The practice of managing a retail operation’s inventory. Warehouse operations specialists supervise and coordinate the storage, receipt, inventory, delivery and distribution of materials, supplies and equipment; maintain relevant files and records; and manage and monitor the performance of other workers.

Warehouse operations specialists also handle crucial responsibilities, such as coordinating, adjusting, and modifying schedules of delivery to designated locations in a timely and effective manner; coordinating and ensuring the smoothness of warehouse operations; monitoring security and safety controls; and doing various other specialized functions suited to their capacity. Because of the demanding nature of their work, warehouse operations specialists should have initiative, an eye for detail and leadership skills.

They often work under the direct supervision of purchasing managers, or they work with them closely to keep an inventory in check. In the event that a purchasing manager is absent, a warehouse operations specialist may act in his or her stead.

To perform properly, warehouse operations specialists are expected to have excellent computer, record-keeping, inventory, communication, and leadership skills. Extensive knowledge of storage, warehousing, and distribution procedures, as well as basic principles of vehicle preventative maintenance, is very important. In their work environment, warehouse operations specialists can be found lifting supplies and materials, normally from 25 to 75 pounds, when distributing and receiving them. Their work may involve walking, prolonged standing and overhead effort. There are times when they need to handle deliveries during difficult weather conditions.

The basic requirement to become a warehouse operations specialist is a high school diploma and three years of warehouse experience that involves inventory control and leadership roles. Another permissible qualification is an associate degree of any two-year course, provided major coursework focuses on transportation, logistics, materials management or any other related field.