How to Find a Job in Logistics

The logistics industry offers a wide range of opportunities for job seekers. With the rise of eCommerce and an increasingly interconnected world, the logistics industry has boomed. The result of this is that many organizations in different sectors within the industry are looking to hire.

What is the Logistics Industry?

Logistics is the management of products or resources from the beginning of their journey to their final destination. If an organization helps assist the flow of these items in any way, they may be in the logistics industry. The timeline to get from point A to point B takes many different steps, which is where the different types of jobs in logistics come in.

What Types of Jobs Are There in the Logistics Industry

When stating the jobs that are available in the logistics industry, it’s easier to put them into categories. There is a variety of jobs that you can choose to go into, so take some time to see which ones stand out most to you. Here are the categories for the types of jobs that are in the logistics industry:

• Supply chain

  Supply chains require lots of moving parts (and people) to get a product produced and distributed effectively. There are various roles available to job seekers relating to the supply chain. These range from supply chain management to specialists who aim to innovate the supply chain process.

• Transportation

  Transportation is key for operations in the logistics industry. Whether transportation occurs in the sea, the sky, or on the road, opportunities in transportation are wide-ranging. Jobs in transportation range from truck drivers to coordinating transport movements.

• Procurement

  Procurement involves the sourcing of materials that will be needed to manufacture products. Actually getting the items to move and store creates a variety of roles. Positions include senior roles such as procurement manager, or junior roles such as procurement assistant.

• Inventory

  Inventory involves materials or goods being passed through or stored in storage facilities or warehouses. Managing the different levels of inventory is essential for the success of the logistics industry. From inventory clerk to inventory manager, you can decide which interests you the most based on experience.

• Analysis

  Analysis is needed in the logistics industry to ensure that all of the types of jobs above can be performed efficiently. Analyzing each of these areas can help integrate all of the processes involved in logistics together. Jobs include logistics analysts which can help present data to managers of the different areas of logistics.

Conduct a Self-Analysis

Finding a job in logistics begins by deciding which area of the industry you want to work in. To do this, you can perform a self-analysis to see what your strengths and skills are. Combining this with your experience and interests should enable you to find which jobs will interest you the most.

• Skills

  Due to the wide range of roles available in logistics, it can be tough to know which skills you need. The path you choose will decide which skills are necessary for you. Focus on which area interests you the most and ensure that you prepare to learn these skills.

• Education

  Education may also be a key component of your job search. If you are entering a junior role in logistics, such as being a warehouse worker or a truck driver, you won’t need to have a degree. However, if you become a specialist or work internationally in logistics, higher education may be necessary.

• Training

  Most logistics firms will provide you with training as part of the onboarding process of working for them. If a job that interests you requires specific certifications or training beforehand, research to see if you can complete what they need. If they don’t require any training, learning whilst on the job is common in many logistics positions.

• Networking

  Make the most of your network when you conduct a job search. Websites such as LinkedIn can help you connect with recruiters and managers in the logistics industry. Be proactive and reach out to anyone else in your network that works in logistics to see if there are any opportunities available for you.

• Experience

  Without experience, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to land any high-level jobs in logistics. In your job application and resume, convey the experience that you do have and how you can transfer what you’ve already learned to a job in logistics. The potential experience you will learn can also help you drive your job search.

Use What You Have to Aid Your Job Search

Once you conduct a full self-analysis and find out which job interests you the most, use what you have to aid your job search. Ensure that you prepare a resume that is tailored to what you’re applying for. There are plenty of online job boards out there where you can search for specific roles in the logistics industry.

If you’re not having much luck, don’t give up! Reach out to organizations, contact people in your network, and continue to work on your resume and interview preparations. If all goes to plan, you will find a job in logistics in no time.