MATERIALS SPECIALIST

Location: Bingen, WA

Full Time, On-site

• Valid Driver’s License: Clean driving record; must be able to drive with a trailer and pass a Commercial Driver Fitness Determination.

About Zepher Flight Laboratories, Inc. (ZFL): We are an engineering and manufacturing company focused on the development of uncrewed and autonomous aerial vehicles (UAVs). ZFL’s mission is to enable the widespread use of drones by creating products that can scale in both manufacturing and operations.

Zepher Flight Laboratories, Inc. (ZFL) is developing the “Z1”, a 55 pound, 14-foot span VTOL drone that is powered by hydrogen fuel cells. ZFL received a government contract in 2020 to create the Z1 prototype, and a second contract in 2022 to productize and deliver test articles to the U.S. Military. ZFL relies upon engineers, technicians, and operators who are able and willing to make this next phase of the program a success. ZFL employees must have a good combination of skill, industry knowledge, curiosity, and drive to solve problems effectively and quickly.

The Materials Specialist is responsible for inventory management and the distribution of raw materials, parts, and supplies required for production, shipping, or other operations. This role involves receiving incoming shipments, unpacking and verifying materials, maintaining accurate inventory records, replenishing parts as needed, and preparing products for outbound shipping. This hands-on role requires strong attention to detail, organizational accuracy, and the ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced environment, along with a dependable, proactive approach to keeping workflows moving across teams.

Reporting to the Director of Operations, the Materials Specialist shall:

• Receiving: Review incoming shipments for damage, accuracy, and quality. Unpack materials and properly stock inventory throughout the facility.
• Inventory Control: Track, monitor, and maintain inventory levels and locations to ensure accurate stock counts. Label and stock inventory in designated storage locations. Assist with cycle counts, audits, and inventory reconciliations. Maintain accurate records in inventory management systems.
• Material Handling: Pick, replenish, and stage materials to appropriate workstations, departments, and shipping. Operate warehouse equipment (e.g., pallet jacks, forklifts) safely and efficiently. Operate heavy equipment such as forklifts and overhead cranes. Drive company vehicles and trailers as required.
• Shipping: Prepare and package outgoing shipments, ensuring accuracy and compliance with shipping requirements. Arrange shipments with various carriers to ensure product quality and timely delivery.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of storage areas and shipping/receiving zones.
• Manage Documentation: Complete production work orders, checklists, and shipping reports accurately.
• Communicate effectively with procurement, production, and shipping suppliers to ensure materials are delivered to the right location at the right time.
• Continuous Improvement: Consistently review processes to increase efficiency and quality. Work with cross-functional teams to improve material flows and inventory accuracy. Identify and implement improvements in inventory control processes.
• Ensure Compliance and Safety: Uphold company policies, industry standards, regulations, and safety guidelines.

Education & Experience

• Experience: 1-3 years of experience in materials handling, inventory control, or warehouse operations
• Education: A high school diploma, GED, or equivalent
• Work Authorization: Must have the ongoing right to work in the U.S.

Role & Technical Proficiency

• Technical Skills: Ability to use computer systems, material handling equipment such as forklifts and pallet jacks, barcode scanners, labeling printers, etc.
• Operational Expertise: Experience using ERP/MRP inventory systems, spreadsheets, and email
• Software Proficiency: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and basic computer skills for inventory management, using manufacturing software, or entering production data
• Physical Demands: Ability to perform physical activities such as standing, walking, lifting, pushing, or carrying heavy objects up to 50 pounds; also able to sit for long periods and perform computer and desk work
• Valid Driver’s License: Clean driving record; must be able to drive with a trailer and pass a Commercial Driver Fitness Determination as part of onboarding

Soft Skills & Work Style

• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a demonstrated passion for operational excellence, innovation, and finding solutions as problems arise
• Communication: Effective and clear written and verbal communication skills
• Interpersonal Skills: Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively and maintain credibility in customer, supplier, and co-worker interactions
• Initiative: Proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues to drive projects to successful completion in a team environment
• Adaptability: Ability to quickly understand and apply new concepts in evolving environments while adjusting work approaches to address complex problems
• Attention to Detail: Demonstrated ability to be meticulous and thorough in completing work tasks, ensuring high-quality results and adherence to specifications and standards
• Time Management: Ability to work in a fast-paced, manufacturing or warehouse environment, while efficiently managing time to meet production deadlines

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in a manufacturing, aerospace, or production support environment

This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). To conform to the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., or protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Zepher Flight Labs is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation, political affiliation, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, parental status, military or Veteran status.