Do You Need a Degree to Be a Supply Chain Logistician?

Introduction

In the intricate web of global commerce, supply chain logisticians play a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless flow of goods and services from point A to point B. These professionals are the architects of efficient supply chains, optimizing the operation of the different components within a supply chain.

What exactly is a supply chain? Simply put, a supply chain is a multi-step system that moves a product from supplier to consumer. Steps include purchasing, transportation, inventory, and warehousing.

Note that a related profession is that of supply chain manager. Logistics and supply chain management are technically two different things. Logistics primarily focuses on the movement, transportation, and storage of goods. It involves the physical aspects of the supply chain, such as shipping, warehousing, and distribution.

Supply chain management, on the other hand, encompasses a broader perspective, including the entire lifecycle of a product or service, from the initial planning and sourcing of raw materials to the final delivery to the end consumer. Supply chain management integrates various functions, including logistics, procurement, production, and distribution.

How to Become a Logistician

Becoming a logistician typically entails additional education beyond high school.

Do you need a degree to become a supply chain logistician?

The typical education requirement for logisticians— and supply chain managers —is a bachelor’s degree in logistics and supply chain management. They might gain a competitive edge, however, by earning a master’s degree in supply chain management, business, or a related field.

Jobseekers might also enhance their prospects by earning an industry certification , which may be beneficial for demonstrating expertise in the field. Industry certification is a formal recognition granted by a professional or industry association to individuals who have demonstrated a certain level of expertise, knowledge, and skills in a specific field or industry. These certifications are typically awarded after an individual successfully completes a standardized examination or meets other predetermined criteria set by the certifying organization. Examples of industry certifications include CompTIA Security+, Adobe Certified Associate Photoshop, and Autodesk Certified User AutoCAD.

Courses in a logistics and supply management degree program

While coursework might vary from program to program, you’ll typically encounter courses such as:

• Supply chain management systems
• Inventory and Procurement Management
• Global Supply Chain Management
• Strategic Supply Chain Management
• Data Visualization for Business Analytics
• Business Law

Programs might also include a capstone.

How long does it take to become a logistician?

Bachelor’s degree programs typically take 4 years to complete, while master’s degree programs take 1 to 2 years. On-the-job training or work experience in a related occupation are generally not required.

What Is a Supply Chain Logistician?

A logistician is a professional responsible for managing and coordinating various aspects of the supply chain to ensure the efficient and effective movement of goods and services from production to consumption. Their primary goal is to optimize the logistics and distribution processes, enhancing overall supply chain performance.

What does a logistician do on the job?

The specific duties and responsibilities of a logistician may vary depending on the industry and organization, but common tasks include:

Supply chain planning: Collaborate with different departments to plan and forecast supply chain activities, including procurement, production, and distribution.

Inventory management: Monitor and manage inventory levels to ensure that products are available when needed while minimizing excess inventory to control costs.

Transportation management: Coordinate the transportation of goods, selecting carriers, negotiating shipping rates, and optimizing routes to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery.

Warehouse management: Oversee the storage and distribution of products in warehouses, optimize layout, and implement efficient picking and packing processes.

Procurement: Collaborate with suppliers to ensure a steady and cost-effective supply of raw materials or products, negotiate contracts, and manage supplier relationships.

Distribution and fulfillment: Manage the distribution process to deliver products to customers efficiently. This includes order processing, fulfillment, and coordinating with third-party logistics providers if applicable.

Technology: Logisticians use software programs that are designed to help them plan and track the movement of products.

What skills do logisticians need?

Logisticians require a diverse set of skills to successfully manage and optimize supply chain processes. These skills encompass a combination of technical, analytical, interpersonal, and organizational abilities. Here are key skills that logisticians should possess:

Analytical skills: The ability to analyze data, assess trends, and make informed decisions based on quantitative and qualitative information.

Problem-solving skills: The capacity to identify challenges within the supply chain and develop effective solutions to address issues promptly.

Attention to detail: Precision and accuracy in managing inventory, coordinating shipments, and overseeing various logistical processes to minimize errors.

Communication skills: Effective communication is necessary for collaborating with team members, suppliers, transportation providers, and other stakeholders in the supply chain.

Organizational skills: Strong organizational abilities to manage multiple tasks, coordinate logistics operations, and maintain efficient workflows.

Technical proficiency: Familiarity with logistics and supply chain management software, as well as the ability to adapt to emerging technologies in the field.

Customer service: Prioritizing customer needs and ensuring a positive customer experience through on-time deliveries and effective communication.

Adaptability: The ability to adapt to changing circumstances, unforeseen challenges, and evolving industry trends.

Continuous improvement mindset: A commitment to ongoing learning and a proactive approach to identifying and implementing process improvements within the supply chain.

Critical thinking: Evaluating situations, making sound decisions, and adapting strategies based on changing circumstances.

National University

• Earn your degree from a university with a “Whole Human Education” approach that focuses on assisting you in all aspects of your education: academic, emotional, career, financial, and family.
• Choose from 75+ programs: Whether you’re starting fresh or seeking advancement, our career-focused programs are designed to help you make an impact in your chosen field.
• National University is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

Visit School

Visit School

Are logisticians in demand?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job growth projection for logisticians between 2023 and 2033 is 19%¹—which is much faster than average.

The states with the highest levels of logisticians are:

• California
• Texas
• Florida
• Illinois
• Georgia

Supply chain managers are also in high demand.

How much do logisticians make?

Salaries depend on a number of factors, including the industry, the type of data analyst, and geographical location. Following is 2023 salary information for logisticians.

Median annual salary: $79,400¹

Highest-paying industry:² Federal government ($95,890)

Highest-paying states³:

Highest-paying metro areas³:

Supply chain managers typically earn more than logisticians, possibly reaching six figures.

Conclusion

Having an efficient supply chain impacts the success and competitiveness of businesses in today’s global marketplace. With a degree in logistics and supply chain management, you could help fill the increasing demand for skilled logisticians and help ensure that the gears of supply chain management turn smoothly.

Explore additional valuable content:

• Business Majors in College

Sources:
¹https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/logisticians.htm#tab-1
_²https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/logisticians.htm#tab-5
³https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes131081.htm#st