How To Become A Logistics Analyst
If you are well-organized, have an analytical eye and want a job which would enable you to monitor how a product goes from the manufacturer to the end user, you can consider working as a logistics analyst. In this profession, you will be responsible for analyzing the supply chain of the company you are working for. That means you’ll be at the forefront of looking at how products are bought and moved to their intended recipients.
As a logistics analyst, one of the most important duties that you will be performing is scrutinizing the product delivery process to determine areas for improvement. You’ll be looking at ways to make the supply chain process more efficient and less costly. You’ll identify areas in the chain that delay the delivery process and propose solutions to correct it. Your analysis will also extend to areas like transport costs and the acquisition of spare parts.
In order for you to be able to do your job well, you need to be proficient in working with computers since you will use this to store logistics information. With the advent of online logistics information systems, you will be able to monitor the flow of product delivery no matter where you are in the world using your mobile device and an Internet connection. You will also be putting in logistics data into the database so a high comfort level in working with computers is going to be needed. Proficiency in manipulating spreadsheet software is going to be a must.
To succeed as a logistics analyst, critical thinking skills are going to be a must so you can determine where the problem lies in the supply chain. You also need to be highly organized since you will be performing many different tasks, monitoring the flow of products in the supply chain and keeping records at the same time. You also need to have excellent interpersonal relationships with your colleagues and customers.
Why Become A Logistics Analyst
A career as a logistics analyst is best-suited for those who want to work in the fast-paced logistics department of manufacturing companies and even the federal government. This is a highly-demanding profession so it is best for individuals who aren’t fazed by the pressures that come with delivering products on time. On the practical side, this is a well-paying job that has very positive growth opportunities in the coming years.
Logistics Analyst Work Environment
One can find logistics analysts in virtually any industry but they are most numerous in the field of manufacturing. Many logistics analysts also work for the federal government where most of the logistical activities are required by the military. Other industries where these professionals find work include companies engaged in professional, scientific and technical services, transportation equipment manufacturing and aerospace product and parts. The work is typically done during regular business hours but it may be necessary for them to work overtime to fix problems in the supply chain. Although logistics analysts work in their offices, they may need to travel to distribution and manufacturing sites.
Logistics Analyst Salary
The Occupational Employment and Wages report of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics revealed that the mean annual wage of logisticians is $76,330. This is a little higher than the average mean annual wage of all business operations specialists which is $69,030.
Logistics Analyst Career Outlook
The job outlook of logistics analysts is set to be very positive in the decade covering 2012 to 2022. For that time period, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has projected that the employment rate for this profession is 22 percent, a rate that is much faster than the average for all job types. Companies need to efficiently and effectively move their goods in the global market in their bid to become more profitable. This will drive the need for more logistics analysts who will ensure that the supply chain process operates smoothly.
Logistics Analyst Degree
Aspiring logistics analysts typically need a bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, business, industrial engineering or related fields. However, there are some companies that do accept only an associate’s degree. Experienced logistics analysts can also choose to obtain voluntary certification from the American Society of Transportation and Logistics or the International Society of Logistics to move up in their careers. A certification—which can be obtained after the candidate has passed the education, experience and exam requirements—showcases one’s professionalism and knowledge in the logistical field.
