Parts Associate in Tacoma, Washington at SWS Equipment

Position Summary

The Parts Associate is responsible for supporting the daily warehouse and inventory operations of the Parts Department by receiving, stocking, organizing, tracking, and distributing parts and materials. This position plays a critical role in maintaining inventory accuracy, supporting shop technicians, coordinating customer will-call orders, and ensuring efficient warehouse operations. Working under the direction of the Parts Professional and Inventory Specialist, the Parts Associate executes inventory transactions, maintains accurate inventory records within the ERP system, follows established inventory control procedures, and upholds company 5S standards throughout the warehouse and parts showroom. This position is primarily focused on inventory execution, warehouse operations, and internal support.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Inventory & Warehouse Operations

• Receive, inspect, and verify all inbound shipments for accuracy, damage, and completeness
• Unload, stock, label, and organize inventory in designated warehouse and showroom locations
• Pick parts accurately and efficiently for internal and external customer orders
• Replenish inventory locations and maintain proper stock levels
• Assist with physical inventory counts, cycle counts, and inventory audits
• Maintain inventory accuracy and immediately report discrepancies
• Work closely with the Inventory Specialist to support inventory control initiatives and best practices
• Process receiving, transfers, and inventory transactions within the ERP system in accordance with company procedures

Shop Support

• Deliver parts promptly to technicians and service personnel to support efficient repair operations
• Verify parts requests and ensure technicians receive correct materials in a timely manner
• Locate and retrieve parts for service and repair operations
• Communicate shortages, backorders, damaged parts and special-order status to Parts Professionals and service personnel.

Customer Will-Call Coordination

• Prepare, stage and organize customer will-call orders in designated locations
• Verify orders are complete and accurately identified prior to customer pickup
• Notify Parts Professional when customer orders have been received and ready for pick-up
• Maintain organization and accuracy of all will-call inventory

Shipping & Receiving

• Process incoming and outgoing shipments according to company procedures
• Coordinate incoming deliveries and distribute shipments to the appropriate departments
• Prepare outbound shipments as required
• File and maintain all shipping documentation and records

Systems & Documentation

• Update inventory movements, receipts, transfers, and adjustments within the ERP system
• Ensure all transactions are completed accurately and timely
• Maintain organized records supporting inventory accuracy and compliance
• Assist with reporting and documentation related to inventory and warehouse activities

Safety & Housekeeping

• Operate forklifts and material handling equipment safely and efficiently
• Maintain current forklift certification and comply with all safety regulations
• Follow company safety policies and warehouse procedures
• Maintain a clean, organized, and professional work environment consistent with 5S standards
• Support cleanliness and organization of both warehouse and parts showroom areas

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• 1+ years of experience in warehouse, inventory, shipping/receiving, automotive, equipment, or related field preferred
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate inventory records
• Ability to learn and utilize ERP systems, inventory systems, and computer-based tools
• Ability to safely operate material handling equipment, including forklifts, or obtain certification as required
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work collaboratively with team members and provide excellent internal customer service
• Basic mechanical aptitude or familiarity with equipment, automotive, or industrial parts preferred
• Ability to lift, move, and handle parts and materials as required by the position

Physical Demands and Work Environment

This role is in a combination of office, parts warehouse, and heavy equipment shop environments. This position regularly requires standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting parts weighing up to 25 pounds, with occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds with assistance or appropriate equipment. The role involves frequent computer use, reading technical manuals and schematics, and communicating with customers and team members. Employees may be exposed to noise, dust, grease, moving equipment, and varying temperatures, and must follow all safety policies and wear required personal protective equipment when working in operational areas.

Note

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) of this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.

To perform this job successfully, the employee(s) will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an at-will relationship.

SWS Equipment is an equal opportunity employer, drug-free workplace, and complies with ADA regulations as applicable.