Career in Warehouse Logistics

Supply Chain / Logistics / Transport / Warehousing / Courier / Distribution

The supply chain, logistics, transport, warehousing, courier and distribution industry is the very backbone of business and sits within the Shipping and Logistics sector. Without this critical element of commerce, goods would not move from supplier to buyer and then ultimately to the consumer.

This fast moving and vital part of industry, holds many career opportunities in all kinds of disciplines from being a warehouse person, to planning the distribution of goods to worldwide destinations. Undoubtedly, the supply, storage and distribution of goods is what makes business work and so the industry itself attracts people from all kinds of backgrounds and professions. This is the perfect industry if you want to start your career path and don’t necessarily have the best qualifications, as there are many opportunities to start in very basic roles and work your way up.

What kind of jobs are available within the Supply Chain / Logistics / Transport / Warehousing / Courier / Distribution industry?

This industry, which is part of Shipping and Logistics is perfect for someone who wants a real hands on job, as there are many opportunities within warehousing and distribution that can give the job holder a real sense of involvement. The different kinds of jobs in this industry include:

• Logistics Coordinator
• Supply Chain Coordinator
• Logistics Manager
• Transport Manager
• Transport Planner
• Warehouse Manager
• Distribution Manager
• Routing/Scheduling Clerk
• Distribution Services Manager
• Traffic Operator

Tips on How to Land a Job in Logistics

Even though the logistics industry is growing, finding a job in this field takes a bit of preparation on your part. Let us help you get a foot in the door and navigate the process from start to finish by following our tips, tricks, and how-to’s.

Tip #1: Determine your career goals.

To reach your career goals in logistics, you must define your ambitions. Do you want to run the company, or do you want to specialize in a particular field? What are your short-term and long-term goals? Sit down and write out a career plan detailing what you want to achieve, then brainstorm ideas for how you’ll get there.

Tip #2: Network, get feedback, and find a mentor.

The cliché is true: It’s not what you know, it’s who you know (though knowing stuff definitely helps). Discuss your career aspirations with someone who currently works in the job you’d like to have, such as a coworker, a family friend, or a connection made through networking. If you currently work at a logistics company, have a discussion with your boss or a human resource staffer about what you need to do to earn a promotion and set yourself on the right career track. Ask your mentor or coworkers to introduce you to others in the field or at specific companies you’d like to work for. If you attended a school with a career office, contact them to ask for advice and connections to alumni.

Tip #3: Determine what you’re qualified for now.

Entry-level job titles in logistics include van driver, dispatcher, scheduler, expeditor, merchandise buyer assistant, and clerk for distribution, operations, traffic, or import/export. Some entry-level jobs, such as operations research analyst or process associate, may require a Bachelor’s degree or other certifications, so determine your skill sets and educational needs before you begin applying for jobs. You’ll save yourself time and rejection-related heartache if you limit the scope of your search to what you can realistically accomplish at this point in your career. If you’ve been working in the logistics field for a year or more, assess your experience based on your inside knowledge of the industry. Salary.com is an excellent resource for researching job descriptions, requirements, and expected salaries.

Tip #4: Seek out general knowledge and formal education.

Read newsletters and trade publications of associations like the American Society of Transportation and Logistics, and the Warehousing Education and Research Council. After you’ve whetted your appetite and gained a working knowledge of the current prevailing logistics ideas and technologies, take it a step further: Research educational programs in your area or online that offer logistics or logistics management programs. Keep your career plan from step #1 (with feedback from step #2) handy in order to structure your search based on your current skills and long-term goals.

Having a relevant education is critical for anyone interested in a logistics career. Logistics degree programs cover subjects such as management, managerial decision-making, distribution and logistics and supply chain management. Given the broad scope of the field, some programs are referred to as an operations management degree or logistics and supply chain management degree. Some schools offer a degree in transportation and logistics.

It’s important to find the right program for your career goals. Below you’ll find a list of accredited schools that offer a number of quality degree options.