Inventory Manager

**This job posting closes on March 12, 2025. Applications sent after this date will not be considered**

At Empress Effects, we create more than just music gear—we craft tools that inspire creativity. Founded in 2005, our team of builders, designers, and inventors is fueled by curiosity and innovation. Located in Kanata, Ontario, our mission is simple yet profound: to empower musicians to create any sound they can imagine (and even some they can’t). Our guitar effects and modules are trusted by world-class musicians and studios, including Tame Impala, Andy Summers, The Roots, Mars Volta, and Deadmau5.

We value diligence, initiative, and resourcefulness. We are looking for people who work hard, work smart, and work fast. Our team shares a deep passion for sound and a commitment to sparking joy—whether it’s through the gear we create, the service we provide, or the relationships we build with our customers.

If you’re passionate about music, curious about sound, and eager to support creative journeys, we’d love to hear from you

**Job Summary**

Empress Effects specializes in manufacturing guitar pedals on-site. As Inventory Manager, you will oversee procurement, vendor relations, and inventory control to ensure efficient production and cost optimization. This role requires meticulous attention to detail and strong analytical skills to maintain supply chain stability and prevent costly errors.

**Responsibilities / Duties**

DOCUMENTATION
- create and follow documented processes in everything you do.
- update documented processes when improvements are found.
- a passion for moving all important information from brain to document.

PCB PROCUREMENT & SUPPLIER COORDINATION
- Manage orders for assembled PCBs, working closely with engineers and contract manufacturers.
- Receive design files and BOMs (Bill of Materials) from engineers and coordinate purchasing responsibilities.
- Communicate with contract manufacturers to determine who is buying what, which parts can be substitutes for other parts, and cost-saving opportunities without reducing quality.
- Ensure accurate procurement to prevent costly errors, rework, or scrap.

VENDOR & SUPPLIER MANAGEMENT
- Negotiate pricing and evaluate potential and existing vendors to ensure cost efficiency and reliability.
- Build and maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure smooth operations and continued support.

PROCUREMENT & PURCHASING
- Create RFQs (Requests for Quotes) and POs (Purchase Orders) to efficiently source materials.
- Ensure timely acquisition of components needed for product assembly while balancing cost and quality.

INVENTORY CONTROL & LOGISTICS
- Inspect incoming shipments, verify deliveries, and confirm parts match purchase orders.
- Kit parts for contract manufacturers, ensuring accurate and complete orders.
- Monitor and maintain optimal inventory levels, preventing shortages and excess stock.

LOSS PREVENTION & RISK MITIGATION
- Conduct regular inventory audits to reduce waste, shrinkage, and inefficiencies.
- Identify and establish alternative sources for key materials to safeguard against supply chain disruptions.

COST OPTIMIZATION
- Continuously seek cost-saving opportunities without compromising product quality or reliability.

**Required Skills / Qualifications**
- Experience in inventory management and procurement
- Ability to analyze and optimize inventory levels
- Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills
- Reliable, punctual, and a strong team player
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines
- Strong problem-solving skills with a resourceful and proactive approach
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Fluent in English
- Physically capable of lifting and safely carrying up to 50 lbs

**Preferred Skills / Qualifications**
- QuickBooks Premier Desktop
- Microsoft Excel
- Google Sheets
- Basic knowledge of guitar pedals
- 50+ WPM typing speed

Pay: $30.00-$45.00 per hour

Additional pay:

- Bonus pay

**Benefits**:

- Casual dress
- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Store discount
- Vision care

Flexible language requirement:

- French not required

Schedule:

- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 2025-03-12
Expected start date: 2025-04-07