Guide to supply chain management and logistics careers

There's been a pronounced shift towards e-commerce and "just-in-time" supply in recent years, and that trend only accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. This means there's great demand for experts in the supply chain management and logistics industries, and you may be looking at opportunities in this field.

Learn about what jobs you can get in the fields of supply chain management and logistics.

What jobs can you get in supply chain management and logistics?

The supply chain represents a complicated network of companies that create and deliver a given product to its consumers. The process of moving these products is known as logistics, and there are many individual jobs and career opportunities in this diverse business.

Logisticians help to plan routes, transportation, storage, handling, and delivery. They need to ensure that many individual pieces of the puzzle come together in sequence and at the right time.

There's very high demand for people throughout the supply chain. For example, order processors, inventory managers, packers, transport agents, and shipping coordinators, to name but a few.

Here are a few careers to consider in the supply chain management and logistics industries, with salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and O*Net OnLine:

Entry level: Shipping, receiving, and inventory clerks

These individuals handle operations at the entry level point of a supply chain. They'll need to verify or maintain records related to incoming and outgoing shipments, while also ensuring accurate inventory counts.

• The clerk will work alongside warehouse operatives, couriers, or supervisors to ensure efficient and timely shipping.
• Sometimes, a clerk may need to operate a forklift or other machinery to help with loading, while also using inventory management software.
• This is an ideal role for those who have computer proficiency and can pay close attention to detail.
• Median annual salary (May 2023): $39,780

Middle level: Logistician

The logistician is sometimes called the architect of the supply chain system. They'll analyze a network to identify any efficiencies, propose improvements, and oversee new technologies.

• The logistician can coordinate transportation routes and may sometimes negotiate contracts with suppliers.
• To be successful, you'll need strong problem-solving skills and familiarity with software solutions like Oracle.
• Expect to create contingency plans to help avoid delays or cost overruns.
• Median annual salary (May 2023): $79,400

Senior level: Transportation, storage, and distribution manager

The transportation, storage, and distribution manager overseas large-scale logistics operations that are crucial to supply chain success. They may plan and direct the flow of goods, or ensure compliance with company policies and various government regulations.

• Managers in these roles are often responsible for budgets and transportation and may lead a team of other logistics staff.
• These professionals design and implement sophisticated monitoring systems across the supply chain — from distribution to storage — to optimize cost-effectiveness and drive operational efficiency.
• Managers require skills in budget management, regulatory compliance, strategic planning, and leadership.
• Median annual salary (May 2023): $99,200