Inventory Control Analyst

JOB SUMMARY: This position is responsible for managing Western States’ parts inventories by analyzing stock on hand, ordering replenishment parts, and providing inventory support to all locations and Parts personnel. This role is responsible for the removal of distressed inventory by evaluating activity on a periodic basis and determining the proper disposal avenues. This position is also responsible for the timely return of surplus inventories to both vendors and customers when needed and the initiation and administration of regular inventory cycle counts in alignment with an ongoing bin-count approach.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Maintains and manages parts inventories for all Western States’ locations. Analyzes daily stock order. Approves and orders suggested replenishment parts from Caterpillar, Allied, and other vendors. Reviews ordered parts on verification report, processes stock order acknowledgments for verification of shipping, backordered and problem parts.
• Identifies, analyzes, and interprets inventory trends and patterns to forecast parts inventory. Makes changes in inventory levels at locations based on analysis of usage and customer needs. Develops inventory plans with Inventory Operations Manager to forecast future sales and orders.
• Ensures new equipment introduced into the territory by Caterpillar, other vendors, and/or customers is documented and parts needs are evaluated and processed.
• Compiles, analyzes and approves inventory order requests from customers and locations.
• Maintains routine inventory reports such as inventory adjustments, controlled minimums and maximums, purchases and returns by employees, parts barometer, stock backorder, transaction summary, activity summary for upper management and generates ad hoc reports.
• Works with vendors to maintain effective professional relationships that support the goals of Western States.
• Provides parts reconciliation assistance to the Finance department on all parts reconciliation issues.
• Processes CAT Bargain List orders.
• Researches new vendors as needed. Works with the Purchasing Manager to setup new contracts and negotiate pricing.
• Verifies daily locations physical inventory counts. Contacts stores who have not completed inventory.
• Assists store Parts personnel with inventory availability and orders from vendors. Researches part(s) transfers or orders part(s) to meet demand, verifies order, receives acknowledgements, and notifies parts personnel of status. Seeks clarification if necessary.
• Processes vendor rebates and claims for all locations. Analyzes parts in eligible stores to meet price and package quantity requirements, prepares documentation for parts movement. Oversees collection of parts and shipping for vendors. Receives credits and codes amounts accurately to appropriate store locations.
• Oversees the return of inventory overages, outdated inventory, etc. Works with vendors to coordinate and process returns and credit to meet applicable deadlines. Determines best option to dispose of inventory that is not returnable.
• Solves inventory problems in timely manner.
• Manages the surplus return process and enters data into the appropriate business systems for all locations. Checks quantities and amounts required for return before entering.
• Creates claims for parts discrepancies and parts marketing programs.
• Processes other CAT dealer and vendor parts purchase requests
• Reviews department e-mail inbox throughout the day and responds to store requests
• Adheres to all customer care standards.
• Actively cares and advocates safety at Western States. Adhere to all applicable safety policies, procedures and standards.
• May accomplish training and serve as a team member in support of Western States’ strategic programs, projects, and initiatives.
• Works within and promote corporate vision, mission, and values of the organization.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Thorough knowledge of Microsoft office software.
• Technical knowledge of Microsoft AX, Antares, CMIS, and CAT Support offerings preferred.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Must be detail oriented.
• Must be a self-starter and a team player.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Consistent attendance.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Proof of high school diploma or General Education Degree (GED).
• Two years of college coursework in business, accounting, supply chain management, or information systems required. Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Three years comparable work experience in inventory control or purchasing required.
• Must be able to communicate (speak, read, comprehend, write in English).

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:

• Must be able to sit for long periods of time along with walking, standing, climbing stairs, reaching pushing, pulling, leaning and twisting.
• Must be able to meet all safety requirements for applicable safety policies.

Disclaimer: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. It is not intended be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this classification.

• Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities.
• Please view Equal Employment Opportunity Posters provided by OFCCP here.
• The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)