Returns Associate

Hinkley, Inc.; Avon Lake (OH); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

401(k) with company match

Health benefits

Paid time off

Life insurance

Short-term disability

Wellness programs

Flexible spending accounts

Employee product discounts

Job summary

Hinkley seeks a Returns Associate to join our Distribution Center team in Avon Lake, OH. This role focuses on accurate, timely processing of returned products, supporting quality, inventory accuracy, and customer satisfaction through inspections, documentation, and disposition decisions.

Schedule is Monday–Friday, 6:30AM–3:00PM, with some Saturday overtime as needed. The position emphasizes attention to detail, computer skills, reliability, and effective communication with Customer Care and

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 1–2 years of warehouse/distribution experience preferred.
• Experience with quality inspection, receiving, or returns processing strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Inspect returned product and compare to original order.
• Document findings in Hinkley systems and complete returns steps.
• Determine proper disposition of returned items (restock, scrap, or alternate sales channels).
• Repackage and label items for return to stock according to Hinkley standards.
• Document return observations and report patterns to Supervisor.
• Support tracking of metrics including inventory transactions and RGA processing.
• Process part orders efficiently and accurately.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area for safety and efficiency.
• Operate equipment safely and follow security standards.

Skills

Attention to detail

Computer literacy

Verbal and written communication

Reliability

Time management

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Tools

ERP system

Microsoft Outlook

Job description

Description

Join our Distribution Center team as a Returns Associate! This fast-paced role requires strong attention to detail, computer skills, reliable attendance, and a positive, can-do attitude.

At Hinkley, a fourth-generation family-owned company, we create innovative lighting that helps make life's moments shine. We value the relationships we build with our customers, partners, and team members. We call itLife Aglow.

What We Offer:

Hinkley provides a competitive total rewards package, including an annual performance bonus, 401(k) with company match, comprehensive health benefits, paid time off and holidays, life insurance, short-term disability coverage, wellness programs, flexible spending accounts, and generous employee product discounts.

If this has sparked a feeling of excitement in you, then read more about this great CAREER OPPORTUNITY:

Position Summary:

A Hinkley Returns Associate plays a central role in ensuring the accurate, timely, and standardized processing of returned products. This position supports product quality, inventory accuracy, and customer satisfaction through activities such as receiving, inspection, documentation, disposition, parts handling, and collaboration with Customer Care and Quality teams. Responsibilities and level of autonomy vary by role level, with advancement reflecting increased expertise, decision-making authority, and process ownership within the returns function.

Schedule:

Monday - Friday, 6:30AM-3:00PM (some Saturday overtime may be required as needed)

Primary Tasks and Responsibilities

• Perform detailed inspection of returned product and compare to the original order.
• Accurately document findings in Hinkley systems and complete all required steps of the returns process in an accurate, thorough and efficient manner.
• Determine proper disposition of returned items (restock, scrap, or alternate sales channels).
• Repackage and label items for return to stock according to Hinkley standards.
• Document return observations as directed (for both products and parts) and report any noted patterns or recurring issues to Supervisor.
• Support tracking of metrics including inventory transactions, RGA processing, and item disposition.
• Process part orders in an efficient and accurate manner.
• Maintain a clean, and organized work area to support an efficient and safe working environment.
• Operate equipment safely and follow all company and CTPAT security standards.
• Assist in other areas as needed or assigned.

Requirements

Supervision Received:

Works under the general direction of department Supervisor. Additional support and direction may be provided by the Returns Associate Lead.

Education & Related Work Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• 1–2 years of warehouse, distribution center, or related operational experience preferred, with experience in quality inspection, receiving, or returns processing is strongly preferred.

Skills and Qualifications

• Computer literacy required; proficiency with Microsoft Outlook, including the ability to compose clear, professional, and timely email correspondence.
• Experience with an ERP system or similar inventory/order management software preferred.
• Demonstrated accuracy in data entry with high attention to detail.
• Clear and professional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across teams and interact effectively with Customer Care, Quality, and other internal departments.
• Well-developed organization and time management skills with ability to complete work in a fast-paced environment.
• Reliable attendance and dependability.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a warehouse and perform work in a warehouse environment.
• Ability to stand and/or sit for prolonged periods of time.
• Frequently required to walk.
• Noise level is usually moderate (industrial lift truck equipment).
• Ability to view computer screen and type on a keyboard.
• Ability to converse over a telephone (hear, speak).

The Company is committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity, all qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran’s status or any other protected characteristic. Candidates must possess authorization to work in the United States, as it is not our practice to sponsor individuals for work visas.