Warehouse Associate in Chicago, Illinois at Universal Granite And Marble Of Missouri Inc

About Company:

Founded in 1999, UGM Surfaces is one of the most successful natural stone and engineered surface suppliers in the United States. UGM currently boasts over 600,000 square feet of stone gallery and showroom space, with locations in Chicago IL, Detroit MI, Cleveland OH, Milwaukee WI, St. Louis MO, Omaha NE, and Minneapolis MN. UGM specializes in providing the highest quality and largest selection of stone products to meet the needs of builders, contractors, fabricators, retailers, architects, interior designers, and tile distributors from around the United States.

About the Role:

The Warehouse Associate/Driver plays a critical role in ensuring the efficient operation of warehouse activities combined with timely and safe delivery of goods. This position requires managing inventory, preparing orders for shipment, and maintaining accurate records while also operating delivery vehicles to transport products to various locations. The role demands a strong focus on safety, organization, and customer service to meet delivery schedules and maintain high standards of quality. The Warehouse Associate/Driver will collaborate closely with warehouse staff and logistics teams to optimize workflow and support overall supply chain operations. Ultimately, this position contributes directly to customer satisfaction by ensuring products are handled properly and delivered on time.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Ability to operate warehouse equipment safely (e.g., forklifts, pallet jacks).
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Physical ability to lift heavy objects and perform manual labor for extended periods.
• Basic computer skills for inventory and shipment tracking.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Driver’s License or equivalent.
• Previous experience in warehouse operations and delivery driving.
• Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS) and route planning software.
• Strong knowledge of safety protocols and compliance standards.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills.

Responsibilities:

• Receive, unload, and inspect incoming shipments for accuracy and quality.
• Pick, pack, and prepare orders for shipment according to company standards.
• Operate warehouse equipment such as forklifts and pallet jacks safely and efficiently.
• Load and unload delivery vehicles, ensuring proper handling of goods.
• Drive delivery vehicles to transport products to customers or other facilities, adhering to all traffic laws and safety regulations.
• Maintain accurate inventory records and update shipment documentation.
• Perform routine vehicle inspections and report any maintenance needs.
• Assist in maintaining a clean, organized, and safe warehouse environment.
• Communicate effectively with warehouse supervisors, drivers, and customers to coordinate deliveries and resolve issues.

Skills:

The required skills such as safe vehicle operation and warehouse equipment handling are essential for daily tasks like loading, unloading, and transporting goods efficiently. Physical stamina and attention to detail ensure that inventory is managed accurately and that shipments are prepared correctly to prevent damage. Basic computer proficiency supports the use of inventory management systems and documentation processes, facilitating smooth workflow and record-keeping. Preferred skills like route planning and customer communication enhance delivery efficiency and service quality, helping to resolve issues proactively. Overall, these skills combine to maintain a safe, organized warehouse environment and ensure timely, reliable delivery to customers.