Inventory clerk job description

Inventory clerks need strong numeracy skills, computer literacy and attention to detail. While formal qualifications aren’t always required, Certificate III in Warehousing Operations or Business Administration can be beneficial. Experience with warehouse management systems (WMS) and Microsoft Excel is highly valued.

Experience with warehouse management systems (WMS), enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and Microsoft Excel is highly desirable. Proficiency in data entry, generating reports and using inventory tracking software helps candidates succeed. Most employers provide training on their specific systems.

Look for previous inventory, warehousing or logistics administration experience, strong attention to detail, data entry accuracy, analytical skills for reconciliation, and problem-solving abilities. Experience with stocktakes, cycle counts and inventory variance investigation is valuable.

Yes, strong numeracy skills are essential. Inventory clerks perform stock calculations, reconcile variances, analyse inventory data and prepare reports with numerical information. They need to identify discrepancies quickly and accurately to maintain inventory integrity.

Permanent staff are typically preferred for inventory clerk positions due to the need for system knowledge, consistency in record-keeping and understanding of your inventory processes. Casual staff may be used for stocktakes or peak periods. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Inventory clerks typically work standard business hours Monday to Friday, though some positions may require early starts to coordinate with warehouse operations, or occasional weekend work during stocktakes. Hours vary based on operational requirements and may include some flexibility.

Key elements include: position title and award classification, employment type and working hours, hourly rate or salary, applicable award (Storage Services and Wholesale Award), reporting structure, main duties including systems used, required availability and any specific requirements. Use digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Under the Storage Services and Wholesale Award, penalty rates may apply for work performed outside standard hours including weekends, public holidays and shift work. Casual employees receive a 25% loading instead of leave entitlements. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Roster inventory clerks to align with warehouse operations, delivery schedules and reporting deadlines. Consider overlap with warehouse staff for coordination and availability during month-end close periods. Using rostering software helps ensure adequate coverage and compliance.

Inventory clerks are covered by the Storage Services and Wholesale Award which sets minimum hours, break entitlements and notice periods for roster changes. Full-time employees work 38 ordinary hours per week. Part-time employees need agreed regular hours. Ensure rosters comply with all award provisions.

Communicate stocktake schedules well in advance and include this requirement in job descriptions. Plan for extended hours or weekend work during full inventory counts. Use staff availability management tools to coordinate availability and consider offering incentives for stocktake participation.

Some inventory clerk tasks like data analysis, report preparation and system updates may be suitable for remote work depending on system access. However, physical stock counts, receiving verification and warehouse coordination typically require on-site presence. Discuss flexibility options during recruitment.