Part 6:Expanding Reading

Howto Becomea Logistics Management Specialistin U.S.

Research the requirements to become a logistics management specialist.Learn about the job description and duties,and read the step-by-step process to start a career as a logistics management specialist.

The job of logistics management specialists is offered by the military,government agencies,or private sector government contractors.Therefore,any individual working in these positions has a job that is somehow connected to the federal government.Because of this,many jobs require knowledge of or membership in one of the U.S.military divisions.Depending on their employer,logistics management specialists may provide advice about logistics costs and schedules for a particular program,determine the logistical impact on a program from changes in computer systems,provide the manpower,facilities,and equipment to implement a military mission or program,or create logistics plans to provide disaster support.

Logistics management specialists,because of their affiliation with the federal government,usually are paid good wages and enjoy competitive benefits.As with other government jobs,a measure of security is associated with the career.The work of a logistics management specialist is often time-sensitive and fast-paced,which can render it stressful.Logisticians usually work full-time during regular business hours; those that do work internationally may have more irregular hours to accommodate time changes with other nations.

Step 1:Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

Non-military members need at least a bachelor’s degree in logistics or a related field to be eligible to work as logistics management specialists.Bachelor’s degree programs in supply chain management,logistics or logistics management typically require four years of study.Classes in these programs cover topics such as management fundamentals,supply chain management,global logistics management,procurement,transportation law,and quality systems.Some programs may allow students to concentration in areas such as global logistics,systems management or operations.

Success Tips:

Complete courses pertaining to government.Most bachelor’s degree programs include general education coursework.Completing courses focusing on American government practices,laws,and other information can provide aspiring logistics management specialists with background information about the federal government,which may prove helpful in the future.

Determine eligibility for joining a branch of the military.Some branches of the military require that applicants for logistics management specialist job positions be eligible to join their branch.For example,a National Guard unit may require that any specialist applicants be eligible to become a member of the National Guard.If this is of interest to an individual,they may check to determine whether they are eligible to join the military.This eligibility may make an individual qualified for more job opportunities.

Step 2:Start Working in Logistics

Most employers seek candidates with experience working in the field.To gain this experience,individuals might consider working as logisticians.These workers analyze a company’s logistical needs,acquire products and allocate resources to help a company operate.

Step 3:Work as a Logistics Management Specialist

After gaining experience,individuals may be eligible for logistics management specialist positions or advance to other leadership roles.Workers in these positions deal with the logistics for a government agency or branch of the military.