1. Positive Job Outlook

In our increasingly globalized world, skilled logisticians are needed more than ever to keep supply chains running effectively. If you’re wondering how important these jobs are, just think back to the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic when it was difficult to find essential goods, like milk or disinfecting wipes. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for logisticians is bright. Employment in this field is expected to grow by 30% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the national average for all occupations. The BLS predicts that there will be more than 24,500 job openings for logisticians in the U.S. each year.  

2. Competitive Pay

For individuals looking to shift into an industry that offers a competitive salary, supply chain management is a good choice. In 2020, the median annual wage for logisticians was $76,270 per the BLS. However, the top 10% of earners in this field had a salary of more than $122,580. Experience in logistics and supply chain management can also set you up for a career as an operations research analyst, using statistical analysis and modeling to optimize logistics and make businesses more efficient. Operations research analysts earn $86,200 on average.   

3. Management Experience 

When you work in supply chain management and logistics, you’re building relationships with all kinds of people — suppliers, distributors, vendors, and more. So you’ll have ample opportunity to hone your soft skills, such as effective communication and delegation. And if you’re overseeing different aspects of a supply chain, you’ll likely be managing other people in your company. Building your management skills can help you move up the corporate ladder, gain new responsibilities, and reach a higher pay grade. 
 

4. Each Day is Different

When you’re in charge of managing inbound and outbound logistics for a company, each day is different. Logisticians may need to travel regularly to visit different manufacturing sites and distribution hubs or to meet with suppliers and clients. They also use sophisticated software to track the movement of goods and manage their inventory. When a problem arises, such as a disruption in the supply chain that can cause a delay, it’s up to the logistician to find a solution and recommend how to adjust business operations accordingly. If you enjoy variety, overcoming challenges, and problem-solving tasks, this career may be a good fit for you.