Inventory Control Clerk in Alaska Career Overview
As an Inventory Control Clerk, you play a vital role in managing and maintaining inventory levels. Your work directly contributes to the operational efficiency of businesses across various industries, ensuring that products are available when needed while minimizing excess stock and reducing costs.
Key responsibilities in this role include:
- Monitoring Inventory Levels: You track and assess the quantity of stock available, ensuring that optimal inventory levels are maintained.
- Record Keeping: Accurate documentation of inventory transactions, including shipments, transfers, and adjustments, is essential for maintaining up-to-date records.
- Inventory Audits: Regularly conducting physical inventory counts helps to identify discrepancies and ensures the accuracy of inventory records.
- Data Analysis: You analyze inventory data to identify trends, forecast demand, and make recommendations for purchasing and restocking items.
- Collaboration: Working closely with other departments, such as sales, procurement, and warehousing, is vital for streamlining operations and addressing supply chain challenges.
Your role is integral in preventing stockouts or overstock situations, which can lead to lost sales or increased holding costs. By maintaining effective inventory control, you contribute to the overall productivity and profitability of the organization, making your position essential within the supply chain framework.
Inventory Control Clerk Salary in Alaska
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become an Inventory Control Clerk in Alaska
To become an Inventory Control Clerk in Alaska, you will need to complete specific educational qualifications and training programs. Here are the recommended college degree programs:
Business Administration and Management: A degree in this field provides a foundational understanding of business operations, financial management, and organizational behavior, which can be beneficial in inventory control roles.
Business Operations Support and Secretarial Services: This program focuses on the administrative aspects of business management, including inventory processes, record-keeping, and office systems relevant to inventory control.
Accounting Technology and Bookkeeping: Understanding financial documentation and accounting principles is crucial for managing inventory effectively. This program equips you with skills in tracking and reconciling inventory costs.
Inventory Control: Some institutions offer specialized programs tailored to inventory management. These programs cover inventory systems, supply chain management, and strategies for optimizing stock levels.
Office Management: Pursuing a degree in office management helps you develop organizational skills and knowledge in managing office resources, including inventory-related activities.
In addition to obtaining a relevant degree, some positions may require on-the-job training or certifications specific to inventory systems and software.
Best Schools to become a Inventory Control Clerk in Alaska 2024
University of Phoenix-Arizona
Southern New Hampshire University
Western Governors University
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
Grand Canyon University
Liberty University
- Receive and process incoming orders for materials, merchandise, classified ads, or services such as repairs, installations, or rental of facilities.
- Generally receives orders via mail, phone, fax, or other electronic means.
- Duties include informing customers of receipt, prices, shipping dates, and delays; preparing contracts; and handling complaints.
Inventory Control Clerk Required Skills and Competencies in Alaska
Attention to Detail: You must have a keen eye for details to accurately track inventory levels, identify discrepancies, and ensure that products are correctly labeled and stored.
Organizational Skills: Strong organizational abilities are essential for maintaining effective inventory systems, categorizing items accurately, and ensuring quick access to products.
Analytical Skills: Analyzing inventory data and trends allows you to make informed decisions regarding stock levels and ordering processes, helping to minimize waste and optimize resources.
Problem-Solving Skills: You need to be adept at identifying issues related to inventory management and developing effective solutions to resolve them promptly.
Communication Skills: Effective verbal and written communication skills are important for collaborating with team members, reporting inventory status, and coordinating with suppliers and logistics.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with inventory management software and basic computer skills are essential for entering data, generating reports, and tracking inventory efficiently.
Mathematical Skills: A solid understanding of basic mathematics is necessary for calculating inventory levels, costs, and forecasting requirements.
Time Management: You should be able to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively to meet deadlines, especially during peak inventory cycles or audits.
Teamwork: Working well with others in a team environment is vital, as inventory control often involves coordination with various departments, such as sales, purchasing, and shipping.
Adaptability: You must be open to changes in procedures, technology, or inventory systems to stay current and efficient in managing inventory practices.
Customer Service Orientation: Having a customer-focused mindset helps you respond to requests from internal and external customers more effectively, ensuring satisfaction and efficient service.
Physical Stamina: You might need to engage in physical activities such as lifting and moving products, so stamina and physical fitness can be beneficial in this role.
Job Duties for Inventory Control Clerks
Obtain customers' names, addresses, and billing information, product numbers, and specifications of items to be purchased, and enter this information on order forms.
Recommend merchandise or services that will meet customers' needs.
Review orders for completeness according to reporting procedures and forward incomplete orders for further processing.
Electronic mail software
- Email software
- Microsoft Outlook
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Microsoft Dynamics
- SAP software
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Basic Skills
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- Talking to others
Social
- Changing what is done based on other people's actions
- Looking for ways to help people
Job Market and Opportunities for Inventory Control Clerk in Alaska
The job market for Inventory Control Clerks in Alaska presents a range of opportunities due to the unique economic landscape of the state. Understanding the dynamics of this sector can help you navigate your career path effectively.
Demand Trends: There is a steady demand for Inventory Control Clerks in Alaska, primarily driven by the state's diverse industries, including retail, wholesale trade, and logistics. With the continued growth of e-commerce and retail operations, businesses require skilled professionals to ensure efficient inventory management.
Industry Growth: The demand for Inventory Control Clerks is expected to grow as businesses increasingly focus on optimized supply chain operations. Companies are investing in technology to maintain accurate records, manage stock levels, and streamline processes, which boosts the need for trained individuals in inventory control.
- Geographical Hotspots: Certain areas in Alaska exhibit a higher concentration of opportunities for Inventory Control Clerks. Key locations include:
- Anchorage: As the largest city in Alaska, Anchorage is a hub for retail and distribution centers, offering numerous positions in inventory control.
- Fairbanks: With a growing population and businesses expanding their local operations, Fairbanks presents additional job opportunities in inventory management.
- Juneau: As the state capital, Juneau has government and tourism-related businesses that also require effective inventory monitoring and management.
Economic Factors: The ongoing development of infrastructure and commerce in Alaska is contributing to a more favorable job market. As industries adapt to changes in consumer behavior, especially post-pandemic, the importance of robust inventory control systems will only increase.
Networking and Resources: Engaging with local professional organizations, attending job fairs, and participating in community events can provide valuable insights and connections in the inventory management field. Leveraging online job boards and local classifieds may also unveil job openings that align with your interests.
Overall, the job market for Inventory Control Clerks in Alaska exhibits growth potential driven by industry demand and geographical factors. Being aware of the hottest locations and market trends will facilitate a successful career journey in this field.
Top Related Careers to Inventory Control Clerk 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become an Inventory Control Clerk in Alaska
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - Inventory Clerks
Explore the latest data on employment, job outlook, and wages for inventory clerks in Alaska and nationwide.
BLS Inventory Clerks OverviewNational Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
Gain insights into workplace safety and health guidelines pertinent to inventory management roles.
NIOSH WebsiteInstitute for Supply Management (ISM)
A professional association providing resources about supply chain management, including certifications, publications, and events relevant to inventory control.
ISM Official SiteAmerican Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS)
APICS offers educational resources, certifications, and networking opportunities for professionals involved in inventory control and management.
APICS WebsiteAssociation for Supply Chain Management (ASCM)
ASCM provides resources, webinars, and certification programs to enhance your knowledge of inventory management practices.
ASCM Official SiteCIO - Inventory Management Articles
Access a collection of articles and research on inventory management trends and best practices in the business sector.
CIO Inventory Management ResourcesLinkedIn Learning
Utilize online courses focused on inventory management systems and software to enhance your technical skills in this field.
LinkedIn Learning - Inventory Management CoursesLocal Community Resources
Check with community colleges and educational institutions in Alaska for local workshops and courses related to inventory control and management.Networking Groups on LinkedIn
Join professional groups focused on inventory management and supply chain to connect with industry peers and share knowledge.
Search LinkedIn GroupsBooks on Inventory Management
Consider reading the following titles to deepen your understanding of inventory control methodologies:- "Introduction to Inventory Management" by Daniel W. R. and William J. D.
- "Inventory Accuracy: A Guide to a Better Inventory System" by David J. Eby
Utilize these resources to develop your knowledge, skills, and network in the field of inventory control.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Inventory Control Clerk in Alaska
What are the primary responsibilities of an Inventory Control Clerk?
As an Inventory Control Clerk, your main responsibilities include tracking inventory levels, managing stock records, performing regular audits, and coordinating with suppliers and shipping departments to ensure timely replenishment of stock.What qualifications are needed to become an Inventory Control Clerk in Alaska?
Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is required. Some employers may prefer candidates with further education in logistics or supply chain management. Experience with inventory management systems or software is also beneficial.What skills are important for success in this role?
Key skills include strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, organizational skills, and proficiency in using computer systems for inventory management. Communication skills are also vital for collaborating with different teams.What tools and software do Inventory Control Clerks commonly use?
Inventory Control Clerks often use inventory management software, spreadsheets (like Microsoft Excel), and barcode scanning technology. Familiarity with these tools can enhance efficiency in tracking and managing inventory.Is certification necessary for this position?
While certification is not typically required, obtaining credentials such as Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) can enhance your job prospects and demonstrate your expertise to potential employers.What is the salary range for Inventory Control Clerks in Alaska?
Salaries for Inventory Control Clerks in Alaska can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry. On average, you can expect to earn between $35,000 and $55,000 per year.What job opportunities are available for Inventory Control Clerks in Alaska?
Opportunities can be found in various industries including retail, manufacturing, and logistics. Companies involved in shipping and transportation also frequently hire Inventory Control Clerks.What is the typical work environment like for this role?
Inventory Control Clerks typically work in warehouse or stockroom settings. The job may involve physical activity, such as lifting and moving supplies, and requires adherence to safety protocols.What are the opportunities for advancement as an Inventory Control Clerk?
With experience, you may progress to roles such as Inventory Manager, Supply Chain Analyst, or Logistics Coordinator, depending on your interests and skills.How can I gain experience in inventory control if I am just starting?
Consider internships, entry-level positions in retail or warehousing, or volunteer opportunities that allow you to assist with stock management tasks. This experience will provide a foundation for your skills in inventory control.