Inventory Control Specialist at Gardens Alive – Lebanon, New Hampshire

The Inventory Control and Receiving Specialist is responsible for the accurate and efficient movement of goods into and out of the store. This role ensures timely product flow to the sales floor, maintains inventory accuracy, and supports purchasing, accounting, and vendor relations. By optimizing inventory management and ensuring product availability, this position directly contributes to driving sales and profitability at the garden center. The specialist plays a key role in store operations by organizing stock areas, training staff, and improving processes related to inventory control and product availability.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

· Ensures accurate on-hand inventory through timely vouchering of inbound inventory, SKU assignment, purchase order creation, and processing of manual inventory adjustments.

· Maintains the store's digital filing system for inventory receiving paperwork.

· Coordinates with GSC counterpart store’s Inventory Control Specialists and the Buying team to review vendor statements, resolve accounts receivable questions, and manage vendor claims.

· Oversees timely and accurate receiving of all inbound and outbound freight to minimize truck-to-floor delays.

· Ensures purchase orders and transfer orders are up to date and troubleshoots inventory and receiving issues.

· Identifies and executes inventory cycle counts to resolve discrepancies or reset inventory.

· Provides feedback to improve purchasing, reduce out-of-stocks, and support merchandising plans.

· Organize and maintain clean, safe, and efficient stockrooms, storage containers, and outside inventory areas.

· Partners with the Store Manager to set daily task lists for team members in receiving areas.

· Organizes and maintains a clean, neat, safe, and efficient stockroom, receiving and storage areas.

· Oversees and ensures swift transfer and cross docking of product movement between locations.

· Participates in and leads the hard goods receiving process and ensures proper documentation and organization.

· Supports the receiving process for the nursery team as assigned.

· Train and direct team members in receiving and inventory control procedures.

· Lead and execute inventory and cycle counts to maintain inventory accuracy.

· Identify and implement process improvements in inventory flow, warehouse safety, and team communication.

· Manage product tagging, ensuring accurate pricing.

· Provide feedback to improve purchasing decisions, prevent out-of-stock situations, and support merchandising plans.

· Assists with store operations goals to remain efficient, accurate and productive through processes such as organizing stock, replenishment, receiving, seasonal merchandising changeovers, transfers, cycle counts and physical inventory.

· Supports company initiatives, events, and promotions by remaining informed on offers and sustainable gardening solutions.

· Takes personal accountability for representing company values in all situations (service, dress code, interpersonal skills).

· Promotes a positive work environment through an inclusive and respectful approach.

· Celebrates and encourages diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.

· Leads change with a positive and growth mindset, supporting others through transitions and improvements.

· Other duties as assigned.

· 2+ years of sales and customer service experience in the horticulture or green goods business.

· Knowledge of horticulture, including plant identification, disease and pest management, and industry terminology.

· Strong problem-solving, organizational, and multitasking skills in a fast-paced environment.

· Excellent communication and customer service skills, with the ability to research and resolve issues.

· Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, POS systems, and Internet search tools; ability to learn new software quickly.

· Valid driver’s license required.

· Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

· Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.

· Ability to regularly lift 30-50 lbs. and perform physical labor.

· Adherence to all company policies and safety regulations.