Transport and logistics

The transport and logistics sectors play key roles in the nation’s economy. The Government has recognised the important role passenger transport and travel play within the UK and is currently investing heavily in infrastructure projects.

There is a huge variety of options and roles available in this sector ranging from managerial or planning to operational. Within larger companies, there are opportunities in support functions such as human resources, marketing, customer service and finance.

Typical graduate-level jobs in this sector are varied and include:

  • air traffic controller
  • freight forwarder
  • logistics and distribution manager
  • transport planner.

Key skills that are useful in this sector will vary according to the role, but can include: 

  • commercial awareness
  • excellent communication and customer service skills
  • project management skills
  • leadership skills
  • time management skills.

For job profiles and detailed information on pursuing a career in this sector, see the Prospects website: 

Transport and logistics profile

Contents

How to get a job

To prepare for a graduate-level career in transport and logistics, you should research the sector carefully. You should also talk with people who are in the sector already.

Having relevant work experience may be helpful when applying for jobs. It will prove that you are genuinely interested in a career in this area, and it's an effective way of finding out whether this sector is right for you.

Making a connection

To connect with people already working in the sector, consider joining Saint Connect, the University of St Andrews’ exclusive, global, online community for networking and career mentoring.

See more ideas for making a connection.

Work experience, placements, and internships 

Many larger organisations run formal structured internship programmes or placements. They can, however, be very competitive. These are normally open to penultimate year students and take place for a couple of months during the summer.

Many employers use internships as the first stage in graduate recruitment - interns who impress may be fast-tracked through the graduate recruitment process.

Use the companies listed in the graduate training schemes section below as a starting point for searching for internship schemes.

Making speculative applications

If you’re interested in working for a company that doesn’t offer a structured internship programme, you could consider making a speculative application. This is where you contact a company directly to learn whether they might offer work experience, shadowing or internships.

 See networking and speculative applications for more advice.

Find internships (Careers Centre)

Attend events

The Careers Centre often puts on events where you can talk to employers visiting St Andrews. Visit the events page for more information.

Further study  

Whether you will need to undertake further study depends on the role you are interested in. If you wish to be a logistics and distribution manager, you may not need a postgraduate degree. However, further training through professional bodies may be helpful. 

As additional qualifications will also make you an asset to the organisation, many employers will offer support through your studies.

Some roles require a specific qualification. For example, if you want to become an airline pilot, you would need at least an Airline Transport Pilot's Licence (ATPL), which is available through integrated courses or module training.

For other jobs, being a member of a professional body can be valuable. By joining, you can develop your networks, continue professional development and keep up to date with what is happening in the industry.

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) is a recognised provider of professional qualifications for the logistics and transport sector. It provides a range of courses to suit all levels of ability, from new entrants to those who are progressing to strategic management.

See more information about further study. 

Finding a job

Check out our job listings for vacancies or see the resources below for jobs in the transport and logistics sectors.

Find jobs (Careers Centre)

Jobs in the UK

Graduate training schemes

A graduate training scheme is a paid, entry-level job that also acts as a training programme. Many large employers offer graduate training programmes in transport and logistics, and these are one of the main ways of acquiring a graduate-level position. A 2.1 or above in any degree discipline is usually preferred, although some companies may accept a 2.2.

Examples include:

To find out more about transport and logistics graduate training schemes, see:

Jobs outside the UK

Applying for a job

The recruitment process for jobs and graduate training schemes in this sector may vary by role and company, but is likely to consist of one or more of the following:

Research the company before an interview to understand the skills and competencies they are looking for. Check employer websites as many provide details on their own individual recruitment and selection processes. Smaller organisations may be happy to accept a CV and covering letter and will have a less formal approach to the selection process.

Closing dates for application vary, but some can be relatively early in your final year – often between November and January.  Check websites regularly for up-to-date details.

If you would like personalised help on any aspect of applying for a job, you can book an appointment with a careers adviser.    

Applying for a job

Additional resources