How Much Are You Worth?

Given the overall state of the economy in 2009, and particularly the effects of the recession on manufacturing and warehousing operations, you might be somewhat amazed by this statistic: Nearly four out of five (78%) material handling and logistics managers say they are satisfied with their choice of career. But then again, those of you reading this article may not be amazed at all since you're quite familiar with the highs and lows of the material handling world, and most of you have been active in the industry for the long haul.

In fact, based on the results of the MHM 2010 Salary Survey, we can tell you what the typical material handling manager looks like: he's a white male, between 50-59 years old, has worked in the material handling and logistics industry for at least 26 years, lives in the North Central region of the United States (i.e., the Midwest), has been with his current company for 6-10 years, has a bachelor's degree, works for a wholesaler/distributor, and earns $80,084.

That's the composite portrait, anyway, of the average material handler, but of course, there's nothing “average” about the material handling industry nor the people who devote their careers to it. Throughout this special report, you'll hear from many of these individuals in their own words, as they relate their challenges, frustrations and accomplishments.

“Our company is lucky to be financially strong and growing in a down economy. We continue to need good employees and seek them out, train them and provide decent salaries and benefits. This has been a rewarding career and an exciting time to be in material management.” - operations manager in the paper/printing/publishing industry with 26-plus years of experience, living in New England and earning $100,000

“Our company has become very top heavy and they have lost their way concerning the everyday working individual. It's all about how hard they work at the top and how big a bonus they need to pay to supposedly keep people.” - maintenance manager with a wholesaler/distributor with 21-25 years of experience, living in New England and earning $65,000

“Anything that happens today either nationally or internationally can make or break you in a short period of time. There was a time when meaningful relationships were built with ethical and moral bonds that produced trust and loyalty in business-related operations. A man's word used to be the only bond necessary. If there is no bond, you haven't really got anything dependable to lean on.” - corporate/executive manager in the metals/metal products industry with 26-plus years of experience, living in the North Central region and earning $26,000

“In economic times like this, I see two basic types of companies. The first type is a company looking to take advantage of the economy and to automate as much as possible while your budget has more purchasing power. When the environment changes you are in the best position to take a lead position in your industry. The other approach is to freeze all expenses, cut costs by eliminating whatever you can and hold your breath, hoping things will take care of themselves. How many companies do you think make the correct choice for the reasons that are best for the company?” - operations manager with a wholesaler/distributor with 26-plus years of experience, living in the Middle Atlantic region and earning $75,000

“Economic times have put a stop to salary increases, bonuses, hiring, travelling freezes, etc. Difficult time right now in the industry. Profits are down and expenses are all up.” - general manager in the transportation/warehousing industry with 26-plus years of experience, living in the Mountain region and earning $105,000

“The current state of the economy has certainly had an effect on our company's bottom line. Raises and bonuses have been frozen since fall of 2008. There will be projected increases in 2010, but my main concern is to contribute effectively so my company is strong enough to survive this current economic downturn. I want them to succeed! Any monetary gains will come if everyone pulls together and focuses on our overall success.” - operations manager in the retail trade industry with 26-plus years of experience, living in the Middle Atlantic region and earning $102,500