VMI Trainee

Shepherd Electric Supply•Laurel, MD

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Since 1892, Shepherd Electric Supply has been the first call for complex, time-critical electrical challenges, ensuring materials are moved accurately and on time for contractors. The company's success stems from its people who prioritize safety, accuracy, and care for teammates and customers. The VMI (Vendor Managed Inventory) Trainee role is a highly visible position that directly contributes to Shepherd's reliability on contractor job sites. This role is the entry point into a structured career path to become a VMI Specialist, a customer-facing, site-based role with significant ownership and career growth potential. The foundation built in this trainee role, focusing on accuracy, reliability, and judgment, is essential for advancing to the next step.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required
Ability to stand for extended periods and perform physical tasks including lifting up to 50 lbs. using proper technique
Strong attention to detail and commitment to getting things right the first time
Dependable attendance and a team-oriented mindset
Want to learn a skilled role, not just fill a shift
Take pride in accuracy and care whether things are done right
Dependable, organized, and steady under pressure
Communicate clearly and speak up when something is off
Want a defined path forward and are willing to put in the work to earn it
Bring energy to your work — your presence raises the pace and the team feels it

Nice To Haves

Warehouse or logistics experience preferred
Valid driver’s license preferred; may be required for vehicle support duties

Responsibilities

Pick and pack all VMI orders accurately to support daily operations while the VMI team is in the field
Verify order details before staging
Maintain organized staging areas so vehicles load efficiently and nothing gets missed
Assist with loading all VMI vehicles to ensure accurate, efficient preparation for delivery
Maintain VMI vehicles in a clean, organized state so they are always ready for operation
Support daily vehicle checks and report any issues before they disrupt operations
Accompany VMI Specialists to job sites as needed to assist with the VMI process
Build hands-on knowledge of job site operations, customer expectations, and inventory management
Develop the skills and judgment needed to step into a VMI Specialist role
Flag issues early — inventory shortfalls, vehicle concerns, order discrepancies — before they compound
Communicate clearly with VMI Specialists, warehouse staff, and leadership
Step up when the team needs coverage and take ownership of assigned tasks without being asked twice