The transportation field is a vast one that comprises of many transportation occupations like driving, logistics, supply chain management, dispatch and more. A lot of people with an interest in the transportation sector often wonder if transportation is a good career path to pursue.
Though the transportation industry is not a glamorous one, it has the potential to be financially rewarding as it offers a wide range of job opportunities with room for growth and career advancement. This article will be looking at some reasons why a career path in transportation can be fulfilling, the benefits you stand to enjoy and the various job options available.
Why Transportation Can Be an Excellent Career Path?
Most physical product based businesses rely on the transportation industry to deliver their services. This sector is also an integral part of any functioning economy. Data gotten from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the employment rate in this sector will consistently grow by 4% from the year 2019 to 2029.
This rate is at par with many industries and jobs come with very competitive salaries, benefits as well as stability. Some companies also offer their employees health insurance, retirement plans, health benefits and more.
For people who crave change and spontaneity, this industry can fulfill this as there are many interrelated jobs you can switch to years down the line. Whatever angle your skills or interest tilt to, you will find something to match this.
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Benefits of Transportation as a Good Career Path
There are many benefits that come with working in the transportation industry. Some of these benefits include:
1. Job security
The demand for transportation services continues to grow and this means that in years to come, there will be many positions that would need filling.
2. Competitive salaries
Due to the tasks involved in most of these roles, companies try to compensate employees properly. Most jobs offer very competitive salaries especially driving and managerial positions.
3. Opportunity for growth
Most roles in the transportation industry come with room for career growth as well as opportunities to facilitate this. Drivers in some companies may get promoted to managerial roles or executive positions after years of service.
Different Job Opportunities in Transportation
There are many roles you can take up in the transportation industry and they all have unique demands. Some of these roles include drivers, logistics managers, dispatcher, freight broker, supply chain analyst, warehouse manager, or transportation safety manager.
For some of these roles, you may need a license or certification before they can be offered to you. Some companies also offer on the job training for certain titles.
What are the Highest Paying Occupations in the Transportation Sector?
Some of the highest paying occupations in the transportation sector include:
1. Airline Pilot
Airline Pilots earn one of the highest salaries in the transportation industry. The average salary for an airline pilot in the United States is about $150,000 yearly. These professionals are responsible for flying aircrafts while maintaining the safety of crew members and passengers. To be hired for this role, you must first undergo the necessary training and certification.
2. Ship Captain
The average salary of a Ship Captain in the United States is $120,000 yearly. These professionals are expected to have a broad knowledge of maritime laws, weather patterns and navigation. They are responsible for directing and overseeing the management of the crew of cargo ships, vessels and tankers.
3. Commercial Diver
Commercial divers are highly skilled and trained in the different techniques and safety procedures to be maintained during tasks like construction, underwater welding and maintenance of offshore oil rigs. In the United States, the average salary for a commercial diver is $70,000 per year.
4. Logistics Manager
Logistics managers on average earn about $90,000 yearly. They are tasked with overseeing the movement of materials and goods from location of production to distribution. This role requires a thorough understanding of logistics and transportation systems as well as excellent communication and relational skills.
5. Air Traffic Controller
Air traffic controllers must have a unique ability to work well under pressure as their work dynamic is fast paced. They must also be very good at communication and decision making. Typically, they are responsible for managing the movement of planes in and out of airports. The average salary for this role is $130,000 per year.
6. Railroad Engineer
Railroad engineers earn around $85,000 yearly. They oversee train operations and ensure the safety and efficiency of train travels. To thrive in this role, you need a grounded understanding of railway operations and safety protocols.
7. Commercial Truck Driver
Commercial truck drivers drive trucks across long or short distances with long distances lasting days to weeks. To work as a commercial truck driver, you need a driver’s license and must be able to demonstrate the ability to adhere to set safety regulations. The average commercial truck driver in US earns $60,000 per year.
8. Transportation Planner
The average transportation planner earns about $75,000 in the US. Common responsibilities include design and implementation of transportation systems like bridges and highways. People in this role are well versed when it comes to planning and transportation infrastructure.
9. Flight Engineer
Flight engineers work with other professions like pilots in maintaining and monitoring key systems. These engineers are skilled in electrical systems and aircraft mechanics. You must be a good team player to thrive in this role. On average, Flight engineers earn about $95,000 per year.
10. Ship Engineer
Common responsibilities for ship engineers include the repair and maintenance of systems of the ship and associated vessels. Ship engineers typically have a background in marine engineering. The average salary for a ship engineer in US is $80,000 yearly.
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Conclusion
Transportation can make a good career path for people who love the adrenaline rush that come with working in fast paced environments. The industry offers many job occupation paths, great salaries and diverse opportunities for growth and promotion. Before deciding the specific role to work in, carry out research on each role and carefully assess your capabilities.
