Job Description
Job Description
Inventory Management Specialist
Job Description
The Inventory Management Specialist supports laboratory operations by managing inventory levels, processing orders, and ensuring accurate stock records using intuitive electronic systems and mobile scanning tools. This role combines hands-on inventory work with customer interaction, helping internal and external partners maintain efficient, reliable supply availability. You will contribute to a culture that values continuous learning, collaboration, and meaningful impact through integrated lab services and supply management.
Responsibilities
- Use mobile applications and intuitive electronic systems to perform inventory replenishments, stock rotation, cycle counts, order entry, returns, and backorder processing.
- Receive and inspect incoming shipments to verify accuracy and condition, scan items into inventory systems, and store products in designated locations.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date inventory records by performing regular cycle counts and promptly reconciling discrepancies.
- Own customer interactions by responding to inquiries via email as the primary channel, following up by phone when needed, and supporting internal partners to resolve questions and build trust.
- Collaborate with supervisors and teammates to identify, propose, and implement process improvements that streamline daily workflows and enhance efficiency.
- Uphold safety and organization standards in all work areas by following site guidelines, maintaining clean and orderly storage spaces, and wearing required personal protective equipment.
- Proactively monitor stock levels, identify potential gaps or issues, and escalate concerns to prevent operational disruptions.
- Use basic computer tools to perform data entry and maintain accurate records related to inventory, orders, and customer communications.
- Participate in integrated lab services and supply management activities that support customers’ laboratory business needs through customized service offerings.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor to support overall site operations and customer satisfaction.
Essential Skills
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- 2–3 years of customer-facing, retail stocking, or inventory-control experience.
- Hands-on experience with inventory, inventory control, and inventory management processes.
- Proficiency in data entry and basic computer skills, including the use of Microsoft Office tools.
- Confidence using mobile scanning applications and electronic inventory systems.
- Strong email skills and the ability to manage customer communication primarily through written channels.
- Excellent verbal and written English communication skills with a friendly, solution-focused approach.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently, especially in customer site environments, while maintaining accountability and attention to detail.
- Proven teamwork skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with supervisors, teammates, and internal partners.
- Comfort with regular lifting of 30–40 lbs and occasional lifting up to 50 lbs, as well as frequent standing, walking, and manual material handling.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Experience in a customer-facing inventory or retail stocking role, preferably within a laboratory, industrial, or supply chain environment.
- Familiarity with integrated lab services, supply management, or logistics support is beneficial.
- Ability to identify process improvement opportunities and contribute ideas to streamline workflows.
- Self-starter mindset with strong organizational skills and a high level of accountability.
- Comfort working in environments that may include chemical-based allergens such as penicillin and tetracycline, while adhering to safety protocols.
- Willingness to work occasional overtime when operational needs require it.
- Appreciation for a culture that emphasizes continual growth, learning, and development.
- Interest in contributing to a high-impact organization that invests significantly in research and development and values meaningful contributions.
Work Environment
This position is based onsite in Ankeny, IA, primarily at customer locations where you will work independently within laboratory and storage environments. The role involves frequent standing, walking, and manual material handling, including regular lifting of 30–40 lbs and occasional lifting up to 50 lbs, as well as using pushcarts or similar equipment to move loads up to 100 lbs. You may work in areas that contain chemical-based allergens such as penicillin and tetracycline, and you will follow established safety guidelines at all times. Personal protective equipment, including lab coats, coveralls, facemasks, and steel-toe shoes, is often required as part of the dress code and safety standards. Work environments may include varied temperature conditions depending on storage and lab areas. Standard hours are primarily daytime, with occasional overtime possible based on operational needs. The culture emphasizes teamwork, continuous learning, and professional growth, with access to resources, training, and support to help you develop your skills and make a meaningful impact.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Ankeny, IA.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $22.80 - $22.80/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Ankeny,IA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Jul 6, 2026.
About Aston Carter
Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® Platinum Award winner for both client and talent service.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.