What is a logistics manager and how to become one

Q: Do logistics jobs pay well?

Yes, logistics jobs pay well. Logistics positions tend to average $74,700 per year in the United States. However, based on experience, education gained, and industry, the salary for a logistics professional can reach as high as $96,200 in a mid-tier role. The final decision on salary is contingent upon employer and location.

Q: How do I become a logistics manager?

You can become a logistics manager by completing the education requirements, volunteering or interning to gain experience while gaining any other certifications you may need, and applying for entry-level positions to start your career in logistics.

Q: How many years does it take to become a logistics manager?

It takes eight years total to become a logistics manager. Logistics managers are expected to complete their bachelor's degree and complete at least four years as a logistics professional before being promoted to logistics manager. Some logistics companies may require logistics managers to undergo certification training.

Q: What degree do you need to be a logistics manager?

You need a specialized bachelor's degree in operations engineering to be a logistics manager. Bachelor's degrees in logistics, operational analysis, and business management are also acceptable.

Q: What education is required to become a logistics manager?

A bachelor's degree in logistics, business management, or a related field is required to become a logistics manager. Most employers do not require additional education, though some may require certifications depending on the industry they are working in.

Q: What is a logistics manager's job description?

A logistics manager's job description includes: reporting logistical information, creating and enacting strategies to streamline production, generate and monitor budgets for the logistics department, manage all logistics operating staff, maintain open lines of communication with various clients and vendors maintain company goals and client satisfaction within the logistics departments.

Q: What skills does a logistics manager need?

Skills needed by a logistics manager include employee management, thorough documentation practices, and operational streamlining. Other areas a logistics manager may need to hone their skill sets include communication, data tracking, and budgeting.

Updated January 8, 2025

4 min read

Quoted Expert

Curt Macysyn

A logistics manager ensures the efficient storage, transportation, and distribution of goods. They oversee the entire supply chain process, from procurement to delivery, and work to optimize its performance by managing inventory levels, coordinating with suppliers and carriers, and monitoring costs. They must also ensure compliance with regulations and safety standards, as well as manage any issues that may arise during the transportation process. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential in this role.

What general advice would you give to a Logistics Manager?

Curt Macysyn

Executive Director, NSTA

NSTA expects a quick recovery in the student transportation field, but like other sectors, we expect that procedures and protocols will have to adapt to a post-COVID19 environment. What that likely means is that more emphasis will be placed on the cleaning and sanitizing of vehicles as we move forward. Also, the industry has a heavy reliance on employee and driver training in order to maintain its stellar safety track record. With that, much of the training and professional development have transitioned to online platforms, and if that set-up proves consistently viable

ScoreLogistics ManagerUS Average

Salary

5.8

Avg. Salary $74,702

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability Level

6.8

Growth Rate 6%

Growth Rate 0.3%

Diversity

4.8

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.42%

Asian 6.12%

Black or African American 11.20%

Hispanic or Latino 18.58%

Unknown 4.30%

White 59.38%

Gender

female 22.11%

male 77.89%

Age - 45

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 45

Stress Level

6.8

Stress level is high

7.1 - high

Complexity Level

8.7

Complexity Level is advanced

7 - challenging

Work Life Balance

4.6

Work Life balance is fair

6.4 - fair

What are the pros and cons of being a Logistics Manager?

Pros

Opportunity to work with diverse teams and stakeholders
Good salary and benefits package
Exposure to new technologies and innovation in logistics
Possible travel opportunities
High demand for logistics managers, making it a secure career choice

Cons

Need to stay up-to-date with constantly changing regulations and industry trends
Responsibility for the safety of employees and goods in transit
Possibility of dealing with unpredictable weather or unexpected delays
Risk of supply chain disruption due to factors beyond your control
Potential for conflict with colleagues or superiors over decisions related to logistics

Newest jobs for Logistics Manager in Columbus, OH

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Key steps to become a logistics manager

Explore logistics manager education requirements

Most common logistics manager degrees

Bachelor's

61.6 %

Associate

18.4 %

Master's

9.5 %

Start to develop specific logistics manager skills

Skills	Percentages
Customer Service	15.63%
Supply Chain	11.67%
Continuous Improvement	6.33%
On-Time Delivery	5.40%
Process Improvement	4.18%

Complete relevant logistics manager training and internships

Accountants spend an average of Less than 1 month on post-employment, on-the-job training. New logistics managers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a logistics manager based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real logistics manager resumes.

Gain additional logistics manager certifications

Logistics manager certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific logistics manager certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.

The most common certifications for logistics managers include Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) and Certified Logistics Associate (CLA).

More About Certifications

Research logistics manager duties and responsibilities

Manage budget, staffing, workload distribution, and training and development of PMO.
Manage annual RFP for the selection of new carrier contracts for FCL/FTL rates and services.
Lead cross-functional team integrating the distribution system with a new database merchandising system with RF device.
Manage all FDA medical device listings for all accume foreign and domestic facilities, and assist foreign suppliers with the same.

Prepare your logistics manager resume

When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your logistics manager resume.

You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a logistics manager resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

Choose From 10+ Customizable Logistics Manager Resume templates

Build a professional Logistics Manager resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your Logistics Manager resume.

Apply for logistics manager jobs

Now it's time to start searching for a logistics manager job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

Browse job boards for relevant postings
Consult your professional network
Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
Watch out for job scams

How do logistics managers rate their job?

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Logistics Manager reviews

A zippia user wrote a review on Dec 2019

Pros

I am continuously working to develop my the communication and computer skills necessary listed in the job description job description. My formal education which is bachelors degree in philosophy and a minor in economics. I am currently furthering my education in the area of computer science.

What is a logistics manager and how to become one

What general advice would you give to a Logistics Manager?

What are the pros and cons of being a Logistics Manager?

Newest jobs for Logistics Manager in Columbus, OH

Logistics Manager career paths

Key steps to become a logistics manager

Explore logistics manager education requirements

Most common logistics manager degrees

Start to develop specific logistics manager skills

Complete relevant logistics manager training and internships

Gain additional logistics manager certifications

Research logistics manager duties and responsibilities

Prepare your logistics manager resume

Choose From 10+ Customizable Logistics Manager Resume templates

Apply for logistics manager jobs

How Did You Land Your First Logistics Manager Job

Average logistics manager salary

How do logistics managers rate their job?

Logistics Manager reviews

Logistics Manager FAQs

Do logistics jobs pay well?

How do I become a logistics manager?

How many years does it take to become a logistics manager?

What degree do you need to be a logistics manager?

What education is required to become a logistics manager?

What is a logistics manager's job description?

What skills does a logistics manager need?

Search for logistics manager jobs

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