Inventory Manager

Overland AI•Seattle, WA

21d•$80 - $130•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive Inventory Manager to oversee all inventory-related activities within our unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) manufacturing facility. The Inventory Manager will be responsible for managing the flow of materials and parts required for production, ensuring that stock levels are accurate, and minimizing inventory-related issues that could disrupt manufacturing schedules. This role requires a strong leader with experience in inventory management and a deep understanding of supply chain principles to ensure the timely availability of parts and materials. The Inventory Manager will work closely with the production, procurement, and quality teams to support efficient operations and ensure high-quality standards.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Logistics, or a related field preferred.
Minimum of 5 years of experience in inventory management or supply chain roles, preferably in manufacturing, aerospace or automotive industries.
Proven knowledge of inventory management software (e.g., ERP, MRP systems) and advanced Excel skills.
Strong understanding of inventory management principles, including FIFO (First In, First Out), JIT, and lean manufacturing methodologies.
Forklift certification required.
Strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to motivate a team to achieve operational goals.
Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment.
Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy in inventory tracking and reporting.
Analytical mindset with the ability to use data to identify trends, forecast demand, and make informed decisions.
Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
High level of proficiency in inventory management systems and software.
Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines while maintaining high standards of quality and safety.
A proactive and self-motivated approach to managing inventory operations.
Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities with a focus on continuous improvement.
A team-oriented, hands-on leader who leads by example and fosters a culture of collaboration and accountability.
Adaptability and flexibility in responding to changes in production demands or inventory needs.
Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance.

Nice To Haves

Experience with autonomous vehicle, robotics, or off-road vehicle manufacturing is a plus.

Responsibilities

Inventory Management & Control: Oversee all inventory management activities, including receiving, storing, tracking, and distributing materials and parts used in the manufacturing of UGVs.
Ensure inventory levels are consistently optimized to meet production requirements, avoiding shortages or excess stock.
Implement inventory control procedures, including periodic audits, cycle counting, and reconciliation, to maintain accuracy and reduce discrepancies.
Maintain accurate records in the inventory management system, tracking quantities, locations, and conditions of materials, components, and finished goods.
Identify slow-moving, obsolete, or excess inventory and work with procurement and production teams to reduce or reallocate these materials to optimize storage and reduce waste.
Coordination with Production & Procurement Teams: Collaborate with the production team to forecast material requirements based on production schedules and demand, ensuring materials are available when needed.
Work closely with the procurement team to ensure timely ordering and delivery of materials, components, and parts needed for production.
Coordinate the delivery, storage, and distribution of raw materials, subassemblies, and parts to ensure seamless production flow.
Communicate inventory status, including potential stockouts or delays, to the Plant Manager and other relevant stakeholders to avoid disruptions in production schedules.
Supply Chain Optimization: Monitor inventory trends and usage patterns to forecast demand and improve supply chain efficiency.
Work with the procurement team to implement just-in-time (JIT) inventory strategies and optimize material flows.
Help manage relationships with suppliers and vendors to ensure consistent delivery of quality materials and components on time, at competitive prices.
Utilize inventory management software and data analysis tools to optimize ordering practices, minimize storage costs, and improve overall supply chain performance.
Warehouse Management: Supervise the organization of inventory within the warehouse or storage areas, ensuring materials are properly stored, labeled, and easily accessible for production.
Ensure that storage areas are clean, organized, and in compliance with safety regulations.
Implement warehouse best practices to maximize space efficiency and reduce the risk of damage or loss.
Oversee material handling processes, ensuring safe practices are followed during loading, unloading, and transportation within the facility.
Assist with shipping/receiving.
Inventory Auditing & Reporting: Perform regular physical inventory counts and audits to verify inventory levels and reconcile any discrepancies in system records.
Maintain detailed inventory reports, highlighting any material shortages, excess inventory, or stockouts that may affect production timelines.
Develop and present inventory performance metrics to the Plant Manager, providing insights and recommendations for improvement.
Manage and track returns of defective or excess materials, coordinating with suppliers for replacements or credits as needed.
Process Improvement & Efficiency: Continuously evaluate inventory management processes and identify areas for improvement to reduce waste, optimize stock levels, and increase overall efficiency.
Implement lean manufacturing principles to reduce excess inventory, minimize waste, and improve throughput.
Investigate and troubleshoot inventory-related problems, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions.
Stay current on best practices and industry trends in inventory management, implementing innovative solutions where appropriate.
Team Management: Supervise and lead a team of inventory control specialists and warehouse associates, providing guidance, training, and support as needed.
Ensure that team members follow inventory procedures and safety protocols while maintaining a high level of accuracy in their work.
Conduct performance evaluations, identify training needs, and promote employee development opportunities to improve team performance and morale.
Create work schedules and manage staffing levels to ensure sufficient coverage during peak production times and inventory cycles.