Supply Chain Specialist (Entry Level) (Wood Dale)
The Supply Chain Specialist supports day-to-day operations of a product line by managing vendor relationships, inventory, and sales support to maximize profitability and shareholder value. This entry-level role requires learning technical aspects of the product line, identifying market opportunities, and collaborating with sales teams in a fast-paced office environment at the corporate headquarters in Wood Dale, IL.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Customer Services.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
Confidential Client is hiring an entry-level Supply Chain Specialist to support product-line operations and help optimize inventory, vendor relationships, and sales support. This role is based in Bensenville, IL, at the Corporate Headquarters with a planned relocation to the Merchandise Mart (Chicago) in early 2027.
Primary responsibilities:
- Learn all aspects of the assigned product line and serve as a technical resource.
- Maintain and proactively manage vendor relationships; act as a primary contact on behalf of Confidential Client.
- Support outside sales teams and help maximize sales and margin objectives.
- Identify and pursue purchase and inventory acquisition opportunities.
- Plan, schedule, and manage inventory levels to optimize shareholder value.
- Monitor market trends and coordinate with sales groups to identify growth opportunities.
- Support new product development initiatives and ad-hoc projects; some travel may be required.
- Perform other duties as assigned to ensure efficient day-to-day product line operations.
What We’re Looking For
To be successful in this role you should demonstrate:
- Team orientation with strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Basic negotiation and customer-support capabilities.
- Ability to build and maintain strong customer and vendor relationships.
- Clear business writing and opportunity articulation.
- Comfort working in a fast-paced, technical environment.
- PC proficiency — Microsoft Word and Excel required; Access or similar database experience preferred.
- Education: Associate degree (A.A.) or equivalent from a two-year college or technical school; OR four years related experience and/or training; OR equivalent combination of education and experience. Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Compensation & Benefits
- Base salary range: $65,000 to $80,000 per year (range reflects base pay for candidates meeting role requirements; final salary depends on experience, education, and location).
- This position may be eligible for a bonus and includes a competitive benefits package: medical, dental, vision, life/AD&D insurance, 401(k) with employer match, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
- Primarily an office setting with standard physical activities (sitting, standing, bending, reaching, and walking around the facility).
- Reasonable accommodations will be provided as required by law.
- Candidates should be able to perform duties in a traditional business environment.
Why Confidential Client / Career Growth
This entry-level role is designed for candidates who want hands-on exposure across supply chain operations, vendor management, and sales support. Confidential Client offers structured onboarding, mentorship, and clear pathways to take on greater responsibility within product-line management and commercial roles.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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