Public Safety

If you take pride in efficiency, logistics, and keeping the world moving, a career in
transportation and distribution could be for you!

This field has a range of job types, so there is a place for many different skill sets and backgrounds.

Ashley Cooper, Watlow

Watlow is a local manufacturing employer with a range of job positions and a dedication to bettering the community. Watch this video to learn more about the career field and about Watlow.

Career Progression

Whether you start through hands-on training or prove yourself through reliability and drive, a career in transportation and distribution offers clear pathways to advancement and leadership.

STARTING YOUR CAREER

Many roles require no prior experience to start, and with time and training, you can advance—even pursue a CDL.

Salary range:
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Possible Job Positions:
Warehouse Associate
Package Handler
Inventory Clerk
Forklift Operator
Dispatcher Assistant
Shipping & Receiving Clerk
Delivery Helper
Facility Upkeep Associate

ADVANCING IN YOUR CAREER

Earn certifications like a CDL and OSHA training or get a certificate in Logistics or Global Supply Chain Management

Salary range:
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Possible Job Positions:
Route Coordinator
Commercial Truck Driver
Transportation Manager
Fleet Operations Director
Heavy Equipment Operator
Supply Chain Coordinator
Inventory Control Analyst
Safety Trainer
Warehouse Manager

LEADING IN YOUR CAREER

Demonstrate leadership and initiative in current role. Show eagerness to learn. Be a resourceful trainer of other employees.

Salary range:
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Possible Job Positions:
Logistics Engineer
Warehouse Supervisor
Fleet Maintenance Manager
Distribution Center Manager
Global Supply Chain Director
Transportation Analyst
Dispatch Supervisor

What You Need to Succeed

Frequently asked questions about how to excel in a career in transportation and distribution

  • Manufacturing experience is preferred but not required for most manufacturing jobs.  On-the-job training for those with or without prior experience is usually provided.  Often apprenticeships are available to employees who want to move into more skilled positions.  Employees have the opportunity to shadow, be shadowed, and transition to working on their own.

  • Most entry-level manufacturing jobs do not require a degree, but those with technical certifications or diplomas are eligible for higher entry wages as well as preference for employment within the candidate pool.

  • If a candidate does not return the needed documents for employment consideration, there can be a delay in the hiring process. Job candidates are encouraged to complete things like background checks and drug-testing in a timely manner to prevent hiring delays.

  • Nothing precludes job candidates from applying for positions. However, a demonstrated inability to keep a consistent job will be heavily weighed when reviewing applications. It's also helpful if job candidates express a willingness to work overtime if needed. Employers value high-caliber, morally driven employees.

Your Path to
Getting Started

Click a path number for more information.

Discover whether a career in transportation and distribution might be a good fit for you. Click to read the article!

View Local Employers — We recommend applying on company sites instead of sites such as Indeed.com

Apprenticeships, Certificates, and Colleges/Technical Schools that could be helpful for career progression

Career Testimonials

Name, CEO of _
Started in food services and did not have a high school diploma

Employee, Calibration Technologies
Started out working in a pet supply store and is now the Kitting and Inventory Specialist at Calibration Technologies.

Rob Williams, Production Manager, Kraft-Heinz
Began as an Operator, progressed through mid-level roles, and advanced into supervisory and managerial leadership, ultimately serving as Production Manager.

Additional Career Resources

Job search and career success training videos

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