Logisticians analyze the supply chain cycle of an organization. They figure out ways to cut down on the costs of manufacturing a product from beginning to end. They may also work with distributors to figure out better shipping strategies in order to save money for both parties to the transaction. In difficult economic times, the demand for logisticians tends to grow. Companies enjoy hiring these individuals due to their ability to see ways that a company can easily cut costs on a daily basis. Companies can stick to their budget when they decide to hire logisticians. Maybe you have wondered, “How do I become a logistician?” If you want to become a logistician, then you should try to pursue a degree that focuses on supply chain management.
What’s it like to be a logistician?
When you are a logistician, you are responsible for overseeing the supply chain of an organization. You will need to carefully study the ways in which a product is created in a business. You will typically work normal hours. The average logistician works a normal 40-hour work week. Even though the hours for this position are quite stable, the job can be highly stressful. A company may put a lot of pressure on the logistician to figure out ways that a product can be made in a more efficient and cost-effective fashion. It can be very difficult for a logistician to figure out better ways to make a product when the market is already very competitive. When you become a logistician, you will need to also have an ability to work well with different personalities. You will need to develop relationships with all of your distributors. It will be important for you to work with distributors in order to negotiate deals for the company in the future.
Education Requirements
To become a logistician, you should obtain a four-year degree from an undergraduate institution. You should try to pursue a degree that specializes in supply chain management. If your college does not offer this degree program, then you can choose degree options like marketing, accounting or business administration. Having great communication skills is also essential for those who wish to become a logistician so pursuing a degree in communications may also be a good idea. You should also try to gain internship experience within factories during your summers in college. By working in a factory setting, you can gain an intimate understanding of the ways in which products are created. You can also gain an understanding of the ways in which businesses try to cut down on costs in their supply chain department.
Having a master’s degree in supply chain management is one way that you can also set yourself apart from the crowd. When you have a master’s degree in supply chain management, you will be more likely to land a job as a logistician instead of having to take an entry-level position with a company.
Salary & How to Get a Job
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary of a logistician is about $70,000 a year. One’s salary can increase if he or she is promoted to a position of authority as a logistician. It is important to try to gain internship experience in a major corporation if you want to work as a logistician immediately upon graduation. Otherwise, you may need to start off in an entry-level position within a company. You will essentially have to “work your way up” in a company. Otherwise, you may find that your career services department is helpful in providing you with information about local corporations that have openings in their supply chain management divisions.