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Inventory Optimization Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Inventory Control Specialist II

Orla, TX · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

Non-Exempt The Inventory Control Specialist II operates within the Operations organization through ... Inventory Optimization & Analysis * Analyze product usage trends and adjust MRP settings (with ...

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Inventory Optimization Specialist information

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How much do inventory optimization specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for inventory optimization specialist in the United States is $20.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an inventory optimization specialist?

To thrive as an Inventory Optimization Specialist, you need strong analytical skills, a background in supply chain management or logistics, and often a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with inventory management systems (like SAP or Oracle), demand forecasting tools, and advanced Excel proficiency is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for maintaining optimal stock levels, minimizing costs, and ensuring seamless operations within the supply chain.

What is the difference between Inventory Optimization Specialist vs Inventory Analyst?

AspectInventory Optimization SpecialistInventory Analyst
Primary FocusOptimizing inventory levels and supply chain efficiencyAnalyzing inventory data to inform purchasing and stock decisions
Skills & CertificationsSupply chain management, data analysis, ERP systemsData analysis, Excel, inventory management software
Work EnvironmentSupply chain, logistics, manufacturingRetail, distribution centers, manufacturing

While both roles involve managing inventory data, the Inventory Optimization Specialist focuses on strategic inventory planning and supply chain efficiency, whereas the Inventory Analyst primarily analyzes data to support inventory decisions. The Specialist role often requires broader supply chain knowledge and optimization skills, making it more strategic in nature.

How much do inventory optimization specialists make in the US?

Inventory optimization specialists in the US typically earn an average salary ranging from $60,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Salaries can increase with certifications in supply chain management or data analysis tools and often include performance-based bonuses.

What are some common challenges inventory optimization specialists face when balancing stock levels and customer demand?

Inventory Optimization Specialists often grapple with the challenge of maintaining optimal stock levels while meeting fluctuating customer demand. Unexpected changes in sales trends, supply chain disruptions, and inaccurate data can lead to either excess inventory or stockouts, both of which affect company profits. To manage these challenges, specialists work closely with sales, procurement, and logistics teams, leveraging advanced analytics and forecasting tools to make data-driven decisions. Continuous communication across departments and adaptability are crucial for success in this dynamic role.

Do you need a degree to be an inventory optimization specialist?

A degree is not strictly required to become an inventory optimization specialist, but many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in supply chain management, logistics, business, or related fields. Relevant skills such as data analysis, proficiency with inventory management software, and problem-solving are often more important than formal education alone.

What is an inventory optimization specialist?

Inventory Optimization Specialists are professionals who analyze, manage, and improve inventory processes within an organization. Their main goal is to ensure the right amount of inventory is available to meet customer demand while minimizing costs and reducing surplus or obsolete stock. They use data analysis, forecasting, and supply chain management techniques to optimize stock levels, improve turnover rates, and enhance overall efficiency. These specialists often work closely with procurement, logistics, and sales teams to align inventory practices with business objectives.
More about Inventory Optimization Specialist jobs
What cities are hiring for Inventory Optimization Specialist jobs? Cities with the most Inventory Optimization Specialist job openings:
What states have the most Inventory Optimization Specialist jobs? States with the most job openings for Inventory Optimization Specialist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Inventory Optimization Specialist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Inventory Optimization Specialist jobs are:
Infographic showing various Inventory Optimization Specialist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,615 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Inventory/ERP Optimization Specialist

KETTLE CUISINE LLC

Green Bay, WI • On-site

$58K - $68K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Kettle Cuisine rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

154th of 436 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Job Summary:
The Inventory/ERP Optimization Specialist is responsible for overseeing all inventory, master data and cycle count transactions through the ERP system. The ideal candidate will have strong attention to detail, communication, and problem-solving skills. This position is also responsible for supporting the Customer Service department.
Role and Responsibilities:
  • Identify & implement system and process' for the creation and maintenance of product data and technical specifications within the Green Bay ERP system.
  • Responsible for working collaboratively with Operations and Regulatory for the creation and optimization of case and cup label designs for legibility and print stock.
  • Responsible for ensuring finished product specifications are maintained, updated, and communicated to all business stakeholders in a timely fashion while following established change control procedures.
  • Maintain & improve specification standards for all technical specifications within the Green Bay site, working cross collaboratively with culinary, process development, QA, and operations to ensure information and documentation is accurately incorporated into the specification.
  • Coordinate, monitor, and maintain the physical inventory process for finished goods, raw materials, and packaging materials. This includes defining and communicating process standards, ensuring compliance, investigating variances, and implementing corrective actions to improve inventory accuracy and integrity. Ensures alignment between the ERP system records and physical inventory counts.
  • Reconcile production data with physical inventory (finished goods, raw materials, and packaging), ensuring accuracy between system transactions and actual stock levels.
  • Responsible for subject matter expertise and content for labeling systems, providing support and knowledge base to operations in the development and on-boarding of new software and/or hardware solutions. This includes training production team members on proper material allocation and product labeling.
  • Partner with the IT department to troubleshoot equipment issues (scan guns, printers, etc.) - escalating issues as required.
  • Review and process volume summary to USDA.
  • Process inventory reports that include counts, discrepancies, and statistical data. Responsible for reconciling inventory in backflush locations through appropriate increase and decrease transactions by period end.
  • Responsible for preparing labels for pallets as needed.
  • Responsible for setting up, close work orders and delete empty bins.
  • Coordinating with applicable departments and team members to resolve discrepancies between inventory and revenue.
  • Assist the financing team with cycle count information.
  • Responsible for preparing weekly key performance indicator (KPI) and labor time tracker reports as well as labor, raw material, and dump reports with helpful insight to managers.
  • Map processes and develop process improvements to provide more timely, accurate & relevant information with enhanced visibility such that managers can take corrective action more quickly.
  • Responsible for receiving non-stock items and warehouse transfers.
  • Provide inventory reports of raw materials and finish goods to improve production forecasting and planning.
  • All other miscellaneous duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience:
  • Associate's degree in business-related concentration is strongly preferred
  • Minimum of 2 + years of relevant experience
  • Knowledge of ERP system
  • Good interpersonal & communication skills (oral and written) and ability to interact and communicate effectively with employees at all levels
  • Sophisticated Excel user and good aptitude for system reports
  • High accuracy and attention to detail
  • A team-player with the flexibility to multi-task and change priorities quickly
  • Self-starter and the ability to work efficiently and independently

Required attributes:
  • Ability to conceptualize and drive initiatives forward
  • Positive attitude and motivated by contributing to the overall success of the team
  • Able to develop strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including colleagues at other sites
  • Creative problem-solving skills and analyst approach
  • Obsessive attention to detail, well organized and able to juggle many projects at once
  • Comfortable moving at a fast-paced environments
  • Willing to address difficult situations head on with patience and respect
  • Desire and ability to resolve issues and work independently with limited supervision
  • Ability to learn new systems

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL EFFORT:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an Inventory/ERP Optimization Specialist encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
Physical Demands/Efforts
  • Must have the ability to occasionally lift 20-40-pound boxes.

Mental & Visual Demands
  • Work performed by this position requires considerable mental concentration to effectively execute complex tasks.
  • Work requires continuous visual effort for extended periods of time.

Work Environment and Hazards
  • Employee works in a manufacturing setting with frequent exposure to heat/cold, or other factors that may require protective equipment and still pose a hazard.
  • This position has regular exposure to hazards that could result in injury and loss of time at work.
  • Limited travel may be required.

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