What Does an Automated Logistical Specialist Do?

Responsible for getting the right supplies to the right place, on time, encompasses the role of an automated logistical specialist. Such tasks involved in the accomplishment of this duty will include managing inventories, maintaining those inventories, and distributing them efficiently. Usually working as part of a warehouse or an organization’s supply department, he or she will both supervise and manage the activities of that function, to include all phases of inventory, distribution, financial management, materials handling, and managing associated data. Responsibility will usually include maintaining all relevant equipment and facilities associated with the warehouse or supply department as well. Primarily, these functions are carried out to provide logistical support to help the organization accomplish its mission.

From parts, to food, to sensitive equipment and data, an automated logistical specialist carries the critical responsibility to ensure that representatives of an organization have the required supplies to accomplish their duties. Often found in military and various government organizations, but also in some private sector organizations, the role requires attention to detail and a high-degree of analytical skill. Automated logistical specialists will use these attributes to accurately anticipate supply requirements and coordinate their effective delivery or dissemination.

Daily tasks carried out to accomplish this mission are varied in nature depending on the organization. Still, those tasks share the same core attributes. Receiving incoming supplies and properly storing them is the first step. In the course of receiving those supplies, the automated logistical specialist will need to compare the physical supplies with the bill of lading to ensure accountability and compliance with the original request.

Accurately maintaining inventories is also central to the position. This includes both building and maintaining inventory as well as associated documentation and databases. Additionally, the automated logistical specialist will need to use and maintain stock location systems and associated equipment to ensure efficiency. Attending to requests for supplies is part of this process to include validating the requests and ensuring proper allotment. Processing and preparing required shipping documents to route supplies is another task associated with the inventory function.

Financial management of the logistical function usually falls to the automated logistical specialist. Reconciliation of monthly and quarterly financial accounts is central to this responsibility and involves using proper accounting methods and procedures to track and document all associated expenses. Aside from daily tasks associated with the job, the logistical specialist will usually have the responsibility for quality control and process improvement of the supply logistical function.