What Is a Material Controller and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

A material controller oversees the material needs of warehouse and inventory for a supply chain company. Your duties in this career are to ensure compliance with company and industry regulations, maintain quality and quantity of supplies in stock, prep for product assembly, monitor freight schedules, and obtain materials to package the products. Your responsibilities also include negotiating with vendors, preparing reports on company goals, conducting safety inspections of the environment and equipment, and completing data entry of inventory after a physical count. A material controller collaborates with finance, operations, purchasing, base management, and various other departments.

To become a material controller, you need a bachelor's degree in business or a relevant field. Employers prefer experience with warehouse and logistics management. You must stay current on safety regulations within the industry and be aware of OSHA requirements. You also need expertise in reading engineering drawings and an understanding of the materials required for production based off directions. Other qualifications include industry knowledge, attention to detail, strong computer and math skills, and excellent communication skills.