Materials & Inventory Specialist

About the Role:

The Materials & Inventory Specialist plays a critical role in ensuring the seamless flow of materials and inventory within the manufacturing environment at Gate Mfg. This position is responsible for managing inventory levels, coordinating material procurement, and maintaining accurate records to support production schedules and operational efficiency. The specialist will work closely with production teams, and logistics to optimize inventory turnover and minimize stockouts or excess inventory. By analyzing inventory data and trends, the role contributes to cost control and continuous improvement initiatives. Ultimately, the Materials & Inventory Specialist ensures that the right materials are available at the right time to support uninterrupted manufacturing processes and meet customer demands.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required;
• Experience in inventory control, materials management, or a related manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency with inventory management systems and Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to communicate effectively with cross-functional teams.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with ERP systems such as Epicor or similar platforms.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Certification in inventory management or supply chain (e.g., APICS CPIM).
• Familiarity with safety standards and regulatory compliance in a manufacturing setting.

Responsibilities:

• Monitor and manage inventory levels to ensure adequate supply for production without overstocking.
• Coordinate with procurement teams to order materials in a timely and cost-effective manner.
• Maintain accurate inventory records using inventory management software and conduct regular physical counts.
• Collaborate with production and warehouse teams to track material usage and resolve discrepancies.
• Analyze inventory data to identify trends, forecast needs, and recommend improvements to inventory control processes.

Skills:

The Materials & Inventory Specialist utilizes strong organizational and analytical skills daily to monitor inventory levels and ensure accuracy in records, which supports efficient production scheduling. Communication skills are essential for coordinating with suppliers and internal teams to resolve material shortages or discrepancies promptly. Proficiency in inventory management software and Excel enables the specialist to analyze data trends and generate reports that inform decision-making and process improvements. Problem-solving skills are applied to identify inefficiencies and implement solutions that reduce costs and improve inventory turnover. Additionally, knowledge of supply chain principles and manufacturing processes helps the specialist align inventory strategies with overall operational goals.

About the Company:

At Tarter we’ve been building more than gates and equipment since 1945—we’ve been building careers, communities, and a legacy of American craftsmanship. As the largest manufacturer of farm gates and animal management equipment in North America, we take pride in making products that help farmers, ranchers, and property owners work smarter and safer.

Headquartered in Dunnville, Kentucky, we combine small-town values with big opportunities. When you join Tarter, you become part of a team where your ideas matter, your work is valued, and your contributions make a real impact for customers across the country.

Whether you’re on the shop floor, in engineering, customer service, or leadership, you’ll find a workplace built on integrity, innovation, and teamwork. Here, we don’t just talk about getting the job done right, we live it every day.

Join us, and help shape the future of American manufacturing.