Welcome to the Supply Chain, Operations and Logistics Community!
Workers in this industry design transportation systems, operate or repair equipment, plan how to move products and materials, and take care of storing products.
Quick Facts
| Large economic impact | Employment numbers | High wages | Truck driver jobs |
| The U.S. spends more than $1.64 trillion annually on transportation logistics. | More than 5 million workers are employed in occupations in this cluster, representing about 3.6% of total U.S. jobs. | Most careers in transportation and logistics pay wages that are higher than the national median. | Trucks deliver nearly 70% of all freight in the U.S. Experts estimate there are 50,000 truck driver jobs unfilled, and trucking-related jobs account for about one-third of job openings in the industry. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How is automation influencing jobs in the industry?
Human workers in transportation, distribution, and logistics careers are finding that automation helps make many aspects of their work more efficient, for example:
- Bar codes track goods for shipping and distribution.
- Automated navigation equipment helps operate ships and aircraft safely.
- GPS technology is heavily relied on for jobs in delivery, logistics, ride hailing services, and many more.
Would a career in supply chain, operations and logistics be a good fit for me?
Many careers in this industry are best for people who like to be on the move themselves or to be part of moving things around – locally, regionally, or even globally. One asset for careers in this cluster is that – in many fields, workers may qualify for management and supervision positions after earning several years of experience in hands-on positions.
A less well-known side of the cluster is pipeline occupations – these workers move crude oil, gas, and slurry. Besides working quickly and accurately, they need to be excellent troubleshooters when things go wrong, and have a high tolerance for getting muddy, wet, and dirty.
Some points to keep in mind:
- Hours and schedules in many fields can be irregular, and time away from home may be required.
- Many jobs in this cluster involve IT skills, STEM knowledge, critical thinking, and design.
- Personal qualities such as integrity, reliability, and flexibility are helpful for workers in this cluster.
- Expect a lot of communication, recordkeeping, and observation of government safety regulations in most jobs in this cluster.
What are some careers in supply chain, operations and logistics?
Take a look at the list below to learn about transportation, distribution and logistics careers and their different job functions.
Direct or coordinate production, purchasing, warehousing, distribution, or financial forecasting services or activities to limit costs and improve accuracy, customer service, or safety. Examine existing procedures or opportunities for streamlining activities to meet product distribution needs. Direct the movement, storage, or processing of inventory. Read more.
Analyze and coordinate the ongoing logistical functions of a firm or organization. Responsible for the entire life cycle of a product, including acquisition, distribution, internal allocation, delivery, and final disposal of resources. Read more.
Drive a tractor-trailer combination or a truck with a capacity of at least 26,001 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW). Requires commercial drivers’ license (CDL). Includes tow truck drivers. Read more.
Supervise and coordinate the activities of ground crew in the loading, unloading, securing, and staging of aircraft cargo or baggage. May determine the quantity and orientation of cargo and compute aircraft center of gravity. May accompany aircraft as member of flight crew and monitor and handle cargo in flight, and assist and brief passengers on safety and emergency procedures. Includes loadmasters. Read more.
Gaining Experience
- Discover internship opportunities in logistics with these organizations or through WayUp.
- Find freelance logistics opportunities on Upwork.
- Volunteer remotely with the Red Cross in Supply Management rr other disaster relief nonprofit organizations that require support with supply chain management and logistics.
- Gain experience volunteering with the American Logistics Aid Network or the Supply Chain Project.
- Identify nonprofit organizations or small businesses that need support with logistic operations, data entry, project management, inventory, warehouse management, and quality assurance to help you develop essential skills for these industries.
