What are the responsibilities and job description for the MATERIALS COORDINATOR position at Lifeway Foods Inc?
Lifeway Foods (NASDAQ: LWAY), which has been recognized as one of Forbes’ Best Small Companies, is America’s leading supplier of the probiotic beverage known as kefir. In addition to its line of drinkable kefir, the company also produces cheese, drinkable yogurt, and a ProBugs line of kefir for kids. Lifeway’s tart and tangy fermented dairy products are sold across the United States, Mexico, Ireland, and the United Kingdom.
Summary
The Materials Coordinator is detail-oriented and proactive. Assist to oversee the management of materials and inventory in a dynamic production environment. This role is responsible for monitoring inventory levels, ensuring timely delivery of materials, and coordinating with purchasing and accounts payable to resolve discrepancies. The Material Coordinator will play a crucial role in maintaining accurate inventory records through cycle counting, updating usage reports, and addressing quality control concerns.
Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Monitor inventory levels to ensure materials meet production demand and address trends or usage up-ticks promptly
- Reconcile schedules and related information to determine requirements to identify overdue materials
- Calculate material requirements for job orders based on product and manufacturing processes
- Perform weekly cycle counts to maintain accurate inventory records
- Coordinate with purchasing to arrange timely delivery of materials and plan purchase orders (POs)
- Communicate with purchasing, AP, and supply chain teams to resolve PO discrepancies, delays, or issues affecting production schedule
- Requisition materials and establish sequential delivery dates based on job priorities and availability
- Inspect incoming POs to verify acceptable quantities and quality standards
- Organize in-plant material transfers to meet production schedules efficiently
- Regularly update and analyze usage reports for raw materials, ingredients, and packaging to ensure accurate order quantities
- Collaborate with AP to address discrepancies and maintain alignment on material costs
- Manage QC hold logs for finished goods and supplies
- Transfer and organize material orders to MG as needed
- Performs other functions as assigned
Qualification and Education Requirements
- On-site
- High school diploma or some college education; 1-3 years of warehouse experience preferred
- Deacom experience is a plus or any ERP a must.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel; experience with manufacturing or inventory software like Microsoft Dynamics NAV is a plus
- Strong organizational, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to read and write comprehensive reports and apply basic mathematical concepts
- Physical ability to lift 50 lbs., climb ladders, and work on feet for extended periods
- 2 Years of Forklift Experience a plus
Why Lifeway?
- Explore exciting career growth opportunities in a thriving company
- Enjoy 9 paid holidays annually to rest and recharge
- Access comprehensive benefits, including Medical, Vision, Dental, Life, and Disability coverage—and more!
- Choose from flexible FSA and HSA options to meet your financial and healthcare needs
- Benefit from our Employee Assistance Program, offering support for new parents, legal and financial advice, mental health resources, and much more
- Plan for your future with our 401(k) Profit Sharing contribution match
Lifeway Foods, Inc is a growing Chicago based beverage manufacturer with over 25 years of experience. We are an industry leader in production of high-quality Kefir. We are an equal opportunity employer and offer a competitive benefits package. Visit us at www.lifewaykefir.com.
