Did you know the U.S. freight packing and logistics industry has a market size of $3 billion? There are over 8,000 businesses offering jobs in logistics. Have you considered different careers in logistics but don’t know where to start? Do you know the logistics skills that each job type requires? The following guide will explore 5 exciting logistics careers and detail what they involve. Read on and discover which logistics position is right for you.
1. Freight Agent
Freight agents manage and track shipments through road, rail, air, and maritime transportation. They make sure shipments are delivered and received on time on behalf of the client. This position requires advanced organizational skills. The freight agent implements arrangement methods and coordinates route planning. They also take client orders, process paperwork and negotiate payments.
2. Supply Chain Manager
The supply chain manager is a crucial logistics position within a company. It requires excellent managerial and communication skills. Supply chain management involves overseeing the equipment and raw materials of a company. Tasks include buying, warehousing, inventory, and production of different distribution products. Supply chain managers help streamline the process to lower costs and boost productivity.
3. Warehouse Logistics Manager
A warehouse logistics manager helps control and maintain the stock of a business. They manage the storage of company goods and warehouse teams. Managers also process orders and arrange the delivery of materials. Warehouse logistics management ensures the quality, quantity, and safety of stocks. They’re also responsible for training warehouse staff and maintaining health and safety standards. This position protects companies from unexpected and costly events such as low inventory and shipment delays, which often causes production to stop completely.
4. Transportation Analyst
Transportation analysts improve the transportation and supply strategy of goods. They use software to plan the movement of company supplies. The goal is to save money and time throughout a product’s lifecycle. Transportation analysts help build relationships with suppliers and clients. This position requires computer knowledge, communication skills, and organizational skills. Data analysis, project management, and cost reduction are key in the work of a transportation analyst. Analysts generate constant improvements to different technologies and processes, improving the transportation experience.
5. Logistics Engineer
Logistics engineers often have a background in science and mathematics. They help create and review different processes for the company. Their goal is to optimize the distribution of goods and services. Engineers use method analysis, capacity enhancement, and routing to enhance shipments throughout a product’s supply chain and help create efficient distribution to produce higher profits for the company. Common methods include inventory planning, order processing, and shipment strategies.
Understanding Careers in Logistics
Now you know 5 popular and exciting careers in logistics. Consider the requirements of each job and where you might excel the most. The logistics field offers positions for every skill set. Check out the rest of our blog for additional career tips and other helpful articles. We also cover logistics industry news and updates to keep you informed.