Lifeway Foods (NASDAQ: LWAY), which has been recognized as one of Forbes’ Best Small Companies, is America’s leading supplier of the probiotic beverage known as Kefir. In addition to its line of drinkable Kefir, the company also produces cheese, drinkable yogurt, and a ProBugs line of Kefir for kids. Lifeway’s tart and tangy fermented dairy products are sold across the United States, Mexico, Ireland, and the United Kingdom.

Summary

The Inventory Control Specialist is responsible for ensuring inventory accuracy, integrity, and traceability within a food manufacturing environment. This role maintains real-time inventory records in DEACOM, supports warehouse and production operations, and ensures compliance with company policies and applicable FDA/GMP standards. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, systems-driven, and experienced in cycle counting, ERP transactions, and cross-functional coordination.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities

Monitor and maintain accurate inventory levels in DEACOM (ERP)
Perform cycle counts and assist with full physical inventories
Investigate, analyze, and resolve inventory discrepancies
Maintain accurate lot and serial number tracking
Monitor inventory variances and recommend corrective actions
Process receipts, transfers, adjustments, and shipments in DEACOM
Ensure timely and accurate real-time system updates
Monitor batch, production, and material consumption entries
Audit system transactions for accuracy and compliance
Partner with warehouse staff to ensure proper storage, labeling, and material handling
Ensure FIFO (First-In, First-Out) compliance
Support internal and external inventory audits
Assisting in maintaining organized and compliant warehouse processes
Coordinate raw material availability to support production schedules
Review reorder points and safety stock levels
Provide inventory data to assist with purchasing and demand planning
Communicate potential shortages or overstock risks proactively
Maintain inventory documentation to support FDA, GMP, and company audits
Ensure full traceability of raw materials and finished goods
Follow and enforce inventory control procedures and internal policies
Assisting in continuous improvement initiatives related to inventory accuracy
Conduct behavior in compliance with Lifeway Employee Policy 
Perform additional duties as assigned

Qualification and Education Requirements

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field preferred
2–5 years of inventory control experience in a manufacturing environment
Food manufacturing experience strongly preferred
ERP system experience required (DEACOM experience highly preferred)
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
High attention to detail and accuracy
Proficiency in ERP systems and Microsoft Excel
Understanding of FIFO, lot control, and traceability requirements
Knowledge of GMP and audit processes preferred
Ability to work cross-functionally with warehouse, production, and purchasing teams
Preferred language ability: Russian

Lifeway Foods, Inc is a growing Chicago-based beverage manufacturer with 40 years of experience. We are an industry leader in the production of high-quality Kefir. We are an equal-opportunity employer and offer a competitive benefits package. Visit us at www.lifewaykefir.com.

Interested or know someone who might be?
Please apply online today!

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