DC Damages/Returns Associate

Key Responsibilities

Damages Processing

• Receive and log damaged product from inbound shipments, internal handling, or outbound issues.
• Inspect items to determine type and extent of damage.
• Accurately tag, label, and segregate damaged goods per company procedures.
• Determine disposition (repair, return to vendor, scrap, resale, or secondary channel) based on guidelines.

Returns Handling

• Receive and verify returned merchandise against return authorizations, packing lists, and system data.
• Inspect returned items for completeness, damage, and resale condition.
• Process returns in the warehouse management or ERP system, including reason codes and status updates.
• Coordinate restocking of saleable product and proper handling of non-saleable product.

Documentation & System Updates

• Enter damage and return details in the appropriate systems accurately and in a timely manner.
• Maintain organized records of damaged and returned inventory, including photos when required.
• Assist with reporting on damage trends, return reasons, and inventory write-offs.

Inventory & Loss Prevention

• Help ensure that damaged and return inventory is controlled, secured, and accounted for.
• Support investigations into recurring damage, packaging issues, or handling errors.
• Follow company policies to minimize shrink, loss, and unauthorized removal of product.

Cross-Functional Support

• Communicate with customer service, wholesale, and inventory control teams regarding product status.
• Assist warehouse teams with locating and moving damaged/return items as needed.
• Participate in audits, cycle counts, or special projects related to damages/returns.

Safety & Housekeeping

• Adhere to all safety procedures and use required personal protective equipment.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and clearly labeled damages/returns area.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience in warehousing, returns processing, or inventory control preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in documentation.
• Basic computer skills; experience with WMS/ERP systems preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret return documents, labels, and product information.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Problem-solving skills to assess product condition and determine appropriate disposition.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift throughout the shift.
• Ability to lift, move, or push product up to 50 lbs. as needed.
• Ability to work in typical warehouse conditions (noise, temperature variation, handling large items).

Schedule: Monday - Friday, 5:00 AM to 1:30 PM