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Inventory Control Quality Assurance Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

HelloFresh

Quality Assurance Associate

Aurora, IL · On-site

$20.75/hr

The Quality Assurance Associate audits our production processes to ensure our customers receive a ... Follow and enforce strict manufacturing policies and procedures involving allergen control, Organic ...

HelloFresh

Quality Assurance Associate

Aurora, IL

The Quality Assurance Associate audits our production processes to ensure our customers receive a ... Follow and enforce strict manufacturing policies and procedures involving allergen control, Organic ...

Reyes-Coca--cola-Bottlin

QC/QA Supervisor

Niles, IL · On-site

$79 - $98/hr

The QA/QC Supervisor maintains corporate and franchise partner standards as well as environmental health and safety standards establishing operational procedures in collaboration with quality ...

Reyes Holdings | Our Culture

QC/QA Supervisor

Niles, IL · On-site

$78K - $98K/yr

The QA/QC Supervisor maintains corporate and franchise partner standards as well as environmental health and safety standards establishing operational procedures in collaboration with quality ...

Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling

QC/QA Supervisor

Niles, IL · On-site

$78K - $98K/yr

The QA/QC Supervisor maintains corporate and franchise partner standards as well as environmental health and safety standards establishing operational procedures in collaboration with quality ...

Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling

QC/QA Supervisor

Niles, IL

$78K - $98K/yr

The QA/QC Supervisor maintains corporate and franchise partner standards as well as environmental health and safety standards establishing operational procedures in collaboration with quality ...

Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling

QC/QA Supervisor

Niles, IL · On-site

$78K - $98K/yr

The QA/QC Supervisor maintains corporate and franchise partner standards as well as environmental health and safety standards establishing operational procedures in collaboration with quality ...

Epitec

Inventory Control Associate

Joliet, IL · On-site

$23/hr

Inventory Control Associate Location: Joliet, IL ( Epitec does not support relocation, this position only supports candidates in or around Joliet, IL) Job Type: W2 Contract (through November, likely ...

Crateandbarrel

Inventory Control Associate

Naperville, IL

$17 - $21/hr

Drawn together by a shared passion for our customers and a spirit of fun, we deliver high-quality ... As a crucial member of our team, the Inventory Control Associate plays a key role in maintaining ...

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All JobsInventory Control Quality Assurance Associate JobsInventory Control Quality Assurance Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Inventory Control Quality Assurance Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do inventory control quality assurance associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for inventory control quality assurance associate in Chicago, IL is $19.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an inventory control quality assurance associate?

Inventory Control Quality Assurance Associates are professionals responsible for ensuring that inventory records are accurate and that products meet quality standards within a warehouse or distribution environment. They conduct regular audits, reconcile discrepancies, and investigate inventory issues to maintain the integrity of stock data. Additionally, they may collaborate with other departments to develop and implement processes that minimize errors and improve overall inventory accuracy. Their work is essential for efficient warehouse operations and customer satisfaction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an inventory control quality assurance associate?

To thrive as an Inventory Control Quality Assurance Associate, you need a strong understanding of inventory management, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), barcode scanners, and basic Microsoft Office tools is often required, and some roles may prefer experience with quality assurance standards or certifications. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills for identifying discrepancies and collaborating with various departments. These skills ensure accurate inventory records, minimize losses, and support efficient warehouse operations.

What are some common challenges faced by inventory control quality assurance associates, and how can they be addressed?

Inventory Control Quality Assurance Associates often encounter challenges such as maintaining high accuracy in inventory counts, identifying discrepancies, and ensuring adherence to quality standards. These challenges can be addressed by developing strong attention to detail, utilizing inventory management systems effectively, and collaborating closely with warehouse staff to resolve issues quickly. Regular training on standard operating procedures and frequent communication with team members are also key to staying ahead of potential errors. Proactively addressing these challenges not only ensures smooth operations but also supports career growth within supply chain management.

What is the difference between Inventory Control Quality Assurance Associate vs Inventory Auditor?

AspectInventory Control Quality Assurance AssociateInventory Auditor
CertificationsTypically requires quality assurance or inventory management certificationsOften requires auditing or accounting certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks within warehouses or manufacturing facilities focusing on quality and inventory accuracyConducts audits across warehouses, stores, or distribution centers
Employer & IndustryManufacturing, logistics, retailRetail, logistics, warehousing

The Inventory Control Quality Assurance Associate primarily focuses on ensuring inventory accuracy and quality within a facility, emphasizing process compliance. In contrast, an Inventory Auditor conducts independent reviews to verify inventory records and compliance, often performing audits across multiple locations. Both roles require attention to detail and inventory knowledge but differ in scope and focus.

What are popular job titles related to Inventory Control Quality Assurance Associate jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Inventory Control Quality Assurance Associate jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Inventory Control Quality Assurance Associate jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Inventory Control Quality Assurance Associate jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Inventory Control Quality Assurance Associate job openings:

Inventory Control Quality Assurance Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Inventory Control Quality Assurance Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,093 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Inventory Control, Quality Assurance & Returns Lead

pewag Inc.

Bolingbrook, IL • On-site

$50K - $62K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Inventory Control, Quality Assurance
amp; Returns Lead
DEPARTMENT
Operations / Warehouse
REPORTS TO
Warehouse Manager
LOCATION
Bolingbrook, Illinois
EMPLOYMENT STATUS
Full-Time, Non-Union
DIRECT REPORTS
None Initially
WORK SCHEDULE
On-Site; Business Needs
FLSA CLASSIFICATION
Salary Exempt
EFFECTIVE DATE
07/24/2026
SALARY
$50,000-$62,000 Annually
POSITION SUMMARY
The Inventory Control, Quality Assurance amp; Returns Lead is responsible for protecting inventory integrity across the warehouse and leading the day-to-day processes for cycle counting, inventory research, operational quality audits, product returns, quarantine, and disposition. The role ensures that inventory records in Prophet 21 (P21) and RF warehouse systems accurately reflect physical inventory and that discrepancies are investigated to root cause rather than corrected through adjustment alone.
This is a hands-on, non-union lead position that works closely with the Warehouse Manager, Operations, Customer Service, Accounting, Purchasing, Sales, Engineering, and Quality resources. The Lead provides process direction, training, and audit oversight to warehouse employees while the Warehouse Manager retains formal labor scheduling, performance management, discipline, and labor-relations authority.
PRIMARY OUTCOME
Maintain reliable inventory, prevent repeat errors, process returns promptly, and create clear ownership for inventory-related controls across receiving, putaway, storage, picking, packing, shipping, and reverse logistics.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES1. Inventory Control and Cycle Count Management
  • Own and administer the cycle-count program, including annual count plans, weekly schedules, ABC frequency, high-value and high-risk items, repeat-error locations, and special counts requested by management or auditors.
  • Ensure cycle counts and recounts are completed accurately, on time, and through approved RF/P21 processes whenever system functionality is available.
  • Research count variances using transaction history, allocations, transfers, receipts, picks, shipments, adjustments, units of measure, lot information, and location activity before recommending an adjustment.
  • Prepare complete adjustment documentation and route material inventory adjustments or write-offs for the required approval.
  • Verify that inventory reductions or RF deallocations do not leave customer orders stranded; coordinate timely reallocation or escalation when available stock changes.
  • Monitor and resolve negative inventory, zero-on-hand discrepancies, inventory in non-pickable or staging locations, unidentified material, duplicate locations, and inventory with questionable status.
  • Maintain cycle-count records, recount notes, adjustment support, approvals, and audit evidence in the designated shared repository.
  • Support physical inventories, external audits, financial-control testing, and targeted counts based on value, quantity, or business risk.
2. Returns, RMA and Reverse Logistics
  • Own the warehouse returns process from receipt through final disposition, including customer returns, refused shipments, carrier returns, internal returns, vendor returns, and damaged or nonconforming material.
  • Verify item number, quantity, unit of measure, condition, packaging, lot or traceability information, customer authorization, and stated return reason before inventory is moved or credited.
  • Maintain controlled, clearly identified return and quarantine locations so returned or suspect material cannot be picked or shipped before inspection and disposition.
  • Coordinate with Customer Service, Sales, Accounting, Purchasing, Engineering, and Quality resources to determine disposition: return to available stock, repackage, rework, hold, return to vendor, claim with carrier, or scrap.
  • Ensure approved inventory transactions and customer/vendor credits are completed accurately and supported by documentation.
  • Track open returns and quarantine aging; escalate items that exceed established service-level targets or lack a clear owner or disposition.
  • Analyze return reasons and trends to distinguish customer-caused returns from picking, packing, product, documentation, packaging, carrier, supplier, or internal process failures.
3. Operational Quality Assurance and Process Audits
  • Conduct routine and targeted audits of receiving, putaway, replenishment, location control, picking, packing, shipping, staging, labeling, and return transactions.
  • Verify adherence to applicable FIFO, lot-control, product-identification, unit-of-measure, case-quantity, packaging, and traceability requirements.
  • Review picking and packing errors, shipment discrepancies, receiving variances, customer complaints, and inventory exceptions to identify patterns and control failures.
  • Quarantine questionable material and stop an inventory-related transaction when product identity, quantity, condition, traceability, or system status cannot be verified.
  • Create and maintain inventory-control and returns standard work, SOPs, work instructions, forms, checklists, and revision-controlled training materials.
  • Validate that corrective actions remain effective through follow-up audits instead of closing actions based only on stated completion.
4. Root Cause, Data Integrity and Continuous Improvement
  • Lead root-cause investigations using transaction data, physical observation, employee interviews, and process review; document both immediate containment and permanent corrective action.
  • Categorize inventory discrepancies and returns by root cause, process step, item, location, employee, customer, supplier, carrier, and system issue to identify recurring trends.
  • Partner with Operations and system resources to correct P21, RF, item-master, location, unit-of-measure, label, and workflow issues that create inventory risk.
  • Recommend improvements to slotting, location design, replenishment, staging, product identification, audit points, and transaction controls.
  • Participate in cross-functional projects involving warehouse systems, inventory governance, process automation, data cleanup, and operational readiness.
5. Lead Responsibilities, Training and Communication
  • Prioritize and coordinate daily ICQA and returns work in alignment with the Warehouse Manager’s staffing plan and operating priorities.
  • Provide day-to-day process direction to warehouse employees performing counts, audits, returns handling, research support, or corrective work.
  • Train and coach employees on inventory-related procedures, RF/P21 transactions, documentation standards, quarantine controls, and error-prevention practices.
  • Document process noncompliance, training gaps, and repeat errors; recommend retraining or corrective action to the Warehouse Manager.
  • Provide concise weekly reporting on inventory health, count completion, significant variances, open returns, quarantine aging, repeat errors, corrective actions, and required management decisions.
  • Serve as the warehouse subject-matter expert for inventory transactions and maintain backup procedures so critical knowledge is not held by one person.
DECISION RIGHTS AND ROLE BOUNDARIES
AUTHORIZED TO
REQUIRES MANAGER / FUNCTIONAL APPROVAL
• Quarantine or segregate suspect inventory.
• Final approval of significant adjustments, write-offs, or scrap.
• Require a recount or additional verification.
• Employee discipline, performance ratings, attendance actions, or grievance responses.
• Pause an inventory-related transaction that cannot be validated.
• Permanent staffing, scheduling, or bargaining-unit work assignments.
• Direct daily ICQA and returns workflow.
• Customer credits, vendor chargebacks, or financial settlements outside established authority.
• Recommend inventory adjustments and corrective actions.
• Engineering, product-conformance, or warranty decisions requiring technical approval.
• Require retraining on approved procedures.
• Changes to policy, system configuration, or accounting controls.
• Escalate repeat noncompliance or unresolved inventory risk.
Labor boundary: This is a non-union lead role. The position provides process direction, training, audit oversight, and work coordination. The Warehouse Manager and Human Resources retain formal disciplinary and labor-relations authority. Work assignments and any hands-on performance of bargaining-unit work must remain consistent with the applicable collective bargaining agreement and company practice.
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
MEASURE
EXPECTED FOCUS
Cycle-count completion
Counts and required recounts completed on schedule.
Inventory accuracy
Accuracy by bin, item, value, and root-cause category.
Gross and net adjustments
Controlled adjustments with complete research and approval.
Repeat discrepancy rate
Reduction in recurring errors at the same item, location, or process.
Returns processing time
Timely receipt, inspection, disposition, transaction, and credit support.
Open returns / quarantine aging
Clear ownership and escalation of aging material.
Receiving, pick and pack accuracy
Audited error rates and corrective-action effectiveness.
RF / P21 process compliance
Approved system transactions used consistently with traceable records.
Corrective-action closure
Actions completed on time and verified through follow-up audit.
Unidentified / misplaced inventory
Prompt resolution and downward trend in uncontrolled material.
Performance should not be evaluated on inventory accuracy alone. The role is expected to reduce repeat discrepancies and eliminate root causes, not simply improve reported accuracy through inventory adjustments.
QUALIFICATIONSRequired
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Three or more years of experience in inventory control, warehouse operations, cycle counting, returns, quality auditing, or a related distribution/manufacturing environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to research inventory transactions, identify root causes, and document findings clearly.
  • Working knowledge of ERP and warehouse-management transactions; ability to learn and use P21, RF devices, reporting tools, and Microsoft Office applications.
  • Strong attention to detail, organization, follow-through, and comfort holding others accountable to established processes.
  • Ability to communicate professionally with hourly employees, supervisors, customer-facing teams, accounting, purchasing, and technical functions.
  • Ability to work independently on the warehouse floor and manage multiple priorities with limited supervision.
Preferred
  • Associate or bachelor’s degree in supply chain, operations, business, quality, or a related field.
  • Experience with Epicor Prophet 21, wireless warehouse/RF systems, return material authorization processes, lot control, or industrial distribution.
  • Prior lead, trainer, inventory analyst, ICQA, quality, or returns coordination experience.
  • Experience with root-cause analysis, corrective action, Lean, Six Sigma, or structured problem-solving methods.
  • Forklift or powered-industrial-truck certification, or ability to obtain certification as required.
COMPETENCIES
COMPETENCY
EXPECTED BEHAVIOR
Inventory Discipline
Protects transactional accuracy and does not bypass controls for convenience.
Analytical Problem Solving
Uses evidence and process observation to separate symptoms from root causes.
Ownership and Follow-Through
Drives exceptions to closure and escalates stalled decisions.
Constructive Accountability
Addresses process failures directly, consistently, and professionally.
Cross-Functional Communication
Explains operational issues clearly to warehouse, commercial, technical, and financial teams.
Continuous Improvement
Builds practical controls that prevent errors without creating unnecessary bureaucracy.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • Regularly works in a warehouse and light industrial environment with exposure to moving equipment, varying temperatures, noise, dust, packaging materials, and routine operational hazards.
  • Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods; bend, reach, climb approved steps or ladders, and access inventory at floor and rack locations.
  • Must be able to lift and handle materials within company policy and established safe-lifting limits, with mechanical assistance used when required.
  • Must be able to use computers, handheld RF devices, printers, scanners, and standard office and warehouse equipment.
  • Must comply with all safety rules, required personal protective equipment, equipment-certification requirements, and inventory-control procedures.
ROLE EXCLUSIONS
Unless specifically assigned through a separate responsibility statement, this position does not own purchasing, demand planning, supplier negotiation, sales commissions, pricing administration, sales t

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