What is a logistics specialist and how to become one

Q: How long does it take to become a Logistics Specialist?

It takes 3 years of professional experience to become a logistics specialist. That is the time it takes to learn specific logistics specialist skills, but does not account for time spent in formal education. If you include the normal education requirements to complete a college degree, then it takes 6 to 8 years years to become a logistics specialist.

Q: Do logistics jobs pay well?

Yes, logistics jobs pay well. Logistics positions tend to average $74,700 per year in the United States. However, based on experience, education gained, and industry, the salary for a logistics professional can reach as high as $96,200 in a mid-tier role. The final decision on salary is contingent upon employer and location.

Q: What are the requirements for a logistics specialist?

The requirements for a logistics specialist include the right combination of education and work experience. Most logistics specialists have a bachelor's degree and at least 3 to 5 years of experience in logistics.

Q: What degree do you need to be a logistics management specialist?

The degree needed to be a logistics management specialist is typically a bachelor's degree. With enough work experience, someone with an associate's degree may be considered for the position. Conversely, someone with a master's degree may only need 1 to 2 years of experience.

Q: What is the career path for logistics?

The career path for logistics involves jobs as a warehouse manager, distribution manager, and logistics specialist. There are several different career paths in logistics. For example, a logistics professional can start out with a role such as operations manager, progress to a title such as vice president, and then eventually end up with the title supply chain vice president.

Updated January 8, 2025

5 min read

Quoted expert

Warren Beeler

A logistics specialist oversees the transportation, storage, and distribution of goods. They analyze supply chain data to optimize deliveries and reduce costs. A logistics specialist coordinates with suppliers, carriers, and customers to ensure timely and accurate deliveries. They may negotiate contracts with shipping companies and manage inventory. A logistics specialist must be detail-oriented and adaptable and possess strong communication skills. They ensure the efficient and effective delivery of goods, contributing to the success of businesses.

What general advice would you give to a logistics specialist?

Warren Beeler

Western Kentucky University

1. Work hard, 2. be a good listener and learn. 3. be a team player

ScoreLogistics SpecialistUS Average

Salary

3.2

Avg. Salary $41,537

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability level

6.8

Growth rate 28%

Growth rate 0.3%

Diversity

7.1

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.38%

Asian 10.27%

Black or African American 12.68%

Hispanic or Latino 21.76%

Unknown 5.39%

White 49.53%

Gender

female 33.51%

male 66.49%

Age - 39

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 - 39

Stress level

6.8

Stress level is high

7.1 - high

Complexity level

8.5

Complexity level is advanced

7 - challenging

Work life balance

3.5

Work life balance is poor

6.4 - fair

What are the pros and cons of being a logistics specialist?

Pros

High demand for logistics specialists in various industries
Possibility of career advancement and growth
Diverse job opportunities, including in transportation, warehousing, and supply chain management
Potential to travel and work with international partners
Satisfaction of seeing a project through from start to finish

Cons

Long hours may be required, especially during peak seasons
Risk of mistakes leading to financial losses or damaged customer relationships
Extensive time spent working on a computer or on the phone
Exposure to hazardous materials if working in transportation or warehousing roles
Need for long-term strategic planning that may require predicting trends and future needs

Key steps to become a logistics specialist

Explore logistics specialist education requirements

Most common logistics specialist degrees

Bachelor's

42.8 %

High School Diploma

22.5 %

Associate

21.0 %

Start to develop specific logistics specialist skills

Skills	Percentages
Customer Service	23.46%
Shipping Receiving	6.79%
Inventory Control	6.15%
Logistics Support	5.31%
Management System	4.30%

Complete relevant logistics specialist training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 1-3 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New logistics specialists 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 specialist based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real logistics specialist resumes.

Gain additional logistics specialist certifications

Logistics specialist 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 specialist certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.

The most common certifications for logistics specialists include Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) and Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP).

More About Certifications

Research logistics specialist duties and responsibilities

Manage and execute the GSA fleet maintenance program.
Manage Phase-In/Phase-Out (NPI) to minimize obsolete material.
Manage the DIFM program to ensure assets are return and process in accordance with directives.
Experience decision-maker in high-pressure environments; efficiently manage vital decision points autonomously to ensure mission accomplishment in multiple combat deployments.

Prepare your logistics specialist resume

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

Build a professional logistics specialist 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 specialist resume.