Supply chain specialists ensure supply chain performance in aspects ranging from order to shipment to billing and customer service. They supervise and oversee employees and departments within the supply chain and ensure the process runs smoothly. They work in shipping, manufacturing, or supply chain management companies or on a consulting basis and analyze and coordinate a company's supply chain. They are responsible for procuring materials in the manufacturing and shipment of a final product, negotiating price and shipment terms, overseeing the process, and delivering materials needed to fulfill a customer order.
Supply chain specialists maintain adequate inventory and schedule and receive materials shipments. They assess current orders and forecast future demand to provide adequate supplies and remain mindful of significant demand changes by responding to changes and solving problems that may arise. They remain in constant communication with customers to avoid unforeseen charges or surprise in orders they must input and process alongside billing and paperwork oversight. Supply chain specialists need a bachelor's degree in logistics, business engineering, or supply chain management.