How To Become A Logistics Supervisor: What It Is and Career Path

What is a logistics supervisor and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

4 min read

A logistics supervisor oversees the movement, storage, and distribution of goods and materials. They coordinate logistics operations, including transportation, inventory, and warehouse operations. Logistics supervisors work with departments such as sales, procurement, and production to optimize the supply chain and achieve customer satisfaction. They also manage logistics staff, ensure compliance, and implement strategies to improve logistics. The role requires strong analytical and communication skills, and supply chain management knowledge.

ScoreLogistics SupervisorUS Average

Salary

5.1

Avg. Salary $65,301

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability level

6.8

Growth rate 6%

Growth rate 0.3%

Diversity

4.8

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.42%

Asian 6.14%

Black or African American 11.29%

Hispanic or Latino 18.73%

Unknown 4.31%

White 59.12%

Gender

female 22.58%

male 77.42%

Age - 45

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 - 45

Stress level

6.8

Stress level is high

7.1 - high

Complexity level

8.7

Complexity level is advanced

7 - challenging

Work life balance

4.6

Work life balance is fair

6.4 - fair

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

Pros

High job demand and career advancement opportunities
Good salary and benefits packages
Opportunities for international travel and working abroad
Hands-on experience with logistics software and technology
Ability to build relationships with suppliers and vendors

Cons

High levels of stress due to tight deadlines and constantly changing priorities
Long hours, including weekends and holidays
Limited control over external factors such as weather or shipping delays
High levels of competition between companies in the logistics industry
Limited work-life balance due to the demands of the job

Key steps to become a logistics supervisor

Explore logistics supervisor education requirements

Most common logistics supervisor degrees

Bachelor's

53.5 %

Associate

22.6 %

High School Diploma

11.9 %

Start to develop specific logistics supervisor skills

Skills	Percentages
Continuous Improvement	9.31%
Customer Service	8.64%
Direct Reports	7.67%
OSHA	7.02%
Shipping Receiving	5.34%

Complete relevant logistics supervisor training and internships

Accountants spend an average of Less than 1 month on post-employment, on-the-job training. New logistics supervisors 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 supervisor based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real logistics supervisor resumes.

Gain additional logistics supervisor certifications

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

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

More About Certifications

Research logistics supervisor duties and responsibilities

Achieve continuous efficiency gains by leveraging WMS capabilities and implementing sustainable operating procedures.
Manage distribution center activities for global and domestic inbound and outbound shipping, and export documentation.
Lead organization's governmental and regulatory compliance office which result in no violation findings during federal oversight inspections.
Increase group efficiency as measured by time and quantity parameters using ERP system and daily records.

Prepare your logistics supervisor resume

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

Build a professional logistics supervisor 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 supervisor resume.