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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Logistic Supervisor

💰 $55,000 - $85,000

LogisticsSupply ChainManagementOperations

🎯 Role Definition

The Logistic Supervisor is the backbone of our operations, acting as the on-the-ground leader responsible for the smooth and efficient flow of goods. This role is pivotal in orchestrating all aspects of the logistics lifecycle, from inventory receipt and storage to order fulfillment and final shipment. You'll be a hands-on manager, leading a dedicated team, optimizing processes, and ensuring that our products reach our customers on time and in perfect condition. This position requires a strategic thinker with a knack for problem-solving, who can balance day-to-day tactical execution with long-term performance improvement goals.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Logistics Coordinator
  • Warehouse Team Lead
  • Senior Dispatcher

Advancement To:

  • Logistics Manager
  • Operations Manager
  • Supply Chain Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • Inventory Control Supervisor
  • Transportation Supervisor

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Supervise, coordinate, and evaluate the daily activities of the logistics and warehouse team, including pickers, packers, forklift operators, and shipping/receiving clerks.
  • Oversee the entire order fulfillment lifecycle, ensuring the accurate and timely picking, packing, and shipment of customer orders in accordance with service level agreements.
  • Manage and maintain inventory accuracy by implementing robust cycle counting programs, conducting physical inventories, and reconciling discrepancies within the Warehouse Management System (WMS).
  • Plan, schedule, and optimize inbound and outbound transportation routes, selecting carriers and negotiating rates to balance cost-effectiveness with performance.
  • Ensure strict compliance with all relevant federal, state, and local regulations, including DOT, OSHA, and customs requirements for international shipments.
  • Actively train, mentor, and develop logistics staff, providing regular performance feedback, coaching for improvement, and identifying opportunities for career growth.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for resolving complex operational issues, customer complaints, and internal discrepancies related to shipping, receiving, or inventory.
  • Develop, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as on-time delivery, order accuracy, inventory turnover, and cost per shipment to drive continuous improvement.
  • Foster strong collaboration with adjacent departments like procurement, sales, and customer service to ensure a seamless and responsive end-to-end supply chain.
  • Manage relationships with third-party logistics (3PL) providers, freight forwarders, and other external vendors, holding them accountable for performance and service standards.
  • Lead and champion process improvement initiatives using methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma to enhance operational efficiency, reduce waste, and lower costs.
  • Uphold and enforce a culture of safety by establishing clear safety standards, conducting regular training, and ensuring all procedures comply with legal regulations.
  • Prepare and present detailed logistics and operational performance reports to senior management to inform strategic planning and business decisions.
  • Direct and coordinate all warehousing and distribution operations by initiating, enforcing, and refining program, operational, and personnel policies and procedures.
  • Manage the maintenance, repair, and efficient utilization of all warehouse equipment and fleet vehicles, scheduling preventive maintenance to minimize downtime.
  • Control and monitor the logistics department budget, tracking expenditures and proactively identifying opportunities for cost savings without compromising quality or safety.
  • Leverage logistics software, including Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and Transportation Management Systems (TMS), to manage workflows and enhance visibility.
  • Oversee the reverse logistics process, efficiently managing customer returns, product dispositions, and repairs to minimize financial loss and recover value.
  • Develop, document, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all critical logistics functions to ensure operational consistency and quality control.
  • Lead daily team huddles or meetings to communicate business objectives, delegate tasks effectively, and address any immediate operational challenges.
  • Investigate and document any workplace incidents or accidents, performing root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions to prevent future occurrences.
  • Ensure the proper handling, labeling, and storage of all materials, including hazardous goods, in strict accordance with all safety and regulatory protocols.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist in the development and management of the departmental budget, tracking expenditures and identifying cost-saving opportunities.
  • Participate in cross-functional projects aimed at improving the end-to-end supply chain process.
  • Conduct regular safety audits and lead safety training sessions to foster a culture of safety and compliance.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert during the implementation or upgrade of logistics-related software (WMS, TMS).

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Warehouse Management Systems (WMS): Deep proficiency in using and managing WMS platforms (e.g., Manhattan, Blue Yonder, SAP EWM) for inventory, order, and labor management.
  • ERP Systems: Solid working knowledge of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite) as it relates to logistics and inventory modules.
  • Microsoft Excel: Advanced proficiency, including the ability to use pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, and data analysis functions to create reports and analyze performance.
  • Transportation Management: Strong understanding of transportation principles, carrier management, route optimization, and Transportation Management Systems (TMS).
  • Inventory Control Management: Expertise in inventory management techniques, including cycle counting, ABC analysis, and root cause analysis for discrepancies.
  • Regulatory Compliance: In-depth knowledge of logistics-related regulations, including OSHA safety standards, DOT transportation rules, and international shipping compliance.

Soft Skills

  • Leadership & Team Building: Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop a diverse team in a fast-paced environment.
  • Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills to identify issues, perform root cause analysis, and implement effective solutions.
  • Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to clearly convey instructions, report on performance, and collaborate with stakeholders.
  • Time Management & Prioritization: Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and delegate tasks effectively under pressure.
  • Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a dynamic, high-pressure environment and adapt to changing operational needs and business priorities.
  • Attention to Detail: A meticulous approach to overseeing operations to ensure accuracy in inventory, orders, and documentation.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Bachelor’s Degree.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Supply Chain Management
  • Logistics & Transportation
  • Business Administration
  • Operations Management

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 3-5 years of progressive experience within a logistics, warehousing, or distribution environment.

Preferred:

  • At least 1-2 years of direct experience in a supervisory or team lead capacity.
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