📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Inventory Control & Customer Support Specialist
Company: Vallen Distribution Inc.
Location: North Berwick, Maine, United States
Job Type: On-site, Full-Time
Category: Operations, Inventory Management
Date Posted: June 11, 2025
Experience Level: Entry-level to Intermediate (0-2 years)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

Key Responsibilities: Perform physical cycle counts and inventory audits, adjust inventory based on counts, research product discrepancies, assist with root cause analysis, manage aged and overstocked inventory, and participate in process improvement initiatives.
Key Skills: Inventory control, customer support, warehouse operations, supply chain management, computer knowledge, cycle counts, audits, communication skills, mathematical skills, process improvement, root cause analysis, report compilation, safety procedures, teamwork, problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role focuses on inventory accuracy and process improvement, making it an excellent entry point for individuals interested in supply chain and operations management.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

Inventory Control & Management:
- Perform physical cycle counts and inventory audits.
- Adjust required inventory based on counts and make bin changes as necessary.
- Ensure inventory is secured, properly identified, and readily accessible.
- Research product and/or SKU discrepancies.
- Assist with root cause analysis for line outs and maintain line out data.
Inventory Optimization:
- Run Aged Inventory and Min/Max reports.
- Develop lists of potential materials for return to manufacturers or sale to other users or resellers.
- Solicit returns for sale and prepare materials for return or sale.
- Monitor credits or receipts of payments for returns or sale.
- Review min/max levels of Reserve Inventories and recommend changes to Site Management.
Customer Support & Process Improvement:
- Maintain a current, approved list of "Customer Responsible Items."
- Participate in on-going process improvement initiatives.
- Perform other duties as requested.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment. Candidates should be comfortable using various applications and have a basic understanding of warehouse operations and supply chain management.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High School diploma or equivalent.

Experience: 1+ years of related work experience in inventory control, warehouse operations, or supply chain management.

Required Skills:

Strong computer knowledge and aptitude to learn various applications.
Demonstrated basic knowledge of warehouse operations and supply chain management.
Demonstrated ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, work orders, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.
Demonstration of basic mathematical skills (add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals); ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent preferred.

Preferred Skills:

Experience with a Warehouse Management System, such as Control and SX.e.
Knowledge of manufacturing operational software.
Ability to compile routine reports and write correspondence.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, having experience with inventory management software and a basic understanding of manufacturing processes would be beneficial for this role.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements (N/A for this role)

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $35,000 - $45,000 per year (based on regional market research for entry-level inventory control positions in Maine)

Benefits:

Medical, Dental, Vision
Paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick days)
401K with discretionary company match (US positions only)
Employer-paid Basic Life for Employee, Spouse, and Dependents
Employer-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
Vitality Wellness Program
Employee Assistance Program
Employee Resource Groups
Tuition Reimbursement Program
Employee Referral Program
Safety Shoe and Safety Glasses Reimbursement
Employee Discounts through BenefitHub

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with the possibility of overtime during peak seasons.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is an estimate based on regional market research for entry-level inventory control positions in Maine. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as experience, skills, and company-specific policies.

🎯 Team & Company Context

Company Culture:

Industry: Distribution and supply chain management
Company Size: Medium-sized (approximately 1,000 employees)
Founded: 1948 (as a division of Harsco Corporation)
Team Structure: The Inventory Control & Customer Support Specialist role reports directly to the Inventory Control Manager and works closely with warehouse operations teams, customer service representatives, and other inventory control specialists.
Development Methodology: Vallen uses a combination of Agile and traditional project management methodologies to drive process improvement and continuous improvement initiatives.

Company Website: https://www.vallen.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Vallen Distribution Inc. is a leading provider of flexible supply chain solutions, focusing on delivering value to its customers, supply partners, and associates. The company's culture emphasizes inclusivity, diversity, and continuous growth.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Inventory Control & Customer Support Specialist Role:

Job Level: Entry-level to Intermediate
Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Inventory Control Manager
Technical Impact: Responsible for maintaining accurate inventory records, reducing aged and overstocked inventory, and participating in process improvement initiatives to enhance overall warehouse efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

Career Progression: With experience and strong performance, Inventory Control Specialists can advance to roles such as Inventory Control Supervisor, Inventory Control Manager, or other leadership positions within the supply chain and operations departments.
Technical Skill Development: Individuals in this role can develop their skills in inventory management, process improvement, and supply chain management, which are highly transferable to other industries and roles.
Technical Leadership Potential: As they gain experience, Inventory Control Specialists may have the opportunity to lead projects, mentor team members, and contribute to strategic decision-making processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers excellent opportunities for career growth and skill development within the supply chain and operations management fields. Candidates with a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and commitment to continuous improvement will thrive in this position.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Warehouse and office hybrid environment

Office Location(s): North Berwick, Maine, United States

Workspace Context:

Warehouse Environment: Inventory Control Specialists spend a significant portion of their time in the warehouse, working with physical inventory and using various equipment such as forklifts and other standard warehouse equipment.
Office Environment: The role also requires working in an office setting, using various applications and software to manage inventory records and compile reports.
Team Interaction: Inventory Control Specialists work closely with warehouse operations teams, customer service representatives, and other inventory control specialists. They also collaborate with management to participate in process improvement initiatives and special projects.

Work Schedule: Full-time, Monday through Friday, with the possibility of overtime during peak seasons.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a flexible and adaptable work schedule, as Inventory Control Specialists may need to adjust their hours to meet the demands of the warehouse and customer service teams.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Phone or Video Screen: A brief conversation to assess the candidate's communication skills, relevant experience, and fit for the role.
On-site Tour & Interview: A tour of the warehouse and an in-depth interview with the Inventory Control Manager and/or other members of the warehouse operations team. This interview will focus on the candidate's understanding of inventory control processes, problem-solving skills, and ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.
Final Interview: A meeting with the Hiring Manager or a member of the senior leadership team to discuss the candidate's fit for the role, career goals, and alignment with the company's mission and values.

Portfolio Review Tips (N/A for this role)

Technical Challenge Preparation (N/A for this role)

ATS Keywords:

Inventory Control
Customer Support
Warehouse Operations
Supply Chain Management
Inventory Management Software
Process Improvement
Root Cause Analysis
Report Compilation
Safety Procedures
Teamwork
Problem-Solving

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role does not require a technical portfolio or challenge, candidates should be prepared to discuss their relevant experience, problem-solving skills, and ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment during the interview process.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure (N/A for this role)

👥 Team Culture & Values

Vallen Distribution Inc. Values:

Customer Focus: Putting customers first and understanding their unique needs to deliver exceptional service and value.
Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards and acting with honesty and transparency in all interactions.
Respect: Valuing and appreciating the diversity of our associates and fostering an inclusive work environment.
Accountability: Taking ownership of our responsibilities and delivering on our commitments to our customers, supply partners, and associates.
Excellence: Striving for continuous improvement and exceeding expectations in all that we do.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-Functional Integration: Inventory Control Specialists work closely with warehouse operations teams, customer service representatives, and other inventory control specialists to ensure accurate inventory records, efficient warehouse operations, and exceptional customer service.
Code Review Culture: While not explicitly stated, having a code review culture for internal processes and procedures would enhance the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the inventory control team.
Knowledge Sharing: Inventory Control Specialists are encouraged to share their knowledge and expertise with team members to enhance overall team performance and drive continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Vallen Distribution Inc. fosters a culture of inclusivity, diversity, and continuous growth. Candidates who align with the company's values and are committed to delivering exceptional service and value will thrive in this environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Inventory Accuracy: Maintaining accurate inventory records in a fast-paced warehouse environment with a high volume of incoming and outgoing shipments.
Process Improvement: Identifying and implementing process improvements to enhance overall warehouse efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Root Cause Analysis: Conducting root cause analysis to identify and address the underlying causes of inventory discrepancies and line outs.
Customer Support: Providing exceptional customer service and support to customers, vendors, and internal stakeholders.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Inventory Management: Developing a deep understanding of inventory management principles, best practices, and emerging trends in the supply chain and operations management fields.
Process Improvement: Gaining experience in process improvement methodologies, such as Lean Six Sigma, and applying them to enhance overall warehouse efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Leadership Development: Building leadership skills through mentoring team members, leading projects, and contributing to strategic decision-making processes.
Industry Networking: Connecting with industry professionals and attending industry events to stay up-to-date on emerging trends and best practices in supply chain and operations management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Inventory Control Specialists face numerous challenges in maintaining accurate inventory records, optimizing inventory levels, and enhancing overall warehouse efficiency. However, these challenges also present opportunities for growth and development in the supply chain and operations management fields.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Inventory Control Processes: Describe your experience with inventory control processes, including cycle counts, audits, and inventory optimization techniques.
Problem-Solving: Provide an example of a time when you identified and addressed a significant inventory discrepancy or process inefficiency in a warehouse environment.
Teamwork: Describe your experience working effectively in a team-oriented environment, including your ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders to achieve common goals.

Company & Culture Questions:

Company Values: Explain how your personal values align with Vallen Distribution Inc.'s core values, and provide an example of how you have demonstrated these values in a previous role.
Process Improvement: Describe your experience with process improvement initiatives, and discuss how you have contributed to enhancing overall warehouse efficiency and customer satisfaction in previous roles.
Customer Support: Explain how you have provided exceptional customer service and support to customers, vendors, and internal stakeholders in previous roles.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy (N/A for this role)

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should focus on demonstrating their relevant experience, problem-solving skills, and ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment during the interview process. Familiarizing themselves with Vallen Distribution Inc.'s core values and process improvement initiatives will also help candidates make a strong impression.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for the Inventory Control & Customer Support Specialist position at Vallen Distribution Inc.:

Submit your application through the application link provided on the job listing.
Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant experience in inventory control, warehouse operations, and supply chain management.
Prepare for the phone or video screen by reviewing the job description and practicing your responses to common interview questions.
Research Vallen Distribution Inc.'s company culture, values, and process improvement initiatives to demonstrate your fit for the role and alignment with the company's mission.
Prepare for the on-site tour and interview by familiarizing yourself with the warehouse layout, inventory control processes, and customer service best practices.
Practice your problem-solving skills and be prepared to discuss your relevant experience and accomplishments in inventory control, process improvement, and customer support.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with Vallen Distribution Inc. before making application decisions.

Inventory Control & Customer Support Specialist