Stores Assistant Job Starting Salary In Government and Private Sectors, Qualifications, Duties and Responsibilities
Stores Assistants play a crucial role in inventory management and logistics, ensuring the efficient storage, organization, and distribution of goods within an organization. In Kenya, Stores Assistants are employed in both the government and private sectors across various industries, including manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and logistics.
This article provides insights into the starting salary, qualification requirements, and key duties and responsibilities associated with the position of a Stores Assistant in Kenya.
Stores Assistant Starting Salary
Government Sector: In the Kenyan government sector, the starting salary for Stores Assistants can vary depending on the specific government department or agency, as well as the level of experience and qualifications. Salaries typically range from Ksh 30,000 to Ksh 60,000 per month for entry-level positions. Government positions may include additional benefits such as medical insurance, pension plans, and other allowances.
Private Sector: In the private sector, Stores Assistants may receive competitive starting salaries, often higher than those in the government sector. Entry-level salaries can range from Ksh 35,000 to Ksh 70,000 per month, depending on factors such as industry, company size, and the assistant’s level of experience and expertise. Larger organizations or multinational companies may offer more lucrative compensation packages, including performance bonuses and other incentives.
Qualification Requirements
To qualify for the position of a Stores Assistant, candidates generally need to meet specific educational and professional criteria:
Education: A minimum of a high school diploma or its equivalent is typically required. However, employers may prefer candidates with additional education, such as a certificate or diploma in stores management, inventory control, logistics, or supply chain management.
Experience: While not always mandatory for entry-level positions, candidates with relevant work experience in stores management, inventory control, or warehouse operations may have a competitive advantage. Previous experience in handling stock records, conducting stock counts, and operating inventory management systems is beneficial.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in basic computer skills, including the use of spreadsheets and inventory management software, is essential. Familiarity with inventory control techniques, stocktaking procedures, and warehouse management practices is advantageous.
Organizational Skills: Strong organizational and multitasking abilities to manage multiple tasks, prioritize workload, and maintain accurate records of stock movements, receipts, and issuances.
Attention to Detail: A keen eye for detail and accuracy to ensure that inventory records are updated correctly, discrepancies are promptly addressed, and stock levels are maintained at optimal levels.
Physical Fitness: Stores Assistants may be required to perform physical tasks such as lifting, carrying, and moving heavy boxes or goods, so physical fitness and stamina are essential.
Duties and Responsibilities
Stores Assistants are responsible for various tasks related to inventory management, stock control, and warehouse operations. Key duties and responsibilities include:
Receiving and Inspection: Receiving incoming goods, verifying the accuracy of deliveries against purchase orders or delivery notes, and inspecting items for quality and quantity.
Stock Handling and Storage: Sorting, organizing, and storing goods in designated locations within the warehouse or storeroom, ensuring proper stock rotation and adherence to storage guidelines.
Inventory Control: Updating inventory records, stock cards, or electronic inventory systems to reflect stock movements, including receipts, issuances, transfers, and adjustments.
Stock Replenishment: Monitoring stock levels and initiating replenishment orders as needed to maintain adequate inventory levels and prevent stockouts or overstock situations.
Picking and Packing: Fulfilling requests for goods or materials from internal departments or external customers, picking items from inventory, and packing them for delivery or dispatch.
Dispatch and Distribution: Preparing goods for dispatch, coordinating with logistics providers or couriers for timely delivery, and ensuring accurate documentation and labeling of outgoing shipments.
Stocktaking and Auditing: Conducting regular stock counts, cycle counts, or physical inventory audits to reconcile inventory records with actual stock on hand, identifying discrepancies, and investigating root causes.
Quality Control: Monitoring the condition of stored goods, identifying damaged or expired items, and implementing measures to maintain product quality and integrity.
Health and Safety: Adhering to health and safety regulations, maintaining cleanliness and orderliness in the warehouse, and following proper procedures for handling hazardous materials or equipment.
Documentation and Reporting: Generating reports on inventory levels, stock movements, and storage capacity utilization, providing timely updates to management and stakeholders as required.
Conclusion
Stores Assistants play a vital role in maintaining efficient stores operations and ensuring the availability of goods and materials to support organizational activities. Whether in the government or private sector, individuals pursuing a career as a Stores Assistant in Kenya should possess the necessary qualifications, skills, and attributes to perform their duties effectively. A successful career in stores management involves attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a commitment to upholding best practices in inventory control and warehouse operations.
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