Lead Inventory Associate, Process Optimization

Position overview

Feeding Tampa Bay is hiring a Lead Inventory Associate focused on process optimization. This role sits within the Administration department, reports to the Inventory Manager, and is based at Causeway Center in Tampa, Florida. It is an on-site hourly position with core working hours of 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The pay range for this role is $42,700 to $44,030 annually.

About the organization

Feeding Tampa Bay supports ten counties across West Central Florida and plays a major role in hunger relief throughout the region. In the past year, the organization delivered 85 million meals to neighbors directly and through a network of more than 400 food pantry partners. Its work goes beyond food assistance by building pathways to long-term stability for nearly 1 million people and by connecting resources, partners, and solutions that help remove barriers for individuals, families, and seniors.

Role summary

The Lead Inventory Associate, Process Optimization will oversee the design, execution, and ongoing refinement of inventory control practices in a busy food distribution and logistics setting. The position combines hands-on inventory work with supervisory responsibility, training duties, and process improvement leadership to strengthen accuracy, food safety, and operational performance.

Key responsibilities

• Set the tone for the organization’s culture and values in day-to-day work.
• Create, document, and roll out standardized inventory procedures covering receiving, put-away, slotting, picking, shipping, and transfers between facilities, while following Feeding America and food-safety rules such as FIFO/FEFO.
• Act as the go-to specialist for the Warehouse Management System and related inventory software, with a focus on clean data, efficient transactions, and system improvements.
• Investigate inventory variances, identify the root cause, and implement corrective and preventive measures to improve accuracy.
• Support the preparation and review of inventory reports and KPI tracking related to accuracy, turnover, spoilage, and storage capacity, and share practical recommendations with management.
• Lead training for inventory associates on current and updated procedures, WMS/RF scanner use, and equipment operation.
• Work closely with Operations, Procurement, and Programs teams to anticipate demand, coordinate product movement, and support supply needs across distribution channels such as Mobile Pantries, The Market, and partner agencies.
• Plan and participate in physical inventories and cycle counts while keeping disruptions to operations as low as possible.
• Check product condition, inspect stock for damage or expiry, and verify that items are stored correctly, including temperature-sensitive goods.
• Keep the warehouse and inventory processes ready at all times for internal and external food safety and financial audits.
• Help keep Inventory Department policies and procedure manuals current and accurate.
• Perform job duties that require standing, walking, reaching, climbing or balancing, and stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
• Carry out additional tasks as assigned.

Requirements

• Proven ability to work effectively in a fast-moving, changing environment while upholding the organization’s commitment to equity and respectful service.
• At least 3 years of experience in inventory control, warehousing, or logistics, with demonstrated strength in process improvement and systems management.
• Solid working knowledge of Warehouse Management Systems and RF scanning tools.
• Strong leadership capability, including training experience, along with clear communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and strong analytical and problem-solving ability, including root cause analysis and solution implementation.
• Ability to handle warehouse physical demands, including frequent lifting, standing, and operating powered industrial equipment; certification is preferred.
• Willingness to take part in mission-driven activities such as food distribution and disaster relief when needed.
• Internal applicants must be in good standing and have no corrective actions within the previous 90 days.

Additional information

This role is classified as hourly and based on-site. The listed working hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The position supports a warehouse and food distribution environment where accuracy, safety, and continuous improvement are critical. The work may involve participation in food distribution initiatives and disaster relief efforts as required.

Compensation

The pay range for this role is $42,700 to $44,030.