Logistics Engineers
Logistics engineers design and improve operational systems for transportation, supply chains, and distribution networks. They analyze processes to reduce costs, enhance capacity, and optimize routing and shipment methods. These professionals work in manufacturing, transportation, retail, and warehousing companies, using data analysis and modeling to solve complex logistical problems.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against logistics engineers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A logistics engineer might spend the morning reviewing transportation data to identify inefficiencies in current routes, then model alternative solutions using specialized software. The afternoon could involve meeting with operations teams to discuss capacity constraints or working on a cost analysis for a new warehouse location. The work involves a mix of problem-solving, data review, and collaboration with different departments to implement improvements.
Who this work suits
Holland code CIR. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely excel at this work if you enjoy breaking down complex systems to find practical improvements and working through detailed analysis methodically. A preference for organizing information and solving concrete problems, combined with curiosity about how things operate, makes this field a good fit.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $87,610 | $107,250 | $132,340 | 5,670 |
| District of Columbia | $76,720 | $104,770 | $134,140 | 1,350 |
| Maryland | $81,100 | $102,700 | $130,870 | 6,840 |
| Massachusetts | $79,150 | $100,360 | $131,580 | 5,250 |
| Hawaii | $78,670 | $100,340 | $124,680 | 570 |
| Virginia | $78,210 | $98,920 | $126,840 | 10,540 |
| Alabama | $74,490 | $98,450 | $124,380 | 5,190 |
| New Mexico | $78,080 | $98,430 | $119,740 | 850 |
| Colorado | $77,390 | $96,090 | $121,850 | 4,490 |
| Delaware | $73,820 | $96,090 | $115,950 | 520 |
| California | $71,910 | $92,890 | $121,470 | 32,940 |
| New Jersey | $78,240 | $92,280 | $115,170 | 6,280 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Logistics Associate (CLT) — Manufacturing Skill Standards Council
- Certified Logistics Technician 4.0 (CLT 4.0) — Manufacturing Skill Standards Council
- Certified Technician-Supply Chain Automation & Skill Boss Logistics — Manufacturing Skill Standards Council
- Certified in Logistics,Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) — Association for Supply Chain Management
- Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) — American Society for Quality
- Certified International Trade Logistics Specialist (CITLS) — International Trade Certification
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against logistics engineers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 13-1081.01 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.