Distribution Specialist III/Team Lead

The Distribution Specialist III / Team Lead is responsible for supporting company goals related to service, quality, inventory accuracy, and on-time shipments within the Edmund Optics Distribution Center. This position combines advanced warehouse operational expertise with frontline leadership responsibilities to support daily distribution center operations.This role serves as a senior-level distribution specialist who is capable of performing multiple core warehouse functions while also providing direction, training, and support to employees in outbound operations including picking, packing, and international shipping.

The Distribution Specialist III / Team Lead assists the Senior Distribution Manager by helping ensure that all orders are picked, confirmed, packed, and PGI'd at the end of each shift while maintaining efficient workflow, safety, and adherence to established company procedures. This role also supports the maintenance, improvement, and training of Distribution Center work instructions and operational procedures, ensuring documentation remains accurate and employees are properly trained.

Operational Responsibilities

Ensure all customer orders are picked, confirmed, packed, and PGI'd accurately and on time.
• Prepare and process domestic and international shipments in accordance with company procedures and customer requirements.
• Perform advanced warehouse transactions using the SAP system as required by management.
• Process international shipping documentation including customs paperwork and AES filing when required.
• Process customer returns and intercompany/vendor returns as needed.
• Perform inventory movements including receiving, put-away, and replenishment of materials.
• Assist with packaging products in accordance with company packaging requirements.
• Perform cycle counting and assist with inventory discrepancy investigations as required.
• Pull and stage materials for production orders when necessary.
• Maintain accurate warehouse system entries and documentation.

Leadership & Training Responsibilities

• Provide direction and support to employees on the picking line and within outbound shipping operations.
• Assist with staffing and workflow coordination in the outbound picking and shipping areas.
• Supervise up to six employees during daily outbound operations when required.
• Train employees on warehouse processes, equipment usage, and SAP transactions in accordance with the Training Matrix.
• Serve as a subject matter expert in multiple warehouse functions and train others in at least 20% of the duties on the Training Matrix.
• Maintain, review, and update Distribution Center work instructions and operational procedures to ensure accuracy and efficiency.
• Assist in developing and delivering training to employees on updated work instructions, processes, and best practices within the Distribution Center.
• Assist the Senior Distribution Manager with operational problem solving and process improvement initiatives.

General Distribution Center Responsibilities

• Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient work environment in accordance with 6S practices.
• Communicate with internal departments regarding shipment status and operational updates.
• Assist in multiple warehouse functions including Receiving, Picking, Packing, Put Away, Returns, Production Orders, and Cycle Counting.
• Operate warehouse equipment including hand trucks and power jacks as required.
• Assist with mailroom duties and other distribution center support functions when necessary.
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and company policies, procedures, and safety regulations.
• Assist in generating end-of-shift or end-of-night reports for outstanding orders when required.

To perform this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required Skills & Abilities

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Leadership and team coordination abilities
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work both independently and within a team environment
• Strong understanding of advanced warehouse transactions in SAP
• Ability to become a subject matter expert in multiple warehouse operations
• Ability to train and mentor employees on warehouse procedures
• Self-starter with strong organizational skills
• Intermediate computer skills including Microsoft Word and Excel
• Ability to follow and enforce safety rules and procedures
• Ability to count, verify, stack, and load merchandise accurately
• Ability to operate warehouse equipment as required
• Must be able to obtain Dangerous Goods Certification
• Flexibility to work weekends, overtime, and various shifts as required

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required; college education preferred
• Minimum five (5) years of warehouse experience, with a minimum of two years in a lead or supervisory capacity
• Previous leadership, training, or team lead experience preferred
• Experience working with SAP warehouse transactions strongly preferred

Physical Requirements

Adequate manual dexterity to perform essential functions; ability to use some physical efforts to handle heavy materials, boxes, or equipment (most tasks require no more than 50 lbs. lifting); position requires candidate to be on their feet a large percentage of the time; ability to work in a warehouse environment.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Think you meet some of the requirements but not all? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs for which they do not meet every qualification. If you see a role that interests you, we encourage you to apply, regardless of whether or not your experience is completely aligned with the job description. Edmund Optics is committed to becoming the most diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace within the Optics and Photonics Industry and beyond. You may be a great candidate for this role or others within Edmund Optics.

Compensation Range Transparency:

At Edmund Optics, we are committed to transparency and equity in our hiring practices. The posted salary range for this role reflects the expected base pay. The actual offer will be based on multiple factors, including but not limited to relevant skills, education, work experience, business needs, and geographic location.

Salary Range:
$21.00 - $26.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life, AD&D, Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Tuition Reimbursement
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match up to 3%
• Daycare and Gym Reimbursement
• Paid Parental Leave and New Mother Benefits
• Training and Development Opportunities

Availability of these benefits may depend on the country and employment type.