Logistics Manager

Education and Training: Bachelor’s degree
Average Salary: $37,222 to $96,934
Job Outlook: Excellent

The logistics manager oversees the logistical operations for an organization. A logistics manager is involved in every step of a product life cycle: procurement, production, distribution, and disposal. Logistics managers are an important part of life. Without the logistics manager, the little conveniences in life such as medicine, automobiles, clothing, and computers would cost more and take longer to acquire. Teamwork, delegating efficiently, and managing people well are some of the attributes of a great logistics manager.

Some of the tasks that logistics managers performs are ensuring that product is delivered on-time, at minimal cost, and within the company’s standards. Additional tasks include implementing federal, local, safety, and company policies when required, tracking and analyzing logistics data to ensure the organization operates efficiently, coordinating schedules with other departments, establishing department goals and objectives, hiring and training staff, meeting with manufacturers, suppliers, vendors, and customers to maintain the business relationship, and preparing budgets and reports related to performance or program updates.

The most popular industries for logistics managers are shipping/transportation, warehousing/logistics/distribution, manufacturing and distribution, the military/armed forces, and retail.

Education and Training Requirements

High school students interested in a career as a logistics manager should take courses in algebra, computer technology, business, English and language arts, calculus, and mathematics.

College courses in business subjects such as accounting, finance, marketing, statistics, operations, logistics theory, and quantitative analysis are also recommended for students who wish to become a logistics manager.

A bachelor’s degree is the minimum requirement for employment as a logistics manager. Most logistics managers have a degree in logistics, operations management or some other related field as well as professional certification.

SOLE – The International Society of Logistics offer three levels of certification via their Demonstrated Logistician Program. The lowest level certification is the Demonstrated Logistician (DL), followed by the Demonstrated Senior Logistician (DSL), and the Demonstrated Master Logistician (DML). All three certifications require the individual continue their education via CEUs or college courses. There are also other requirements related to performance in the logistics field.

SOLE also has a Certified Master Logistician Program that recognizes expertise in logistics chain management and the Certified Professional Logistician Program that addresses expertise in the entire logistics field. The Certified Professional Logistician designation is the highest certification offered by the organization.

The American Society of Transportation and Logistics offers certification in Transportation and Logistics (CTL). Applicants are required to hold a bachelor’s degree or three years of professional experience and to successfully pass three required modules and three optional modules.

Getting the Job

It is possible for high school graduates to become logistics managers by working their way up to management, but candidates who are willing to take logistics-related courses, pursue higher education, and obtain logistics certification have the best and quickest opportunity for employment and advancement. As with most professions, previous work experience and education, along with participation in an internship will give an individual an advantage over others.

Job Prospects, Employment Outlook and Career Development

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for logistics field will grow faster than average during the 2008 to 2018 decade. Some positions will be become vacant due to retirement, transfers or other reasons.

Employment of logistics managers is determined by consumer demand. When the market performs well, there is a greater need for product and therefore, logistics managers. As long as there is need for products or services, the logistics manager’s future is secure. Logistics managers with extensive experience, an established track record of success, and knowledge of current logistics technology have the best opportunity for employment.

Working Conditions and Environment

Logistics managers work individually, as part of a team, or with a diverse group of people. The logistics field is a fast-paced and stressful environment. In addition, frequent travel, overtime, and an irregular work schedule are to be expected.

Salary and Benefits

Payscale.com lists average salaries for logistics managers at $37,222 to $96,934. The average salary for logistics managers with 20 years or more experience was $50,284 to $106,846. Health benefits, vacation, bonuses, and 401K plans are standard benefits for the industry.

Where to Go for More Information

American Public University System
111 West Congress St.
Charles Town, WV 25414
Phone: (877) 777-9081
Fax: (703) 330-5109
American Public University System

American Society of Transportation & Logistics
PO Box 3363
Warrenton, VA 20188
Phone: (202) 580-7270
Fax: (202) 962-3939
American Society of Transportation & Logistics

DeVry University
Highland Landmark V
3005 Highland Parkway
Downers Grove, IL 60515-5683
Phone: 866-338-7934
Fax: (602) 943-4108
DeVry University

SOLE – The International Society of Logistics
8100 Professional Pl., Ste. 111
Hyattsville, Maryland 20785-2229
Phone: (301) 459-8446
Fax: (301) 459-1522
SOLE – The International Society of Logistics