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Assistant Inventory Planner Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Inventory Planner

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

This role reports to the Director - Inventory Planning. Responsibilities Include: * Provide ... Forecast and review Made-to-Order items and manage in-stock levels with buyers * Assist buyers with ...

Inventory Planning * Assist in executing inventory planning and allocation processes to maintain product availability and continuity of supply across global locations while learning to utilize the ...

Inventory Planning * Assist in executing inventory planning and allocation processes to maintain product availability and continuity of supply across global locations while learning to utilize the ...

Inventory Planning Associate

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Inventory Planning * Assist in executing inventory planning and allocation processes to maintain product availability and continuity of supply across global locations while learning to utilize the ...

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Assistant Inventory Planner information

See California salary details

$12

$17

$21

How much do assistant inventory planner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant inventory planner in California is $17.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is inventory a stressful job?

As an Assistant Inventory Planner, the role involves managing stock levels, analyzing data, and coordinating with suppliers, which can be demanding during busy periods or when facing supply chain disruptions. The job requires attention to detail and organizational skills, but stress levels vary depending on workload, company environment, and experience. Effective time management and familiarity with inventory management tools can help reduce stress.

What is the difference between Assistant Inventory Planner vs Inventory Analyst?

AspectAssistant Inventory PlannerInventory Analyst
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree, relevant certificationsBachelor's degree, analytical certifications
Work EnvironmentTeam-based, retail or supply chain settingsOffice, data analysis, reporting
Employer & Industry UsageRetail, manufacturing, logisticsRetail, manufacturing, logistics
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Assistant Inventory Planners support inventory management by assisting with stock levels, ordering, and data entry, often working under supervision. Inventory Analysts focus on analyzing inventory data, forecasting, and optimizing stock levels through detailed reports. While both roles require analytical skills and industry knowledge, Assistant Inventory Planners typically handle operational tasks, whereas Inventory Analysts focus on strategic analysis and decision-making.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant inventory planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Inventory Planner, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a background in supply chain management or a related field, often supported by a bachelor's degree. Proficiency in inventory management software, Excel, and ERP systems like SAP is typically required. Excellent organizational skills, communication, and the ability to adapt quickly to changing demands will help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure accurate inventory tracking, efficient stock management, and effective collaboration with various departments to support business operations.

What are some common challenges faced by assistant inventory planners, and how can they effectively manage them?

Assistant Inventory Planners often face challenges such as balancing stock levels to avoid overstock or stockouts, managing data accuracy, and adapting to sudden changes in demand. To manage these, it's important to regularly monitor inventory reports, communicate closely with suppliers and other departments, and utilize effective forecasting tools. Developing strong analytical skills and attention to detail can help anticipate issues before they impact operations, and being proactive in suggesting process improvements can make the role more efficient and rewarding.

What is an assistant inventory planner?

Assistant Inventory Planners are professionals who support the inventory planning process within a company. They help monitor stock levels, analyze sales trends, and assist in forecasting demand to ensure products are available when needed without overstocking. Their role often involves data entry, report generation, and coordination with suppliers and internal teams. By maintaining an optimal inventory balance, they contribute to efficient operations and cost savings for the organization.
What are the most commonly searched types of Inventory Planner jobs in California? The most popular types of Inventory Planner jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Inventory Planner jobs in California? For Assistant Inventory Planner jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Inventory Planner jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Inventory Planner jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Inventory Planner jobs? Cities in California with the most Assistant Inventory Planner job openings:

Inventory Planner

Grocery Outlet

Emeryville, CA • On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago


Grocery Outlet rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 412 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

73rd of 122 rated grocery stores


Job description

About Grocery Outlet:
  • Our Mission: Touching lives for the better
  • Our Vision: Touching lives by being the first choice for bargain-minded consumers in the U.S.
  • Our Values & Behaviors: Achievement, Diversity, Entrepreneurship, Family, Fun, Integrity & Service

About the Team:
Our Planning team's mission is to constantly push the status quo to deliver the best service to our buying team and store operators. Our team is highly intelligent and engaged with the business- allowing us to operate in a fast-paced environment and form cross-functional partnerships. Successful members of our team maximize profitability and productivity within their department and motivate their team and cross functional partners with their energy.
About the Role:
Responsible for managing the inventory health of a segment of the Grocery Outlet business, both in store and in warehouse. This role is extremely "hands-on" and detail-oriented, requiring a person that can make quick decisions, manage key warehouse and buying relationships, and provide inventory actions for their department(s) of responsibility. Responsible for assisting the Purchasing Team in ensuring proper product inventories at all warehouses to facilitate optimum code life and turns according to G.O.I. standards. Responsible for managing the distribution of merchandise to support company plan. Recommend and execute changes as needed to ensure profitability and productivity. This role reports to the Director - Inventory Planning.
Responsibilities Include:
  • Provide analysis (units, sales, and margin) for SKU's, programs, categories, and recommend corresponding strategies to maximize revenue and turn goals
  • Manage departmental financial plans, Open-to-Buy, and analysis at the department, category and SKU level
  • Assures the most appropriate inventory levels through careful planning and analysis of demand, usage, forecasts, industry trends
  • Responsible for forecast accuracy on sales dollars, ads and case projections
  • Present analytics and reports to various levels of management
  • Manage inventory at warehouse level and make decisions on inner warehouse product transfers as needed
  • Creates and generates daily/weekly/monthly aging reports for all buyers as needed
  • Forecast and review Made-to-Order items and manage in-stock levels with buyers
  • Assist buyers with updates on potential inventory or code date issues on all products
  • Understanding of general transportation modes, pricing, and business practices
  • Implement through allocation, the company's "Treasure Hunt" philosophy and merchandise assortment strategy through effective execution of product allocation
  • Execute category/sub-class trends regionally and identify specific merchandise needs through knowledge of regional and climatic characteristics
  • Understands impact of seasonality and "in and out" items and develops control/allocation process
  • Responsible for building an appropriate inventory mix to support new store openings
  • Responsible for assisting and educating operators in achieving profitable results in sales, merchandising and inventory management
  • Responsible for continuing to raise the level of standards of performance insuring proper representation of inventory
  • Manage order flow quantities to support sales, inventory, margin, DC space plans, etc.
  • Understand and execute appropriate distribution of products and maintain proper turn
  • Act as an integral partner and maintain relationships with Store Operators, Sales & Merchandising, Vendors, and Distribution Centers
  • Develop profitable plans and entrance and exit strategies with merchandising for seasonal and transition seasonal programs
  • Develop in season pricing strategies with appropriate margin for discontinued inventories
  • Perform other duties as assigned

About The Pay:
  • Base Salary Range: $75,000 - $85,000 Annually
  • Annual Bonus Program
  • Equity
  • 401(k) Profit Sharing
  • Medical, Dental, Vision & More!
  • Final compensation will be determined based upon experience and skills and may vary based on location

About You:
  • Bachelor's Degree or equivalent combination of education and/or minimum of 2 years of relevant experience
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Can successfully manage multiple tasks simultaneously
  • Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts and margins
  • Ability to deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists; can make solid decisions quickly based on limited information
  • Proficient in MS Office and AS400 applications, advanced level in Excel preferred
  • Strong communication skills, customer service, organization and attention to detail
  • Ability to work independently, as well as with a team
  • Concern for achieving positive outcomes and growing the business; willing to get involved in all aspects of the process
  • Possesses the "roll-up-your sleeves" attitude needed to be successful in a flat organization
  • Passionate about what they do and the processes within their area
  • Ability to write and present information effectively to buying department, suppliers
  • Ability to deal tactfully and effectively with all company personnel
  • Ability to be creative, resourceful and take ownership over their assigned category

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Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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