Freight Logistics Specialist in Ohio Career Overview
As a Freight Logistics Specialist, you play a vital role in the transportation and supply chain sectors. Your responsibilities primarily revolve around overseeing the movement of goods from one location to another, ensuring that shipments are handled efficiently and cost-effectively. Key aspects of your role include:
Coordination of Shipments: You manage the logistics of shipping products, coordinating with carriers, suppliers, and warehouses to optimize delivery schedules and routes.
Communication with Stakeholders: You serve as a communication link between various parties such as manufacturers, transport companies, and clients, ensuring that everyone is informed about the status of shipments.
Problem Solving: When issues arise, such as delays or unexpected incidents, you are responsible for quickly developing solutions to minimize disruptions to the supply chain.
Documentation Management: You handle essential paperwork and records for shipments, including bills of lading, invoices, and customs documentation, ensuring compliance with industry regulations.
Market Analysis: Staying informed on market trends and transportation costs is part of your job, allowing you to make informed decisions about shipping methods and carrier selection.
Inventory Management: You may also be involved in monitoring inventory levels to ensure that the supply chain runs smoothly and that goods are delivered in a timely manner.
Your position is critical in today's fast-paced marketplace, directly impacting the efficiency of supply chains and the overall performance of businesses in various industries. Through your efforts, you help organizations reduce costs, improve customer satisfaction, and enhance operational effectiveness.
Freight Logistics Specialist Salary in Ohio
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Freight Logistics Specialist in Ohio
To become a Freight Logistics Specialist, you will typically need to obtain relevant education and training. Consider pursuing one of the following college degree programs:
Air Transportation: This program focuses on the principles of air transport operations, regulations, and logistics specific to air freight. Understanding the air transport system can be beneficial in managing logistics for goods transported via air.
Logistics: A degree in logistics covers the planning, execution, and management of the flow of goods and services. You'll learn about supply chain management, inventory control, and the logistics of transporting materials.
Transportation and Highway Engineering: This program emphasizes the design and management of transportation systems. Knowledge of highway engineering can help you analyze freight movement patterns and optimize routes.
Transportation Mobility Management: This degree focuses on improving and managing transportation capabilities. It prepares you to understand and implement strategies that enhance freight mobility and efficiency.
Operations Management and Supervision: A focus on operations management teaches you how to oversee and improve operational processes. This training is applicable to logistics and freight movement, where efficient operations are essential for success.
While a bachelor's degree in one of these fields is often preferred, you may find that some employers accept an associate degree combined with relevant experience in logistics or transportation. Additionally, certifications in logistics or supply chain management can further enhance your qualifications.
Best Schools to become a Freight Logistics Specialist in Ohio 2024
Valencia College
American Public University System
Fort Hays State University
Southern New Hampshire University
Michigan State University
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
- Analyze product delivery or supply chain processes to identify or recommend changes.
- May manage route activity including invoicing, electronic bills, and shipment tracing.
Freight Logistics Specialist Required Skills and Competencies in Ohio
Analytical Skills: You need to analyze data related to shipments, routes, and costs to make informed decisions. Being able to break down complex information will help you optimize logistics processes.
Communication Skills: You must effectively communicate with clients, carriers, and team members. Clear communication ensures that everyone involved understands their roles and responsibilities.
Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to quickly identify issues and develop practical solutions is vital. Unforeseen challenges may arise, and being resourceful will help you address them efficiently.
Attention to Detail: You should have a keen eye for detail to manage documentation accurately and track shipments. This helps minimize errors and ensures compliance with regulations.
Organization Skills: Strong organization skills are essential for managing multiple shipments and deadlines simultaneously. You must prioritize tasks to keep operations running smoothly.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with logistics software and systems is necessary. You will use various technological tools for tracking shipments, managing inventory, and analyzing performance metrics.
Negotiation Skills: Being able to negotiate effectively with carriers and suppliers can lead to cost savings and better service agreements. Strong negotiation skills can enhance your company's efficiency and competitiveness.
Knowledge of Regulatory Compliance: Understanding relevant regulations and compliance requirements is fundamental. This knowledge helps ensure that all logistics operations are executed within legal frameworks.
Teamwork and Collaboration: You should collaborate effectively with colleagues across various departments. Working well in a team environment fosters better communication and more efficient logistics operations.
Adaptability: The logistics field is dynamic, with changes occurring frequently. You must be adaptable to shifting circumstances and open to new strategies and practices.
Customer Service Orientation: A strong focus on customer service will help you build lasting relationships with clients. You must address their needs promptly and effectively to enhance their satisfaction.
Job Duties for Freight Logistics Specialists
Communicate with or monitor service providers, such as ocean carriers, air freight forwarders, global consolidators, customs brokers, or trucking companies.
Maintain databases of logistics information.
Remotely monitor the flow of vehicles or inventory, using Web-based logistics information systems to track vehicles or containers.
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Oracle PeopleSoft
- SAP software
Materials requirements planning logistics and supply chain software
- Cadre Technologies Accuplus Integrated Distribution Logistics System
- Oracle E-Business Suite Logistics
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Basic Skills
- Reading work related information
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
People and Technology Systems
- Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
- Measuring how well a system is working and how to improve it
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Freight Logistics Specialist in Ohio
The job market for Freight Logistics Specialists in Ohio presents a favorable landscape characterized by steady demand and significant growth potential. Here are some key insights:
Demand for Logistics Professionals: The increasing complexity of supply chains due to e-commerce and globalization is driving a robust demand for Freight Logistics Specialists. Companies are seeking professionals who can efficiently manage the movement of goods, optimize supply chains, and enhance overall operational performance.
Growth Potential: The logistics sector in Ohio is projected to expand, fueled by the state’s strategic geographical location as a transportation hub. With highways, railroads, airports, and waterways converging, Ohio serves as a vital link for goods traveling across the Midwest and beyond. This growth is expected to create more job opportunities in freight logistics, particularly as industries evolve and adapt to changing market conditions.
Geographical Hotspots: Several regions in Ohio serve as significant centers for freight logistics, including:
- Columbus: Known for its central location and vast transportation infrastructure, Columbus is home to numerous companies engaged in logistics, distribution, and warehousing services.
- Cleveland: With access to Lake Erie and major interstate highways, Cleveland hosts a variety of logistics operations that support both regional and international trade.
- Cincinnati: This city benefits from its proximity to major transportation routes and has a thriving logistics sector, particularly in the manufacturing and distribution industries.
- Dayton: Recognized for its strategic location near major highways and air transportation, Dayton has a growing logistics presence, particularly in warehousing and fulfillment services.
Industry Sectors: Freight Logistics Specialists are sought after across multiple industries, including manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and food services. This diversity provides professionals with a range of opportunities to secure positions in various sectors that suit their interests and skills.
Technology Integration: The integration of advanced technologies in logistics, such as automation, data analytics, and supply chain management software, is enhancing operational efficiencies. This trend may lead to additional job opportunities for skilled Freight Logistics Specialists who can leverage these technologies effectively.
Overall, the job market for Freight Logistics Specialists in Ohio appears both resilient and promising, making it a favorable time for individuals considering a career in this field.
Top Related Careers to Freight Logistics Specialist 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Freight Logistics Specialist in Ohio
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - Freight and Cargo Inspectors
Access detailed statistics on job outlook, salary, and required skills for freight and cargo inspectors, which relates closely to freight logistics.
Visit BLSAmerican Society of Transportation and Logistics (ASTL)
A professional association providing resources, certifications, and networking opportunities for logistics and transportation professionals.
Visit ASTLCouncil of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP)
Offers resources, research, and education aimed at advancing the supply chain and logistics profession.
Visit CSCMPLogistics Management Magazine
Provides news articles, insights, and tips on logistics management, profit enhancement, and operational efficiency.
Visit Logistics ManagementNational Logistics Management (NLM)
An organization focused on improving logistics operations through education, networking, and resources.
Visit NLMFreight Waves
An online resource for news and analysis on freight transportation, logistics, and supply chain industry trends.
Visit Freight WavesInstitute for Supply Management (ISM)
Offers professional development courses, certifications, and valuable resources related to supply chain management and logistics.
Visit ISMTransportation and Logistics Council (TLC)
A professional organization that offers resources and education on transportation and logistics for practitioners.
Visit TLCOhio Department of Transportation (ODOT)
Provides information regarding state-specific transportation regulations and infrastructure that affect logistics operations in Ohio.
Visit ODOTLocal Community Colleges and Universities
Many institutions in Ohio offer degree programs and courses in logistics, supply chain management, and transportation. Research offerings from schools such as:- Columbus State Community College
Visit Columbus State - Cleveland State University
Visit Cleveland State - University of Cincinnati
Visit University of Cincinnati
- Columbus State Community College
LinkedIn Learning
Features a variety of courses on logistics and supply chain management, helping you to develop specific skills needed in the field.
Visit LinkedIn LearningAmerican Logistics Association (ALA)
Provides access to tools and resources that enhance education and professional development in logistics.
Visit ALA
Explore these resources to gain a deeper understanding of the freight logistics industry and enhance your knowledge and skills in this field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Freight Logistics Specialist in Ohio
What does a Freight Logistics Specialist do?
A Freight Logistics Specialist coordinates the movement of goods and materials. This includes managing shipping routes, ensuring timely deliveries, optimizing transportation costs, and maintaining communication with carriers and clients.What qualifications are needed to become a Freight Logistics Specialist?
Typically, a bachelor’s degree in logistics, supply chain management, or a related field is preferred. Relevant experience in transportation or logistics is beneficial, along with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Is certification important for a Freight Logistics Specialist?
While not always required, certification can enhance your credentials. Programs such as the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) or the Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field.What skills are essential for success in this role?
Key skills include strong communication, attention to detail, analytical thinking, proficiency in logistics software, and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently under tight deadlines.What are common industries that hire Freight Logistics Specialists?
Common industries include manufacturing, retail, e-commerce, and transportation services. Any business involved in the movement of goods may require logistics specialists.What is the average salary for a Freight Logistics Specialist in Ohio?
Salaries can vary widely based on experience, education, and specific responsibilities. As of 2023, the average salary typically ranges from $45,000 to $70,000 per year.What career advancement opportunities are available?
With experience, you may advance to roles such as Logistics Manager, Supply Chain Manager, or Operations Director. Further education and certifications can also open doors to higher positions.What software tools do Freight Logistics Specialists commonly use?
Common software includes Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), and tools for data analysis and inventory management. Familiarity with Excel and database management is also beneficial.What are some challenges faced in this career?
Challenges include managing supply chain disruptions, fluctuating transportation costs, regulatory compliance, and ensuring customer satisfaction while maintaining efficiency.Can I work remotely as a Freight Logistics Specialist?
While many logistics roles require on-site presence, especially in warehousing or transportation facilities, some positions may allow for remote work, particularly those focused on planning and coordination.