Green Jobs

Logistics Manager

A Logistics Manager coordinates the movement of trucks, ships and railcars to ensure products are delivered in a timely and effective manner. A forest industry Logistics Manager creates and maintains outbound shipment schedules for all log and lumber products. 

Logistics Managers work closely with suppliers, customers, brokers and transportation companies. When it comes to exports, this individual confirms ocean bookings based on the port of loading, destination, freight rate, transit time and container availability. Part of the workday is spent in the office checking inventory, preparing orders, calling customers and completing paperwork. The other part of the day is spent in the mill yard overseeing the loading of trucks and trains.

This position may also be referred to as a Shipping and Sales Coordinator, Warehouse Manager, Shipping Supervisor or Transportation Manager.

Layne Rolle

Shipping Supervisor, Sierra Pacific Industries

I enjoy the challenges of coordinating the products to meet the needs of our sales department. In a typical day I work with the sales department, schedule lumber pickups, support the shipping crew and ensure the job is being performed safely and efficiently.

Education

A logistics manager should have a high school diploma and on-the job experience in the industry and in shipping. Some employers may prefer a Bachelor’s Degree in business administration, supply chain management, logistics or a related field, depending upon the position.

Helpful courses to take in high school include mathematics, business, computer science and geography. Taking a second language, such as Spanish or French, is helpful for future conversations with international customers.

Tools of the Trade

  • Basic spreadsheet and data management software, such as Microsoft Office applications.
  • Inventory technology, such as a digital inventory hand tool and tablet.
  • Mill equipment, such as a forklift, skidder and log loader.
  • Safety gear, such as a safety vest, hard hat, work gloves and steel-toe shoes.

Important Skills

The logistics manager needs to have good project management skills, sound decision-making and a good working relationship with contractors and harvesting managers.

Must be able to work in basic spreadsheet and data management software.

A knowledge of harvesting and forestry operations and the forestry supply chain is beneficial to this role.

Good communication skills are necessary, as this individual interacts with people on a daily basis. From customers to truck drivers to harvest managers, the logistics manager must be a good communicator.

Job Responsibilities

This role is a critical part of the timber supply chain. Primary duties may include:

  • Manage the flow of goods from the forest to the sawmill or other processing facilities.
  • Communication with harvesting managers and contractors.
  • Management of daily, weekly, and monthly log flows and reports.
  • Acts as a liaison with transport operators and log buyers.
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