Distribution Center Operations Manager

Job Posting:

Since 1953, Ferguson has been a source of quality supplies for a variety of industries. Together We Build Better infrastructure, better homes and better businesses. We exist to make our customers’ complex projects simple, successful, and sustainable. We proactively solve problems, adapt and grow to continuously serve our customers, communities and each other. Ferguson, a Fortune 500 company, is proud to provide best-in-class products, service and capabilities across the following industries:
Commercial/Mechanical, Facilities Supply, Fire and Fabrication, HVAC, Industrial, Residential Trade, Residential Building and Remodel, Waterworks and Residential Digital Commerce. Ferguson has approximately 36,000 associates across 1,700 locations. Ferguson is a community of proud associates who operate with the shared purpose of building something meaningful. You will build a career that you are proud of, at a company you can believe in.

Ferguson is now hiring an Operations Manager to guide business operations at our Richland, WA Distribution Center!

Position Summary:

The Operations Manager is responsible for driving operational excellence, inventory accuracy, and process standards across the distribution center’s subject area. This role leads quality programs, audit processes, inventory control functions, and data-driven performance improvement initiatives while ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. This position plays a critical leadership role in developing teams, improving system integrity, and supporting overall DC performance through analytics, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

Quality Leadership & Continuous Improvement:

Lead and complete quality assurance programs, audits, and SOP compliance initiatives

Drive continuous improvement projects to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and service levels

Monitor KPIs, scorecards, and operational performance metrics

Ensure adherence to company safety, quality, and compliance standards

Inventory Control & Cycle Count Management:

Own cycle count execution, daily status tracking, and audit compliance

Oversee reconciliation processes, variance analysis, and inventory accuracy initiatives

Manage monthly reconciliation reporting and communicate results to leadership and associates

Coordinate inventory events, including 6-month inventory counts and product movements

Lead QA location audits and inventory integrity programs

Data Analytics & Performance Management:

Apply systems (e.g., Easy Metrics, WMS) to monitor efficiency and identify improvement opportunities

Audit labor performance, missing time, downtime, and system accuracy

Analyze data trends and provide actionable insights to leadership

Maintain reporting cadence for progress, incentives, and operational performance

Operations & Process Oversight:

Support operational systems including TMS, order tracking, and inventory systems

Drive process improvements in slotting, configuration, and workflow efficiency

Conduct internal audits, and system/process validations

Serve as point of contact for critical issues involving inventory, system, and operational matters

Team Leadership & Development:

Lead, coach, and develop associates across inventory control and quality functions

Build bench strength through training, cross-training, and performance management

Facilitate team meetings, performance reviews, and communication sessions

Support hiring, onboarding, and new hire evaluations

Address associate concerns in partnership with HRVendor & Program Management (Merit):

Manage container and supply needs to support operations

Audit and approve vendor invoices (container and labor)
Identify operational hot spots and prioritize improvement focus areas

Track and communicate Merit program status and performance

Safety, Compliance & Security:

Ensure adherence to safety programs, audits, and regulatory requirements

Lead or support safety initiatives including audits, training, and certifications (CPR, Hazmat, IMDG)
Maintain Hazardous Waste program, inspections, and reporting

Support CTPAT compliance including audits, certifications, and retraining

Act as program owner for Heat Illness Prevention (HIPP)
Administrative & Cross-Functional Support:

Coordinate reporting for inventory adjustments, reconciliation, and finance alignment

Maintain communication dashboards and visual performance tracking

Partner with IT as a backup support resource and for system issue resolution

Participate in interviews, engagement initiatives, and site leadership activities

Required Qualifications:

5+ years of experience in distribution, warehouse operations, quality, or inventory control

Proven experience with inventory management, auditing, and process improvement

Strong analytical skills with experience using data systems (e.g., WMS, Easy Metrics, Excel)
Leadership experience developing teams in a fast-paced environment

Knowledge of safety and compliance standards in a warehouse setting

Location Flexibility:
Successful candidates must demonstrate a…