stockkeepers

Stockkeepers are workers responsible for the management and care of stock in a facility, ensuring that goods or materials are available, accurately tracked, properly stored, and ready for use or sale. The role spans multiple sectors, including retail, warehousing, manufacturing, libraries, healthcare, and offices. In some industries the position may be called storekeeper, stock clerk, or inventory controller.

Duties include receiving shipments, inspecting for damage, labeling and shelving items, maintaining organized storerooms, issuing stock to other departments, and recording transactions in inventory management systems. They perform regular stock counts (cycle counts or audits), reconcile discrepancies, and coordinate with procurement and logistics for replenishment, returns, or disposal of damaged goods. Compliance with safety and handling procedures is essential.

Key skills include numeracy, attention to detail, organizational ability, and basic IT literacy. Proficiency with inventory software or warehouse management systems, barcoding, and sometimes handheld scanners is common. Many positions require physical stamina and the ability to lift or move items; forklift or pallet jack certifications may be needed for certain facilities. Knowledge of relevant health and safety regulations is important.

Work environments vary from busy warehouses to retail stockrooms, hospitals, and libraries. Career progression can lead to roles such as inventory control specialist, warehouse supervisor, or procurement support. The effectiveness of a stockkeeper is often measured by stock accuracy, turnover, and the rate of order fulfillment or shrinkage.