In an increasingly complex business environment, forward-thinking organizations are driving performance through sophisticated data analysis. That’s where the specialized skills of logistics management analysts come in. This growing career field could be a good fit for anyone with a knack for problem solving, a talent for computer software and spreadsheets, and a strong desire to contribute to the bottom line.
With this career guide, you can learn more about logistics management analyst careers, including job duties, required education and training, where you might find job opportunities and the salary potential for this rapidly expanding field.
Job growth for logistics analysts is expected to increase much faster than the average occupation, according to national data published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in 2011. In fact, employment in this field is projected to grow by more than 20% through 2018. Prospective students should note that a growing job rate does not guarantee employment in the industry. You are encouraged to conduct independent research regarding actual job growth rates, which vary according to location, education and experience.
What is a Logistics Management Analyst?
Logistics management analysts are all about streamlining processes. They work toward making manufacturing, storage, distribution, transportation and shipping more efficient. By gathering and analyzing data, these specialists determine the best way to use a company’s resources to accomplish its goals, whether they are selling products, transporting goods, moving people or optimizing the supply chain.
Why Logistics Management Analysis Matters
In most companies, operational efficiency is essential for growth, stability and profitability. The logistics management analyst contributes to all three. These skilled professionals help their employers improve performance by identifying and cutting waste and inefficiencies that can eat up profits. They also contribute to customer satisfaction, which enhances the company’s brand and reputation.
A logistics management analyst will typically perform a diverse set of job duties. Their primary responsibility is to increase the bottom line by finding opportunities for cost and time savings throughout a company’s processes. They use data mining and analysis to identify gaps and make recommendations for improvements. Other job duties include preparing documents and reports, and maintaining databases and records.
Where Can I Find Jobs in Logistics Management Analysis?
The skills of a logistics management analyst are in demand by a wide variety of employers – and are often transferable across many industries. Firms engaged in government contracting, military and defense, manufacturing and distribution, or warehousing, shipping, logistics and distribution are typical employers for logistics management analysis professionals.
Education Preparation For Logistics Management Analyst Jobs
By combining the right education with practical experience, you can prepare for the logistics management analyst field. Employers’ requirements will vary, but a college degree is usually a must.
- Associate’s Degree: In some companies, a two-year associate’s degree, along with practical logistics experience, may qualify you for an entry-level job. Advancing in the field will usually require continuing education.
- Bachelor’s Degree: Most employers will show preference to candidates with at least a four-year bachelor’s degree, along with proficiency in the industry gained through summer jobs or internships. A degree in engineering, business management, supply chain, mathematics or a related field could be helpful. Senior and executive level positions typically require an advanced degree, additional work experience, or both.
- Master’s Degree: Qualifying for a logistics management analyst job with many top employers will require an advanced degree, such as a Master of Science in Supply Chain Management or a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA). These degrees typically take an additional one to two years beyond the bachelor’s level.
Training, Other Qualifications and Advancement
Along with the required educational background, many employers will look for proficiency in solving business problems by applying computer software skills, along with competence in logistics and supply chain operations. Personal attributes that can contribute to success in this field include:
- Excellent communication, presentation, organizational and critical thinking skills.
- Strong decision-making abilities.
- Self-motivation and discipline.
- A collaborative work style.
- Good judgment and creativity.
To advance in a logistics management analyst career, you may need additional work experience or an advanced degree. Some employers may offer tuition assistance that could enable you to earn a master’s degree.
Potential Salary for Logistics Management Analyst Jobs
A 2010 national survey by the U.S. Department of Labor indicated the median annual salary for logistics analysts was $70,800. Because salary potential may vary depending on location, education and experience, prospective students are encouraged to conduct independent research to determine actual earning potential.
Does a Logistics Management Analyst Career Sound like a Good fit?
If you’re inspired by the challenge of improving a company’s performance, and have a knack for data analysis and problem solving, you could be a great fit for a logistics management analyst career. Use this career guide to start planning your path into this rewarding and fast-growing field.
* Prospective students are encouraged to conduct independent research regarding actual job growth rates, which vary according to location, education and experience.