Logistics Coordinator

Education and Training: Bachelor’s degree
Average Salary: $26,978 to $54,634
Job Outlook: Excellent

The logistic coordinator plans, coordinates, and manages people, projects, or processes. The specific duties of a logistics coordinator are dictated by their industry and their employer. Logistic coordinators work in a variety of industries. For example, a healthcare logistics coordinator oversees and manages patient services. An education logistics coordinator acts as a liaison with faculty, staff, students, and parents to provide student services and oversee campus events. An entertainment logistics coordinator manages the logistics of a tour for a band or oversees and plans an event for a client.

A fairly extensive and diverse skill set is required to work as a logistics coordinator. Some of those skills are industry specific, while others are more general in nature. The basic skills a logistics coordinator needs to be successful are excellent oral and written communication skills, strong computer skills, great people skills, strong analytical skills and the ability to adapt quickly and effortlessly to changing situations.

Education and Training Requirements

High school students interested in a career as a logistics coordinator 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 coordinator.

A bachelor’s degree is the minimum requirement for employment as a logistics coordinator. Most logistics coordinators have a degree in business administration or management.

Getting the Job

A bachelor’s degree is the minimum requirement for employment as a logistics coordinator. Although an individual without a college degree can gain entry into the logistics field by completing a certificate program at a number of colleges or trade technical schools, academically qualified individuals with previous work experience stand the best chance of employment as a logistics coordinator.

Job Prospects, Employment Outlook and Career Development

Employment opportunity is excellent for logistics coordinators. 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. Experience and additional education are required to advance into management.

Most companies provide professional development for employees as do several professional organizations. The American Management Association offers training in many areas of business such as management, leadership, project management, strategic planning management, purchasing and supply management, and human resource management.

Working Conditions and Environment

The work environment of a logistics coordinator is determined by their industry. Some logistic coordinators work onsite at various venues, while others are located in offices. Logistics coordinators may work individually or as part of a team. Stress from multiple or rapidly changing deadlines is normal. In addition, frequent travel, overtime, and an irregular work schedule are to be expected.

Salary and Benefits

Payscale.com lists average salaries for logistics coordinators at $26,978 to $54,634. The average salary for logistics coordinators with 20 years or more experience was $35,564 to $89,615. Variances in salaries can be attributed to the industry, organization size, company location, et cetera. Health benefits, vacation, bonuses, tuition assistance, and 401K plans are standard benefits for the industry.

Where to Go for More Information

Abilene Christian University
1600 Campus Court
Abilene, TX 79699
Phone: (325) 674-2000
Fax: (325) 674-2958
Abilene Christian University

American Management Association
600 AMA Way
Saranac Lake, NY 12983-9963
Phone: (877) 566-9441
Fax: (518) 891-0368
American Management Association

Drexel University
3141 Chestnut St.
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Phone: (215) 895-2000
Fax: (215) 895-1714
Drexel University

Kings College
133 N River St.
Wilkes Barre, PA 18711-0801
Phone: (570) 208-5900
Fax: (570) 825-9049
Kings College