The logistics industry is thriving. Nearly every field of the industry has positions available: drivers, packers, forklift operators, and supply management. Both the private and government sectors are hiring.
Of course, logistics focuses on the management and control of goods between people, companies, and organizations, so warehousing and transportation are the two main areas involved in the industry. Luckily, the positions in these areas also require the least amount of education. At Spectra360, we place people in these roles quickly and with very little experience needed. If you’re hoping for a management role and don’t mind going to school a little longer or working your way up from an entry level position, the field opens up even more and the sky’s the limit both in options and financial opportunities.
Let’s take a look at the education levels we recommend for each area of logistics. First, military experience and licenses…
Military veterans
We’re starting with military veterans because their skills are in high-demand. From entry-level positions through to top-level management, logistics is a field that loves to hire military veterans. And for very good reason. The logistics field is very process-oriented, similar to military training, so it’s a great fit for our nation’s veterans. In addition, every branch of the military has a logistics division that dwarves most large companies, covering “the supply, movement, and maintenance of an armed force both in peacetime and under operational conditions.” These skills are heavily sought-after and many military veterans find themselves very well-suited to logistics.
CDL License
In order to operate a large vehicle, such as a delivery truck, tractor-trailer, semi-truck, dump truck, or a flatbed you’ll need to get a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Depending on the job, you will need to earn a specific license (A, B, or C) with proper endorsements. In most states, you need to be 21 and pass a background check to qualify for your CDL. Some states, though, including California, allow you to get your CDL when you’re 18. However, federal law states you must be 21 to cross state lines in a commercial vehicle.
“Formal” education is not a necessity for all logistics positions, although it can help. Experience will help you move quickly up to better positions, and Spectra360 can help you as you move through your career path, always looking for the best next position for you.
High School Diploma
There are often openings for entry level warehouse positions, non-CDL delivery drivers, or other logistics team members that require only a high school diploma or GED. Depending on the employer, these jobs can also pay very well with little to no formal education.
Associate’s Degree
An Associate’s Degree in logistics takes a couple of years to complete. It will give you an overview of the field. In addition to general education requirements, your degree will also include core logistics and business courses, including topics like logistics technology, commerce and e-business, business law, inventory management, and international logistics. An Associate’s Degree with a logistics specialization will also give you a boost. All associate’s programs will also introduce students to computer operation and some common software used in logistics operations.
Bachelor’s Degree
A Bachelor’s Degree program in logistics helps prepare students for a role in supply chain management. Some colleges that offer this program allow students to specialize. According to Study.com, specializations may include sales and operations or management and data analysis. Before choosing a concentration, however, students need to first complete core logistics courses.
Master’s Degree
The goal of the Master’s Degree program in logistics is to equip students with the knowledge necessary to manage a company’s supply chain operations. This course of study will help sharpen problem-solving ability and critical thinking skills.
Spectra360 is one of the fastest-growing talent management agencies in the US, according to Inc. magazine. We introduce talented individuals to logistics companies in need of specific expertise. Our job database is extensive and impressive. We have hundreds of job openings by some of the nation’s best employers.
If you’re looking for a job in logistics, we have opportunities listed for both entry-level and management positions in the field. Browse or search our listings here.