Returns Authorization Coordinator

Job Type: Full-Time, Hourly

Reports to: Manager, Operations

Classification: Non-Exempt

Location: Bend, OR (On-Site)

Job Level: F2 - Coordinator

Date: May 2024

Summary/Objective 

This position is responsible for managing Ruffwear’s Return Authorization (RA) process. This role will support processing returned orders, shipping products back to third-party logistics partners, managing inbound/outbound shipments, and act as a liaison between the Customer Experience, Operations, and Supply Chain teams. 

Position Requirements 

• Create accurate Return Authorization forms for all returned products, and generate electronic Transfer Orders to move inventory back to third-party logistics partners.
• Oversee reconditioning and inspection of returned products by Returns Assistant and seasonal or temporary employees, as needed.
• Sort returned products for restock, resale, or internal demo bin inventory according to company guidelines and quality standards.
• Pack outbound shipments and inventory transfers to third-party logistics partners.
• Maintain inventory of returned products and packaging materials in the ERP system.
• Record costs and tracking information for outbound shipments in the ERP system.
• Maintain the packaging and replacement parts inventory for the Returns team by restocking packaging supplies , tracking inventory levels, and performing regular inventory counts.
• Process inbound deliveries and notify recipients in Ruffwear’s office and the Embark coworking space.
• Operate walk behind forklift to load or unload trucks.
• Provide back-up support for reconditioning and inspection of returned products including, but not limited to, light cleaning and vacuuming of resale products, re-packaging resale products for display, and maintaining the Returns Department workspace by sweeping, mopping, and dusting as needed.
• Support other job duties or special projects as directed by the Manager, Operations.

Reasonable accommodations can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position. 

Supervisory Responsibility

None

Work Environment

While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works at a dedicated workstation in a warehouse setting. This position is frequently required to lift up to 30 pounds, stand for long durations, use hands and fingers to work with objects, tools, or controls, and use office equipment such as computers and printers/scanners.

Business Unusual 

At Ruffwear, we believe success goes beyond making great gear. Started as a one-person endeavor in 1994, Ruffwear has gained the support of dogs and humans around the world and is one of Outside Magazine's 100 Best Places to Work. Known for innovative products that help people and dogs of all abilities enjoy outdoor spaces together, our “pack” values diverse thinking and voices from different backgrounds. We appreciate a willingness to take intentional risks that promote creativity, strengthen customer relationships, and reduce our impact on the planet. Our privately held company reinvests profits back into our business to keep it sustainable and nimble, and we partner with organizations like The Conservation Alliance to help protect the lands and waterways where canines and humans connect and thrive. Based in Bend, Oregon, we test our products and explore with our own dogs among our nearby forests, rivers, and mountains. Our headquarters recently underwent an innovative renovation to provide a workspace that enhances the wellbeing and creativity of our pack. Our warm and collaborative atmosphere fosters the sharing of ideas through respectful and stimulating dialogue and helps us implement new initiatives with gusto. 

Travel

No travel is required for this position.

Required Education and Experience

• • 0 - 2 years of experience in customer service, preferably in a retail or warehouse setting.
    • 18 years or older.
    • Familiarity with shipping/receiving and processing returns.
    • Self-motivated, possessing excellent time management, attention-to-detail, and organizational skills.
    • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
    • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
    • Proficiency in MS Excel and/or Google Suite (Gmail, Docs, Sheets).

• Passion for dogs and first-hand understanding of the interactive bond between canines and humans.

Preferred Education and Experience

• 1+ years of experience in data entry, logistics, or inventory management.

• High School Diploma or GED.

• Experience working with NetSuite or other ERP systems.

• Experience in the outdoor and/or consumer products industry.

• Passion for the outdoors.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities of the employee to do this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. 

The Perks (Job Benefits):

We believe that our employees and their achievements drive our success and that rewards must be mutual. We always keep employee experience in mind as we work to create a quality work-life balance for everyone in the Pack.

Pay Rate:  $21.00-$24.00 hourly

This range represents the low and high end of the anticipated base pay rate for this position. The actual base pay rate will depend on several factors such as experience, knowledge, and skills. Our base pay rate is just one component of our competitive total rewards strategy which includes numerous benefits and perks, as well as specific health and welfare benefits.

Here is a snapshot of the benefits we provide:

• Medical, dental and vision coverage for employees and their dependents.
• Company-paid employee assistance plan, life insurance, AD&D, and long-term disability.
• 4 weeks of PTO to start – 5 weeks after 5 years, and 6 weeks after 10 years.
• 12 weeks of paid parental, family and medical leave.
• SIMPLE IRA retirement plan with 3% employer match.
• 50% off Ruffwear products and additional outdoor gear discounts.
• Company performance bonus eligibility each quarter.
• Up to $500/year reimbursement for Wellness expenses.
• 16 hours of paid Volunteer Time each year.
• Month of Unleashed Discovery (sabbatical leave) every 5 years.
• 2 Field Days per year to test product samples with dogs in action.
• Annual company-wide outings and regular virtual/in-person events.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

As a mission-driven brand, Ruffwear is deeply committed to putting people first and creating a space where we can be our authentic self. We welcome, embrace, and celebrate all people regardless of gender, age, race, disability, nationality, ethnicity, faith, or sexual orientation.

We encourage you to apply regardless of your experience within the outdoor industry. At Ruffwear we believe that experience comes from a variety of places. We look for individuals who are curious, collaborative, and treat others with respect and gratitude. Show us how your experiences have shaped you and how you can contribute to Ruffwear in our mission to foster canine and human connections outdoors. We can’t wait for you to share with us your personal story!