Inventory Control Specialist at Joseph's Bakery in Lawrence, MA, USA

Job description

• Joseph's Bakery is seeking an experienced Inventory Control Specialist to join our Procurement team. This position is responsible for maintaining accurate inventory records for all raw materials, packaging, and finished goods within the facility. This role plays a key part in ensuring inventory accuracy, supporting production planning, and serving as the gatekeeper for all material movement throughout the plant.
• We are looking for someone who will do more than maintain inventory accuracy. The ideal candidate will take ownership of inventory processes, identify opportunities to improve efficiency, and help optimize our inventory management systems. This role will also serve as a key contributor in the implementation and ongoing management of our Fishbowl Inventory system, helping establish best practices, train team members, and support continuous improvement across the organization.

Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate inventory levels for all raw materials, packaging, and finished goods through regular cycle counts and reconciliations.
• Investigate and resolve inventory discrepancies, ensuring all adjustments are properly documented and approved.
• Function as the gatekeeper for all material movement in receiving, transfers, consumption, and returns to ensure timely and accurate system updates.
• Support the implementation, configuration, and daily operation of the Fishbowl Inventory system; assist with data migration, item setup, and system audits.
• Collaborate with Production, Purchasing, and Finance teams to ensure real-time inventory visibility and accurate costing.
• Partner with Warehouse and Production teams to develop standardized material handling and labeling procedures.
• Analyze inventory trends and variances, providing reporting and insights to management.
• Maintain cycle count schedules, develop count sheets, and reconcile variances within the ERP/Fishbowl system.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, quality standards, and food safety protocols, including lot tracking, traceability, and FIFO practices.
• Assist in training employees on inventory control processes and the proper use of Fishbowl.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives aimed at reducing waste, improving accuracy, and streamlining workflows.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Requirements

• 3–5 years of experience in inventory control, materials management, or warehouse operations; manufacturing experience strongly preferred.
• Proficiency with inventory management systems; experience with Fishbowl or similar ERP/WMS software (NetSuite, SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, Sage, etc.) is a plus.
• Strong Microsoft Excel skills and familiarity with data analysis and reporting.
• Solid understanding of cycle counting, reconciliation, FIFO, and lot traceability principles.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams, including Production, Purchasing, Finance, Warehouse, and Quality.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish is preferred.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally at all levels of the organization.
• Food manufacturing or consumer packaged goods (CPG) experience preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Ability to identify process improvements and drive operational efficiencies
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Continuous improvement mindset and willingness to learn

Skills

Required

• Inventory management systems proficiency
• Microsoft Excel
• Data analysis and reporting
• Cycle counting
• Reconciliation
• FIFO
• Lot traceability
• Collaboration
• Attention to detail
• Organizational skills
• Problem-solving
• Communication

Preferred

• Bilingual in English and Spanish

Benefits

• Family-owned company with a collaborative and supportive culture
• Stable and growing organization with long-term career opportunities
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact by improving inventory systems and processes
• Competitive compensation based on experience
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k)
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Time Off
• Company Incentive/Bonus Program
• Company-paid Life Insurance
• Professional development and career growth opportunities