ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Inventory Associate Jobs in Fort Wayne, IN (NOW HIRING)

Refreshed Tech

Shipping Associate

Ashley, IN

$18/hr

Inventory Associate, your primary responsibility is to ensure the accurate and timely processing of orders for shipment to customers. You will work closely with other team members to meet ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsInventory Associate JobsInventory Associate Jobs in Fort Wayne, IN

Inventory Associate information

See Fort Wayne, IN salary details

$10

$15

$20

How much do inventory associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for inventory associate in Fort Wayne, IN is $15.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $17.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Inventory Associate vs Warehouse Worker?

AspectInventory AssociateWarehouse Worker
Primary ResponsibilitiesManaging inventory levels, stock counts, and data entryLoading, unloading, and moving goods within the warehouse
Required SkillsAttention to detail, inventory management, basic computer skillsPhysical stamina, equipment operation, teamwork
Work EnvironmentStockrooms, storage areas, inventory management systemsWarehouse floors, loading docks, storage areas
Common CertificationsNone typically required, but inventory management training helpfulForklift certification often preferred

While both roles are essential in warehouse operations, Inventory Associates focus on managing stock levels and data accuracy, whereas Warehouse Workers handle physical tasks like moving and loading goods. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right fit based on skills and interests.

What does an inventory associate do?

An inventory associate is an individual that is responsible for maintaining the proper product inventory for a given organization. As an inventory specialist, your duties include making sure that items are ordered and properly delivered, ensuring that shelves are well stocked with sufficient quantities of specific products, and keeping these items readily available in the warehouse or storage room. You must maintain accurate data records and supply inventory reports to management. You will find inventory associates working in retail locations as well as warehouses. You must have excellent organizational and counting skills for this career.

What is an inventory associate?

Inventory Associates are professionals responsible for tracking, managing, and organizing inventory within a warehouse, retail store, or distribution center. Their duties typically include counting stock, updating inventory records, checking for discrepancies, and assisting with receiving shipments. They play a vital role in ensuring that inventory levels are accurate to support efficient operations and minimize losses due to errors or theft.

What is the work of an inventory associate?

An inventory associate is responsible for tracking, organizing, and maintaining stock levels in a warehouse or retail environment. They often use inventory management software and perform tasks such as counting, labeling, and inspecting products to ensure accurate stock records and efficient operations.

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

To thrive as an Inventory Associate, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and basic math abilities, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with inventory management systems, barcode scanners, and warehouse software is typically required. Dependability, teamwork, and effective communication help individuals stand out in this role. These skills ensure accurate inventory tracking, minimize errors, and contribute to smooth warehouse operations.

What are the typical challenges an inventory associate might face during peak seasons, and how are they addressed?

During peak seasons, such as holidays or major sales events, Inventory Associates often face increased workloads due to higher volumes of incoming and outgoing stock. This can lead to tight deadlines, greater accuracy requirements, and more frequent inventory counts. To address these challenges, teams often implement extended shifts, improve coordination with other departments, and use inventory management systems to streamline tasks. Training and clear communication are also emphasized to ensure efficiency and minimize errors during these busy periods.
More about Inventory Associate jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Inventory jobs in Fort Wayne, IN? The most popular types of Inventory jobs in Fort Wayne, IN are:
What cities near Fort Wayne, IN are hiring for Inventory Associate jobs? Cities near Fort Wayne, IN with the most Inventory Associate job openings:
Inventory Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Inventory Associate job openings in Fort Wayne, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,394 per year, or $17 per hour.

1st Shift Inventory Associate

Central Garden & Pet

Fort Wayne, IN

$16.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Central Garden & Pet rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Central Garden & Pet

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 75,192 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

The best things about working at Central Garden & Pet

  • 97%

    97% say they get paid breaks

    say they get paid breaks

  • 94%

    94% say it is easy to take sick days

    say it is easy to take sick days

  • 94%

    94% say they don’t worry about hours

    say they don’t worry about hours

Featured by Central Garden & Pet, based on 41 Breakroom Quiz responses from their frontline employees

Job description

Description

The Inventory Associate is responsible for maintaining accurate inventory records in a Warehouse Management System in a manufacturing environment. This role involves tracking and organizing inventory, conducting regular audits, and ensuring that materials, parts, and products are accurately recorded and stored. The Inventory Associate plays a critical role in supporting the manufacturing process by ensuring that necessary items are available and accounted for, contributing to efficient production operations.  Experience with Warehouse Management Software preferred.
 
WORK SCHEDULE: Mon-Fri  7:00am-3:30pm; OT will be required during peak season (team currently on 5am-3:30pm)
 
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Assist with the receiving of shipments, verifying that the correct items and quantities have been delivered.
  • Use SAP reports to pull materials and shells for production.
  • Properly label and store materials in designated areas, following organizational procedures.
  • Use Production Plan spreadsheet and workorders to pull material shells for production.
  • Prepare and distribute materials, parts, or products to production lines as needed, ensuring that the correct items are delivered in a timely manner to support manufacturing schedules.
  • Conduct regular cycle counts and inventory audits to ensure accuracy and identify discrepancies.
  • Work closely with production and shipping departments to coordinate inventory needs and ensure smooth operations.
  • Support other production and warehouse functions as needed.
  • Other duties as requested, including general housekeeping of plant/warehouse.
 
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Prior inventory experience required. Experience with Warehouse Management Software preferred.
  • Proficient in basic math, counting and basic math equations.
  • Strong verbal, non-verbal and written communication skills; interaction with a variety of skill and experience levels within the organization.
  • Comfortable looking up information in various databases (training provided).
  • Ability to use Microsoft Office tools (Word, Outlook, Excel).
  • Ability to complete tasks accurately as assigned with a sense of urgency.
  • Prior forklift operator experience preferred OR must be willing to be trained and certified to operate a forklift.
  • Self-motivated and work individually or as a team.
  • Attention to detail is a MUST!!
 
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Must be able to bend, twist, stoop, stand and walk for at least 3 hours continually, over an 8-hour shift, with 2–15-minute breaks.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
 
MINIMUM EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Experience with WMS Programs.
  • Prior work in a plant or manufacturing setting
 
POSITION INFORMATION
  • This position pays $16.25 per hour depending on experience
 
BENEFITS PACKAGE & EMPLOYEE PROGRAMS 
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401k with 3% company match
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Access to thousands of free online courses
  • Discounts on cell phones, movie tickets, gym memberships, and more!
  • Education Assistance (both college degrees and professional certifications)
  • Referral Program with cash bonus
  • Paid parental leave
 
Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ: CENT) (NASDAQ: CENTA) is a leading consumer goods company in the pet and garden industries. Guided by the belief that home is central to life, the Company's purpose is to proudly nurture happy and healthy homes. For over 45 years, its innovative and trusted solutions have helped lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier, and communities grow stronger. Central is home to a diversified portfolio of market-leading brands including Amdro®, Aqueon®, Best Bully Sticks®, Cadet®, C&S®, Farnam®, Ferry-Morse®, Kaytee®, Nylabone®, Pennington®, Sevin® and Zoёcon®. With fiscal 2025 net sales of $3.1 billion, Central has strong manufacturing and logistics capabilities supported by a passionate, entrepreneurial growth culture. The Company is headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, and employs over 6,000 people, primarily across North America. Visit www.central.com to learn more.
 
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protect

Working at Central Garden & Pet

Perks for frontline workers

From Central Garden & Pet, via Breakroom

  • Safety is a top priority!

  • Paid Vacation

  • Paid Holidays

  • Paid Sick Time

  • Paid Breaks

  • Consistent shift and schedule

  • Comprehensive Health Insurance

  • 401k with Company Match

  • Referral Program with Cash Bonus

  • Education Assistance

  • Paid Parental Leave

About Central Garden & Pet, in their own words

From Central Garden & Pet

Our leading consumer and professional brands provide forward-thinking, high quality products to care for your lawn, garden, pets and community. We are committed to helping lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier and communities grow stronger.

Company values

From Central Garden & Pet

The Central Way | We Do the Right Thing | We Strive to be the Best | We are Entrepreneurial | We Win Together | We Grow Every Day | We are Passionate

Diversity and inclusion statement

From Central Garden & Pet

Central Garden & Pet is committed to building a great place to work that embraces diversity as a key pillar of our culture. This is a journey, and we are committed to listening, learning and doing the work to move forward together.

What Central Garden & Pet employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom