Inventory Management Coordinator
Optimal Inc.Position Description: The Inventory Management Professional is responsible for coordinating the receipt, organization, preparation, and distribution of specialized hardware used in 3D-printing, autonomous-vehicle development, and vehicle-based data-collection activities. This role manages the flow of materials across shipping, receiving, storage, kitting, and build support while maintaining an organized, efficient, and clearly labeled workplace. The position supports inventory such as 3D-printed components, computers and related accessories, radar units, cameras, LiDAR sensors, networking equipment, wiring and harnesses, mounts, brackets, and other data-collection vehicle parts. The role works closely with engineering, technicians, vehicle-build teams, and Purchasing to ensure required items are available when needed and that shortages or risks are communicated early. Key Responsibilities Coordinate inbound and outbound shipping, receiving, inspection, labeling, and storage of hardware and vehicle parts. Maintain accurate inventory records, stock locations, quantities, condition, ownership, and availability. Build and stage kits for vehicle builds, test events, engineering activities, and data-collection deployments. Organize the workplace layout to support safe, efficient material flow and quick access to frequently used items. Establish and maintain clear labeling, location identifiers, visual controls, and standardized storage practices. Track stock levels and communicate item availability, shortages, damaged parts, long-lead items, and other inventory risks to stakeholders. Identify missing or depleted items and coordinate with Purchasing to request replenishment or replacement materials. Partner with engineering and vehicle-build teams to confirm part requirements, quantities, priorities, and delivery timing. Support inventory audits, cycle counts, reconciliation, and disposition of obsolete, excess, damaged, or unidentified materials. Prepare hardware for shipment or vehicle installation, including packaging, documentation, traceability, and kit completeness checks. Maintain a clean, organized, and safety-conscious work environment for hardware handling and storage. Improve inventory processes, visual management, kitting methods, and workplace organization to reduce delays and improve build readiness. Core Capabilities Strong organizational and material-coordination skills. Attention to detail and commitment to inventory accuracy. Ability to prioritize multiple requests in a fast-paced engineering and vehicle-build environment. Clear communication with technical teams, suppliers, shipping and receiving personnel, and Purchasing. Familiarity with computers, sensors, electronics, vehicle components, and 3D-printed parts. Ability to interpret part lists, kit requirements, shipping documentation, and basic technical information. Practical problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to identifying shortages and resolving logistics issues. Commitment to safe handling, standardized work, workplace organization, and continuous improvement. Education requirement: High School diploma required, associate's degree preferred Years of experience: at least 1-2 years of experience Familiar with tracking parts of spreadsheets Word and Excel experience highly proficient Capable of multi-tasking and tracking parts Want someone who is open to working in a manufacturing environment Use of AI Technology: Unless expressly authorized in the interview/skill set validation instructions, candidates may not use AI tools or other third-party assistance during an interview or assessment to generate or provide substantive answers to interview questions. Candidates should answer organically in their own words, drawing on their own knowledge, skills, and experience. Failure to adhere to these expectations may result in the candidate being removed from consideration.