Learning Supply Chain Management in Maine
When products and services move from their initial design phase on through transportation and final delivery to the intended user, they move through something called the supply chain. This process is managed by logisticians, who monitor the product or service’s progress from beginning to end and do whatever they can to spend the least amount of time and money possible to complete the process.
To get a job as an entry-level logistician, you’ll likely need to have at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Some employers hire people with associate’s degrees or a sufficient amount of related work experience, but the specialized knowledge required to be successful in this field usually entails the pursuit of a bachelor’s degree. Some logisticians may choose to pursue their master’s degrees, and while these are not necessary for entry-level work, they can open the door to more lucrative career opportunities in the future. Popular degree programs for work in this field include business, operations management or supply chain management. The following information can help you select the educational opportunities best suited to your needs.
Four-Year Degree Programs
The following schools in Maine offer bachelor’s degrees, which are commonly expected for those seeking entry-level jobs as logisticians:
- University of New England. Business Administration majors at the University of New England can select a variety of concentrations to complement the main program, including management, international business and economics. Qualified students can enter the honors program, which offers additional research and scholarship opportunities.
- University of Southern Maine. The University of Southern Maine offers both General Business Administration majors and Business Administration and Finance majors, among other degree choices. Its Accelerated Graduate Pathways allow undergraduates to begin studying for their master’s degree before graduation.
- Husson University. Husson University operates three campuses throughout Maine in addition to its online courses. Students in the Business Administration major study financial management and planning, marketing and other areas of business.
Available Master’s Degree Programs
While not required for entry-level careers, master’s degrees in business administration can provide more seasoned logisticians with additional career choices. Consider the following programs:
- University of Maine. The University of Maine’s Essential MBA program teaches graduate students the fundamentals of business administration in 10 courses. Studies include leadership, critical thinking, analysis and global engagement.
- Thomas College. Thomas College prides itself on providing students with career-focused educational programs. Master’s in Business Administration degrees are available in full-time, part-time and accelerated courses. An MBA with a focus in Project Management is also available.
- University of Southern Maine. Students are encouraged to apply to the University of Southern Maine’s Master’s in Business Administration program regardless of their undergraduate major. The program emphasizes global and ethical decision making and is designed for part-time, working professionals.
Associate’s Degrees and Certificates
Community colleges and technical schools throughout the state offer associate’s degrees in subjects relevant to supply chain management. At York County Community College, students can receive an associate’s degree in Business Administration with an optional concentration in Finance. Southern Maine Community College offers a similar program online or on campus.
There are also several certificate programs available through the American Production and Inventory Control Society. Popular courses include the Certified Supply Chain Professional, Certified in Production Inventory Management and Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution certifications.
Salary and Employment Expectations
In the 10 years to 2026, the Projections Managing Partnership anticipates growth of 3.8 percent in the job market for logisticians in Maine. While this is lower than the national average of 7 percent during the same period, the market is still expanding, and jobs will continue to be available in the years to come.
Logisticians in Maine can expect to make an average of $33.12 per hour, or $68,890 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salaries on the higher end of this average can reach as much as $90,000 annually.
Working in Supply Chain Management in Maine
As a logistician, you will be able to work in a variety of different industries while putting your hard-earned skills to use. Logisticians can work in manufacturing, government, company management, scientific services, technical services, wholesale trade and more. They often work as part of in-house teams for one company but can also be employed at logistics firms or as consultants. You can expect to work traditional, 40-hour workweeks, with occasional overtime and travel required to complete the work.
A good logistician is someone with excellent communication, critical thinking and customer service skills. These abilities will allow you to manage any problems that may occur and keep suppliers and customers informed of items’ progress. While jobs can be found throughout the state, they are most plentiful in larger cities, such as Portland. These cities also tend to offer higher salaries as compensation for the cost of urban living.