Inventory Control Manager

About Observable Space

At Observable Space, we're redefining how humanity observes and connects with the universe. We're a vertically integrated, high-growth, space technology company building industry-leading precision optics platforms for Earth and in space. Our systems are trusted by thousands of customers, including NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, RTX, the US Space Force and the U.S. Department of War, leading research institutions and international partners.

We combine precision opto-mechanical hardware, embedded compute, cloud orchestration, and developer-friendly APIs into world class products at scale with in-house manufacturing. From advanced ground stations, on-orbit sensor suites, free space optical lasercom, to distributed compute platforms, we deliver the foundational systems enabling continuous, real-time navigation, observation, and communication in space.

Observable Space is backed by top-tier institutional investors including Lux Capital, Upfront Ventures, RTX Ventures, Detroit Venture Partners and Embedded Ventures. To learn more, observable.space.

About Observable Space

At Observable Space, we're redefining how humanity observes and connects with the universe. We're a vertically integrated, high-growth, space technology company building industry-leading precision optics platforms for Earth and in space. Our systems are trusted by thousands of customers, including NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, RTX, the US Space Force and the U.S. Department of War, leading research institutions and international partners.

We combine precision opto-mechanical hardware, embedded compute, cloud orchestration, and developer-friendly APIs into world class products at scale with in-house manufacturing. From advanced ground stations, on-orbit sensor suites, free space optical lasercom, to distributed compute platforms, we deliver the foundational systems enabling continuous, real-time navigation, observation, and communication in space.

Observable Space is backed by top-tier institutional investors including Lux Capital, Upfront Ventures, RTX Ventures, Detroit Venture Partners and Embedded Ventures. To learn more, observable.space.

Position Summary

The Inventory Control Manager is responsible for the accuracy, integrity, security, inspection, and efficient movement of company-owned inventory across manufacturing operations. This leader establishes disciplined inventory practices, ensures all incoming parts and materials receive documented inspection before release, maintains timely and accurate ERP transactions, supports reliable material availability for production, and provides clear accountability for all inventory locations. The position leads the inventory and incoming-inspection teams, partners closely with Manufacturing, Purchasing, Planning, Quality, Finance, and Engineering, and drives corrective action when inspection results, inventory records, or material flow do not meet expectations.

Responsibilities

• Own inventory accuracy for raw materials, purchased components, work-in-process, finished goods, consumables, and company-controlled customer material.
• Establish and maintain cycle-count schedules using ABC classification, risk, value, usage, and prior discrepancy history.
• Research inventory discrepancies to root cause, complete approved adjustments promptly, and implement corrective actions that prevent recurrence.
• Maintain accurate item quantities, storage locations, lot or serial information, inventory status, and material traceability within the ERP system.
• Ensure all receiving, stocking, transfers, picks, issues, returns, completions, scrap, and adjustments are recorded at the time the physical transaction occurs.
• Coordinate physical inventories and financial audits; provide complete supporting documentation and timely reconciliation.

• Ensure production work orders are kitted accurately and on time, with shortages identified and escalated before they disrupt scheduled work.
• Develop clear processes for point-of-use inventory, staging areas, overflow locations, nonconforming material, customer property, and obsolete or excess stock.
• Maintain organized, labeled, secure, and audit-ready inventory areas using sound 5S and visual-management practices.
• Partner with Planning and Purchasing to improve material availability, identify shortages, and reduce avoidable expedites, excess inventory, and stockouts.
• Coordinate movement of material between buildings, departments, and outside processors while maintaining ownership and traceability.

• Ensure every incoming part and material is inspected and documented before it is released to available inventory, issued to a work order, or moved to production.
• Verify part number, revision, description, quantity, packaging, and visible condition against the purchase order, packing slip, drawing, and applicable inspection requirements.
• Confirm required certificates of conformance, material…