Lead Inventory Associate

Car Max is seeking a Lead Inventory Associate to oversee daily vehicle and parts inventory operations at our retail location. In this role, you'll coordinate vehicle check-in, tagging, staging, and lot organization while maintaining accurate system records. You'll lead and train inventory associates, monitor stock levels, perform regular cycle counts, and help minimize shrink through strong process control and safety practices.

Partnering closely with sales and service teams, you'll ensure vehicles are ready for customers, support a clean, organized lot, and model Car Max's values of integrity, teamwork, and customer focus.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily vehicle and parts inventory activities on the lot and in stock areas
• Coordinate vehicle check-in, tagging, staging, and placement for retail readiness
• Maintain accurate inventory records in Car
• Max systems through timely updates and audits
• Lead, coach, and train inventory associates to follow standard operating procedures
• Conduct regular cycle counts and reconcile discrepancies to minimize shrink
• Monitor inventory flow between sales, service, and reconditioning teams
• Ensure lot organization, signage, and vehicle presentation meet company standards
• Enforce safety, security, and OSHA-compliant practices in all inventory operations
• Collaborate with sales and service leaders to prioritize vehicle availability for customers
• Identify process improvements to increase efficiency and support Car
• Max's customer-first culture

Required Skills

• Inventory management systems
• Cycle counting
• Stock rotation
• Data entry and recordkeeping
• Basic Excel or spreadsheet use
• Warehouse/stockroom operations
• Forklift or material-handling equipment operation
• Loss prevention & shrink control
• Safety and OSHA compliance
• Team leadership and training