12 Aug From Classroom to Cargo: The Benefits of a Supply Chain Logistics Internship
Do numbers make you tick? Does a strong supply chain process make you giggle with delight? Are you dreaming of a rewarding, fast-paced career in supply chain logistics?
It’s a great career path. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that logisticians make an average salary of nearly $80,000 per year – and these jobs are growing incredibly fast, at a breakneck pace of 18%.
With a degree in supply chain logistics, you can work in practically any industry, from manufacturing to wholesale trade or even for the federal government. You might work in the logistical department of a company, or for a firm that specializes in logistical work, like a freight-shipping company.
There’s a lot of variation in this career path, so naturally, there’s a lot of variation in how you can get to where you need to be in your career.
Regardless of where your interests lie, one of the best ways to get ahead in this field is to complete a supply chain logistics internship.
What Does a Supply Chain Intern Do?
With a degree in supply chain management, you will, in short, help the world go round. There are almost always openings in this field – after all, products will always need to be shipped across the globe, and somebody has to be in charge to make sure they get from point A to point B.
There are countless field options available as you start your search for an internship, so you’ll want to think carefully about where your interests lie. Because of this, no two internships will be exactly alike, but in general, here are some commonalities in regards to tasks you can expect:
Communicating and Coordinating with Suppliers
As a supply chain intern, you’ll often be the point of contact between your company and its suppliers. This means coordinating orders, handling any issues that arise, and ensuring that everything runs smoothly.
Compiling Data and Analyzing It
Data is king in the world of supply chain logistics. You’ll spend a lot of time collecting data on everything from shipping times to inventory levels and then analyzing that data to find ways to improve efficiency.
Buying and Expediting
You’ll play a key role in the purchasing process, from placing orders to ensuring that those orders are delivered on time. Expediting involves following up on orders and making sure they arrive when they should.
Forecasting and Spending Analysis
To keep things running smoothly, you’ll need to anticipate future needs. This involves analyzing past data to forecast future demand and conducting spending analyses to ensure that your company is getting the best value for its money.
Developing Methods of Cost-Savings
One of your main goals will be to find ways to save your company money without sacrificing quality or efficiency. This could involve anything from negotiating better rates with suppliers to finding more efficient ways to manage inventory.
Skills You Need for a Supply Chain Logistics Internship
Again, no two experiences are exactly alike, but in general, you’ll need the following abilities:
Meeting Deadlines with Precision
In the world of logistics, timing is everything. Every delay can ripple through the supply chain, affecting numerous stakeholders. You’ll need to be able to meet tight deadlines and handle the pressure that comes with them.
Collaborative Teamwork Across Departments
Supply chain logistics is inherently a team effort, requiring seamless coordination and collaboration. You’ll need to be adept at working well with others, whether that’s within your own team or across different departments.
Multi-Project Management
Handling multiple projects simultaneously is a regular part of a logistics professional’s life.
You must be able to prioritize tasks, manage resources efficiently, and keep track of various project timelines and milestones.
Certain techniques, like using Gantt charts, project management software, and regular status meetings, can help you stay on top of everything. The key is to be flexible yet structured so that you can shift focus as priorities change without losing sight of the overall objectives.
Advanced Computer Literacy
In today’s digital age, being tech-savvy is non-negotiable. You’ll be working with various software programs, including MRP (Material Requirements Planning), PIM (Product Information Management), and QMS (Quality Management System).
In-Depth Understanding of Supply Chain Processes
Understanding how supply chains work will help you make smart decisions and spot problems before they become problems. As a result, you’ll need to have at least a preliminary understanding of procurement, production, inventory management, distribution, and logistics.
This will help you identify bottlenecks, streamline operations, and ensure that goods move smoothly from suppliers to customers.
Exceptional Organizational Skills
Keeping track of all the moving parts in a supply chain requires excellent organizational skills. From managing inventory levels to coordinating shipments and ensuring compliance with regulations, every detail matters. Creating systems to track tasks, deadlines, and responsibilities can help maintain order and prevent oversights.
Strong Problem-Solving Abilities
When things go wrong – and they will – you’ll need to be able to think on your feet and come up with effective solutions. Problem-solving in logistics often involves quick thinking, creativity, and a thorough understanding of the entire supply chain.
Effective Communication Skills
Whether you’re coordinating with suppliers, negotiating with vendors, or explaining your findings to your team, strong communication skills are essential. You’ve got to make sure everybody’s on the same page!
This includes not only verbal and written communication but also active listening and the ability to convey complex information in an understandable manner.
How Do I Start a Career in Supply Chain and Logistics?
Once you start your career in supply chain and logistics, don’t worry – you’re going to be handling all the logistics, day in, and day out. But if you need help handling the finer details of your internship now, Absolute Internship is here to help.
Absolute Internship has programs all over the world, from Singapore to Beijing, Stockholm to London, and countless other destinations. You’ll be exposed to an array of industries in your internship, from materials management to inventory control, transportation and so much more.
Best yet, Absolute Internship will help set you up with the perfect opportunity – no heavy lifting required. Think of this as a plug and play internship that’s waiting for you when you’re ready.
So, just one question remains – are you ready? If so, it’s time to reach out and start thinking about what a supply chain logistics internship could do for you.
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