Materials & Logistics Manager

GKN•Garden Grove, CA

12d

About The Position

The Materials & Logistics Manager oversees all warehouse operations, including shipping, receiving, inventory control, material movement, and raw material flow across multiple facilities. This position ensures accurate inventory levels, compliant handling of chemicals and regulated materials, and efficient coordination of inbound and outbound freight within an aerospace and defense environment. The manager will lead a team of warehouse, shipping, and receiving personnel, including union employees, while driving operational excellence, safety, and compliance.

Requirements

7 years of experience in warehouse, materials management, inventory control, or logistics roles.
3 years in a supervisory or managerial position, including managing managers/supervisors and experience with union employees.
Background in aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated environments preferred.
Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems (AS400/ASI or others).
Knowledge of OSHA, DOT, ITAR, and hazardous materials regulations.
Strong analytical, organizational, and leadership skills.
Must be a U.S. Person per ITAR regulations to comply with export compliance requirements, with ability to obtain a Department of Defense security clearance if needed.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated experience implementing advanced inventory technologies, including Vertical Lift Module (VLM) systems, barcode scanning solutions, and supporting ERP transitions.
Background working in a start-up or high‑growth environment, with the ability to build processes, adapt quickly, and operate effectively in a dynamic setting.
Working knowldege of ERP systems such as ASI AS400 or similar ERP platforms.

Responsibilities

Warehouse Operations & Material Flow Manage daily warehouse operations, including receiving, put‑away, picking, staging, and shipping.
Oversee material flow of raw materials, components, work in process inventory and finished goods across multiple sites and/or buildings.
Develop and maintain efficient warehouse layouts, inventory locations, and storage strategies.
Ensure proper handling, storage, and tracking of chemicals and hazardous materials per OSHA, DOT, EPA regulations.
Shipping & Receiving Oversee all inbound and outbound freight, including domestic and international shipments.
Manage logistics, contracts and relationships with carriers, freight forwarders, and third‑party logistics providers.
Ensure accurate processing of shipping documentation such as packing lists, bills of lading, and export paperwork.
Analyze and monitor freight invoices for accuracy.
Inventory Management Lead inventory cycle counts and annual physical inventories.
Maintain accurate inventory records within the ERP/MRP system.
Investigate and resolve inventory discrepancies.
Ensure traceability and proper documentation for lot‑controlled, serialized, or ITAR‑restricted materials.
Leadership & Team Management Supervise shipping & warehouse staff, including union employees.
Provide coaching, training, and performance management for team members.
Ensure compliance with all safety protocols and hazardous material regulations.
Continuous Improvement Identify opportunities to improve material flow, inventory accuracy, and logistics processes.
Lead or support Lean, 5S, Kaizen, or other continuous improvement initiatives.
Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to resolve material issues and support business objectives.