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Logistics Industry: Career Trajectories

Delivered December 14, 2019. Contributor: Katieanne G.

Goals

To compile a list of jobs in the logistics industry and evaluate possible career trajectories for each. Include the following data points for each job: 1) required years of experience, 2) certifications needed, 3) education level requirements, and 4) typical pay scale. If possible, include information supported by the Association for Supply Chain Management (APICS) or the American Manufacturers Association. Research will be used to highlight the opportunities for entry-level positions to move into mid- and upper-level positions in the logistics industry.

Early Findings

We were able to examine the career trajectories of two jobs in the logistics industry during this first hour of research. Logisticians oversee supply chain procedures within a company. Logistics managers coordinate logistics operations within a company and ensure they are in accordance with "applicable government laws or regulations."

Logisticians

  • There is no set number of years required to become a logistician. However, most gain experience working as dispatchers or clerks, as well as during military service or in other fields "related to logistics, supply chains, or business."
  • Specific certifications are generally not required, but a logistician can enhance his or her resume with a Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) or Certified in Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution (CLTD) credential from APICS. Applicants must have at least three years of experience to sit for these exams.
  • Additional certifications are available from the Internal Society of Logistics (SOLE) and Defense Acquisitons University (DAU).
  • This job typically requires a bachelor's degree in "business, systems engineering, or supply chain management," although an associate's degree or comparable work experience may be adequate for some companies.
  • Logisticians earn between $44,440 and $119,950 per year with a median pay rate of $74,600 per year.

Logistics Managers

  • A minimum of five years of experience "working in logistics, warehouse, or transportation operations" is required to become a logistics manager.
  • Logistics managers should consider obtaining a Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) and/or a CSCP credential from APICS.
  • Additional credentials include Certified Master Logistician (CML) and Certified Professional Logistician (CPL) from SOLE, as well as Certification in Transportation and Logistics (CTL) from the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L).
  • This position typically requires a bachelor's degree. Popular fields of study include "supply chain management, operations, logistics, business administration, transportation, or engineering."
  • Logistics managers earn between $44,000 and $96,000 per year with a median pay rate of $65,000 per year.

Proprietary Research

In addition to this public search, we scanned our proprietary research database of over 1 million sources and were unable to find any specific research reports that address your goals.

Proposed next steps:

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