5 Things to Know About a Career in Logistics
Have you ever stopped to think about how that book you ordered from Amazon miraculously appears at your doorstep, despite being stored in a warehouse that could be hundreds, if not thousands, of miles away? This is the magic of logistics.
It’s not just about moving goods; it’s a complex system that orchestrates the movement and storage of products from their origin to their destination. It’s a puzzle that requires the coordination of personnel, facilities, transportation, and inventory. If you enjoy solving complex problems and prefer to work behind the scenes, a career in logistics might be the perfect fit for you.
Is Logistics a Good Career Choice?
Supply chains and logistics affect the entire economy and people’s lives. That’s why careers in logistics are in such high demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the projected growth of employment of logisticians is a staggering 18% from 2022 to 2032, outpacing the growth of the average for all occupations. This means that a career in logistics not only offers stability but also promises growth opportunities.
Common Careers in Logistics
There are a variety of logistics career paths you can pursue that highlight your skill set and education. Let’s look at a few of them.
- Inventory associate: An entry-level position, an inventory associate oversees the goods and supplies of a company, maintains meticulous records, and manages the flow of shipments. They collaborate closely with vendors, track inventory levels, and input data accurately. This role ensures the accuracy of shipping transactions and inventory documentation and promptly addresses any discrepancies.
- Logistician: In this role, you’ll streamline the movement of goods and services, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness throughout the entire journey, from inception to delivery. Key responsibilities include planning and coordination, inventory management, transportation management, warehousing distribution, and supply chain optimization.
- Supply chain analyst: These logistics professionals use data to improve a company’s production and transportation processes. Their tasks may include researching cost-saving opportunities, identifying new routes, sourcing alternative suppliers, or securing advantageous procurement deals. Additionally, they oversee inventory levels in warehouses and serve as intermediaries between the company and suppliers.
- Supply chain manager: In this critical managerial role, you’ll oversee not only production but also the coordination of teams and the satisfaction of clients. Other duties include forming and maintaining relationships with clients, directing the allocation of materials, and spearheading the development of products.
- Logistics engineer: Tasked with ensuring that the supply chain operates smoothly and efficiently, logistics engineers analyze data to identify potential issues and propose solutions, conduct research, formulate and execute transportation plans, and develop logistical metrics.
5 Reasons to Pursue a Career in Logistics
A logistics career path can offer you a rewarding position working on the supply chain. Here are a few of the great benefits of working in logistics.
1. Job Growth
The logistics industry is expanding rapidly because of a growing global economy. As such, highly skilled workers are needed to oversee and maintain supply chains. The BLS estimates 21,800 openings for logisticians each year through 2032.
2. Job Variety
Many industries and organizations are dependent on logistics, so you can find a job in logistics in almost any field. Logistics skills are highly transferrable, giving you the power to shape your career in a field that interests you, including health care, retail, manufacturing, technology, and more.
3. Global Opportunities
Logistics is an international field. It allows you to work anywhere and can help you gain skills and experience in global business.
4. Good Salary
Jobs in logistics pay well and offer financial security. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for a logistician was $79,400 as of May 2023.
5. Transferrable Skills
Gaining new skills and staying updated with the latest technology is crucial in today’s economy. A career in logistics teaches you skills necessary in many industries, like communication, problem-solving, management, and more, as well as hands-on work using the latest technologies, like artificial intelligence. It allows professionals to move seamlessly between careers.
To embark upon a logistics career path, you’ll need skills like problem-solving, interpersonal communication, and management—but to keep advancing, you’ll also need the right education. Employers will look for an appropriate degree, like Bachelor of Science in Business, particularly one with a relevant concentration in logistics. The right academic credentials can set you apart among job applicants and help you land the position you want.
Is logistics a good career choice? Based on the enormous demand and growth in the field, the answer must be an emphatic yes. And the work is challenging and meaningful—you could not only streamline the supply chain process of a business or organization but also contribute to the overall global economy. With the right education and skill set, a rewarding career in logistics could be just around the corner.
