Warehouse Associate

Position Summary 

Hourly position starting at $18.00 plus Benefits

The Warehouse Associate is central to the execution of Mercana's distribution and warehousing operations, working across outbound (picking, packing, loading), inbound (receiving, put-away), and general functions (returns, inventory, and sample management).

A dedicated part of the role is sample management — picking, assembling, packing, and tracking samples and stock items for product reviews, photoshoots, and visual merchandising — coordinated closely with the Design and Merchandising teams.

The focus is timely, efficient, and error-free completion of assigned work that meets and helps exceed individual, department, and warehouse performance metrics. This is a foundational hourly role; Associates grow in responsibility and level (O1 to O2) by mastering all warehouse functions over time.

Key Responsibilities 

Outbound — Picking & Packing

• Gather items from bins and palletized locations and pack orders for shipment in a timely manner.

• Conduct quality-control checks to ensure order accuracy and product integrity.

• Use RF scanners and the warehouse management system (WMS) to track inventory and manage orders; create shipping documents and labels.

• Communicate with internal stakeholders when orders are ready to ship.

Outbound — Loading 

• Load palletized orders into delivery vessels for safe transport.

• Ensure orders are properly wrapped, supported, labelled, and documented to minimize transit damage.

Inbound — Receiving & Put-Away 

• Stock and organize inventory within the distribution center.

• Confirm product received against the BOL and inventory systems; inspect for damage and report discrepancies.

• Assign warehouse locations for received items and document accurately in the inventory management system.

Returns Processing 

• Physically return cancelled and returned items to the correct bins or locations.

• Receive returned goods in the inventory system and move them to Quality Control; use RF scanners to bring product back into inventory and assign bins/pallets.

• Ensure timely, accurate daily processing of returns on Mercana's eCommerce platform, including put-away and reshipment; implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Inventory Counting & Control 

• Participate in regular audits and cycle counts; identify and address discrepancies and maintain accurate records.

• Communicate inventory movements and ensure prompt system adjustments to reflect accurate levels.

• Barcode any items missing barcodes to ensure accurate tracking and identification.

Sample Management 

• Pick samples and stock items accurately and on time for product reviews and photoshoots.

• Unbox and assemble samples and stock items to provided guidelines and standards, taking care to avoid damage.

• Pack and label items for return or storage; ensure physical disposition of all samples — returning to the warehouse or to sales locations.

• Move large furniture items safely and coordinate sample inventory movements with the Warehouse lead and Design / Merchandising teams.

General Warehouse Duties & Safety 

• Follow safety protocols during heavy lifting and loading/unloading; operate mechanical assists (forklift, pallet jack, raised platforms) and work safely at heights.

• Maintain clean workspaces, work collaboratively, and participate in process- and procedure-improvement projects.

• During downtime, support other warehouse activities (picking, packing, put-away, container unloading) as directed; additional duties may be assigned

Qualifications