Q: What supply chain and logistics roles are most in demand in 2026?

A: Right now I’m consistently recruiting for planners (demand, inventory and production), transport controllers/allocators, and warehouse supervisors who are comfortable with data and systems. There’s also strong demand for people in freight coordination, last‑mile logistics, and continuous improvement roles as businesses try to lift service and reduce cost at the same time.

Q: How has AI and automation actually changed day‑to‑day jobs in warehousing and transport?

A: In most businesses AI and automation haven’t “taken away” roles, they’ve changed what a good operator looks like. You still need people on the floor and in control rooms, but more of their day is spent monitoring systems, interpreting data, and dealing with exceptions rather than doing purely manual tasks. Candidates who can work comfortably alongside WMS, scanners, robotics or optimisation tools are getting the better opportunities.

Q: What skills make candidates stand out for mid‑level supply chain roles right now?

A: For coordinators, planners and supervisors, the stand‑outs can read data, spot patterns and then actually do something with it. Employers are asking for strong Excel or system skills, clear communication, and a track record of improving a process, not just “running” it. If you can talk through a concrete example where you lifted OTIF, reduced waste or improved a route or picking accuracy, you’re already ahead.

Q: I’m in a warehouse role – how can I move into planning or coordination?

A: The best pathway is to start taking on tasks that touch planning before you formally change jobs. That might mean helping with stock counts and investigations, learning the WMS inside out, owning a KPI report, or supporting the team with basic scheduling or allocation. Once you can show you understand the numbers behind the operation, it becomes much easier to step into an inventory controller, logistics coordinator or junior planner role.

Q: Are employers open to flexible or hybrid work in supply chain, or is it mostly on‑site?

A: Frontline roles like pick‑pack, forklift and shift supervision are still overwhelmingly on‑site, and that won’t change. Where we are seeing more flexibility is in planning, analysis and customer‑facing logistics roles, where 1–2 days from home is increasingly common once trust is built. If flexibility is important to you, call it out early, but be ready to explain how you’ll stay connected to operations and service levels.

Q: What pay ranges can candidates realistically expect for key roles (e.g. planner, warehouse supervisor, transport allocator) in 2026?

A: It varies by state and size of operation, but as a rough guide in Australia in 2026, many mid‑level logistics supervisors and warehouse supervisors sit somewhere in the mid‑70s to low‑90s base, with some stretching higher in 24/7 or high‑complexity sites. Planners and transport allocators can range from mid‑60s for juniors through to high‑80s or more once you’re experienced and managing bigger networks or teams. Always look at the whole package – shift loadings, bonuses and overtime can make a big difference.

Q: Do I need formal qualifications (e.g. logistics, supply chain degrees or certs) to progress, or is experience enough?

A: Experience still opens the first few doors in supply chain, especially if you’ve come up through warehousing or transport. Where qualifications help is when you’re competing for planner, analyst or leadership roles – a diploma or degree in logistics, supply chain or business can give you an edge and support a higher salary band. My advice is to build real operational runs on the board and then add a targeted qualification that matches where you want to go next.

Q: How important is experience with specific systems (WMS/TMS/ERP) when hiring?

A: Employers are definitely asking for system experience, but most will hire someone who’s strong technically and has learnt one platform, then train them on their specific stack. What really matters is that you’re comfortable with WMS/TMS/ERP concepts, can pick up new tools quickly, and can show how you’ve used systems to improve accuracy, speed or service. When you interview, talk about outcomes you achieved with the system rather than just listing software names.

Q: What are the biggest mistakes candidates make when applying for supply chain roles?

A: The big one is vague CVs – lots of task lists and almost no numbers. Hiring managers want to see volumes, team sizes, KPIs and concrete improvements. The second mistake is not tailoring your application: using the same generic cover letter for a warehouse supervisor role and a demand planner role doesn’t work. Finally, people often underestimate communication – being able to work with operations, sales and customers is just as important as driving a forklift or running a report.

Q: If I’m new to supply chain, what’s the best entry point in 2026?


A: Common entry points are pick‑pack roles, storeperson positions, transport admin, and junior logistics coordinator jobs. From there, you can move into areas like inventory, customer service, transport allocation or team leading once you’ve got your basics and reliability nailed. If you’re serious about the field, tell employers you’re looking for a long‑term supply chain career and be proactive about learning systems and KPIs from day one.