Lead Warehouse Associate (Cold Environment)

GENERAL SUMMARY :

The Warehouse Lead is responsible for overseeing and participating in the daily operations at the Innovation Center. This position ensures that all warehouse activities — including receiving, inventory management, order fulfillment, and shipping — are executed efficiently, accurately, and in compliance with company quality, safety, and sanitation standards. Works closely with the Warehouse Manager as a hands-on leader who supports, trains, and motivates the warehouse team while maintaining smooth workflow and high performance across all operations.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES :

- Oversee and coordinate warehouse activities including receiving, storing, picking, packing, and shipping of products for both restaurant and e-commerce orders.

- Lead by example through hands-on participation in warehouse duties, ensuring accuracy and adherence to specifications and deadlines.

- Ensure all products are handled according to company standards for quality and integrity, following proper ice/dry ice procedures where applicable.

- Maintain an organized, clean, and safe work environment, ensuring compliance with sanitation, GMP, and food safety standards.

- Ensure product rotation following the “First In, First Out” (FIFO) rule and perform daily checks for product use-by dates.

- Conduct daily and weekly inventory counts of all products and materials, including warehouse, walk-ins, production, and e-commerce areas.

- Accurately input and reconcile inventory data using warehouse management systems.

- Match invoices with purchase orders to verify accuracy of billing and received goods.

- Perform and oversee quality control checks to ensure all standards and specifications are met, taking corrective action when necessary.

- Complete all required documentation such as QA receiving logs and packing slips.

- Supervise, train, and develop warehouse associates on best practices, safety procedures, and operational protocols.

- Monitor team productivity and performance, implementing strategies to improve efficiency and accuracy.

- Foster a team-oriented environment built on respect, accountability, and safety.

- Communicate effectively with management and cross-functional departments to address issues and coordinate production and delivery schedules.

- Promote and enforce all safety protocols and procedures to prevent accidents and maintain compliance with company and regulatory standards.

- Ensure adherence to local, state, and federal sanitation and safety regulations.

- Identify potential hazards and recommend improvements to enhance workplace safety.

Qualifications

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES:

- Working knowledge of warehouse operations, inventory management, and safety/sanitation standards.

- Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills.

- Ability to train, motivate, and lead a team in a fast-paced environment.

- Must be reliable, detail-oriented.

- Ability to perform physical work, including frequent lifting and carrying of up to 50 pounds, standing, bending, and working in cold environments.

MINIMUM EDUCATION & TRAINING :

- Minimum 2 years of experience in a warehouse or food processing environment

- At least 1 year in a leadership or supervisory role preferred.

- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and warehouse management systems (WMS).

ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS:

- Fast-paced warehouse and cold storage environment.

- Must be able to tolerate cold temperatures for extended periods.

- Frequent standing, lifting, bending, and movement required throughout the shift.