Inventory Specialist

Overview

TekWissen is a global workforce management provider headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan that offers strategic talent solutions to our clients world-wide. The job opportunity below is for one of our clients specializing in biotechnology product development services. Our client is dedicated to supplying laboratory equipment, chemicals, supplies, and services essential in healthcare, scientific research, safety, and education. As the global leader in serving the field of science, our client boasts an annual revenue of around $40 billion with a mission to empower customers to make the world healthier, cleaner, and safer. Our client's global team is committed to delivering an unparalleled blend of cutting-edge technologies, convenient procurement options, and pharmaceutical services under their industry-leading brands.

Position : Supply Center Specialist / Inventory Specialist

Location : North Chicago, IL - 60086

Duration : 12 Months

Job Type : Contract

Work Type: Temporary Assignment

Shift: Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday from 10:00 AM to 04:30 PM

Summary

The Supply Center Specialist (SCS) is responsible for maintaining and optimizing on-site product inventory at the clients highest-volume customer locations. The role ensures inventory accuracy, product availability, and a positive customer experience, while supporting sales growth and eBusiness initiatives. This position is part-time with multiple accounts serviced locally, requiring flexibility and strong customer engagement.

Responsibilities

• Maintain inventory and storage units (receiving, unpacking, restocking, cleaning, performing physical counts, ensuring branding standards).
• Place and manage restocking orders using SCMS or manual systems.
• Rotate stock to minimize expirations and ensure "first-in, first-out" usage.
• Optimize product mix to meet evolving customer needs and support new product introductions.
• Ensure positive customer experience through proper merchandising, branding, and equipment upkeep.
• Gather and provide customer/competitive intelligence to Supply Center and sales teams.
• Respond to customer inquiries and manage spot orders or inventory updates.
• Maintain reports, records, MSDS, Certificates of Analysis, and other administrative materials.
• Support eBusiness initiatives by maximizing account relationships and using SCMS as the preferred ordering mechanism.
• Participate in promotional activities such as product shows, seminars, and on-site events.
• Proactively share ideas for improving efficiency with Supply Center and sales teams.
• Train backfill SCSs and new hires as needed.
• Complete all required training and comply with safety requirements.

Required Skills

• Minimum 2 years of strong hands-on experience in the inventory background preferably in the biotech, pharma or any regulated industry.
• Experience with inventory management systems (e.g., SCMS).
• Strong customer focus with awareness of markets, trends, and competitors.
• Ability to anticipate customer needs and develop practical solutions.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Sense of urgency, adaptability, and "can do" attitude.
• Willingness to work safely with chemicals and hazardous materials.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. (typically closer to 10 lbs. in practice).
• Flexibility to manage multiple local client sites and varying daily schedules.
• Innovative mindset; not satisfied with the status quo.
• Optimistic, collaborative, and motivated team player.
• Courage to try new approaches and learn from mistakes.
• Experience in handling on-site inventory programs or similar environments.

TekWissen Group is an equal opportunity employer supporting workforce diversity