Position Summary 

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