Analyst – Hardware Returns Operations

Company Overview

Not specified.

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and analytical Analyst – Hardware Returns Operations to join our team on a contract basis. This role is essential for managing and improving the efficiency of hardware returns from customer and technician locations. It combines operational ownership with deep analytical capabilities to drive measurable improvements in return logistics. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of reverse logistics, data analysis, and hardware operations, along with demonstrated experience in SQL and reporting tools. This is an exciting opportunity to grow into a full-time role within a fast-paced, innovative environment.

Responsibilities

• Returns Authorization & Management

  • Review, process, and authorize hardware return requests from customers and field technicians.
  • Ensure compliance with internal return policies and Service Level Agreement (SLA) adherence.
  • Investigate and resolve return exceptions, partnering with logistics, field service, and inventory control teams.

• Data Analysis & Reporting

  • Analyze hardware return use cases to identify trends, inefficiencies, and process gaps.
  • Build and maintain scalable data models and dashboards to support decision-making.
  • Use SQL to extract, manipulate, and analyze return data across systems.
  • Develop and track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) related to returns cycle time, cost, quality, and compliance.

• Operational Initiative Support

  • Assist in the planning and execution of strategic return initiatives, including Bulk Return Campaigns.
  • Drive implementation of improvements to simplify and accelerate the returns process.
  • Support cross-functional collaboration between Supply Chain, Technical Services, Customer Support, and IT teams.
  • Document and improve standard operating procedures (SOPs) related to hardware returns.

Qualifications

• Required:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, Operations, or a related field.
  • 5–10 years of experience in hardware operations, returns, or reverse logistics.
  • Strong SQL skills with the ability to create complex queries and optimize performance.
  • Experience building automated reports and dashboards (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, Looker).
  • Solid understanding of end-to-end hardware return processes.
  • Excellent analytical, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills.

• Preferred:

  • Experience in high-tech, data storage, or hardware manufacturing industries.
  • Familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) workflows.
  • Exposure to Lean or Six Sigma methodologies.
  • Ability to thrive in a contract-to-hire environment with evolving priorities.

Preferred Skills

• Experience in high-tech, data storage, or hardware manufacturing industries.
• Familiarity with ERP systems and RMA workflows.
• Exposure to Lean or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Ability to thrive in a contract-to-hire environment with evolving priorities.

Experience

5–10 years of experience in hardware operations, returns, or reverse logistics.

Environment

This is a remote position.

Salary

Not specified.

Growth Opportunities

Not specified.

Benefits

Not specified.