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Distribution supervisor vs distribution center manager

The differences between distribution supervisors and distribution center managers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 4-6 years to become both a distribution supervisor and a distribution center manager. Additionally, a distribution center manager has an average salary of $99,459, which is higher than the $62,458 average annual salary of a distribution supervisor.

The top three skills for a distribution supervisor include customer service, logistics and continuous improvement. The most important skills for a distribution center manager are logistics, customer service, and OSHA.

Distribution supervisor vs distribution center manager overview

Distribution SupervisorDistribution Center Manager
Yearly salary$62,458$99,459
Hourly rate$30.03$47.82
Growth rate--
Number of jobs42,61975,501
Job satisfaction--
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 56%Bachelor's Degree, 67%
Average age4545
Years of experience66

What does a distribution supervisor do?

A distribution supervisor is in charge of overseeing all distribution processes in a warehouse or similar setting, ensuring accuracy and smooth workflow. Their responsibilities typically revolve around coordinating deliveries and shipment, managing schedules, delegating tasks, assessing the performance of the workforce, and maintaining records of all transactions. Should there be any issues or concerns, it is essential to resolve them promptly and efficiently. Furthermore, as a supervisor, it is vital to lead and encourage the employees to reach goals and deadlines, all while implementing the company's policies and regulations.

What does a distribution center manager do?

A distribution center manager is an individual who is responsible for managing all the daily activities of a centralized distribution center, warehouse, or another shipping facility. Distribution center managers are required to supervise the loading and unloading of all packages as well as ensure that all goods and products have the proper storage conditions. They must evaluate freight services and manage relationships with the chose vendors. Distribution center managers are also required to monitor the safety of the facility and make sure that workers properly store everything to prevent injuries.

Distribution supervisor vs distribution center manager salary

Distribution supervisors and distribution center managers have different pay scales, as shown below.

Distribution SupervisorDistribution Center Manager
Average salary$62,458$99,459
Salary rangeBetween $40,000 And $96,000Between $70,000 And $141,000
Highest paying CityReno, NVWoodland, CA
Highest paying stateNevadaCalifornia
Best paying companyAgilent TechnologiesBed Bath & Beyond
Best paying industryManufacturingAutomotive

Differences between distribution supervisor and distribution center manager education

There are a few differences between a distribution supervisor and a distribution center manager in terms of educational background:

Distribution SupervisorDistribution Center Manager
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 56%Bachelor's Degree, 67%
Most common majorBusinessBusiness
Most common collegeStanford UniversityStanford University

Distribution supervisor vs distribution center manager demographics

Here are the differences between distribution supervisors' and distribution center managers' demographics:

Distribution SupervisorDistribution Center Manager
Average age4545
Gender ratioMale, 82.7% Female, 17.3%Male, 88.4% Female, 11.6%
Race ratioBlack or African American, 11.3% Unknown, 4.3% Hispanic or Latino, 18.7% Asian, 6.1% White, 59.1% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.4%Black or African American, 11.2% Unknown, 4.3% Hispanic or Latino, 18.6% Asian, 6.1% White, 59.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.4%
LGBT Percentage5%5%

Differences between distribution supervisor and distribution center manager duties and responsibilities

Distribution supervisor example responsibilities.

  • Begin the implementation of standard work and lead kaizen event to standardize pack stations.
  • Manage warehouse technology including RF, packing systems, shipping systems, and forklift operations.
  • Develop the WMS training program and lead the team in the design of WMS process rules.
  • Have led cost saving initiatives including staffing, a DC expansion, and customization of WMS.
  • Manage all logistics including ocean and air imports, exports and domestic distribution via TL, LTL, and small parcel.
  • Comply with cleanliness standards, government regulations, and safety requirements, including OSHA, FDA, and HACCP.
  • Show more

Distribution center manager example 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.
  • Manage successful integration of new WMS system including voice pick technology and engineer labor standards.
  • Manage logistics operations issues that include branch logistics plan implementation, warehouse and delivery personnel management, inventory management and security/safety/housekeeping.
  • Show more

Distribution supervisor vs distribution center manager skills

Common distribution supervisor skills
  • Customer Service, 11%
  • Logistics, 10%
  • Continuous Improvement, 6%
  • OSHA, 5%
  • Inventory Control, 4%
  • Shipping Receiving, 4%
Common distribution center manager skills
  • Logistics, 13%
  • Customer Service, 11%
  • OSHA, 5%
  • Continuous Improvement, 5%
  • Inventory Control, 4%
  • Process Improvement, 4%

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