Logistics coordinator job description template: Everything you need to include

Writing an effective logistics coordinator job description that clearly communicates your needs and attracts the right candidates can be challenging.

The difficulties? Capturing the nitty-gritty of what the coordinator will do within your logistics operations – plus the skills they’ll need to do this – in a way that attracts candidates equipped to boost your supply chain amid current supply chain disruptions and other issues.

Below, we share a logistics coordinator job description template you can use to get started. We also discuss how you can use a skills-based hiring approach to shortlist suitable applicants.

Logistics coordinator job description template

• Job Title: Logistics Coordinator

• Location: [Insert Location]

• Reports To: Operations Manager

• Job Type: [Full-time/Part-time/Contract]

About Us

[Company Name] is a dynamic company specializing in [brief description of the company's focus, e.g., supply chain solutions or efficient logistics management]. Our mission is to [state the mission, e.g., "optimize supply chains with innovative logistics strategies"]. We value [core values like efficiency, collaboration, and reliability], fostering an environment that supports career development and professional growth. With a solid reputation for [unique qualities, e.g., on-time delivery and exceptional customer service], we are committed to empowering our team to lead in the [industry or sector].

Job Overview

We are seeking an organized and detail-oriented Logistics Coordinator to join our team. The successful candidate will play a critical role in managing and optimizing our logistics operations, ensuring the smooth flow of goods from suppliers to customers. This role is ideal for someone with strong multitasking abilities, a passion for logistics, and a drive to contribute to the efficiency of our supply chain processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate and monitor all inbound and outbound logistics operations, ensuring timely delivery and accurate documentation.

• Develop and implement efficient logistics procedures, tracking shipments and ensuring compliance with regulations.

• Work closely with suppliers, vendors, and internal departments to ensure smooth communication and coordination throughout the supply chain.

• Manage inventory levels, placing orders to maintain optimal stock levels while avoiding overstocking.

• Collaborate with the procurement team to optimize freight costs and delivery schedules.

• Handle the preparation of shipping documents, including invoices, customs declarations, and bills of lading.

• Use logistics management software (e.g., SAP, Oracle) to track shipments, manage inventory, and produce reports.

• Maintain clear and accurate records of all logistics activities, ensuring compliance with company policies and industry regulations.

• Coordinate with third-party logistics providers (3PLs) to arrange transportation and negotiate rates when necessary.

• Resolve any issues related to transportation delays, damaged goods, or delivery discrepancies, working with relevant stakeholders to provide timely solutions.

• Help implement risk management protocols to anticipate disruptions and ensure continuity of operations, minimizing risks associated with supply chain vulnerabilities and aiding with supply chain resilience.

• Stay up to date on logistics and transportation trends to continuously improve processes and recommend cost-saving initiatives.

• Assist in planning and coordinating logistics for special projects, promotional events, and high-volume periods.

• Support the operations and logistics teams as required, managing tasks and workflow efficiently.

Skills

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple logistics operations simultaneously.

• Proficiency in logistics software and systems, such as [SAP, Oracle,] or similar platforms.

• In-depth knowledge of supply chain management principles, transportation modes, and shipping regulations.

• Excellent communication and negotiation skills to work with vendors, carriers, and internal teams.

• Attention to detail and the ability to track and manage inventory, orders, and shipments accurately.

• Strong problem-solving abilities, with a proactive approach to resolving logistics issues.

• Crisis management skills, adaptability, and resilience for handling emergencies or unexpected disruptions effectively, ensuring that logistics operations continue smoothly under various scenarios.

• Ability to work independently and within a collaborative team in a fast-paced environment.

• Experience with data analysis and the ability to generate reports and insights from logistics data.

• Understanding of regulatory compliance in logistics, including international shipping requirements.

• Knowledge of cost control and budgeting in logistics operations.

Preferred Experience and Education

• Previous experience in logistics, supply chain management, or a related field.

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related discipline.

• Proven experience with logistics coordination in both domestic and international markets.

• Familiarity with inventory management and warehouse operations.

• Experience using logistics software to manage shipments, track inventory, and generate reports.

• Knowledge of industry-specific certifications or training (e.g., CILT, APICS) is a plus.

• Familiarity with workflow and project management tools (e.g., Trello, Asana) is an advantage.

Benefits

[List the benefits of joining your company, such as health coverage, paid time off, opportunities for professional development, a collaborative and creative work environment, flexible working hours, etc.]

Application Instructions

If you are a logistics enthusiast eager to contribute to a growing company, we encourage you to apply. Please send your [application materials] to [email address] by [application deadline].

Psst! You might be interested in our transport co-ordinator job description.

Why this logistics coordinator job description template works 

Our job description provides just enough detail to lure in candidates ready and willing to join your team and take on your challenges.

Our About Us introduces our company’s mission and culture, emphasizing core values like efficiency and collaboration (you can replace these with your own values). Since many logistics professionals value efficiency, reliability, and growth opportunities, this can attract candidates who vibe with these. Highlighting your company's strong reputation here, as we do, appeals to those who want to take pride in their contributions to your logistics operations.

Next, our Job Overview gives a concise but clear summary of the role’s primary purpose and expectations. Logistics coordinators want to see how they can make an impact – whether by optimizing supply chains, improving delivery times, or guaranteeing smooth operations. Describing your ideal candidate here will speak to applicants with the traits you desire – for instance, a knack for multitasking. 

The Key Responsibilities section then lists specific tasks like coordinating shipments and managing inventory. We keep these responsibilities current since supply chains are constantly in flux. These details help your candidates understand what’s expected, making it easier for them to determine if they can do what the role demands. Clearly laid out responsibilities also show candidates that your company values clarity and structure – key elements for logistics success.

Afterward, our Skills section outlines what spells success in the role. Logistics coordinators need both technical and interpersonal skills. Listing software skills (like SAP proficiency) and resilience highlight the balanced skill set needed and help candidates determine if they’re a good fit. This is a great place to list the more modern skills your coordinators may need to navigate current supply chain challenges. 

The Preferred Experience and Education section attracts qualified candidates without limiting the pool. Logistics professionals often have varied backgrounds, and hands-on experience can be just as valuable as formal education. Labeling qualifications as “preferred” encourages those with practical experience to apply – so you won’t miss out on capable candidates.

Next steps: Attracting and assessing logistics coordinator candidates

After fine-tuning your logistics coordinator job description, you can start publishing it on multiple platforms – including general or industry specific job boards (like the one the Association for Supply Chain Management hosts), social media, your company website, and more. Once the applications start coming in, begin the candidate assessment process. 

The US Bureau of Labor expects the logistician field – which logistics coordinators are a part of – to grow much faster than average. That’s roughly 19% between 2023 and 2033! With such a large applicant pool, you could spend ages vetting each person. And if you’re using outdated screening methods, you might miss out on skilled applicants. 

The safeguard? Talent assessments. 

Our talent discovery platform provides over “400+” tests designed to evaluate job-related skills, soft skills, personality traits, and more. You can select up to five tests to create a custom assessment that focuses on the specific skills needed for your role.

TestGorilla has a collection of tests for logistics coordinators. These include:

Situational judgment tests

• Communication Skills test

• Time Management test

• Leadership & People Management test

• Business Ethics & Compliance test

Cognitive ability tests

• Reading Comprehension test

• Problem Solving test

• Numerical Reasoning test

Software skills tests

• Microsoft Excel test

• SAP Ariba test

Role-specific tests

• Data-Driven Decision Making test

• Supply Chain Fundamentals test

You can pair any of these tests with our Transport Coordinator test and Culture Add test to spot candidates with the right technical skills and behavioral traits to thrive in your organization. 

Use our tests to shortlist candidates to interview. Our platform makes this so easy – as we provide automatic scoring so you can see, right away, how applicants stack up.

Additionally, ask your shortlisted candidates a few supply chain interview questions to fill any gaps your skills assessment might miss. 

Ready to start assessing candidates? Get started with TestGorilla today by Request a free live demo to see what TestGorilla has to offer. Or sign up for a free account to get started right away.

Related topic: Read all about how to hire the best logistics managers with a transport coordinator skills test.

FAQs

What is another name for a logistics coordinator?

Another name for a logistics coordinator is a logistics specialist. They’re also sometimes called transportation coordinators. However, while those two roles share some responsibilities and might share titles at smaller companies, transportation coordinators typically focus just on transportation aspects, while logistics coordinators focus on broader supply chain responsibilities. 

What is the difference between warehouse coordinator and logistics coordinator?

A warehouse coordinator manages inventory and oversees warehouse activities, while a logistics coordinator handles the entire supply chain – including shipments and supplier coordination.

What is the job objective of a logistics coordinator?

Logistics coordinators aim to guarantee smooth day-to-day operations for a company’s supply chain by keeping it efficient and cost effective. They also try to keep communication between suppliers, transport providers, and internal teams clear. 

What’s the difference between logistics coordinators and logistics managers? 

Logistics coordinators handle daily operations – like scheduling shipments and managing inventory – working under the guidance of logistics managers. Logistics managers oversee larger strategic operations, manage budgets, and take responsibility for the logistics team’s performance.