Observant…. innovative…. determined… efficient. People in logistics careers analyze what it takes to develop a product from beginning to end, and then work to make every step more efficient and productive. These careers focus on an organization’s supply chain— how a product goes from raw material through production and shipping, to the consumer. Logisticians ensure that operations stay on schedule, and they work quickly to solve any problems that arise. They find ways to lower costs and improve delivery time— or otherwise meet a client’s needs— sometimes traveling to manufacturing plants or distribution centers. Logistics analysts gather data on every aspect of how products are made and distributed– to find where improvements can be made. They keep detailed records of costs, parts orders, shipping and billing. Logistics engineers use the information analysts gather to design improved processes and systems. They often direct the work of analysts. A bachelor’s degree in the field is required for most logisticians and logistics engineers; some positions require only an associate’s degree. Most logistics analysts need a bachelor’s degree, though job requirements may range from college coursework only, to a master’s degree. Most people in logistics careers work full time and may work overtime regularly.
What they do:
Analyze product delivery or supply chain processes to identify or recommend changes. May manage route activity including invoicing, electronic bills, and shipment tracing.
On the job, you would:
Maintain databases of logistics information.
Remotely monitor the flow of vehicles or inventory, using Web-based logistics information systems to track vehicles or containers.
Communicate with or monitor service providers, such as ocean carriers, air freight forwarders, global consolidators, customs brokers, or trucking companies.
Arts and Humanities
English language
Engineering and Technology
computers and electronics
Transportation
movement of people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road
Math and Science
arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics
Basic Skills
reading work related information
thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
Problem Solving
noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
People and Technology Systems
figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
measuring how well a system is working and how to improve it
Verbal
communicate by speaking
listen and understand what people say
Ideas and Logic
make general rules or come up with answers from lots of detailed information
order or arrange things
Math
choose the right type of math to solve a problem
add, subtract, multiply, or divide
Visual Understanding
see hidden patterns
People interested in this work like activities that include data, detail, and regular routines.
They do well at jobs that need:
Analytical Thinking
Integrity
Dependability
Attention to Detail
Achievement/Effort
Adaptability/Flexibility
You might use software like this on the job:
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
Oracle PeopleSoft
SAP software
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Materials requirements planning logistics and supply chain software
Cadre Technologies Accuplus Integrated Distribution Logistics System
Oracle E-Business Suite Logistics
bachelor's degree or associate's degree usually needed
Get started on your career:
New job opportunities are very likely in the future.