Operations Specialist, Supply Chain & Site Management

Job Description Midwest Salt | West Chicago, IL 60185 (On-site and up to 50% travel) Schedule: Monday–Friday, full-time Job Type: Full-time, permanentMidwest Salt is hiring an Operations Specialist, Supply Chain & Site Management to take ownership of procurement, inventory control, logistics, quality assurance, and day-to-day site operations. This is a hands-on, high-impact role at a leading bulk and package salt distribution company with 40 years of operational excellence.You'll split your time between our West Chicago headquarters and MWS field sites — managing the end-to-end supply chain while ensuring sites run safely, efficiently, and in full compliance.ResponsibilitiesSupply Chain & ProcurementProcure package salt and coordinate drop ship bulk salt to meet sales and profitability targets by territoryMaintain vendor and supplier pricing in SAP Business One; communicate updates to internal stakeholdersManage service provider agreements, negotiate carrier rates, and track orders across transportation modalitiesMaintain current SDS/MDS, product specifications, and supplier sell sheetsEnsure accurate landed cost recording for inventory valuation reportingInventory ManagementMonitor inventory levels by site against established min/max rangesPerform monthly cycle counts and annual physical inventory countsEnsure on-time carrier pickup and verify service execution against agreementsMaintain NSF chain of custody compliance at salt shipping terminals, including quality controls and annual sample collectionCatalog and organize product samples with full documentation and testing resultsSite Operations & Quality ControlOversee site operations at third party sites, managing resources and coordinating with team members to meet operational targetsTravel to MWS sites across the greater Chicago area (~50% travel); conduct at least quarterly out-of-state visits requiring overnight staysExecute the quality control program — monitor for contamination risks, verify tarps and covers, conduct tests, and make adjustments to maintain product qualityPerform regular site inspections to identify and resolve issues proactivelyConduct routine equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, and minor repairs to minimize downtimeSafety, Documentation & ReportingEnsure compliance with all health and safety regulations; support safety drillsMaintain accurate records of quality control results, maintenance activity, inventory levels, and safety inspectionsMeet activity metrics and KPIs tracked on the company dashboard/scorecardIdentify and coordinate transportation and logistics cost reduction opportunitiesQualificationsRequired:2–4 years of experience in supply chain management, logistics, procurement, or site operationsProficiency in Microsoft Office 365; ERP system experience (SAP Business One a plus)Reliable personal transportation; ability to travel ~50%, including quarterly overnight out-of-state tripsStrong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skillsExcellent written and verbal communication; ability to work cross-functionally with sales, operations, and leadershipPreferred:Background in transportation, manufacturing, or distribution environmentsExperience with inventory control systems, vendor management, or quality assurance programsBachelor's degreeWho You Are:A self-starter who takes initiative without waiting for directionSomeone with a strong sense of ownership who sees things through and holds yourself accountable for outcomesAdaptable and composed under pressure in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environmentCommitted to continuous improvement and motivated to grow alongside the companyAbout Midwest SaltAt Midwest Salt, we don't just deliver salt — we deliver excellence. With 40 years in bulk and package salt distribution, we've built our reputation on top-quality products, competitive pricing, and reliable, on-time delivery. What truly sets us apart is our people — a community that thrives on collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning.Ready to take ownership of the operations that keep the country moving? Apply today.Midwest Salt is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace.