Logistics Coordinator in Missouri Career Overview
As a Logistics Coordinator, you play a vital role in managing the flow of goods and materials throughout the supply chain. Your primary responsibility is to ensure that products are transported efficiently and arrive at their destination on time. This role involves a variety of tasks that are essential for maintaining the logistics operations of any organization.
- Communication: You facilitate communication between suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors, ensuring that all parties are informed and aligned throughout the process.
- Planning: Your job requires meticulous planning and scheduling of shipments, which involves anticipating potential delays and finding solutions to mitigate issues.
- Inventory Management: You track inventory levels, monitor stock movements, and coordinate replenishment efforts to prevent shortages or overstock situations.
- Documentation: You are responsible for preparing and managing shipping documents, including bills of lading, invoices, and customs paperwork, ensuring compliance with regulations.
- Problem-Solving: Addressing logistical challenges is a core part of your role. You must analyze situations quickly and implement effective solutions to maintain operational efficiency.
- Collaboration: You work closely with various departments within a company, including sales, customer service, and warehouse management, to ensure a seamless logistics process.
The importance of your role extends beyond just managing logistics; it directly impacts a company’s overall efficiency and customer satisfaction. By effectively coordinating logistics operations, you contribute to the timely delivery of products, which is essential for retaining customers and achieving business success. Your expertise helps streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve service levels within the industry.
Logistics Coordinator Salary in Missouri
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Logistics Coordinator in Missouri
To pursue a career as a Logistics Coordinator, you typically need a specific educational background. Here are the common degree programs that can prepare you for this role:
Logistics: A degree in logistics focuses on the efficient management of the flow of goods and services, supply chain operations, and transportation management.
Operations Management and Supervision: This program emphasizes the planning and control of production processes and the effective supervision of operations within a company, which is essential for coordinating logistics.
Purchasing, Procurement, Acquisitions, and Contracts Management: This degree covers the strategies for purchasing goods and services, managing vendor relationships, and ensuring compliance with contracts, all of which are vital elements in logistics coordination.
Transportation Mobility Management: This program focuses on the systems and strategies for managing transportation networks, improving mobility solutions, and understanding regulatory impacts on logistics.
In addition to a relevant degree, obtaining certifications in logistics or supply chain management can further enhance your qualifications and knowledge in the field.
Best Schools to become a Logistics Coordinator in Missouri 2024
Valencia College
American Public University System
Fort Hays State University
Southern New Hampshire University
Michigan State University
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
- Verify and maintain records on incoming and outgoing shipments involving inventory.
- Duties include verifying and recording incoming merchandise or material and arranging for the transportation of products.
- May prepare items for shipment.
Logistics Coordinator Required Skills and Competencies in Missouri
Analytical Skills: You need to analyze complex data, identify trends, and make informed decisions to optimize logistics operations.
Problem-Solving Ability: Challenges in logistics arise frequently. Your capacity to think critically and find effective solutions is essential.
Communication Skills: Clear and effective communication is key. You'll interact with suppliers, clients, and team members, making it vital to convey information succinctly and professionally.
Attention to Detail: Accuracy is paramount in logistics coordination. You must be detail-oriented to manage inventory and ensure that deliveries are on time and correct.
Time Management: The ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple deadlines is crucial in this fast-paced environment.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with logistics software and tools, as well as general IT skills, will aid in streamlining processes and tracking shipments.
Organizational Skills: Strong organizational skills help you oversee various elements of the supply chain efficiently, from inventory management to shipping schedules.
Negotiation Skills: You often negotiate with vendors and service providers. Your ability to secure favorable terms is important for cost control.
Customer Service Orientation: A focus on customer satisfaction ensures you understand and respond to their needs promptly.
Team Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams is vital for achieving common logistics goals. Your interpersonal skills will help foster collaboration.
Understanding of Regulatory Requirements: Knowledge of laws and regulations governing transportation, shipping, and customs will help you ensure compliance in logistics activities.
Job Duties for Logistics Coordinators
Examine shipment contents and compare with records, such as manifests, invoices, or orders, to verify accuracy.
Prepare documents, such as work orders, bills of lading, or shipping orders, to route materials.
Requisition and store shipping materials and supplies to maintain inventory of stock.
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Oracle JD Edwards EnterpriseOne
- SAP software
Materials requirements planning logistics and supply chain software
- Warehouse management system WMS
- WindowBook Postal Package Partner
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Basic Skills
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- Talking to others
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Logistics Coordinator in Missouri
The job market for Logistics Coordinators in Missouri is characterized by a strong demand driven by ongoing initiatives in e-commerce, manufacturing, and distribution sectors. Here are key insights into the current landscape:
High Demand: As businesses increasingly rely on efficient supply chain management, Logistics Coordinators are becoming essential. Industries such as retail, food distribution, and manufacturing are vying for skilled professionals to oversee logistics operations.
Growth Potential: The logistics sector in Missouri is poised for significant growth. National trends indicate an approximate 5% increase in demand for logistics professionals over the next several years. Factors contributing to this upsurge include advancements in technology and increased global trade requirements.
Geographical Hotspots: Certain regions within Missouri present more opportunities due to their strategic locations:
- St. Louis: As a major metropolitan area and a critical transportation hub, St. Louis is home to numerous logistics firms and distribution centers. The presence of major highways and the Mississippi River enhances the region’s logistics capabilities.
- Kansas City: This area boasts a robust network of rail and trucking services, making it a preferred choice for logistics companies. The city has seen a rise in warehouse developments to support e-commerce businesses.
- Columbia and Springfield: These cities are also experiencing growth in logistics-related positions, supported by local suppliers and growing retail sectors.
Industry Trends: With the ongoing evolution of logistics technology, including automation and data analytics, companies are seeking coordinators who can navigate these changes. This trend not only increases efficiency but also creates further demand for positions within the field.
Networking Opportunities: Engaging with local logistics and supply chain associations can enhance your visibility in the job market. Participating in industry-related events in major cities can lead to networking opportunities that may facilitate job placements.
Procurement and management within logistics will continue to be vital areas for organizational success in Missouri, creating a landscape rich in opportunity for professionals in the field.
Top Related Careers to Logistics Coordinator 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Logistics Coordinator in Missouri
Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP)
- The CSCMP provides a wealth of resources including research, educational opportunities, and networking events for supply chain professionals.
- Website: cscmp.org
American Society of Transportation and Logistics (ASTL)
- This organization offers certification programs, publications, and resources related to logistics and transportation.
- Website: astl.org
Logistics Management
- A leading publication in the logistics industry, it offers articles, industry insights, and news relevant to logistics coordinators.
- Website: logisticsmgmt.com
Institute for Supply Management (ISM)
- ISM provides resources such as training, certification, and support for supply chain management professionals.
- Website: ismworld.org
National Association of Small Trucking Companies (NASTC)
- This organization focuses on the needs of small trucking companies and provides resources relevant to logistics operations.
- Website: nastc.com
FreightWaves
- A resource for news and analysis on freight and logistics, providing insights that can help you stay informed about industry trends.
- Website: freightwaves.com
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
- The BLS provides employment statistics, wage data, and projections for logistics coordinators and related positions.
- Website: bls.gov/ooh
LinkedIn Learning
- This platform offers online courses related to supply chain management and logistics which can enhance your skills and knowledge.
- Website: linkedin.com/learning
Coursera
- Offers various online courses in logistics and supply chain management from renowned universities and institutions.
- Website: coursera.org
Missouri Department of Economic Development
- This site offers resources specific to the logistics industry within Missouri, including job opportunities and economic initiatives.
- Website: ded.mo.gov
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Logistics Coordinator in Missouri
What does a Logistics Coordinator do?
A Logistics Coordinator is responsible for managing the supply chain and ensuring that goods are transported efficiently from suppliers to customers. This includes coordinating shipments, tracking inventory, negotiating with carriers, and resolving issues that may arise in the transportation process.What qualifications do I need to become a Logistics Coordinator?
Most positions require a bachelor’s degree in logistics, supply chain management, business administration, or a related field. Relevant work experience and certifications, such as those from the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP), can enhance your employability.What skills are essential for success as a Logistics Coordinator?
Key skills include strong analytical thinking, effective communication, attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and proficiency in logistics software and tools. Being organized and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously is also important.Are there specific industries that hire Logistics Coordinators in Missouri?
Yes, Logistics Coordinators are employed across various industries such as manufacturing, retail, distribution, healthcare, and food services. Missouri's central location in the U.S. makes it a hub for logistics and transportation companies.What are the typical working hours for a Logistics Coordinator?
Most Logistics Coordinators work standard business hours, but due to the nature of the role, you may occasionally need to work evenings or weekends, especially if urgent shipment issues arise.Is there room for advancement in this career?
Yes, there are significant opportunities for advancement. With experience, you can move into roles such as Logistics Manager, Supply Chain Manager, or Operations Manager, which typically come with higher responsibilities and salaries.What is the average salary for a Logistics Coordinator in Missouri?
As of October 2023, the average salary for a Logistics Coordinator in Missouri ranges from approximately $45,000 to $65,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.What software tools are commonly used in logistics coordination?
Common tools include Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), and inventory management software. Familiarity with platforms like SAP, Oracle, and Excel is often beneficial.How can I gain experience in logistics if I’m just starting?
Look for internships, entry-level positions, or volunteer opportunities in logistics or supply chain management. Participating in relevant coursework or training programs can also be a great way to build foundational knowledge and skills.What challenges might I face as a Logistics Coordinator?
Common challenges include managing tight deadlines, dealing with supply chain disruptions, coordinating with multiple vendors, and adapting to changing regulations and market conditions.Are certifications beneficial for a Logistics Coordinator?
Yes, obtaining certifications can enhance your knowledge and credibility in the field. Certifications from organizations such as the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (ASTL) or the APICS Certified in Planning and Inventory Management (CPIM) can be particularly valuable.