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What is a logistics operations manager and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025
4 min read
Quoted expert
Eric Olsen
introduction image

A logistics operations manager is a person responsible for overseeing the movement of goods and services from one location to another. They are in charge of managing all aspects of the logistics process, from planning and organizing to executing and monitoring. Some of their responsibilities include coordinating with suppliers, managing inventory levels, arranging transportation, and ensuring timely delivery. They also analyze data to identify areas for improvement and implement strategies to optimize efficiency and reduce costs.

What general advice would you give to a logistics operations manager?

Eric OlsenEric Olsen LinkedIn profile

Professor, Industrial Technology and Packaging, Orfalea College of Business

Times of change are also times of great opportunities. We are going to need new technical solutions to address problems we are just learning about. You have to lean into the issues. Don't be a technologist - be a problem solver. That is why we also emphasize soft skills like lean six sigma, teamwork, and change management.
ScoreLogistics Operations ManagerUS Average
Salary
5.8

Avg. Salary $73,938

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability level
9.6

Growth rate 6%

Growth rate 0.3%

Diversity
3.5
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.47%

Asian 6.35%

Black or African American 6.17%

Hispanic or Latino 15.15%

Unknown 4.34%

White 67.53%

Gender

female 17.14%

male 82.86%

Age - 44
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 44
Stress level
9.6

Stress level is very high

7.1 - high

Complexity level
9.2

Complexity level is advanced

7 - challenging

Work life balance
3.6

Work life balance is poor

6.4 - fair

What are the pros and cons of being a logistics operations manager?

Pros

  • High salary potential

  • Opportunities for career advancement

  • Fast-paced and dynamic work environment

  • Opportunity to manage projects and make strategic decisions

  • Job stability and high demand for logistics professionals

Cons

  • Long hours and stressful work environment

  • High-pressure situations requiring quick problem-solving skills

  • Constant need for attention to detail and accuracy

  • Need to manage multiple projects simultaneously

  • Need to stay up-to-date with industry trends and technology advancements

Logistics operations manager career paths

Key steps to become a logistics operations manager

  1. Explore logistics operations manager education requirements

    Most common logistics operations manager degrees

    Bachelor's

    65.2 %

    Associate

    17.7 %

    Master's

    9.6 %
  2. Start to develop specific logistics operations manager skills

    SkillsPercentages
    Supply Chain9.52%
    Logistics Operations8.43%
    Operational Procedures7.88%
    Customer Service6.89%
    Process Improvement6.12%
  3. Complete relevant logistics operations manager training and internships

    Accountants spend an average of 6-12 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New logistics operations 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 logistics operations manager based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real logistics operations manager resumes.
  4. Gain additional logistics operations manager certifications

    Logistics operations manager certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific logistics operations manager certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.

    The most common certifications for logistics operations managers include Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) and Six Sigma Green Belt.

    More About Certifications
  5. Research logistics operations manager duties and responsibilities

    • Lead consortium-based RFP for latter contract across multiple corporations.
    • Manage and facilitate the day-to-day operations of a 72-truck general commodities LTL transportation company and warehouse complex.
    • Manage payroll distribution process ensuring timeliness, accuracy, and confidentiality to protect client's privacy and prevent liability of exposure.
    • Implement KanBan pull system, which significantly improve shop floor control.
  6. Prepare your logistics operations manager resume

    When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your logistics operations 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 logistics operations 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 logistics operations manager resume templates

    Build a professional logistics operations 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 logistics operations manager resume.
    Logistics Operations Manager Resume
    Logistics Operations Manager Resume
    Logistics Operations Manager Resume
    Logistics Operations Manager Resume
    Logistics Operations Manager Resume
    Logistics Operations Manager Resume
    Logistics Operations Manager Resume
    Logistics Operations Manager Resume
    Logistics Operations Manager Resume
  7. Apply for logistics operations manager jobs

    Now it's time to start searching for a logistics operations manager job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

    1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
    2. Consult your professional network
    3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
    4. Watch out for job scams

How did you land your first logistics operations manager job

Zippi

Are you a logistics operations manager?

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Average logistics operations manager salary

The average logistics operations manager salary in the United States is $73,938 per year or $36 per hour. Logistics operations manager salaries range between $51,000 and $106,000 per year.

Average logistics operations manager salary
$73,938 Yearly
$35.55 hourly

What am I worth?

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How do logistics operations managers rate their job?

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Logistics operations manager reviews

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A zippia user wrote a review on Dec 2019
Cons

I am working to improve my area of concern which is having limitations when managing employees.


profile
A zippia user wrote a review on Sep 2019
Pros

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!!

Cons

Long hours and calls outside of regular business hours are the norm!


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A zippia user wrote a review on Mar 2019
Pros

I like to tell tell people that a be manager a room to maltreat people under you. Also like been humble even though I am heading people because they can contribute ideas that makes you Excel in your position


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Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Research Team
Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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