5,744,400 jobs are available in the catalog/specialty distribution job market. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this is one of the fastest-expanding fields in the United States.
This sector recorded a 15% increase in job opportunities between 2016 and 2026. More so, there are numerous excellent positions in this expanding industry for anyone with the necessary qualifications and expertise.
What is the Catalog/Specialty Distribution Sector?
The catalog/specialty sector is concerned with the process of distributing catalogs and related materials to customers. This is usually achieved either by mail or in person.
Direct mail is the most prevalent kind of catalog distribution, in which catalogs are mailed directly to clients’ homes. Other businesses, however, distribute catalogs in person, such as through door-to-door salesmen or at trade exhibitions.
There are several types of catalogs that are widely distributed. Catalogs featuring retailers’ products and services are frequently distributed. These catalogs often include images, descriptions, and prices for the things for sale.
Several businesses also distribute general interest catalogs which inform customers about the company’s brand or mission. These catalogs typically feature essays, images, and other content that is intended to pique the attention of potential buyers.
Pens and keychains, as well as T-shirts and coffee mugs, are examples of specialty items. These things are often imprinted with the company’s logo or name and distributed to raise brand awareness. Some businesses will also give away unique things as prizes or awards for customer loyalty programs.
Overview of the Catalog/Specialty Distribution Job Market
The catalog distribution industry has numerous job opportunities. This job path includes a large number of job prospects as well as good pay for its employees. It is not surprising that the industry is at the top of the list of the greatest career pathways in the globe.
Specialists and catalog distributors are required to do a variety of responsibilities depending on the size and type of the organization. Typical responsibilities include storing marketing materials and catalogs, providing customer service, finalizing orders, processing payments, and managing shipment logistics.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for workers in the catalog/specialty distribution industry is $63,450.
It is worth noting that various factors can affect this figure. Factors such as the exact job title and industry affect salaries in this industry. According to Glassdoor data, the typical yearly pay for a Warehouse Associate is $42,000. In contrast, a sales manager earns up to $70,000 or more.
10 Most Common Available Jobs in Catalog/Specialty Distribution
There are numerous available roles in the catalog/specialty distribution sector. With the right skills and qualifications, you can easily land some of these available jobs.
Top 10 common available jobs in catalog/specialty distribution:
Product managers are responsible for overseeing the development and marketing of products or services for their organization. In fulfillment of their job functions, they conduct market research, define product features, and set pricing strategies.
Product managers hold a bachelor’s degree in business management, supply chain, and operations management. Employers are more comfortable hiring candidates with a business background.
The job outlook for product managers is positive, with a growth rate of 10% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 53,100 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
2 Supply Chain Analyst
Average Annual Salary: $68,000
Supply chain analysts are responsible for analyzing and improving the efficiency of their organization’s supply chain. They collect and analyze data with the aim of identifying inefficiencies and developing strategies for improvement.
Supply Chain Analysts have at least a bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, logistics, or a related field. Candidates require strong data collection and analytics skills to identify trends, mitigate risks and improve product delivery.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 25% increase in job growth for supply chain analysts. It will provide 12,700 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
3 Purchasing Agent
Average Annual Salary: $66,000
Purchasing agents are responsible for buying goods and services for their organization. They are usually in charge of identifying suppliers, negotiating contracts, and ensuring that purchased items meet quality standards.
A bachelor’s degree in business administration, procurement, or a closely related subject is preferred for this job. Employers prefer prior experience as a purchasing agent or in a comparable job. Most purchasing agents are conversant with CRM and inventory management software.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 2% increase in job growth for purchasing agents. It will provide 7400 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
4 Inventory Control Specialist
Annual Average Salary: $49,590
Inventory control specialists are responsible for managing inventory levels and ensuring that products are in stock. In some cases, they may be responsible for tracking inventory levels, conducting audits, and implementing inventory management systems.
There are no strict academic qualifications for inventory control specialists. Most companies will prefer employers with a minimum of 3 years of experience in the field. These professionals are expected to possess excellent organizational and time-management skills. Knowledge of word processors, databases, and spreadsheet software is usually a bonus.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 3% increase in job growth for inventory control specialists. It will provide 35,900 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
5 Logistics Coordinator
Average Annual Salary: $47,000
Logistics coordinators are responsible for coordinating the movement of goods and materials for their organization. In some cases, their job duties cover managing transportation, tracking inventory, and communicating with suppliers and customers.
Most logistics coordinators have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain management, or a related field. These professionals have critical knowledge of logistics, operations management, analysis, accounting, and finance.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 4% increase in job growth for logistics coordinators. It will provide 14,900 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
Shipping and receiving coordinators are responsible for managing the shipment and receipt of goods for their organization. In addition to this, they coordinate shipments, inspect goods and prepare shipping documents.
A high school diploma or GED certificate, as well as completion of on-the-job training, are required for this job. To be effective in this profession, you must have excellent organizational skills as well as computer proficiency.
The job outlook for shipping and receiving coordinator is positive, with a growth rate of 3% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 20,400 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
7 Customer Service Representative
Annual Average Salary: $34,710
Customer service representatives are responsible for providing assistance to customers regarding products, services, and complaints. Most customer care reps answer customer inquiries, resolve complaints, and process orders.
Most customer service representatives hold at least a high school diploma. Although, it is not out of place for some employers to demand an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. These professionals have good communication, problem-solving, and computer literacy skills.
The job outlook for customer service representatives is positive, with a growth rate of 3% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 27,600 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
8 Shipment Processor
Annual Average Salary: $30,820
Shipment processors usually prepare and ship products to customers. Thus, packing products, generating shipping labels, and processing orders are all part of their job functions.
There is no strict academic requirement for this position. However, ship processors are required to have excellent communication and customer service skills.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 2% increase in job growth for ship processors. It will provide 20,200 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
9 Sales Associate
Annual Average Salary: $29,710
Sales associates are responsible for assisting customers with purchasing products and services. Duties may include recommending products, processing payments, and maintaining sales records.
A high school diploma or an associate’s degree is usually required for this job role. Most employers look out for candidates with experience in retail sales. Sales associate work in a fast-paced environment; thus, it is essential to have a good attitude and focus on customer satisfaction.
The job outlook for a sales associate is positive, with a growth rate of 2% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 461,100 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
Warehouse associates are in charge of receiving, storing, and distributing goods and products within a warehouse. They load and unload trucks, organize inventory, and operate forklifts.
Warehouse associates are required to hold at least a high school diploma. Employers usually prefer candidates with experience with inventory software and a forklift driver’s certification. Excellent time management and organizational skills are required in this job.
The job outlook for warehouse associates is positive, with a growth rate of 5% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 1,800 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
Other jobs available in Catalog/Specialty Distribution
Operations Manager
Supply Chain Manager
Purchasing Manager
Logistics Manager
Business Analyst
Most Common Available Entry-Level Jobs in Catalog/Specialty Distribution
Administrative assistants provide support to the managers and other staff members. This is a great entry-level position for people who are organized and have good communication skills.
In addition to skill certifications, entry-level administrative assistants should have a high school diploma or a General Education Development (GED) certificate. Several jobs demand at least an associate’s degree, and some organizations may even require a bachelor’s degree.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 9% increase in job growth for administrative assistants. It will provide 38,700 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
2 Quality Control Inspector
Average Annual Salary: 42,910
Quality control inspectors are responsible for inspecting products or materials to ensure that they meet quality standards. Their job duties include reviewing specifications, testing products, and recording inspection results.
Quality control inspectors typically need a high school diploma for entry-level jobs. Most professionals take certificate programs on quality control concepts, such as inspection planning and auditing.
The job outlook for the quality control inspector is positive, with a growth rate of 4% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 6,300 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
3 Inventory Clerk
Average Annual Salary: $33,580
These professionals assist with inventory management, including counting and tracking products and ensuring that inventory levels are accurate. Inventory clerks also track current production levels and record purchases and products in a warehouse.
Inventory clerks must have strong quantitative and analytical skills, as well as written and verbal communication skills. Preferred candidates are physically fit and have warehouse experience and a working understanding of word processing, database, and spreadsheet software.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 3% increase in job growth for inventory clerks. It will provide 19,400 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
4 Material Handler
Average Annual Salary: $31,030
Material handlers move products and materials around the warehouse or distribution center, ensuring that they are stored and transported safely and efficiently.
Material handlers usually hold at least a high school diploma or its equivalent. Some employers might require a minimum of 2 years of experience in a similar role. Most employers are usually on the lookout for candidates with certification in Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA).
The job outlook for the material handler is positive, with a growth rate of 2% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 35,700 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
Pickers/packers are responsible for selecting and packing products for shipment. Their job duties include reading orders, selecting products from inventory, packing products into boxes, and preparing shipments.
There’s no educational qualification for this job. Pickers/packers should be physically fit and be able to stand for a long period of time. In addition, they are expected to be reliable and punctual.
The job outlook for pickers/packers is positive, with a growth rate of 2% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 31,800 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
What is the Job Description of a Catalog/Specialty Distribution professional?
A Catalog/Specialty Distribution professional is in charge of managing and executing a company’s product distribution process. Their role is to guarantee that products are distributed to clients in an efficient and correct manner. They also ensure that inventory levels are kept at ideal levels.
Here are some common job descriptions of catalog/specialty distribution professionals:
Supervise and manage the distribution process, which includes inventory management, order processing, shipping, and receiving.
Design and implement distribution process optimization techniques, including the use of technology and automation.
Handle relationships with suppliers and vendors, negotiating contracts and ensuring optimal inventory levels are maintained.
Monitor and analyze performance indicators in order to discover areas for improvement and make optimization recommendations.
Ensure that products are delivered on time and in good condition to customers or retail establishments.
Maintained warehouse facilities and equipment in excellent functioning order and in accordance with safety and regulatory standards.
Lead and mentor a team of distribution center personnel, giving leadership and direction to ensure performance objectives are met.
Maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including customers, vendors, and regulatory agencies.
Create and manage systems and procedures to ensure industry standards and regulations are met.
Oversee budgets and financial performance, ensuring that distribution center operations stay under budget.
How to Get a Job in a Catalog/Specialty Distribution?
Landing a job in catalog/specialty distribution may necessitate some effort. But with the right skills, research, and preparation, you can land one of the numerous available jobs.
6 practical steps on how to get a job in catalog/specialty distribution:
1 Acquire applicable skills
Learn about warehouse operations, inventory management, logistics, and supply chain management, all of which are essential to the catalog/specialty distribution industry. These skills can be obtained through applicable school and training programs, internships, or entry-level jobs.
2 Research companies
Locate firms in the catalog/specialty distribution industry and conduct research on their operations, goods, and job possibilities. This might assist you in locating suitable employers and employment opportunities.
3 Build an effective resume
Write an effective resume that showcases your relevant abilities, experience, and education. Make sure your resume is tailored to the specific job and organization you are applying to.
4 Network
Connect with professionals in the Catalog/Specialty Distribution field through networking, which includes alumni, industry associations, and social media platforms. Attend industry events and job fairs to network with potential employers and learn more about available positions.
5 Apply for jobs
Look for catalog/specialty distribution job vacancies on job boards, company websites, and industry groups. Make sure your application is tailored to the exact position and organization you’re applying to. Also, include a great cover letter that shows your relevant abilities and expertise.
6 Prepare for interviews
You can prepare for interviews by researching the organization and rehearsing responses to frequent interview questions. Also, make sure to emphasize the requisite skills during the interview process.
How to get an entry-level job in Catalog/Specialty Distribution?
There are certain steps you can take to improve your chances of securing an entry-level position in catalog/specialty distribution. Remember that while entry-level employment may not be glamorous, it can provide essential experience and a stepping stone to more advanced positions in the field.
5 basic ways to land an entry-level job in catalog/specialty distribution:
1 Gain relevant education or certification
Consider getting a degree or certification in logistics, supply chain management, or a related industry. This can assist in demonstrating your sector knowledge and passion, making you a more competitive candidate for entry-level jobs.
2 Apply for internships
Many companies in catalog/specialty distribution provide internship programs. Internships can offer significant hands-on experience, exposure to the industry, and networking possibilities. They can also lead to full-time employment opportunities after they are completed.
3 Seek out entry-level job opportunities
Search for entry-level job vacancies in catalog/specialty distribution, including positions such as warehouse associate and inventory control clerk. Look for job posts on job boards, company websites, and industry associations.
4 Build relationships
Attend industry events and engage with catalog/specialty distribution professionals through networking events, industry groups, and social media platforms. Networking can help you discover employment openings, acquire referrals, and get your foot in the door.
5 Develop relevant skills
While advanced skills are not usually expected in entry-level roles, most employers will feel more comfortable hiring candidates with a fair amount of industry knowledge. You can build some of these relevant skills through general personal development and online certification courses.
What are the Educational Requirements and Training for Catalog/Specialty Distribution Jobs?
While there are numerous job titles available in the catalog/specialty distribution area, most roles require a high school certificate or similar. Some positions, however, may necessitate more education, training, or certification. Several employers, for example, prefer candidates who have completed some college courses, particularly in business or a related subject.
Most jobs in catalog/specialty distribution involve on-the-job training in addition to formal academic requirements. This training often covers topics on safety precautions, company policies and procedures, and the usage of specialist equipment. After completing training, individuals are usually ready to work freely with little supervision.
Certifications and Training
Keep in mind that these credentials frequently need a combination of coursework, tests, and practical experience. So be prepared to put in time and effort. Holding a certification relevant to the catalog/specialty distribution helps you stand out in a competitive job market and show your dedication to the field.
4 major certifications and training in the catalog/specialty distribution industry:
1 Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)
This certification covers a wide range of supply chain issues, such as inventory management, logistics, and distribution. If you want a thorough understanding of supply chain management, this is a fantastic alternative.
2 Certified Logistics Associates (CLA) and Certified Logistics Technicians (CLT)
The Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) offers these two certification course. The CLA provides fundamental principles and vocabulary, whereas the CLT delves further into issues like inventory management and transportation.
3 Certified Professionals in Distribution and Warehousing (CPDW)
The International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA) offers this certification for distribution and warehousing professionals. It addresses issues such as operations management, inventory control, and transportation.
4 Certified Transportation Broker (CTB)
The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) offers this certification to professionals working in transportation and logistics. It addresses issues such as freight brokerage, legal and regulatory concerns, and risk management.
Where Do I Find Catalog/Specialty Distribution Job?
There are various industry-specific platforms that can help you narrow your job search to jobs in catalog/specialty distribution.
5 industry-specific platforms to find catalog/specialty distribution jobs:
1 SupplyChainBrain
This is a well-known portal that specializes in supply chain management employment. It has a variety of job ads, including those for catalog/specialty distribution positions.
2 LogisticsJobsite
This is a platform dedicated to logistics and supply chain jobs. It includes job posts from some of the industry’s most prestigious companies.
3 WarehouseJobs.com
As the name implies, this portal specializes in warehouse jobs. It includes job posts for distribution, inventory management, catalog/specialty distribution, and other related positions.
4 JobsInLogistics
This platform provides a variety of logistics and supply chain jobs, including catalog/specialty distribution positions. It also has information for job searchers, such as career counseling and job search advice.
5 SupplyChain247
This is a comprehensive platform for the supply chain management. It includes job ads for catalog/specialty distribution positions, as well as other related positions in areas such as logistics and transportation.
What are the Skills Needed to Get a Job in Catalog/Specialty Distribution?
There are various skills that employers often look for when hiring for a position in catalog/specialty distribution.
5 essential skills required in catalog/specialty distribution:
1 Team player skills
Working well with others is crucial in any profession, but it is especially important in catalog/specialty distribution. This is due to the fact that you will be collaborating with other members of your team to ensure that everything runs properly. To be successful, you’ll need to be able to communicate and work successfully.
2 Excellent organizational skills
You must be an excellent team player as well as possess great organizational skills. This is due to the chaotic and fast-paced nature of catalog/specialty distribution. You must be able to manage inventory levels, customer orders, and deadlines. It will be quite tough to succeed in this sector if you are not organized.
3 Understanding of products
You must have a thorough understanding of the things you are distributing. This is you will be accountable for ensuring that the products are transported on time and satisfy the customer’s expectations. It will be tough to accomplish your job efficiently if you do not have a thorough understanding of the products.
4 Attention to detail
Catalog/specialty distribution jobs necessitate close attention to detail, particularly when it comes to inventory management and order fulfillment. You must be able to track products accurately, keep records, and guarantee that orders are filled correctly.
5 Physical stamina
Catalog/specialty distribution positions can entail extended periods of standing, lifting big boxes, and working in a fast-paced workplace. You must be physically fit and capable of carrying out these responsibilities safely.
What are the Factors Affecting the Availability of Jobs in Catalog/Specialty Distribution?
To understand the current availability of jobs in this profession, it is critical to stay current on industry developments and job market conditions.
5 critical factors affecting the availability of jobs in catalog/specialty distribution:
1 Industry demand
The demand for catalog/specialty distribution employment can fluctuate depending on industry trends. For example, during periods of economic expansion, there may be an increase in product demand, which might lead to an increase in demand for distribution employment.
2 Company growth
Individual company growth might also have an impact on the availability of catalog/specialty distribution jobs. Businesses that are growing or releasing new product lines may need to hire more people to handle distribution.
3 Technological growth
Technology is changing the way things are supplied and fulfilled, which might have an impact on job availability. For example, the rise of e-commerce has raised the demand for warehouse and distribution center labor.
4 Outsourcing
Some businesses may choose to outsource their catalog/specialty distribution services to third-party logistics providers, which may affect job availability in this industry.
5 Location
Location can also affect the availability of catalog/specialty distribution jobs. Jobs may be more available in locations with a large concentration of warehouses and distribution facilities. In contrast, they may be scarce in areas with a weak logistics industry.
Conclusion: How Many Jobs are Available in Catalog/Specialty Distribution?
This is all you need to know about how many jobs are available in catalog/specialty distribution. There are numerous job opportunities in catalog/specialty distribution but you need to follow the steps discussed in this article. Steps on how to get a job in catalog/specialty distribution and essential skills required by employers in the industry, and where to find a job in catalog/specialty distribution.
