How To Get A Job In Logistics – Skills & Qualities You Need
Logistics is one of the most rewarding careers for a myriad of reasons; flexibility, job control and travel perks to name a few. There are a range of roles within the industry, all requiring a different breadth of education and experience. Whether you’re just starting out, or have a seasoned career, there’ll be a role to suit you. If you’re wondering how to get a job in logistics, we’ve listed some of the skills and qualities you’ll need.
Why Work In Logistics?
A fulfilling job, logistics is an industry that will always be in demand and therefore one that’s very stable. There are a number of reasons why our own staff, and most in the sector, love working in logistics. They include:
- Job security
- Flexibility of hours
- A rewarding career where you can see the benefits of your work
- Trust in the ability to carry out your duties
- Competitive pay rates
- Higher education is not always essential
- A community-driven workforce
- Travel perks such as getting to explore new cities and towns
There are a number of different jobs in logistics, but the overarching benefits are often the same. Whether you’re working in the warehouses, offices or out on the road – you’ll be granted a level of responsibility and trust in every element of this sector.
What Jobs Are There?
Working in logistics doesn’t just mean being an HGV driver. At the Barnes Group, we have 50,000 sqft. of warehousing space, which creates a number of jobs including warehouse supervisors and stock pickers. Alongside this, there’s also jobs in vehicle maintenance, administration, loading, analysing, managing supply chains, HR, procurement and packaging. Whilst being a driver is one of the more common jobs in logistics, there are also many other avenues worth exploring.
How To Get A Job In Logistics
On to the big question, how do you get a job in logistics? There are a number of different ways you can enter this industry, they include:
- Apprenticeships and higher apprenticeships
- Applying for an entry-level job after further education
- Driving recruitment agencies
- Interviewing with a company directly for an advertised role
Remember that if you’re actively looking for opportunities in logistics, it’s not a bad idea to keep checking the websites of the companies you’re interested in, as well as social media and job boards.
Skills & Qualities Of A Good Logistics Worker
Though no two workers are the same, there are a number of blanket skills and qualities that most employees in the logistics sector will have…
Your hours will tend to be 35-40+ full-time); around 20+ (part-time), as such, you’ll need a level of dedication to your career.
A good logistics worker will also be able to display prolific attention to detail. You will be responsible for the safe passage of any number of goods, therefore being meticulous is a desirable skill.
Flexibility is also appreciated, as logistics is not your typical 9-5 job. In a way, this is often seen as a perk as you may be able to negotiate hours with your employer that best suit your lifestyle. The Barnes Group work to ‘just in time logistics’ which means that our strategies are precisely timed for maximum efficiency. Goods are restocked and distributed before they are sold out. This way of working requires a degree of trust and flexibility.
As the logistics industry has a strong sense of community, being a team-player is a good quality to possess if you’re seeking a role in this sector. You’ll likely be working with people from different departments day-to-day, so communication skills are imperative and being a ‘people person’ is desirable.
If you’re looking for your next role, or even for your first step on to the logistics career ladder, you can find out what roles we have available by contacting our team. The Barnes Group is an established logistics and warehousing service provider with over 20 years of experience in the supply chain.
