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Retail Inventory Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Retail Inventory Manager information

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$11

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$36

How much do retail inventory manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for retail inventory manager in Chicago, IL is $23.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Retail Inventory Managers?

Retail Inventory Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing and managing the inventory of retail stores. They ensure that the right amount of stock is available to meet customer demand without overstocking or running out of products. Their duties typically include monitoring inventory levels, ordering new stock, conducting audits, and coordinating with suppliers. Retail Inventory Managers also use inventory management software to track products and analyze sales trends to make informed purchasing decisions. Their role is essential for maintaining efficient operations and maximizing store profitability.

What are some common challenges faced by Retail Inventory Managers and how can they be addressed?

Retail Inventory Managers often encounter challenges such as balancing stock levels to prevent overstocking or stockouts, managing discrepancies between physical and recorded inventory, and adapting to seasonal demand fluctuations. These can be addressed by implementing robust inventory management systems, conducting regular audits, and collaborating closely with sales and purchasing teams to forecast demand accurately. Staying proactive with technology and maintaining clear communication with team members also helps minimize errors and improve efficiency.

What is the difference between Retail Inventory Manager vs Retail Stock Associate?

AspectRetail Inventory ManagerRetail Stock Associate
ResponsibilitiesOversees inventory levels, manages stock replenishment, analyzes sales data, and coordinates inventory audits.Assists with stocking shelves, unpacking deliveries, and maintaining store displays.
Required SkillsInventory management, data analysis, organizational skills, and familiarity with inventory software.Basic customer service, stocking, and organizational skills.
Work EnvironmentOffice and stockroom, often overseeing inventory processes across multiple departments.Sales floor and stockroom, supporting daily store operations.
Common CertificationsInventory management certifications or retail training programs.No formal certifications typically required.

The Retail Inventory Manager focuses on overseeing inventory levels, analyzing sales data, and ensuring stock accuracy, often working behind the scenes. In contrast, the Retail Stock Associate handles daily stocking tasks and customer-facing duties. Both roles are essential in retail operations but differ in scope, responsibilities, and required skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Retail Inventory Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Retail Inventory Manager, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and experience with inventory control processes, often supported by a degree in business or supply chain management. Familiarity with inventory management systems (IMS), point-of-sale (POS) software, and data analysis tools is typically required. Leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for coordinating teams and addressing stock discrepancies. These skills ensure accurate inventory levels, minimize losses, and promote efficient operations essential for retail success.
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Retail Inventory Manager jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Retail Inventory Manager job openings:
Retail Inventory Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Retail Inventory Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,047 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Inventory Management Specialist

Dufry

Elk Grove Village, IL • On-site

$23.86 - $26.51/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Opportunity, growth, and meaningful rewards! We offer:
  • Health, dental and vision insurance
  • Generous paid time off (vacation, flex or sick)
  • Holiday pay
  • *401(k) retirement plan
  • *Company paid life insurance
  • *Tuition reimbursement
  • Employee discounts across all company brands
  • Employee assistance program
  • Training and exciting career growth opportunities
  • Referral program - refer a friend and earn a bonus

*Benefits may vary by position so ask your recruiter for details.
Advertised Compensation: $23.86 to $26.51
Purpose:The Inventory Specialist at Chicago O'Hare International Airport Distribution Center located at 2447 East Higgins Ro Elk Grove Village, IL , executes inventory control procedures across retail operations within assigned location/airport, ensuring accurate stock tracking, proper inventory handling, and efficient supply chain support. This role supports inventory control activities that contribute to sales objectives while minimizing shrink and supporting profitability through diligent inventory execution and analysis.
Essential Functions:
  • Executes comprehensive inventory tracking using computerized software (SAP) to support business operations, maintain accurate stock records, and ensure inventory accuracy across assigned retail locations
  • Conducts routine analysis to identify inventory discrepancies, assists with sales reports reconciliation against physical inventory, and reports on activities and variances to Retail Inventory Manager or designated supervisor
  • Communicates inventory status updates and order issues to warehouse personnel; inspects incoming inventory for quality standards and processes returns of overstock, defective, or expired items according to established procedures
  • Assists in ordering supplies based on inventory analysis and established reorder points; provides input on inventory needs based on sales data analysis and supports inventory control procedure execution
  • Implements inventory control procedures and best practices to minimize shrink; conducts physical counts of products and supplies while ensuring compliance with company policies across assigned locations
  • Identifies and reports discrepancies between inventory records and sales data promptly; supports business activities relating to store inventory control under management supervision
  • Assists in analyzing inventory turnover rates, shrink patterns, and stock levels; supports implementation of inventory level adjustments based on seasonal trends and sales data
  • Supports merchandising teams with planogram execution and product placement activities; monitors assigned inventory metrics including stock levels and product rotation
  • Executes inventory procedures and operational tasks while developing knowledge of retail products, inventory systems, and merchandising principles to support business objectives

Reporting Relationship & Role Information:
  • The position typically reports to the Retail Inventory Manager or designated supervisor within the assigned location
  • The Inventory Specialist position as described falls under the Fair Labor Standards Act as a Non-Exempt position
  • The Inventory Specialist position requires flexible scheduling to support inventory management activities and may include early morning, evening, or weekend work to conduct inventory counts and support store operations

Minimum Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills, and Work Environment:
  • Education and Experience: The combination of education and professional experience must exceed 3 years:
    • In a technical role: Requires 2+ years of inventory management, warehouse operations, or retail stock control experience engaged in executing inventory control and stock management activities
    • A bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, or related program can count for 1 of the 3 of the year requirement
    • In the industry: 1-3 years of Retail operations, inventory management, warehouse operations, and/or supply chain experience preferred
  • Specialized Training:
    • Basic proficiency in inventory management software systems, specifically SAP
    • Knowledge of retail safety and inventory control procedures
    • Training in basic inventory control procedures and loss prevention awareness
  • Specialized Skillset/Competencies/Traits:
    • Working knowledge of retail inventory management, stock control procedures, and loss prevention principles; proficiency in inventory management software (SAP), basic reporting tools, and data entry systems with ability to understand inventory metrics including turnover rates, stock levels, and basic shrink analysis
    • Understanding of retail supply chain operations and basic procurement processes; demonstrates inventory management aptitude required to execute inventory procedures and support supply chain operations effectively
    • Demonstrated ability to work effectively with retail business operations, vendor partners, warehouse personnel, and store management teams; exhibits strong work ethic and ability to follow direction while developing inventory management skills
    • Strong attention to detail with good organizational and time management capabilities; can read and interpret basic sales and inventory reports with clear communication skills while demonstrating ability to execute inventory procedures and support cost control initiatives
    • Possesses working knowledge of retail products and inventory systems with ability to collaborate effectively across departments and locations to support business objectives
  • Physical Requirements:
    • Ability to walk extensively throughout warehouses and retail locations for extended periods
    • Lift, carry, and move inventory items up to 50 pounds regularly
    • Visual acuity to review inventory records, conduct physical counts, and analyze basic reports
    • Work in varying warehouse and retail environments with different temperature and noise levels

Avolta, including Dufry, HMSHost Corporation, Hudson, and affiliates ("the Company"), is an equal opportunity employer. It is the Company's policy to ensure equal employment opportunity in all aspects of employment and to comply with anti-discrimination laws and regulations. The Company prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and provides equal opportunities to applicants and team members without regard to actual or perceived race, color, creed, age, religion, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, related medical conditions and lactation), gender identity or gender expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, national origin, disability, military service and veteran status, ancestry, citizenship status, marital status, protected medical condition as defined by applicable state or local law, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local laws and ordinances (referred to as "protected characteristics").
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