Merchandise Specialist at Aston Carter

Merchandise Specialist

A mid-size food operations firm seeks a skilled Merchandise Specialist for a 3-month onsite contract, with the potential for extension. In this role, you support purchasing, inventory control, pricing, and supplier coordination to ensure accurate, efficient, and cost-effective merchandise operations. You work closely with suppliers, warehouse staff, and internal teams to maintain accurate records, monitor costs, and support daily logistics in a fast-paced environment. A pre-employment background check is required.

Responsibilities

• Determine and develop appropriate sources of supply and maintain cooperative working relationships with suppliers to stay current with trends, products, and services.
• Prepare and process purchase orders and obtain proper business documentation to validate order information.
• Ensure appropriate inventory levels and oversee the proper distribution of products.
• Identify discrepancies between physical inventory and system records, and initiate necessary adjustments or corrections.
• Monitor incoming products for cost fluctuations and perform daily cost changes in the system.
• Evaluate freight factors to ensure effective and efficient freight costs.
• Study market and industry trends to establish and update wholesale prices.
• Maintain item and supplier files with up-to-date cost, price, and related information.
• Support warehouse-related duties to ensure the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit, including resolving receiving discrepancies and managing slot labels.
• Perform accurate and timely data entry related to merchandise, purchasing, inventory, and pricing.
• Communicate with internal teams and suppliers via email and other channels to resolve issues and support customer service needs.
• Use ERP and related systems to track inventory, orders, and logistics activities.

Essential Skills

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Experience with data entry and Excel data entry.
• Basic math skills to support pricing, cost analysis, and inventory calculations.
• Knowledge of merchandising and inventory control concepts.
• Ability to provide professional customer service to internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data analysis, documentation, and record keeping.
• Ability to work effectively with purchase orders, logistics processes, and warehouse operations.
• Comfort using email and basic office technology for daily communication and reporting.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree is preferred.
• General business knowledge and experience are preferred.
• Knowledge of Asian products and related merchandising is preferred.
• Experience with AS400 systems is a plus.
• Experience using ERP systems such as Just Foods is an asset.
• Experience in logistics, warehouse, or distribution environments is beneficial.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced setting.
• Ability to study market and industry trends and contribute to pricing decisions.

Work Environment

This role is 100% onsite in a warehouse-style environment and follows a 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. shift schedule. You work closely with a fun, collaborative team and should be comfortable with physical activity, including standing and bending throughout the shift. The environment involves regular interaction with warehouse operations, inventory areas, and office tools such as Microsoft Office, ERP systems, and email. Free parking is available for employees.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Seattle, WA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $23.12 - $25.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 17, 2026.