Specialist, Retail Operations

Specialist, Logistics & Inventory Ops

$19/hour

Location: Wilmette, IL

Overview:

As a Logistics and Inventory Specialist, you’ll play a critical role in ensuring seamless operations as Wayfair's Physical Retail team reimagines the shopping experience. From managing inventory flow and conducting audits to processing shipments and resolving discrepancies, your work will directly support an exceptional customer shopping experience. With a keen eye for detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving, this role will focus on maintaining inventory accuracy, resolving logistical exceptions, and optimizing efficiency. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, collaborates effectively with partner teams, and is passionate about owning and creating a flawless operational foundation reflecting Wayfair’s commitment to a top-tier experience and retail excellence.

 

What Does a Logistics & Inventory Specialist Do?

• Demonstrates Reliability: Attendance and commitment to being present and on time for your full shift each day is crucial. This helps ensure we're ready and available to help our customers when they need us most. For unexpected events or issues, we require our team members to be proactive in their communications and planning whenever possible.
• Ensure Inventory Accuracy: Perform daily audits and maintain a robust Cycle Count Program to safeguard the integrity and accuracy of inventory records. Leverage scan technology to document carton-level details like condition, quantity, and location.
• Manage Inventory Performance: Monitor aging inventory, process markdowns, and execute damage write-offs to maintain accuracy and efficiency. Handle vendor returns for recalls, dead stock, and overstock inventory while leveraging experience in inventory management or e-commerce to optimize processes.
• Receive and Process Shipments: Unload and receive inventory with care, including the manual handling of large and heavy goods. Ensure all inventory is processed correctly, capturing detailed records of overages, shortages, or damages.
• Proactively Monitor Systems: Use order management tools and Warehouse Management Software to track inventory movement, troubleshoot discrepancies, and maintain up-to-date records. Regularly review Cycle Count data using Google Sheets to identify and address gaps.
• Audit Operations: Conduct regular and triggered audits for inbound and outbound trucks to ensure accurate processing and shipment flow.
• Support Operational Excellence: Use a ticketing system to manage exceptions, resolve issues, and provide input on improving existing processes and tools based on your day-to-day experience.
• Collaborate Across Teams: Partner with logistics leaders and other teams to streamline operations, share insights, and uphold Wayfair’s commitment to operational excellence.
• Adapt and Problem-Solve: Thrive in a fast-paced environment by taking ownership of inventory challenges, driving solutions, and ensuring smooth coordination between warehouse and retail operations.

 

What are the Job Requirements?

 

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent is required.

Inventory Control Experience: 1 to 3 years of inventory control experience, preferably in a retail environment, is required.

Distribution or Logistics Experience: 1+ year of experience in distribution or logistics is preferred.

Open Schedule Availability: You may be required to work a flexible schedule that in many cases may include nights, weekends, and holidays.

Customer Service Skills: Must possess excellent customer service skills, with the ability to communicate effectively and work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

Adaptability and Problem-Solving: Demonstrates the ability to adapt to evolving tools, systems, and processes to ensure operational excellence.

Technical Proficiency: Strong computer skills with experience in Microsoft Office or Google Suite are preferred.

Detail Orientation: Must be highly detail-oriented and organized, with a proven ability to manage complex inventory systems and workflows.

Additional Physical and Environmental Requirements:

• Physical Demands
• Frequent movement including standing, stooping, kneeling, crouching
• Occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, an