Parts Associate

Walker Automotive,Inc; Elkton (KY); On-site; USD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Coverage

Paid Time Off

Professional Development

Team-First Culture

Job summary

Walker Automotive Inc. in Elkton, KY is seeking a Parts Associate (Procurement & Shop Support Specialist) to drive our parts procurement, inventory control, and front-of-house support.

The role focuses on proactive ordering, vendor negotiations, and accurate inventory management to keep the shop running smoothly. Ideal candidates will have experience in automotive parts management in fast-paced settings, strong organizational and communication skills, and comfort with Tekmetric or similar shop

Qualifications

• Experience in automotive parts management or fast-paced customer service/logistics.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple shipments to prevent bottlenecks.
• Strong negotiation and interpersonal skills for vendor relations and internal support.
• Comfort with computer software and digital shop management systems (Tekmetric a major plus).

Responsibilities

• Procure parts proactively as repair orders are approved; monitor and order parts to optimize costs.
• Negotiate with vendors to achieve competitive pricing and protect shop margins; source alternative items when needed.
• Manage receiving, inventory, staging, and accurate logging of shipments in Tekmetric; update order statuses.

Skills

Parts management

Vendor relations

Organizational skills

Tech proficiency

Tools

Tekmetric

Job description

BE THE ENGINE BEHIND THE BAY! JOIN AN ELITE AUTOMOTIVE TEAM.

Position: Parts Associate (Procurement & Shop Support Specialist)

Company: Walker Automotive Inc.

Location: Elkton, KY

Type: Full-Time

| Fast-Paced | High-Impact

Earning Potential: $35,000 – $45,000 per year (Plus clear pathways to grow into higher-paying positions!)

Are You Tired of the Same Old Chaotic Shop Environment?

At Walker Automotive, we are on a mission to redefine the auto repair experience by putting people before profits and delivering an uncompromised standard of excellence.

We know that high-performing technicians can't turn wrenches without the right parts in their hands at the right time. That’s why we’re looking for a sharp, proactive, and wildly organized Parts Associate to drive our procurement process, keep our shop inventory locked down, and support our front-of-house operations!

If you thrive in a fast-paced environment where your organization directly impacts the success of the entire shop, we want to invest in you.

WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING (THE HEART OF SHOP WORKFLOW)

1. Strategic Parts Procurement & Cost Control

• Proactive Ordering: Monitor digital shop boards to instantly order necessary parts as repair orders (ROs) are approved.
• Vendor Negotiation: Build strong vendor relationships to negotiate top-tier pricing, find alternative sources for delayed items, and protect shop margins.
• Financial Oversight: Actively manage inventory and ordering to help maintain our target monthly parts cost goals.

2. Receiving, Inventory & Staging Mastery

• Receiving & System Check-In: Unbox, verify quantities, and log all incoming shipments accurately into Tekmetric.
• Staging & Core Management: Stage parts cleanly in technician bins, pull required fluids, label core returns, and keep fluid inventory stocked daily.
• Real-Time Communication: Update digital ticket notes with order status, tracking info, and ETA updates to keep advisors and technicians completely in sync.

3. Front Counter & Shop Support (Team Player Focus)

• Client Intake Assistance: Step up to the front counter to help greet clients and check in customer vehicles during peak rushes.
• Shop Environment Care: Keep shop areas, parts rooms, and staging bays clean, safe, and organized.
• Restocking & Support: Keep inventory restocked and jump in wherever needed to keep the shop floor moving smoothly!

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE TABLE

• Experience: Proven track record in automotive parts management or a related fast-paced customer service/logistics field.
• Master Organizer: Ability to prioritize tasks, track multiple shipments, and eliminate bottlenecks without breaking a sweat.
• Great Communicator: Outstanding interpersonal and negotiation skills for vendor relations and internal team support.
• Tech-Savvy: Comfortable with computer software and digital shop management systems (experience with Tekmetric is a major plus!).

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THE WALKER AUTOMOTIVE FAMILY

Competitive Compensation & Advancement

Earn between $35,000 and $45,000 per year starting out. We believe in promoting from within—this role offers a direct opportunity to learn our operations and grow into higher-paying positions (such as Service Advisor or Management)!

Comprehensive Benefits Package

• Health Coverage: Full health insurance options to keep you and your family protected.
• Paid Time Off: Enjoy paid holidays and generous paid vacation time.
• Professional Development: We invest in your growth with paid continuing education and training opportunities.
• Team-First Culture: Work in a supportive, democracy-led shop built on mutual respect—no corporate coldness or rigid dictatorships here!

READY TO DRIVE YOUR CAREER FORWARD?

Stop getting bogged down in disorganized shops and join a team that respects your skills!