Logistics Careers: How to start a career in logistics?

Feb 03, 2015

Have you ever thought about the logistics behind how a product gets into the hands of a consumer? This extensive process involves the implementation of effective movement and storage of information, goods and services to ensure expenses are reduced and customer service is enhanced. This process is known as logistics management, and it is a part of supply chain management that plans, implements, controls, forwards and allows for the storage of goods and services and its information to be moved between the point of origin to the point of consumption. Logistics managers possess expertise in fleet management, warehousing, transportation economics, international trade and communications.

At Florida Polytechnic University, we get a lot of questions from students interested in logistics careers. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions:

How to start a career in logistics? What does Florida Polytechnic University’s logistics management program entail?

The logistics management curriculum at Florida Polytechnic University involves all levels of planning, execution, strategic, operational and tactical methods that a student needs to advance in the field of logistics management. The logistics careers program at Florida Polytechnic University also trains students in data-driven analysis, a key tool for logistics managers to maximize efficiencies, save costs and ensure the best customer service. Some examples of applications and research that students will complete to receive a degree in logistics management include:

  • Improving logistics efficiency using algorithm-based forecasting
  • Engineering reverse logistics to maximize reuse of products and materials
  • Developing software and IT for enterprise warehousing and fleet management
  • Calculating price negotiations for different aspects of transportation

What is the demand for logistics careers & professionals?

The advancements in communication and data technologies throughout the last decade have positively influenced business structure and logistics processes. In return, logistics management has become a profitable and lucrative business, offering many employment opportunities for those seeking a career in the field.

What salaries typically exist in the logistics careers field?

Salaries usually depend on the type of industry, size of company and level of responsibility. However, the salary for an entry-level position ranges from $30,000 – $50,000. Annual salaries for experienced mid-level managers can reach up to $100,000, while the pay for senior managers may exceed$150,000.

What skills do I need to prepare for a career in logistics management?

It is recommended that students complete coursework in Economics, Logistics, Operations Management, Statistics and Business. It is also strongly advised for students to obtain an internship in the logistics management field to gain experience and develop strong competencies such as:

  • Technical aspects of production, transportation, distribution and information management
  • Conceptual skills associated with economics and marketing such as customer service, asset management, process integration and globalization of trade
  • Leadership, collaboration, teamwork and project management

Florida Polytechnic University offers a curriculum positions graduates for leadership positions in logistics management. Florida Polytechnic University implements the best logistic management practices by teaching students about industry standards, process strategy, planning, implementation and strategic operations. Students will be able to meet the growing demands of global industries and have the knowledge to start a rewarding career in logistics management, and position themselves on a career path for a lifetime of success.

For more information on a Logistics degree or other fields, check out our Academics page.

Contact:
Lydia Guzman
Assistant Director of Communications
863-874-8450