8 Entry Level Supply Chain Jobs For Business Master’s Grads

Supply chain is among the most dynamic industries for business grads. Not only is the supply chain industry projected to boom to almost double its current market size by 2030, but there is an abundance of high-paying entry-level supply chain jobs available at major companies like Amazon and UPS.

So, what exactly does a career in supply chain involve? Roles vary, however they all revolve around the same important function: to oversee the multitude of processes involved in the manufacturing and delivery of a product or service. 

Some of the top skills required for success in this fast-paced field are critical thinking, problem-solving, and strategic management—perfect for anyone who enjoys flexing their intellectual muscles to complete complex puzzles. 

One of the best ways to pick up these dynamic skills is by studying for a supply chain-focused business master’s degree. There, you can learn core logistics concepts alongside traditional leadership skills, leaving you well poised to enter a management role in an expanding industry.

Convinced that supply chain is your calling? Here are the most exciting roles you can enter straight after your business master’s:

8 entry-level supply chain jobs for business master’s grads

1. Logistics analyst

Average salary: $70,000

If you’re someone with a highly critical eye, becoming a logistics analyst could be a rewarding career path. The role typically entails tasks such as analyzing supply chain processes and recommending any applicable adjustments for efficiency, as well as taking responsibility for maintaining the information in logistic databases.

As such, logistics analysts need to have a strong understanding of supply chain metrics, inventory management, and data analysis skills. 

2. Materials coordinator

Average salary: $62,000

As a material coordinator, you shoulder a significant amount of responsibility for the company’s shipping schedule. This means engaging with a whole range of tasks, including ordering necessary supplies, scheduling deliveries, and managing your company's inventory.

To be able to keep up with the demands of the role, it is necessary to have a flexible skillset that includes strategy, organization, and time management. 

3. Supply chain manager

Average salary: $112,000

One of the highest-paying entry level supply chain jobs, becoming a supply chain manager means connecting with procurement managers and buyers to source the right products, negotiating contracts, and planning and implementing logistical strategies to ensure targets are met.

It’s a job well-suited to those who enjoy coming up with strategic logistical frameworks and who can juggle large quantities of information.

4. Operations manager 

Average salary: $77,000

An operations manager’s key role is to ensure that the company’s products and services meet quality standards. This involves engaging with a variety of people-focused tasks, including collaborating with quality control teams and staying on top of consumer demands. 

As such, operations managers need to have strong communication skills while also being effective planners. 

5. Procurement manager

Average salary: $109,000

As a procurement manager, you’ll be responsible for helping your company get the best possible deals on products and services. This means liaising with suppliers and building connections in order to secure the best price as well as make sure that contracts are fulfilled on time. 

Top skills needed include organization, communication, and negotiation. 

6. Project manager

Average salary: $91,000

A highly strategic role, project managers work with their teams to introduce initiatives to improve supply chain processes. This includes streamlining a variety of areas, including purchasing, distribution, warehousing, logistics, and production.

They are also responsible for identifying potential risks in the supply chain and thereby ensuring the future of the company.

Top skills include critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and an aptitude for handling data. 

7. Import/export manager 

Average salary: $84,000

As a manager of imports and exports, you need to have an up-to-date knowledge of government law and licensing regulations to make sure the company is abiding by customs rules. You will also need to be able to resolve complex issues regarding clients, customs officials, and suppliers. 

Particularly if you are working for an international company, this role requires strong cross-cultural communication skills—being multilingual is often a bonus. 

8. Distribution manager 

Average salary: $82,000

Distribution managers have the final say on a company’s delivery process. They get to determine when, where, and how much of a product is distributed. This requires the leveraging of IT and software to make predictions over where their product is best needed. 

As such, strong tech skills are a must, as well as the ability to plan effectively. 

Average supply chain salaries

Average salaries are provided by Glassdoor and include average cash compensation.

So, there you have it. There are the top entry-level supply chain jobs for business master’s grads, offering competitive salaries and exciting room for growth.