiring attention.

The successful candidate is highly organized, analytical, detail-oriented, and capable of working independently in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This individual will interact with employees across all levels of the organization and play a key role in supporting inventory accuracy while contributing to continuous improvement efforts.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Cycle Counting & Inventory Accuracy

• Plan, schedule, and execute daily cycle counts in accordance with company policy and count requirements and in partnership with the operations team
• Perform physical inventory verifications and reconcile count results to ERP system records
• Maintain accurate cycle count records and supporting documentation
• Support annual physical inventory activities and inventory-related audit requirements as needed

Variance Analysis & Investigation

• Analyze inventory variances and investigate discrepancies to identify potential root causes
• Review findings with appropriate stakeholders to validate inventory transactions and records
• Maintain complete documentation of variances, supporting analysis, and reason codes
• Monitor unresolved inventory discrepancies and follow up with appropriate teams regarding open items
• Escalate significant or recurring inventory accuracy concerns to management
• Prepare daily, monthly, and annual cycle count reporting, communicating inventory findings clearly and professionally to stakeholders throughout the organization
• Track inventory accuracy metrics, variance trends, and reason code activity
• Identify recurring patterns and provide insights regarding inventory accuracy performance
• Support management and audit requests for inventory-related reporting and analysis
• Build effective working relationships with planning, purchasing, receiving, warehouse, production, and finance teams
• Serve as a resource regarding inventory records, inventory transactions, and cycle count processes
• Identify and communicate opportunities to improve inventory accuracy, transaction discipline, and reporting effectiveness
• Assist in evaluating inventory-related processes and controls, supporting implementation and documentation of approved process improvements
• Maintain compliance with company policies, procedures, and internal control requirements
• Participate in cross-training initiatives and provide backup support for other departmental functions as needed
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, Competencies, and Abilities

• Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage large volumes of information and transactions accurately
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify trends, investigate discrepancies, and evaluate data
• Demonstrated ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple competing responsibilities
• Ability to work independently and follow through on assignments with minimal supervision
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to build positive working relationships across departments and organizational levels
• Demonstrated ability to navigate cross-functional situations professionally and obtain information needed to support investigations and reporting
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and ERP systems
• Commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• Two or more years of experience in a manufacturing, inventory control, materials management, receiving, warehouse, purchasing support, planning support, or related business environment
• Demonstrated experience working with data, reports, reconciliations, transactional processes, or inventory-related investigations
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment and perform physical inventory counting activities
• Ability to lift/lower/push/pull up to 40 lbs. safely.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate degree in business, supply chain, accounting, or a related field
• Experience working within an ERP system
• Experience with inventory control, cycle counting, inventory transactions, materials management, receiving, planning, or purchasing processes
• Free coffee daily
• 11 paid holidays
• Vacation and paid sick time
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid parental leave
• Tuition assistance
• Disability insurance
• Dress for your day

Columbus McKinnon is a leading worldwide designer, manufacturer and marketer of intelligent motion solutions that move the world forward and improve lives by efficiently and ergonomically moving, lifting, positioning and securing materials. Key products include hoists, crane components, precision conveyor systems, rigging tools, light rail workstations and digital power and motion control systems. We are focused on commercial and industrial applications that require the safety and quality provided by our superior design and engineering know-how. Columbus McKinnon is a publicly traded company that has been in business for almost 150 years - proud of our heritage, where we come from, and where we're going. As Columbus McKinnon grows globally, so does our need for driven and inspired employees. Join our winning team!

Columbus McKinnon Corporation promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, age, religion, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, marital status, or any other Federal or State legally-protected classes. We also value the safety of all associates and work hard to maintain a Drug Free Workplace.