Receiving Clerk

The Receiving Clerk plays a crucial role in the retail and wholesale industry, particularly in ensuring that all incoming goods are accurately received, inspected, and recorded. This position is vital for maintaining inventory accuracy and supporting the overall supply chain process. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in inventory management and a keen eye for detail, ensuring that all products meet quality standards before storing or distributing. The Receiving Clerk will work closely with various departments to streamline operations and enhance customer satisfaction.

Responsibilities:

Key Responsibilities:

• Receipt of Goods: Oversee the unloading of incoming deliveries (trucks/shipments) in the store's receiving area. Use appropriate material-handling equipment (pallet jacks, forklifts, hand trucks) and safe lifting techniques to move products from the delivery vehicle to the storage area. Ensure that all delivered packages and pallets are handled carefully to prevent damage.
• Verification of Shipments: Compare the incoming shipment to the associated Purchase Order (PO) and packing list. Count and verify the quantity and type of each item received against the order documents. Identify any discrepancies such as over-shipments, shortages, or incorrect items. For example, verify product codes, descriptions, and quantities – if 100 units were ordered, confirm that 100 units are present in good condition.
• Quality Inspection: Inspect goods upon arrival for any visible damage or quality issues. Check perishable items for freshness (appropriate temperature, no spoilage) and packaged goods for intact seals and proper expiration dates. Note any substandard conditions, such as torn packaging, leakage, or products that do not meet the store's quality specifications, and isolate these items for review.
• Documentation and Record-Keeping: Sign off on delivery receipts or invoices only after verifying that deliveries are accurate and acceptable. Annotate documents with any discrepancies (e.g., "received 9 out of 10 units") before acknowledgment. Maintain a file (physical or electronic) of all receiving documents, including POs, packing slips, and freight bills. Update the store's inventory management system to record quantities of goods received, ensuring inventory levels are adjusted in real time.
• Discrepancy Resolution: Promptly report and handle any discrepancies or issues with deliveries. Coordinate with suppliers for any return or replacement of incorrect or damaged goods. For instance, prepare return paperwork for items that need to be sent back, and arrange for their pickup or shipment. Communicate with the Purchasing Manager regarding shortages or overages so that financial adjustments (credits or additional billing) can be arranged with the supplier.
• Storage and Organization: Sort and organize received products into their designated storage locations (stockroom shelves, refrigerated storage, freezers, etc.) following the store's organizational system. While storing, ensure that storage guidelines are followed: for example, keep food products off the ground on pallets or shelves, use FIFO rotation in storage for dated products, and do not overload racks beyond their capacity. Clearly label any backstock that is not immediately going to the sales floor.
• Inventory Control Support: Assist in maintaining accurate inventory by providing timely updates on received stock. Work with inventory control or management to schedule and perform periodic stock counts or cycle counts in the backroom. Investigate any discrepancies between expected stock (from records) and actual stock on hand that may arise, contributing insights (e.g., if a discrepancy might be due to a short shipment).
• Housekeeping and Safety: Keep the receiving dock and backroom area clean, organized, and free of safety hazards. Regularly remove debris such as shrink wrap, strapping, or empty pallets. Ensure that equipment is stored safely and out of pathways when not in use. Follow all safety protocols, including using personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe operation of machinery. Immediately address or report any unsafe conditions (like spills, exposed nails from broken pallets, etc.) in the receiving area.
• Interdepartmental Communication: Communicate with other departments about incoming shipments. Notify department managers or floor supervisors when their ordered products have arrived and are ready for merchandising. If a delivery delay or issue will impact stock levels on the floor (for example, a late delivery of dairy products), inform the store management and relevant department so they can adjust displays or inform customers if necessary.
• Compliance: Ensure that the receiving processes comply with company policies and relevant local regulations. This includes adherence to any Kuwait customs and importation rules for international shipments (verifying that all import documents are correct and goods are cleared), and compliance with health regulations (such as checking that refrigerated goods are received under temperature control). Maintain confidentiality and security of the receiving area – for instance, verifying identities of delivery personnel as required and preventing unauthorized access to storage areas.

Preferred Candidate:

1. Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
2. Excellent organizational and time management skills.
3. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
4. Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
5. Proficient in inventory management software.
6. Problem-solving skills to address receiving issues.
7. Ability to lift heavy items and perform physical tasks.
8. Team player with a positive attitude.
9. Experience in retail or wholesale environments.
10. Knowledge of safety regulations related to receiving operations.

Skills

• Proficiency in inventory management systems and software.
• Strong analytical skills for inventory tracking.
• Excellent communication skills for liaising with suppliers and team members.
• Ability to perform physical tasks, including lifting and moving products.
• Detail-oriented mindset for quality control.
• Time management skills to prioritize tasks effectively.
• Knowledge of safety standards in a warehouse environment.
• Problem-solving abilities to handle discrepancies.