A logistics engineer is in charge of designing logistic operations with the aim of improving an organisation’s efficiency. They propose logistics solutions and plan, coordinate and manage supply chains. Logistic engineers are very valuable to a company since they can provide insights into how best to streamline operations. Continue reading to learn more about the duties of a logistics engineer.
What is Logistics Engineering?
Logistics engineering is a field of engineering that deals with the purchase, transport, and storage processes for materials and finished products. The goal here is to organise the flow of goods and information in a supply chain in the quickest and most efficient manner possible to save on costs.
Logistic engineering is more focused on the IT-driven aspects of logistics and uses principles of engineering with the strategic planning and organising of materials and goods.
Professionals in this field are tasked with analysing and creating solutions that improve logistics processes such as manufacturing, management, storage and distribution.
Is logistics a type of engineering? Logistics is technically defined as the management of supply and distribution. It is part of the supply chain management and is needed to perform operations efficiently. Logistics engineering is a part of logistics and is the science behind where efficiency and reliability are designed into processes and products.
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What are the Duties of a Logistics Engineer?
A logistics engineer is responsible for reviewing and designing the logistics operations of a company in order to improve efficiency and decrease costs.
They propose logistics solutions and prepare cost estimates, forecasts, or cost models. These engineers are also in charge of reviewing and analysing data to determine potential problems and conducting audits for storage, distribution, or transportation.
They develop logistic metrics of KPIs for business units and ensure that all materials are available where and when needed.
Responsibilities of a logistics engineer:
- Review and design logistics operations
- Develop and maintain relationships with vendors of supplies and materials
- Design and implement systems to meet company goals and objectives
- Propose logistics solutions
- Prepare cost estimates, forecasts, or cost models
- Review and analyse data to determine potential problems
- Conduct audits for storage, distribution, or transportation
- Develop logistic metrics of KPIs for business units
- Ensure that all materials are available where and when needed
- Develop and implement plans for transporting materials
What is the difference between a logistics specialist and a logistics engineer?
A logistics specialist is responsible for monitoring warehouse operations such as quality of tools, making sure inventory records are accurate, processing purchasing orders and so on. They also inspect incoming and outgoing supplies and perform administrative tasks to enhance productivity and flow of operations.
A logistics engineer, on the other hand, is, as seen above, more involved with the efficiency of the shipment and distribution processes. They inspect manufacturing processes and coordinate with suppliers and such.
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What are the Skills of a Logistics Engineer?
A logistics engineer has knowledge of equipment operation and has proficiency in logistics management software and tools.
They are also skilled when it comes to using CAD and CAM programs in order to create models of proposed changes in the workplace.
In addition, logistics engineers also have strong analytical skills and attention to detail as well as excellent mathematical and science skills.
Skills of a logistics engineer:
- Knowledge of equipment operations
- Proficiency in management software and tools
- Knowledge of CAD and CAM programs
- Knowledge of software, hardware and machinery
- Basic business management skills
- Knowledge of industry standards and regulations
- Strong mathematics & science skills
- Strong analytical skills
- Excellent communication skills
- Strong attention to detail
- Good problem-solving skills
Background and Education
A logistics engineer typically needs at least a Bachelor’s degree in Logistics Engineering or a related engineering field. A Master’s in Logistics Engineering is also recommended in order to secure better paying jobs.
In addition, having a background in analytical processes of sales and management can also be beneficial since logistics engineering deals with supply chain management.
You can also choose to obtain certifications that increase your knowledge and enhance your skills. Check out options for these down below:
- Supply Chain Operations
- Logistics Management: International Transport & Shipping
- Warehouse Management in Logistics & Supply Chain Management
- Global Procurement and Sourcing Specialization
Salary of a Logistics Engineer
A logistics engineer earns an average of $92,500 per year in the US. Beginner engineers can expect a salary of around $76,000 whereas those with years of experience can expect a salary of around $140,000 per year.
In Germany, logistics engineers earn around €49,100 – €86,600 per year whereas in the UK, they earn £36,000 – £60,000 per year.
Keep in mind that the salary of logistics engineers can vary depending on the region, company, skills of the person in question and more.
How much do logistics engineers make?
| US | $76,000 – $140,000 |
| Germany | €49,100 – €86,600 |
| UK | £36,000 – £60,000 |
How much do freelance logistics engineers make?
Logistics Engineer on freelancermap charge on average:
Rates in the Logistics industry range between $40 and $96/hour for most freelancers.
The daily rate for Logistics Engineer (8 working hours) would be around:
