Logistician

Your Fit

Income

$81K

Preparation

Considerable

Growth

18.3%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Logistician?

A Logistician is a professional responsible for coordinating and overseeing an organization's supply chain, meaning the system that moves a product from supplier to consumer. They manage the entire life cycle of a product, which includes how a product is acquired, distributed, allocated, and delivered.

Sample job titles:

Client Services Administrator, Logistician, Production Planner, Supply Management Specialist

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Logistician.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Logistician earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$49K per year	$63K per year	$81K per year	$104K per year	$132K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $31K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Logistician do?

Work environment

Logisticians typically work in an office setting but may also spend time in warehouses or outdoor storage facilities. They often work for manufacturing firms, government agencies, or logistics companies, and their role may involve travel to distribution centers, suppliers, and manufacturing plants.

Quick task list

Analyzes and coordinates an organization's supply chain.
Manages the entire life cycle of a product, from acquisition to distribution, and sometimes return.
Develops and maintains relationships with suppliers and clients.
Improves and streamlines logistics processes for efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Utilizes logistics IT systems or software to optimize procedures.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Supply Chain Management: Overseeing and managing company's overall supply chain and logistics strategy to maximize efficiency and productivity.
Procurement Logistics: Focusing on purchasing and arranging the inbound movement of materials, supplies, and/or finished inventory from suppliers.
Distribution Logistics: Managing the outbound movement of products to customers, including warehousing and transportation.
Military Logistics: Specializing in supporting military operations, including procurement, transportation, and warehousing.
Reverse Logistics: Dealing with the return of products and materials, focusing on recapturing value or proper disposal.

Description

Logisticians play a critical role in the smooth functioning of supply chains, ensuring that goods are delivered in the most efficient, timely, and cost-effective manner. They analyze and coordinate logistical functions, manage inventory, oversee transportation, and optimize processes. Their work involves a combination of strategic planning, system analysis, and practical problem-solving to manage the flow of goods from origin to consumption.

In today's global economy, logisticians must navigate complex international supply networks. They must be adept at planning and coordinating with multiple stakeholders, including suppliers, manufacturers, retailers, and customers. This often involves understanding international trade regulations and practices.

The role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Logisticians need to be proficient in various logistics software and technologies, as these tools are essential for tracking inventory, managing shipments, and analyzing supply chain performance.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Playing a key role in the efficiency and success of an organization's operations.
Solving complex logistical challenges and improving processes.
Working in a dynamic field with diverse tasks and challenges.
The satisfaction of seeing tangible results from effective supply chain management.

You might make a good Logistician if you are...

Detail-oriented, able to manage complex systems efficiently.
A problem-solver, skilled in identifying and resolving logistical challenges.
Technologically adept, comfortable with logistics software and data analysis.
A strong communicator, capable of coordinating with various stakeholders.
Adaptable, able to handle unexpected changes in supply chains.
Interested in a career that combines strategy, management, and practical operations.

Pros:

Essential role in various industries, offering job security.
Opportunities to work in diverse industries and environments.
Intellectual challenge and problem-solving in dynamic situations.
Potential for career advancement into managerial positions.

Cons:

Can involve high stress, especially when dealing with tight deadlines and unforeseen disruptions.
May require long hours or irregular schedules, depending on the industry.
The need for continual learning to keep up with technological changes in logistics software and practices.

How to become a Logistician

Typical education

Most logisticians have a bachelor's degree in business, systems engineering, or supply chain management. Some positions, especially those in complex logistics operations, may require a master's degree.

High school preparation

Courses:

Mathematics, particularly algebra and statistics, for data analysis.
Computer science, to gain skills in software and technology used in logistics.
Business studies, to understand the basics of supply chain management.
Geography, to learn about global trade and transportation networks.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining a robotics or engineering club to understand systems and processes.
Participating in model United Nations or debate club to develop negotiation and problem-solving skills.
Volunteering or interning with a local business or logistics company for practical experience.

Preparation after high school

Pursue a bachelor's degree in logistics, supply chain management, business administration, or a related field.
Consider certification programs like the Certified Professional Logistician (CPL) or similar credentials.
Seek internships in logistics or supply chain departments of companies for hands-on experience.
Stay informed about industry trends and advancements through workshops, seminars, and professional journals.

More resources

Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) - Offers resources and networking opportunities for logistics professionals.
Institute for Supply Management (ISM) - Provides educational resources and certification programs in supply management.
American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) - Offers certification and training in supply chain and operations management.
Logistics Management - An industry magazine providing news and information on logistics and supply chain management.
O*NET Online - A tool for career exploration and job analysis in logistics and other fields.

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