What is a Logistics Coordinator and Why It’s a Promising Career

Is a logistics coordinator a good job?

If you’re looking to break into a dynamic industry, a logistics coordinator may be the job opportunity you’re looking for. This role offers plenty of room to develop new skills, advance to the next level and move into other specializations. And what’s more, it requires little previous experience.

We spoke with Aerotek Account Recruiting Manager Janet Aguirre about what it’s like to be a logistics coordinator in the distribution and logistics industries. Get the scoop on how it can help you build a career in a growing field.

What is a logistics coordinator?

A logistics coordinator typically works for a logistics or freight forwarding company, or within the supply chain department of a company with goods to move. They're responsible for coordinating how a product will get from the manufacturer to the consumer. They manage the entire life cycle of a product’s transportation — how it’s acquired, distributed and delivered.

What does a logistics coordinator do?

A logistics coordinator:

• Develops business relationships with suppliers and clients
• Knows how to meet clients’ needs
• Strategizes minimizing the cost or time required to transport products
• Reviews logistical processes and proposes solutions on how to improve them

Logistics coordinator requirements

“Logistics coordinators handle the communication of what needs to be done.  They're the ones handling the workforce, the orders and client relations. They also are the ones communicating across departments to have issues fixed like broken equipment. They’re the center of the warehouse and help everything run smoothly,” says Aguirre.  

A degree in supply chain management or manufacturing production makes it easier to break into this field. It also increases your chances of being promoted to a management role.

 

How to effectively transition into logistics coordinator

If you already work as a customer service representative, warehouse worker or production worker in the logistics industry, you can move into a logistics coordinator role with a few years of experience. Be sure to learn as much as you can about the logistics process while on the job. In a booming economy, logistics companies are growing rapidly and creating new roles for ambitious employees.

How can I be a good logistics coordinator

To become successful in logistics coordination, you need to be detail-oriented and organized to oversee a supply chain process from start to finish. You’ll also need thick skin and the ability to work under pressure.

“Client relations are a huge part of a logistics coordinator’s responsibilities. When errors occur then the logistics coordinator is probably going to be in that meeting and must help explain what went wrong,” says Aguirre.

Aguirre also recommends people who are:

• Confident and outgoing
• Tough under pressure
• Quick learners

Since companies use different types of enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, such as SAP or Oracle, a background in ERP is a plus. Otherwise, it helps if you can show you learned a similarly complex technology quickly on the job.

How do I become a logistics coordinator?

Aguirre notes that one of the most effective ways to get a logistics coordinator position is to start with an entry-level warehouse position and work your way up.

“An entry-level warehouse position is a good starting point. From there, I’d start asking my supervisors questions like: ‘How are we fulfilling the client?” — actions like this make sure you’re building a relationship with managers and coworkers. You can also ask the current logistics coordinator questions and build that relationship with them so you can learn more about the position. Warehouses really put a strong emphasis on the person who's asking the most questions, wants more training and is excited about that next step. So, get excited about learning new things,” says Aguirre.

Are logistic coordinators in demand?

With manufacturing and e-commerce driving a big part of our economy, there will continue to be a high demand for logistics coordinators. Aerotek can connect you to the right company that fits your career goals and experience.

With enough ambition, the right soft skills and a connected recruiter, logistics coordinating can set you on a promising career path. What’s holding you back?