Strategic Inventory Analyst — Data-Driven & Growth Focus

Dakota Supply Group; Fargo (ND); On-site; USD 54,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee ownership (ESOP)

Training & development

Competitive compensation

PTO & extended medical leave

Medical, dental, vision benefits

401(k) with employer match

Employee discounts

Volunteer hours

Job summary

Dakota Supply Group is seeking an Inventory Analyst to join either our Plymouth, MN or Fargo, ND team. You will manage and optimize inventory, execute strategic purchasing decisions, and support profitability through replenishment systems and supplier partnerships.

The role requires 3+ years in inventory analysis, strong Excel skills, and collaboration with Sales, Operations, and Suppliers. Generous ESOP benefits and ongoing development are offered as part of a comprehensive package.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, business, analytics, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience will be considered.
• Three or more years of experience in inventory analysis, demand planning, supply chain, or a related role preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret trends, metrics, and large data sets.
• Experience with inventory systems, planning tools, and reporting platforms.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and general knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills with the ability to present findings and recommendations clearly.

Responsibilities

• Analyze inventory levels, demand patterns, and item movement to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement.
• Review and optimize supplier lead times, order quantities, and purchasing constraints.
• Execute and manage purchase orders aligned with demand forecasts and inventory strategies.
• Track service levels and product availability to support customer demand and operational performance.
• Review overstock, slow-moving, and excess inventory positions and recommend actions to improve inventory health.
• Analyze forward buy opportunities due to price increases, deals or rebate levels.
• Partner with Sales, Supplier Program Managers and Operations teams to align inventory strategies with business needs.
• Evaluate reorder points, safety stock settings, and other planning parameters to support optimal inventory positioning.
• Investigate inventory exceptions, stock-outs, unusual demand patterns, and replenishment issues and communicate findings to stakeholders.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives by identifying process gaps and recommending data-driven solutions.
• Maintain strong working knowledge of inventory systems, reporting tools, and planning processes.
• Provide analytical support, training, and guidance to team members and business partners, as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Forecasting concepts

Communication

Collaboration

Data-driven decisions

Education

Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, business, analytics, or related field

Three or more years of inventory analysis experience

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Inventory systems

Job description

Dakota Supply Group is seeking an Inventory Analyst to join either our Plymouth, MN or Fargo, ND team. You will manage and optimize inventory, execute strategic purchasing decisions, and support profitability through replenishment systems and supplier partnerships.

The role requires 3+ years in inventory analysis, strong Excel skills, and collaboration with Sales, Operations, and Suppliers. Generous ESOP benefits and ongoing development are offered as part of a comprehensive package.