Torchora
Back to Home

Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Logistic Support Analyst

💰 $65,000 - $115,000

LogisticsSupply ChainAnalysisOperationsDefense

🎯 Role Definition

A Logistic Support Analyst is the analytical backbone of the supply chain, responsible for ensuring that an organization's logistics and operational support systems are efficient, cost-effective, and capable of meeting mission-critical objectives. This role involves a deep dive into data to analyze performance, identify bottlenecks, and forecast future needs. You will serve as a crucial link between operational teams, program management, and engineering, translating complex data into actionable strategies for inventory management, transportation, maintenance, and overall lifecycle support. The ideal candidate is a meticulous problem-solver who thrives on optimizing complex processes and ensuring total asset visibility and operational readiness.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Logistics Coordinator
  • Supply Chain Specialist
  • Inventory Analyst
  • Junior Data Analyst

Advancement To:

  • Senior Logistic Support Analyst
  • Logistics Manager / Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) Manager
  • Supply Chain Manager
  • Program Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • Supply Chain Analyst
  • Procurement Analyst
  • Operations Analyst
  • Business Intelligence Analyst

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Analyze, interpret, and manage complex logistics data sets to identify performance trends, cost-saving opportunities, and areas for improvement in transportation, warehousing, and inventory control.
  • Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive Integrated Logistic Support Plans (ILSP) and related documentation throughout the entire system or product lifecycle, from concept to disposal.
  • Conduct thorough sparing analyses, provisioning, and Level of Repair Analysis (LORA) to determine optimal inventory levels, maintenance strategies, and support equipment requirements for mission-critical assets.
  • Monitor and manage the end-to-end supply chain, including procurement, material sourcing, order fulfillment, and final delivery, ensuring compliance with contractual requirements and demanding delivery schedules.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for resolving complex logistical issues, coordinating with cross-functional teams including engineering, program management, finance, and quality assurance to ensure seamless operational support.
  • Perform detailed lifecycle cost analyses and trade-off studies to inform decisions on system design, maintenance concepts, and long-term supportability strategies.
  • Utilize Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems like SAP or Oracle to track assets, manage inventory, process orders, and generate performance reports on key logistics metrics.
  • Prepare and present detailed reports, data-driven briefings, and executive dashboards to senior leadership on logistics performance, risk assessments, and strategic recommendations.
  • Evaluate and document system and equipment failures through Failure Reporting, Analysis, and Corrective Action System (FRACAS) to improve reliability and reduce downtime.
  • Coordinate the development and delivery of technical manuals, training materials, and provisioning data required to support system fielding and sustainment.
  • Manage government-furnished property (GFP) and contractor-acquired property (CAP) in strict accordance with federal acquisition regulations (FAR/DFARS) and client policies.
  • Develop and maintain logistics management information (LMI) databases, ensuring data accuracy and integrity for all support elements.
  • Participate in design reviews and integrated product teams (IPTs) to advocate for supportability, maintainability, and reliability requirements in new product development.
  • Oversee the obsolescence management process, proactively identifying at-risk components and developing mitigation strategies to ensure long-term system availability.
  • Analyze transportation and distribution networks to optimize routes, reduce transit times, and minimize shipping costs while maintaining high service levels.
  • Support material requirements planning (MRP) activities, forecasting demand for parts and materials based on production schedules, maintenance forecasts, and historical consumption data.
  • Conduct regular audits of inventory accuracy, warehouse processes, and logistics provider performance to ensure compliance with established standards and procedures.
  • Develop business case analyses for proposed logistics initiatives, quantifying potential ROI, risks, and resource requirements for stakeholder approval.
  • Interface directly with customers, suppliers, and third-party logistics (3PL) providers to manage relationships and resolve any operational or performance issues.
  • Lead or support continuous improvement projects using methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma to enhance efficiency and effectiveness across the supply chain.

Secondary Functions

  • Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory data analysis to answer critical business questions from leadership and operational teams.
  • Contribute to the organization's data strategy and roadmap by identifying new data sources and analytical opportunities within the logistics domain.
  • Collaborate with business units to translate complex data needs and operational challenges into clear engineering and system requirements.
  • Participate in sprint planning, daily stand-ups, and other agile ceremonies as a key member of the data and analytics team.
  • Mentor junior analysts and coordinators, providing guidance on analytical techniques and logistics best practices.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • ERP/MRP Systems: Advanced proficiency in enterprise systems such as SAP (S/4HANA, ECC), Oracle (E-Business Suite, NetSuite), or similar platforms for inventory and logistics management.
  • Advanced Excel: Mastery of Excel for data manipulation, including complex formulas, pivot tables, Power Query, macros, and financial modeling.
  • Data Visualization Tools: Experience creating insightful dashboards and reports using tools like Tableau, Power BI, or Qlik Sense.
  • SQL & Database Management: Ability to write and execute SQL queries to extract and integrate data from multiple relational databases.
  • Integrated Logistic Support (ILS): Deep understanding of the 12 ILS elements, including maintenance planning, supply support, and technical data.
  • Provisioning & Sparing Analysis: Expertise in using tools and methodologies (e.g., COMPASS, VMetric) for provisioning and determining optimal spare parts levels.
  • Government/Defense Logistics: Familiarity with military standards (e.g., MIL-STD-1388, GEIA-STD-0007), regulations (FAR/DFARS), and government property management.
  • Inventory Management Techniques: Strong knowledge of inventory control methods, cycle counting, safety stock calculation, and demand forecasting models.
  • Supply Chain Modeling: Ability to model and simulate supply chain scenarios to test the impact of different strategies.
  • Life Cycle Cost (LCC) Analysis: Proficiency in conducting LCC and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analyses.
  • FRACAS: Experience with Failure Reporting, Analysis, and Corrective Action System processes and software.

Soft Skills

  • Analytical & Critical Thinking: Superior ability to dissect complex problems, analyze data from multiple angles, and develop logical, data-driven conclusions.
  • Problem-Solving: Proactive and resourceful in identifying and resolving logistical challenges under pressure.
  • Communication & Presentation: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex analytical findings clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Meticulous Attention to Detail: An exceptional eye for detail and accuracy, particularly when dealing with large datasets, compliance requirements, and contractual obligations.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively with diverse teams, build strong relationships, and influence stakeholders without direct authority.
  • Project Management: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and drive projects to completion.
  • Adaptability: Flexible and resilient, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment where requirements can change quickly.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • Bachelor's Degree from an accredited university or college.

Preferred Education:

  • Master’s Degree in a relevant field or professional certifications.
  • Certifications such as Certified Professional Logistician (CPL) from SOLE, or APICS certifications (CPIM, CSCP) are highly regarded.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Supply Chain Management
  • Logistics & Transportation
  • Business Administration
  • Data Analytics / Business Analytics
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Operations Management

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 3-7 years of progressive experience in a logistics, supply chain analysis, government property, or related analytical role.

Preferred:

  • Direct experience within the defense, aerospace, manufacturing, or technology industries is highly desirable.
  • Proven experience working on government contracts and familiarity with DoD logistics systems and procedures is a significant advantage.
  • A demonstrated track record of using data analysis to drive measurable improvements in cost, efficiency, and performance within a complex supply chain.
Explore More Careers