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What is a distribution center manager and how to become one
A distribution center manager oversees the operations of a warehouse or distribution center. They receive, process, and dispatch orders and equipment efficiently. The manager supervises staff, coordinates logistics, and manages inventory levels. They also monitor safety compliance and project timelines. The distribution center manager works with transportation and sales to meet customer expectations. They also identify areas for improvement and implement strategies to optimize productivity. The role requires leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Avg. Salary $99,459
Avg. Salary $59,228
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.42%
Asian 6.13%
Black or African American 11.22%
Hispanic or Latino 18.62%
Unknown 4.30%
White 59.31%
Genderfemale 11.58%
male 88.42%
Age - 45American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 45Stress level is manageable
7.1 - high
Complexity level is challenging
7 - challenging
Work life balance is fair
6.4 - fair
What are the pros and cons of being a distribution center manager?
Pros
High level of responsibility and autonomy
Opportunities for career advancement
Competitive salary and benefits
Exposure to different aspects of the supply chain
Ability to build strong relationships with customers and suppliers
Cons
Long hours, including nights and weekends
Physical demands of the job, including standing for long periods of time
Working in a warehouse environment can be noisy and dusty
Balancing cost control with service levels can be challenging
Dealing with employee turnover can be costly and time-consuming.
Distribution center manager career paths
Key steps to become a distribution center manager
Explore distribution center manager education requirements
Start to develop specific distribution center manager skills
Skills Percentages Logistics 13.01% Customer Service 11.09% OSHA 5.40% Continuous Improvement 5.01% Inventory Control 3.80% Complete relevant distribution center manager training and internships
Accountants spend an average of 1-3 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New distribution center managers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a distribution center manager based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real distribution center manager resumes.Research distribution center manager duties and responsibilities
- Assist in implementing MRP program, BOM and manage inventory reorder points and forecasting.
- Manage all DC relate building projects and small systems support department for 6 DCs.
- Manage distribution center operations for industry leading LTL transportation provider.
- Manage financial performance including operational expense control, damage reduction, capital expenditures and payroll.
Prepare your distribution center manager resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your distribution center manager resume.
You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a distribution center manager resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.
Choose from 10+ customizable distribution center manager resume templates
Build a professional distribution center manager resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your distribution center manager resume.
Apply for distribution center manager jobs
Now it's time to start searching for a distribution center manager job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
How did you land your first distribution center manager job
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Average distribution center manager salary
The average distribution center manager salary in the United States is $99,459 per year or $48 per hour. Distribution center manager salaries range between $70,000 and $141,000 per year.
What am I worth?
How do distribution center managers rate their job?
Distribution center manager reviews
I love being able to mold my team and the distribution center to the culture of respect and accountability! Having senior and executive leadership support is a huge positive factor in making this happen!!
Updated January 8, 2025
