Warehouse Associate

Warehouse Associate - Costa Mesa, CA

A food and beverage company in Costa Mesa is looking for a Warehouse Associate to join their team for a contract to hire role. Our client is moving inventory from one warehouse to another and needs help with the project. The project is expected to take all of December and potentially go through January depending on how fast it can be completed. At the end of the project, the goal would be to bring on the associates on a full time basis at $20 / hr. This is for first shift and the schedule would be from 7 : 00am-3 : 30pm Monday-Friday. We are shooting for a start date of 12 / 1 / 25. This contractor will work hands-on to restructure storage systems, implement labeling and inventory protocols, optimize product flow, and ensure the warehouse meets operational, safety, and food & beverage compliance standards. This role is ideal for someone with strong experience in food, beverage, CPG, or manufacturing environments, who can quickly assess operational needs and execute a clear organizational strategy. The position is strictly focused on organization, layout, and workflow improvement, not general labor or forklift-heavy tasks.

Warehouse Organization & Optimization

Conduct an initial assessment of current warehouse layout, storage systems, and inventory processes.

Reorganize shelves, racks, bins, and product zones to improve flow and accessibility.

Implement standardized labeling, color-coding, and categorization systems for finished goods, raw materials, and packaging supplies.

Establish or refine backstock, overstock, staging, and pick / pack zones.

Optimize space utilization using best practices for food & beverage and manufacturing storage.

Inventory Structure & Systems

Create clear organizational frameworks for raw materials, consumables, ingredients, and finished product inventory.

Develop SOPs for inventory placement, replenishment, and rotation (FIFO / FEFO).

Ensure all items are stored according to food safety, temperature, and compliance requirements.

Coordinate with warehouse staff to integrate new systems into daily operations.

Compliance & Safety Alignment

Ensure warehouse organization aligns with food & beverage, GMP, HACCP, and OSHA standards.

Support cleanliness, sanitation, and safety improvements as needed.

Identify and remove expired, damaged, or non-compliant items.

Project Execution & Collaboration

Map out project plan with clear milestones and deliverables.

Work closely with Warehouse Manager, Operations, and QA teams to align on organizational needs.

Train staff on new systems, labeling, and organization protocols.

Provide weekly updates on progress and recommendations

We are looking to pay $20 / hr for this role and may have some flexibility on pay based on background and overall experience.

We are a company committed to creating diverse and inclusive environments where people can bring their full, authentic selves to work every day. We are an equal opportunity / affirmative action employer that believes everyone matters. Qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment regardless of their race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, national origin, ancestry, genetic factors, age, disability, protected veteran status, military or uniformed service member status, or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. If you need assistance and / or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to HR@insightglobal.com.