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Logistics Specialist

A logistics specialist is a management position that handles the warehousing, shipping, and receiving operations for a company. Logistics management involves identifying prospective distributors and suppliers and determining their effectiveness and accessibility. Logistics specialists oversee the transportation and storage of products or materials, which often includes administrative tasks and sometimes manual labor. As a logistics specialist, you can expect to work frequently within a warehouse, typically having your own office space within it. Logistics managers are referred to as logisticians.

About Logistics

Logistics refers to the overall process of managing how resources are acquired, stored, and transported to their destination. Logistics professionals typically work in warehouses, but also may work at airports, hospitals, and other facilities that require precise coordination. In addition, logistics is now used widely in the business sector, particularly by companies in the manufacturing sectors, to refer to how resources are handled and moved along the supply chain.

Key Tasks

  • Manage the logistics of a product’s lifecycle, from design to disposal.
  • Research how to best store and transport essential supplies.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with clients and suppliers.
  • Manage warehouse staff to ensure proper shipping and storage of supplies.
  • Plan and schedule the delivery of products to clients.
  • Communicate with clients regarding their deliveries and requirements.

Key Skills

  • Communication
  • Attention to detail
  • Strong computer proficiency
  • Critical thinking
  • Problem-solving
  • Ability to negotiate
  • Organization
  • Ability to work under pressure

Education & Certifications

  • Associate degree or bachelor’s degree in a field such as transportation, logistics or supply chain management
  • Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)
  • Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD)
  • The International Society of Logistics Certification Programs

Local College/University Programs

  • Marywood University
  • University of Scranton
  • Penn State University
  • Keystone College

Industry Sector Employers

  • Fastenal
  • Gentex Corporation
  • AZEK Company
  • Adecco: USA
  • ID Logistics
  • Tobyhanna Army Depot
  • Americold
  • Blue Eagle Logistics
  • Valley Distributing & Storage Company
  • *List above shows a sampling of sector employers and is not limited to the list above.