Inventory Control and Distribution Specialist
Listed on 2026-10-23
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Supply Chain/Logistics
Inventory Control & Analysis, Logistics Coordination, Stocking
The Office of Physical Plant (OPP) at The Pennsylvania State University is seeking an Inventory Control and Distribution Specialist candidate to join the team!!! The Inventory Control and Distribution Specialist position is critical to maintaining the Supply Chain Function of the Office of Physical Plant at Penn State. This position helps identify materials and parts for various facilities and assets across the Penn State campuses.
The Inventory Control and Distribution Specialist is truly a buyer for the Office of Physical Plant. The Inventory Control and Distribution Specialist works closely with Central Procurement to ensure the RFP/RFQ meets the needs of the Physical Plant. The Inventory Control and Distribution Specialist position is key at OPP to identify the right products, the right quality, the right lead times, and what items will be stocked vs Non-Stocked.
This position offers a flexible work arrangement that combines remote and on-campus work. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
- Identify and source materials and parts for different facilities and assets.
- Assist Technicians, Engineers, and Administrators with order placement.
- Facilitate the Primary Vending Program that allows us to lower our material cost by working through fewer vendors who are committed to providing the materials most commonly needed.
- Monitor organizational product and resource inventories; coordinate with management to ensure inventories fulfill customer requirements; add new items and delete obsolete items; monitor and adjust stock levels to meet seasonal and overall product and material needs.
- Maintain electronic database; record and update product nomenclature, pricing, codes, etc.; conduct spot checks and oversee physical inventories; address and resolve inconsistencies.
- Process supply, equipment, product, and material requests; track orders and invoices; ensure timely shipping and delivery; prepare and maintain contracts, transactions, and regulatory compliance documentation.
- Address and resolve order, inventory, shipping, delivery, and stock issuance discrepancies; refer issues to management as needed.
- Help ensure product availability; forecast and communicate inventory demands to vendors/suppliers; alert management of short-fall concerns.
- Keep customers informed of product line extensions, recalls, phase-outs, or new product launches; research, identify, and propose alternative product solutions including biodegradable, non-toxic, or other environmentally friendly items where available.
- Assist with quality assurance, monitor and document vendor and carrier performance, provide feedback, and suggest improvements.
- Identify and recommend new vendors to management and customers as needed.
- May validate and pay invoices.
- Bachelor's Degree 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
- Required
Certifications:
None
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Due to the financial and fiduciary responsibilities of this position, successful completion of a credit history check will be required in addition to standard background checks. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.
Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $49,188.00 - $71,340.00. Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time.
One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
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