Warehouse Coordinator

The Salvation Army USA Central Territory; Hoffman Estates (IL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

The Salvation Army USA Central Territory is seeking a Warehouse Coordinator to manage daily warehouse operations, inventory control, and deployment readiness for disaster response.

You will train volunteers, supervise staging, coordinate shipments, and uphold Lean/5S standards to ensure safe, efficient supply flow.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; logistics training preferred.
• Two or more years of warehouse or logistics experience.
• Proficient with lean, 5S, and FIFO inventory management.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and operate warehouse equipment.
• Experience in nonprofit or disaster services is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily warehouse activities including receiving shipments and routing materials.
• Maintain accurate digital inventory records and conduct regular counts.
• Coordinate inbound/outbound shipments and prepare required documents.
• Assist in deploying disaster kits and staging trailers/vehicles.
• Train volunteers and ensure safety standards per OSHA.

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Forklift certification

FEMA ICS-100/ICS-200

CPR/First Aid/AED certification

Job description

Compensation Range: $26.41 to $29.34/hourly, based on experience

The Salvation Army Mission

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Job Objective

The Warehouse Coordinator position exists to advance The Salvation Army's Emergency Disaster Services mission by managing warehouse organization, inventory control, supply readiness, and logistical operations. This position ensures that disaster supplies, equipment, and materials are stored, tracked, rotated, and deployed efficiently using modern warehouse best practices and the principles of Lean, FIFO, and 5S. The Warehouse Coordinator plays a key role in supporting volunteers, training events, and deployment operations throughout the territory.

Position Summary

The Warehouse Coordinator oversees daily warehouse operations for the Central Territory EDS program, including receiving, organizing, storing, and distributing disaster response supplies and equipment. This position maintains accurate inventory records, prepares deployment kits, assists with staging of trailers and vehicles, and develops organizational systems that enhance warehouse efficiency and readiness. The role also trains volunteers, collaborates with other warehouse staff, and ensures the warehouse environment is safe, clean, and mission-ready at all times.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Warehouse Operations

• Oversee daily warehouse activities including receiving shipments, unloading supplies, and routing materials to appropriate storage zones.
• Maintain clean, organized, and clearly labeled storage areas using 5S and Lean principles.
• Implement FIFO rotation for perishable or time-sensitive materials.
• Manage staging areas for deployments, trainings, and community outreach events.
• Maintain equipment, storage containers, and warehouse tools in organized working condition.

Inventory Management

• Maintain accurate digital inventory records of all disaster supplies, equipment, and consumables.
• Conduct regular cycle counts and full inventory audits as required.
• Track supply expiration dates, usage rates, and reorder thresholds; alert leadership when restock needs arise.
• Build, update, and maintain standardized deployment kits (hydration kits, food kits, shelter support kits, etc.).
• Coordinate inventory movement between the Pep Boys and Circuit City warehouse zones.

Shipping, Receiving & Logistics

• Coordinate inbound and outbound shipments, including freight deliveries, donation pickups, and transfers to other divisions.
• Prepare bills of lading, receiving documentation, and inventory adjustment forms.
• Assist in loading/unloading trucks, trailers, and mobile units in collaboration with other warehouse staff.
• Work closely with the Maintenance Technician and Driver to ensure efficient supply flow for deployments.

Deployment Support

• Assist with preparing trailers, vehicles, and mobile units with required supplies for disaster response.
• Support staging, palletizing, labeling, and checklist verification for deployments.
• Participate in disaster drills, exercises, and active deployments when assigned.
• Work with the Driver & Mobile Feeding Specialist to ensure feeding supplies are replenished and ready.

Volunteer Coordination & Training

• Provide guidance, direction, and assignments to volunteers assisting with warehouse tasks.
• Train volunteers in proper storage, labeling, inventory practices, and safe warehouse operations.
• Support volunteer workdays, team-building events, and training programs.
• Maintain a positive, encouraging atmosphere that reflects Salvation Army values.

Safety & Compliance

• Maintain a safe working environment by enforcing warehouse safety standards and OSHA guidelines.
• Ensure proper use of PPE, safe lifting techniques, and proper storage of chemicals or sensitive materials.
• Report hazards, equipment issues, or unsafe conditions immediately.
• Participate in safety audits and corrective action planning.

General Support

• Assist with special projects, remodel phases, and seasonal warehouse reorganization.
• Support training events, donor tours, and community engagement programs hosted in the warehouse.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to ensure overall mission readiness.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; additional training in logistics, warehousing, or supply-chain management preferred.
• Two or more years of warehouse or logistics experience required (nonprofit or emergency services experience preferred).
• Strong organizational skills and familiarity with Lean, 5S, or other warehouse optimization systems.
• Ability to operate forklifts, pallet jacks, and other warehouse equipment (training provided).
• Proficient in basic computer applications (Excel, inventory management systems, scanning tools).
• Ability to lift 50 lbs, climb ladders, and safely perform physical warehouse tasks.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, especially when working with volunteers.
• Commitment to The Salvation Army's mission and emergency response values.

Licenses & Certifications

• Valid driver's license.
• Forklift certification (training can be provided).
• FEMA ICS-100 and ICS-200 required within 90 days of hire.
• CPR, First Aid, and AED certification (can complete after hire).

Skills

• Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Accuracy and attention to detail in inventory management.
• Ability to motivate and direct volunteers and seasonal workers.
• Problem-solving ability and adaptability during rapid operational changes.
• Team-oriented approach with willingness to collaborate across roles.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Supervisory Responsibility

Occasional supervision of volunteers assisting with warehouse operations, inventory projects, or disaster deployments.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift, move, carry, and stack items up to 50 lbs.
• Standing, bending, reaching, and walking for extended periods.
• Ability to operate warehouse equipment and tools safely.
• Work may involve exposure to varying temperatures and warehouse environments.

Travel

Minimal travel required; additional travel may occur during response operations or training events.

Working Conditions

Routine work takes place in a warehouse environment. May involve occasional evenings or weekends during deployments, inventory cycles, or special events. During disaster operations, work may occur outdoors or in temporary facilities with limited amenities.

Religious Mission Acknowledgment

All employees recognize that The Salvation Army is a church and agree that they will do nothing as an employee of The Salvation Army to undermine its religious mission.