The following article discusses the career path of Logistics Manager. Learn about how to become one, education requirements, job duties, traits and qualities, national salary outlook as well as top national employers of Logistics Managers.
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Job Duties
If a company ships products, parts, goods, or other forms of commodities between locations regularly, then they need logistics management, which essentially focuses on every element of the transportation activities. To properly handle this, logistics managers are needed. They are usually middle managers, heading a team of workers specializing in logistics. This means that they also make employment decisions, supervise staff, and manage a budget, creating work within that. They also work together with managers from shipping, loading, and warehouse operations. They report to a more senior manager or even someone at the director level.
One of the key elements of importance in the job of a logistics manager is to make sure that all goods and parts move through the shipping system as efficiently as possible. Typically, they will create reports that showcase exactly how quickly a warehouse fills and how rapidly goods are shipped out. They also create calculations on delivery times based on these reports and on data from past performance.
A large part of the role of the logistics manager is to make sure that any obstacles and bottlenecks are removed. They create a clear path that is completely safe for operatives to use. They enforce regular inspections of freight vehicles, equipment, and warehouses and they keep track of the necessary repairs, making sure they are completed on time.
Like other managers, logistics managers hold responsibility for hiring new staff and conducting their performance reviews. They also schedule work and make sure that best practice procedures are identified and implemented. Usually, they have administrative staff working for them, but they also need to have excellent communication and organization skills themselves so that they can understand the data that is presented to them and ensure they can report on this clearly.
Other job duties of a logistics manager include:
- Coordinating, planning, and directing the distribution and storage of raw materials and other organizational supplies
- Making sure that all customer needs have been met
- Holding responsibility for logistical financial transactions
- Managing staff in the logistics department
Where We Work
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were 208,700 logisticians working the United States in 2022. The largest employment sectors for these professionals were:
- Manufacturing: 24%
- Federal government: 17%
- Professional, scientific, and technical services: 16%
- Management of companies and enterprises: 10%
- Wholesale trade: 10%
How to Become
A logistics manager usually needs a specialized undergraduate degree in operations engineering, operations analysis, or a related field. It is common for organizations to look for those who have a graduate degree in business management, analysis, or related field. Furthermore, a logistics manager is usually expected to have at least three years’ work experience at middle management level.
Education Requirements
A logistics manager has to be able to manage the complexities of supply chains and logistics. As a result, a bachelor’s degree is usually the minimum requirement. Supply chain management, systems engineering, and business are common study subjects. During the bachelor’s degree, they will learn about system dynamics, database management, and operations. Furthermore, they have to be exposed to common logistics software, such as RFID (radio-frequency identification).
There is no legal requirement for a logistics manager to become certified. However, certifications do demonstrate commitment to excellence and a broader knowledge. Hence, logistics managers may choose to become certified through the International Society of Logistics (SOLE) or through American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). Work experience and education are required for these certifications. Other options are offered through the DUA (Defense Acquisition University), which are required for those who work as a logistics analyst for the Department of Defense.
Work experience is also vitally important. A logistics manager will need to have gained several years’ experience in supply chains, logistics, and business. Some start in logistical support, such as clerks or dispatchers, and many have a military background. Through work experience, these specialists get to know about supply chain and production processes.
Traits & Qualities
The most effective logistics managers have the following traits to some degree or other:
- Excellent communication skills, both oral and written
- Strong critical thinking skills
- Great customer service skills
- Excellent organizational skills
- Strong problem solving skills
Minimum Education
Bachelor’s Degree
The national average salary estimate for Logistics Manager is $81,220 according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data published in May 2022.
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$46,260
$124,050
The following section lists Logistics Manager salaries in each state as published by the BLS in 2022.
Learn More
- Salary Outlook with a Logistics Degree
- Best Online Logistics Degree
- Logistics – Wikipedia
- Salary Outlook with a Supply Chain Degree
- 7+ Top Supply Chain Management Degrees
| Career Name | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Pricing Analyst | $71,210 |
| Insurance Agent | $57,860 |
| Tax Analyst | $78,000 |
| Sales Manager | $130,600 |
| Project Analyst | $95,370 |
| Marketing Analyst | $68,230 |
| Finance Officer | $139,790 |
| Operations Analyst | $85,720 |
| Advertising Manager | $138,730 |
| Logistics Analyst | $77,520 |
2022 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for Logisticians and related occupations reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed Dec 2023.
