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Logistics project manager vs distribution center manager

The differences between logistics project managers 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 logistics project manager and a distribution center manager. Additionally, a distribution center manager has an average salary of $99,459, which is higher than the $87,686 average annual salary of a logistics project manager.

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

Logistics project manager vs distribution center manager overview

Logistics Project ManagerDistribution Center Manager
Yearly salary$87,686$99,459
Hourly rate$42.16$47.82
Growth rate6%-
Number of jobs128,14275,501
Job satisfaction--
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 66%Bachelor's Degree, 67%
Average age4545
Years of experience66

What does a logistics project manager do?

A logistics project manager oversees an organization's supply chain management, works to improve business development, and ensure customer satisfaction and sustainability. Your duties will include planning and managing logistics, transportation, warehousing, and customer services, directing and coordinating the full order cycle, and negotiating with suppliers, retailers, consumers, and manufacturers. In addition, you will supervise and train warehouse staff and resolve complaints and problems when they arise. You are also responsible for maintaining metrics and analyzing data to evaluate performance.

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.

Logistics project manager vs distribution center manager salary

Logistics project managers and distribution center managers have different pay scales, as shown below.

Logistics Project ManagerDistribution Center Manager
Average salary$87,686$99,459
Salary rangeBetween $67,000 And $114,000Between $70,000 And $141,000
Highest paying CitySan Francisco, CAWoodland, CA
Highest paying stateWashingtonCalifornia
Best paying companyAppleBed Bath & Beyond
Best paying industryTechnologyAutomotive

Differences between logistics project manager and distribution center manager education

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

Logistics Project ManagerDistribution Center Manager
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 66%Bachelor's Degree, 67%
Most common majorBusinessBusiness
Most common collegeStanford UniversityStanford University

Logistics project manager vs distribution center manager demographics

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

Logistics Project ManagerDistribution Center Manager
Average age4545
Gender ratioMale, 76.5% Female, 23.5%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 logistics project manager and distribution center manager duties and responsibilities

Logistics project manager example responsibilities.

  • Establish ERP, WMS, TMS and build carrier solutions and contracts to manage daily carrier routing to meet customer demand.
  • Lead international cross-brand team focuse on complete, accurate, and timely shipment tracking using electronic data interchange (EDI).
  • Lead numerous analyses and projects from business specifications to practical implementation to optimize the reverse logistics processes and network in Europe.
  • Prepare inventory reports (WMS).
  • Conceptualize, document and implement i2 TMS for multiple clients.
  • Configure data into an internal WMS system while troubleshooting errors.
  • 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

Logistics project manager vs distribution center manager skills

Common logistics project manager skills
  • Project Management, 14%
  • Supply Chain, 13%
  • Continuous Improvement, 6%
  • Logistics Project, 6%
  • Process Improvement, 5%
  • Data Analysis, 5%
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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