Supply Chain Management Careers

Feb 15, 2015

Have you ever thought about starting a career in supply chain management? Professionals educated and trained in supply chain management careers or with supply chain management degrees are in high demand in the global marketplace. Just take a look at the numbers: According to a study by the Supply Chain Sector Council, “From 2012 – 2017, it is estimated that there will be an additional 65,979 new and vacant supply chain positions/year for the next five years equaling a total of 356,747 positions.”

A supply chain management degree is an open door to diverse sectors and industries. Supply chain managers and engineers have the opportunity to work in a variety of fields, including energy, retail, health care and tourism.

A supply chain management careers is a network covering aspects of the life cycle of raw materials as they are converted into finished goods and delivered to the consumer. As a career, supply chain managers and engineers oversee the sourcing, production, procurement, storage and delivery of materials and goods.

Below are some of the more common questions from individuals seeking degrees in supply chain management:

What does Florida Polytechnic University’s supply chain management career program entail?

The supply chain management degree at Florida Polytechnic University provides students with hands-on experience analyzing supply chain efficiencies across multiple industries. In addition, students gain insight into developing systems integration technology, as well as learn how to function and adapt in today’s ever-changing business environment. Students also develop several applications and research methods that can be applied to their future careers in supply chain management. Examples of these applications and research methods include:

  • Developing software and IT for enterprise control
  • Quantifying benefits and risks for supply chain processes
  • Configuring distribution networks and strategies
  • Engineering logistical systems to lower costs and optimize operations
  • Controlling the flow of information on inventory, demand forecasts and collaborations

Why should I consider a career in supply chain management?

Supply chain management is very important to the world’s leading organizations, including companies Apple, Samsung, Proctor & Gamble and Wal-Mart. Supply chain management makes it possible to deliver items faster, better and cheaper and offers tremendous employment opportunities. Supply chain managers are high in demand but limited in supply, meaning that prospective students have a wide range of opportunities after completing their degree.

What skills and classes do I need to prepare for a career in supply chain management?

Executive skills such as prioritizing, planning, organizing, communication and other interpersonal characteristics are among important factors considered by employers when hiring supply chain graduates. Students complete coursework in Economics, Manufacturing, Logistics, Operations Management and Statistics. Material that is covered in these courses include:

  • Logistics and Transportation
  • Supply Chain Models
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Logistics and Supply Chain Strategy
  • Global Supply Chain Management

What kind of jobs and salaries are available for students who graduate with a degree in supply chain management?

Graduates with a supply chain management degree are prepared for entry-level positions in purchasing and logistics such as a buyer, inventory controller, or purchasing analyst – providing them with a career track to advance to a position in operations or logistics. Today, hundreds of companies in the private and public sectors and across a variety of industries are hiring graduates with supply chain management degrees. With this in mind, salaries at an entry-level position can range from $23,000 – $60,000. Mid-level managers earn between $70,000 and $90,000.

Florida Polytechnic University offers classes and programs geared toward students seeking a career in supply chain management. Students will enroll and prepare for a career as a supply chain manager by taking classes such as purchasing, sourcing, supply chain operations, procurement and delivery. With the estimated job growth in this industry fueled by technology changes in the ever-evolving global market, students will be prepared to pursue a career in supply chain management and open the door to even greater opportunities in the field.

For more information on supply chain management careers or supply chain management degrees, visit our other STEM degrees.

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