A logistician manages the supply and demand of a companies products in relation to their customer’s needs. This includes analyzing and coordinating how products are distributed, delivered, and acquired to ensure the entire supply chain can meet business needs.
Watch a video to learn what a logistician does.
How to Become a Logistician
You can earn an associate’s degree in process engineering, business, industrial engineering, or supply chain management to get your foot in the door. Though associates may only qualify you for an entry-level job, this provides you an opportunity to gain valuable experience. Though many employers like to see a bachelor’s degree, companies also consider work experience and industry certifications.
Job Description of a Logistician
A logistician manages and directs the movement of products, supplies, or even people. They oversee an organization’s logistics to manage its inventory, purchasing, warehousing, and transportation. They must be computer savvy as they use software that is sophisticated in planning and tracking to manage the inventory, procurement, and various logistical functions. They also manage the financial impact of logistical changes in shipping modes or routes.
You can find out more information on the International Society of Logistics website. They have a certification for individuals who can pass an exam and study materials are conveniently located on the site as well. Logisticians work in many industries but many work for manufacturing companies and the federal government.
Logistician Career Video Transcript
Observant, innovative, determined, efficient. People in logistics careers analyze what it takes to develop a product from beginning to end, and then work to make every step more efficient and productive. These careers focus on an organization’s supply chain, how a product goes from raw material through production and shipping, to the consumer.
Logisticians ensure that operations stay on schedule and they work quickly to solve any problems that arise. They find ways to lower costs and improve delivery time or otherwise meet a client’s needs, sometimes traveling to manufacturing plants or distribution centers. Logistics analysts gather data on every aspect of how products are made and distributed to find where improvements can be made. They keep detailed records of costs, parts orders, shipping, and billing. Logistics engineers use the information analysts gather to design improved processes and systems. They often direct the work of analysts.
A bachelor’s degree in the field is required for most logisticians and logistics engineers; some positions require only an associate’s degree. Most logistics analysts need a bachelor’s degree, though job requirements may range from college coursework only, to a master’s degree. Most people in logistics careers work full time and may work overtime regularly.
Article Citations
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Logisticians.
National Center for O*NET Development. 13-1081.00. O*NET OnLine.
The career video is in the public domain from the U. S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration.
