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How to find supply chain jobs

Written by: Nigel Evans, Edited by: Vanessa Wolf

Published: May 12, 2025


The supply chain involves moving products from raw materials to the end consumer. It's a critical component in the world of business and commerce and includes sourcing, manufacturing, shipping, storing, and distributing. Read on to learn how to find supply chain jobs.

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What does a career in the supply chain look like?

There are many types of jobs in the supply chain, as you manage the flow of goods or services from production to delivery.

For example, you could coordinate logistics, optimize processes, or manage vendor relationships across industries such as retail, healthcare, manufacturing, transportation, or technology.

The supply chain is critical to American business, as it ensures that products reach consumers efficiently, punctually, and within cost parameters.

Where do you find supply chain jobs?

You can find jobs in the supply chain by taking entry level positions in your chosen field, or through an internship. It's also possible to find positions through job boards, networking, or by joining associations like the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals.

What jobs can you do in the supply chain field?

Here are some of the jobs you might expect to find in the supply chain field:

Logistician

These professionals optimize supply chain operations by looking through data and identifying any inefficiencies. They'll typically work in manufacturing, retail, or e-commerce, and normally need a bachelor's degree in a related business field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), logisticians earned a median annual salary of $79,400 in 2023.

Transportation, storage, and distribution manager

Transportation, storage, and distribution managers oversee transportation and warehouse operations to make sure that goods are dispatched efficiently. You'll find them in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, technology, or distribution, and you'll normally need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for these professionals was $99,200 in 2023.

Purchasing manager

Purchasing managers source and negotiate contracts with suppliers and vendors to meet the needs of an organization. These professionals earned a median annual salary of $136,380 in 2023, per BLS data. Purchasing managers work in manufacturing, government, retail, and other sectors and usually hold a bachelor's degree.

Get started with supply chain online programs on edX

To pursue a supply chain career, start with free online courses at edX.

Frequently asked questions about supply chain jobs

Are supply chain professionals in demand?

Jobs in the supply chain are in great demand as global commerce continues to grow. In fact, the BLS projects jobs for logisticians will grow by 19% from 2023–33. This is much faster than the projected 4% growth rate for all occupations.

Is a supply chain career worth it?

As there is so much demand for good employees in the supply chain, expect to find competitive salaries, opportunities across industries, and job growth potential.

Is there a lot of math in supply chain jobs?

It's important to have a good understanding of math for most jobs within the supply chain, especially for tasks such as inventory management, cost analysis, or forecasting. Be aware that software and tools can often simplify these calculations.

What is the highest paying job in the supply chain field?

Purchasing managers earn some of the highest salaries in the supply chain industry. According to the BLS, these professionals earned a median annual wage of $136,380 in 2023.

Skill Development
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Supply Chain

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