What does a Logistician do?
Logisticians play a key role in organizing and managing the supply chain process for the company. They look at the life cycles of the products, including the design, acquisition, storage, shipping and delivery, to make the process as efficient as possible. Logisticians work with suppliers to improve the acquisition of materials and with customers to ensure the company meets their needs. They also collaborate internally with other departments to improve internal processes. Logisticians use data to analyze the current situation and measure improvement when changes are made.
Logistician skills and qualifications
To have a successful Logistician career, an applicant needs to have several skills and qualifications, including:
- Strong analytical skills
- Understanding of best practices in logistics
- Technological capabilities to use logistics software easily
- Ability to prepare reports using collected data
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Customer service skills
- Organizational skills
- Leadership skills to oversee multiple departments and supply chain employees
Logistician experience requirements
It’s common to require at least some experience in the logistics field. Employers might prefer candidates with previous experience in other supply chain positions or experience with specific logistics software and tools.
Logistician education and training requirements
It’s possible to become a Logistician with an associate’s degree in a related field, but many employers prefer a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in logistics and supply chain management or a similar field. Some companies accept a mix of experience and a lower degree. Qualified candidates should have training in logistics, relevant software and technology used in logistics.
Certifications aren’t required, but Logisticians can earn them as additional qualifications. Several organizations offer certifications, including the Association for Supply Chain Management with options like the Supply Chain Procurement Certificate and the International Society of Logistics with the Certified Professional Logistician program.
Job description samples for similar positions
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Logistician job description FAQs
What qualities make a good Logistician?
A good Logistician can analyze individual parts of the supply chain process and see how they all fit together into the overall process. They’re both creative and analytical in order to use data while coming up with innovative supply chain solutions. They’re confident and assertive yet willing to consider other input to create the best possible supply chain process for the company. They understand how to communicate and collaborate with people from diverse backgrounds and in different positions. Logisticians need to be comfortable working in many environments, including manufacturing spaces, warehouses and distribution centers. They also need to manage their time well, know how to prioritize tasks and deal with stress well.
What should you look for in a Logistician resume?
Ideal candidates have previous logistics or supply chain experience on their resumes with the use of different software and technology. Look for experience with companies similar to yours, especially if you have a large, complex supply chain situation. It can also be beneficial if the applicant lists the specific tools and software you use in previous job duties. Statistics to show their accomplishments within the logistics field can help you better understand their previous work. Supply chain certifications listed on the resume can indicate additional knowledge, a commitment to logistics and motivation to pursue further learning in the field.
How can you make your Logistician job description stand out?
A Logistician position is very specific, so list details that would excite your ideal candidate, such as the advanced logistics technology you use. Explain the scope of the job, the types of issues the selected candidate will tackle and the structure of the supply chain department to give them an idea of what kind of team they’ll work with. Describe what makes your company unique, such as special products you offer or perks of the job. Maybe you send your Logistician to supply chain conferences every year or you pay for certification if they want to pursue it. Show candidates how your company can benefit them and why you have the edge over other companies.
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