Returns Coordinator / Buyer Assistant

We're looking for a detail-driven Returns Coordinator/Buyer Assistant to manage our end-to-end returns process while supporting the purchasing team with inventory accuracy, item setup, and supplier follow-up. This role sits at the intersection of operations and procurement, requiring someone comfortable juggling hands-on warehouse coordination with system-based administrative work in Prophet 21 (P21). The ideal candidate is organized, communicates well with both internal teams and outside vendors, and takes ownership of getting things right the first time.

Returns Management

• Process all customer and vendor return authorizations from initiation through resolution
• Coordinate with warehouse staff to inspect, sort, and disposition returned merchandise .
• Track return status and follow up on outstanding RMAs to prevent aging inventory
• Communicate with customers, sales staff, and vendors to resolve return discrepancies, damages, or shortages
• Issue credits and coordinate with accounting to ensure returns are properly reflected in financial records
• Maintain accurate return documentation and reporting for audit purposes

Cycle Counting

• Perform scheduled and ad hoc cycle counts to maintain inventory accuracy
• Investigate and resolve count discrepancies, identifying root causes (receiving errors, mis-picks, data entry issues, etc.)
• Adjust inventory records in P21 following established approval procedures
• Support annual physical inventory as needed

New Part Setup & Pricing Maintenance

• Create and maintain new item records in P21, including item descriptions, units of measure, vendor cross-references, and product classifications
• Set up and update purchase pricing, cost tiers, and vendor pricing agreements
• Audit existing item records periodically to catch and correct pricing or setup errors
• Coordinate with purchasing and sales teams to confirm new item requirements before setup

Supplier Expediting

• Monitor open purchase orders and proactively follow up with suppliers on order status, lead times, and delays
• Escalate at-risk orders to the Purchasing Manager and communicate updates to affected internal stakeholders (sales, warehouse, customer service)
• Maintain accurate PO records in P21, updating expected ship/receipt dates as new information comes in
• Build and maintain working relationships with key suppliers to improve responsiveness and reliability

• 2+ years of experience in purchasing, inventory control, returns processing, or a related supply chain function
• Experience with Prophet 21 (P21) or similar ERP/distribution software strongly preferred
• Strong Excel skills; comfortable working with data to spot trends and errors
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills
• Clear, professional communication skills for working with vendors, customers, and internal teams
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple ongoing tasks in a fast-paced environment
• Experience in wholesale distribution, industrial products, or a similar industry is a plus
• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate's or bachelor's degree in business, supply chain, or related field preferred

• Ability to occasionally lift 50 lbs when inspecting or handling returned merchandise
• Comfortable spending part of the day on the warehouse floor and part at a desk/computer