Inventory Associate - Operation Food Search : Job Details

About Operation Food Search:

Founded in 1981, Operation Food Search is a hunger relief organization that provides food, nutrition education and innovative programs in order to reduce food insecurity and increase equitable access to food. We serve 200,000 people every month through a network of 330 partners in 40 counties in Missouri and Illinois. We use a combination of immediate food assistance and supportive services, while also working on long-term solutions and systemic changes to help solve the problem of hunger.

Our Mission is to heal hunger with innovative and collaborative solutions that provide food today and help create a hunger-free tomorrow.

Our Vision is a region where everyone has equitable access to the food they need to lead healthy lives.

Our Goals are to:

• Meet the immediate need for food for children, individuals and families by providing high-quality nutrition through our distribution network.
• Empower long-term skills through nutrition education and by teaching how to shop and prepare healthy food on a budget.
• Champion change through advocacy, innovative programs and by addressing systemic inequities.

For more information about OFS, please visit our website at www.operationfoodsearch.org.

Position Summary:

The Inventory Associate is responsible for maintaining accurate product inventories through diligent implementation of cycle counts and inventory best practices. This role involves overseeing the processes of receiving, tracking, storing, and moving products to ensure operational efficiency. The Inventory Associate will work closely with various departments, support product sourcing and program initiatives, and contribute to continuous improvement efforts. Key responsibilities include ensuring accurate inventory counts, managing documentation and reports, and resolving discrepancies to maintain high standards of inventory accuracy and accountability.

Essential Functions:

• Inventory Control and Tracking
  • Maintain a comprehensive understanding of inventory control systems using the inventory management software system.
  • Support and maintain inventory tracking, documentation, and reports.
  • Provide feedback to the Inventory Control Coordinator for continued improvement process outcomes.
  • Perform data entry for all items by preparing appropriate shipping/pallet tags.
• Product Handling and Accuracy
  • Efficiently handle outgoing products to assure correct counts.
  • Maintain an inventory count on all products pulled for agency orders.
  • Check all stock levels to ensure that correct counts are being staged and picked for agency orders.
• Cycle Counts and Stock Management
  • Perform cycle counts on all levels in the warehouse (dry, cooler, and freezer).
  • Work with warehouse staff to ensure all items are labeled and stored accurately.
  • Rotate and remove product as directed.
• Returns and Discrepancy Resolution
  • Document all products that are returned to ensure that returned product is entered back into the inventory system.
  • Research and resolve inventory discrepancies by identifying causes and making recommendations for improvement.
• Reporting
  • Provide inventory reports to the Food Banking Operations Director as needed.
• Data Entry and Documentation
  • Perform data entry for all items by preparing appropriate shipping/pallet tags.
• Collaboration and Communication
  • Work with warehouse staff to ensure all items are labeled and stored accurately.
  • Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

Education and/or Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least one year's experience in inventory support.
• Experience using an inventory management software system.
• Experience using standard warehouse equipment, including forklift and pallet riders.
• Valid driver's license and proof of driving record required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Proficiency in computer operations, including sending/receiving emails and preparing basic memos/reports.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Attention to detail, ability to handle interruptions, maintain focus, and produce accurate work.
• Strong organizational skills are essential.

Special Requirements:

• Occasional travel required for meetings, events, and conferences.
• Flexibility in working hours for occasional special after-hours events or weekend activities.
• Willingness to volunteer for other OFS duties that don't fall under regular job duties.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:

• Ability to lift at least 25 lbs.
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time, both indoors and outdoors.

Benefits - FT Positions

• Medical, dental and vision coverage
• HRA and FSA
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Vacation and sick time, paid holidays
• Short and long-term disability income
• Company paid term life and AD&D insurance
• Voluntary employee paid term life and AD&D insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Wellness support
• Potential for student loan forgiveness, if qualified

To Apply: Please submit your application and include your resume at

Location: 1644 Lotsie Blvd., Overland, MO 63132

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status.