Inventory/Tool Crib Specialist (Manufacturing - NW, Houston)

Job Purpose:

The purpose of the Inventory and Tool Crib Specialist is to manage stock levels, organize tools and equipment necessary for production and maintenance operations. This role involves Purchasing MRO Materials, Maintenance and Safety supplies, including generation of the purchase order in the MRP system, tracking and expediting open orders. Managing inventory to ensure materials and tools are readily available when needed, maintaining accurate records, conducting audits, investigating discrepancies, and generating reports to optimize inventory levels and minimize costs.

The Inventory and Tool Crib Specialist ensures that all tools and equipment are in good working condition, safely stored, and promptly distributed or returned. The role actively supports continuous improvement and lean initiatives by streamlining tool storage, identifying and resolving inventory issues, and minimizing downtime caused by the unavailability of materials or tools.

This individual is expected to collaborate with team members, provide suggestions for process improvements. Actively communicate with department supervisors and plant management to deliver weekly consumables to each department, ensuring seamless productivity and overall operational efficiency.

Essential Job Responsibilities:

• Generate Purchase orders based on Min./Max levels set for all MRO, Safety and Maintenance supplies
• Analyze pricing and identify const saving opportunities with vendors, while tracking open purchase orders to ensure a timely delivery
• Ensure the timely and accurate delivery of consumables to all designated departments on a weekly basis  
• Manage and Distribute Tools: Issue tools and equipment to production and maintenance personnel, ensuring accurate records of check-outs and returns to maintain effective inventory control.
• Maintain Accurate Records: Organize and update inventory records, including documenting tools received, issued, and returned, ensuring seamless tracking and accountability.
• Inspect and Maintain Equipment: Inspect new, repaired, or returned tools and equipment for proper function and quality assurance, ensuring readiness for use.
• Requisition and Repairs: Prepare requisitions for tools needing repair or replacement and document transmittals for offsite vendor repairs.
• Inventory Audits and Adjustments: Conduct regular inventory audits, reconcile stock levels, and address discrepancies to prevent shortages or surpluses of critical tools and materials.
• Optimize Inventory Levels: Develop and maintain reporting systems (e.g., MRP) to track inventory levels and communicate needs to the Supply Chain Manager and Purchasing Manager for effective replenishment and cost optimization.
• Support Lean and Continuous Improvement: Streamline tool storage and inventory management practices to minimize downtime caused by unavailability of tools or materials.
• Clean and Organize: Maintain a clean, safe, and organized tool crib environment by completing clerical, maintenance, and cleanup tasks as needed.
• Promote Safety Compliance: Adhere to all safety protocols, including the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), reporting hazards, and completing maintenance requests to ensure a safe working environment for all.
• Collaborate and Communicate: Actively collaborate with team members and management to identify process improvements, communicate operational needs, and enhance overall productivity in inventory and tool crib operations.

Essential Skills, Experience and Education:

• High school diploma or trade school certification with at least one year of experience in mechanical maintenance; additional relevant education can substitute for work experience.
• Solid understanding of machine shop tools and mechanical maintenance equipment, including repair processes.
• At least 2 years of experience in ERP systems
• Experience in operations, inventory management, MRP and lean manufacturing processes
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to ensure clear and effective interactions.
• Attention to detail with the ability to maintain accurate records and perform basic math calculations.
• Proficient in computer use to handle inventory, tracking, and record-keeping efficiently.
• Effective time management skills to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in English (speaking, reading, and writing) is required for safety and communication

Essential Physical Requirements:

• Regularly required to lift, carry, pull and push 50lbs. unassisted
• Regularly standing, stooping, kneeling, crouching for extended period of time
• Regularly bending/turning at waist
• Exposed to outdoor weather temperatures

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required Work Hours and Schedules:

• Must be able to work Monday through Friday between 7:00 AM and 4:30 PM
• Occasional evening and Saturday’s, as required to meet Production needs