Hot Jobs: Logistics Planner

Hot Jobs: Logistics Planner

As the logistics industry continues to grow through the remainder of the year and into 2015, logistics planner jobs are becoming more available and needed in logistics companies. For individuals who aren’t familiar with this position, below we explain the main functions and responsibilities of a logistics planner so you can see if you have a need for this position in your logistics company or if you may be the ideal person to fill a job in this field.

Job description:

It’s a logistics planner’s role to evaluate, synchronize and coordinate logistical functions of the company. This involves detailed planning, coordination, and delegation within the organization. A logistics planner is responsible for overseeing the entire life cycle of an operation – acquisition, distribution, allocation, delivery, and disposal. Sometimes logistics planners will have other titles depending on where they are employed, so other titles that have the same function as a logistics planner include freight broker, carrier salesman, and load coordinator.

Key responsibilities include:

• Ensure that all items are shipped on time, arrive at the correct locations and that all items are safely received.
• Design, organize and implement logistical support such as facility upkeep, repair scrutiny, and test equipment recommendations.
• Gain understanding into customer needs and apply practices to satisfy these needs.
• Responsible for minimizing the damaging impact of product shortages or service catastrophe.

Skills to possess:

• Excellent communication skills (person, via email and over the phone).
• High attention to detail and a sense of urgency when completing multiple tasks.
• A self-motivating and self-starting personality.
• Superior organization and delegation skills.
• The ability to identify underlying principles and information by breaking down and analyzing data.
• Knowledge of computer software to set up functions, write programs, process information, and handle data input are also a large part of the logistics planner position.

Why it’s important:

People with this profession are the “planners” of the company – ensuring that each step is scheduled, coordinated and functional. Logistics planners, in short, ensure that the logistics company is effectively running and that all of the pieces are in place to ensure client satisfaction. Without an efficient logistics planner, shipments may not be received on time, to the right place or in a good condition, which leads to a dissatisfied customer base.

If you’re a company looking to hire a logistics planner in the logistics industry or if you’re a prospective planner looking for an employer, then contact CS Recruiting to see how they can help your staffing needs.