October 8, 2012

Logistics training a logical choice for job seekers

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Anyone who's been through the holiday season knows that it can often be a logistical nightmare. But the season isn't just about finding a parking space at the shopping mall and preparing for your in-laws. It's also about retailers and wholesalers who need to ensure that merchandise is in the proper place and shipped to customers on time. This all requires logistics, which is becoming an increasingly in-demand career choice.

This month, as many retailers begin to announce openings for seasonal retail work come November and December, there are many other opportunities to handle the essential behind-the-scenes work to make sure warehouses are stocked and orders are processed. Last week, the National Retail Federation made its most optimistic prediction since the Great Recession when it estimated that national holiday sales will increase by 4.1 percent this year to more than $586 billion, and between 585,000 and 625,000 seasonal workers will be added across the country.

Autumn is a very busy time for trained logisticians, but they are no longer considered mere seasonal workers. With the increased globalization of business, organizations everywhere are seeking ways to ensure that their supply chain is as efficient as possible all year long. Logisticians can help manage the entire life cycle of a product, including how raw materials are purchased, and how products are manufactured and delivered to customers. They need to think quickly on their feet and solve problems with supply chains to make sure bottlenecks don't form in the flow of goods.

According to the latest available figures from the 2012-13 edition of the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook, jobs for logisticians are expected to grow by 26 percent between 2010 and 2020, which is much faster than the 14.3 percent average growth forecast for all occupations over that period.

Our region, in particular, is becoming an increasingly important location regarding logistics. A recent study by the Washington Council on International Trade and the Trade Development Alliance of Greater Seattle found that 1.1 million of the state's 2.8 million jobs, or about 40 percent, are related to international trade, especially with partners in China and other Asian countries. The Washington export industry reached $64 billion in 2011, two times as much as the average U.S. state.

For those interested in working in the logistics industry, most entry-level positions require either certification or an associate in applied science (AAS) degree. Two of the best sources of information on certification are the American Society of Transportation and Logistics and the International Society of Logistics. Certification for various skilled labor occupations, such as warehouse supervisors, forklift operators and dispatchers, usually requires a combination of education, work experience and the passing of an exam. Those who want more managerial or executive positions should consider a bachelor's or master's degree in business, finance, industrial engineering or supply chain management.

There are several universities and community colleges that offer certification and AAS degrees across the Puget Sound region. Some notable programs include:

Global Transportation and Secure Logistics Certificate
Tacoma Community College

International Trade Certificate
North Seattle Community College

Purchasing and Supply Chain Management
Shoreline Community College

Center of Excellence for Global Trade & Supply Chain Management
Highline Community College

Global Trade Transportation and Logistics Studies
University of Washington

Randy Woods writes about job-search tools, networking techniques and other tips to help you land your dream job.

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education and training, entry-level jobs, manufacturing, retail, seasonal hiring