Warehouse Specialist

OptiCool; Town of Webster (NY); On-site; USD 37,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

OptiCool is seeking a Warehouse Specialist to support daily manufacturing operations by managing the flow of raw materials, components, WIP, and finished goods. This role ensures material availability, accurate inventory, and timely shipment of orders.

The position emphasizes safe forklift operation, adherence to 5S and OSHA guidelines, and collaboration with logistics, production, and purchasing teams to keep the production floor running smoothly.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 1–3 years in warehouse or manufacturing.
• Forklift certification or ability to obtain.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs in a fast-paced setting.
• Basic computer systems and ERP/WMS knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Receive and verify incoming materials and supplies.
• Deliver materials to production lines according to schedules.
• Replenish WIP inventory and remove completed goods.
• Assist assemblers and production teams with materials and kits.
• Identify and elevate shortages, discrepancies, or quality issues.

Skills

Forklift certification

ERP/WMS basics

Physical strength (lift 50 lbs)

Attention to detail

Team communication

Lean manufacturing awareness

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

ERP/WMS software

Job description

The Warehouse Specialist supports daily manufacturing operations by managing the flow of raw materials, components, WIP (work-in-process), and finished goods throughout the facility. This role ensures accurate inventory, timely material availability for production lines, and efficient shipment of customer orders. The position plays a key role in maintaining operational efficiency and keeping the production floor running smoothly.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Receive and verify incoming raw materials, components, and supplies required for manufacturing.
• Deliver materials to production lines according to schedules and pull tickets.
• Replenish WIP inventory and remove completed goods from the production floor.
• Assist assemblers and production teams by preparing materials, parts, and kits needed for daily work orders.
• Identify, document, and elevate material shortages, discrepancies, or quality issues.

Inventory Control

• Perform cycle counts and assist with full inventory audits.
• Maintain accurate inventory transactions within the ERP or warehouse management system (WMS).
• Ensure proper labeling, tracking, and storage of materials, components, and finished products.
• Rotate stock using FIFO/FEFO as required
• Maintain supply kanbans

Shipping & Receiving

• Prepare and package finished goods for shipment to customers.
• Load and unload trucks using forklifts or other material-handling equipment.
• Verify shipping documentation, packing lists, bills of lading, and carrier requirements.
• Coordinate with logistics, production scheduling, and purchasing.
• Coordinate with logistics, purchasing, scheduling, and customer service teams.

Warehouse Organization & Safety

• Maintain a clean, organized warehouse following 5S principles.
• Operate forklifts, pallet jacks, and other equipment safely and responsibly.
• Comply with OSHA safety guidelines and company procedures.
• Report equipment issues and participate in safety audits or meetings.

Quality & Compliance

• Inspect incoming materials for accuracy, damage, or nonconformance.
• Follow quality control procedures and elevate discrepancies for review.
• Support quarantine, RMA, or rework processes as needed.
• Maintain compliance with OSHA, company safety standards, and documented procedures.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS (Education, Experience, Knowledge, & Skills)

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 1–3 years of warehouse or manufacturing experience.
• Forklift certification or ability to become certified.
• Strong understanding of basic computer systems and ERP/WMS functionality.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Basic Carpentry Skills for closing crates, etc"

Preferred Attributes:

Experience in lean manufacturing, 5S, or continuous improvement environments.

Knowledge of raw material and finished goods handling specific to manufacturing

Experience with shipping software (UPS/FedEx/Logistics systems).

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to prioritize and support production demands
• Effective communication with production, quality, and logistics teams
• Problem-solving and root-cause thinking
• Reliability and a continuous improvement mindset
• Manufacturing warehouse with varying temperatures, forklift traffic, and equipment noise.
• Frequent lifting, bending, walking, and equipment operation.
• PPE required based on department (safety shoes, glasses, gloves, etc.).