From the clothes we wear to the food we eat, logistics and supply chains make it all possible. This dynamic industry is all about organising, coordinating, and managing the movement of goods and information — ensuring that products get from where they’re made to where they’re needed, efficiently and on time.
Operating 24/7 across every sector of the global economy, logistics and supply chains are the backbone of international and domestic trade. Whether it’s planning transport routes, optimising warehouse operations, or analysing data to streamline processes, the field offers a vast range of exciting and rewarding career paths.
Opportunities span from operational roles such as order picking in warehouses or driving heavy goods vehicles, to office-based management and supervisory positions focused on developing logistics strategies and improving supply chain performance. Alongside competitive salaries, careers in logistics and supply chain management provide strong prospects for advancement, international travel, and long-term professional growth.
If you enjoy solving problems, thinking critically, and working in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment, this could be the perfect career for you.
Earn While You Learn with the Logistics Associate Apprenticeship (LAA)
The Logistics Associate Apprenticeship (LAA) is designed for school leavers and mature students who prefer hands-on learning over a full-time college course. This “earn as you learn” programme combines paid, on-the-job experience with academic study, leading to a internationally recognised qualification.
Since its launch in 2018, over 511 apprentices have enrolled, with 160 registered companies offering placements across Ireland. These employers represent a wide range of sectors, including manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, shipping, and freight forwarding.
How the LAA Apprenticeship Works:
The LAA is a two-year programme that blends full-time employment with one day per week of academic study at either Munster Technological University (MTU) in Cork or Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin). Apprentices earn a salary while working toward a QQI Level 6 Higher Certificate in Logistics on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ).
Graduates can progress to Level 7 or Level 8-degree programmes, providing a clear pathway for career and academic advancement. Throughout the apprenticeship, learners develop the essential skills and competencies required for success in the logistics sector — from operational know-how to problem-solving and analytical thinking.
In Year 2, apprentices complete a work-based project designed to apply their learning to real business challenges, benefiting both themselves and their employers. Industry-focused modules developed by the LAA consortium are also completed and assessed to achieve certification.
For anyone seeking a practical route into a professional career, the apprenticeship offers a winning combination of work experience, academic qualification, and financial independence.
Key Benefits for Apprentices?
Earn While You Learn: Get paid, gain real-world experience, and skip student debt with this tuition free programme.
Hands-On Skills: manage logistics and tackle real workplace challenges.
Get a Recognised Qualification: QQI Level 6 Higher Certificate in Logistics.
Kickstart Your Career: Land permanent role, build networks, and open doors to higher degrees programmes. Supported by top logistics companies.
Learn for the Future: Discover sustainability, digital logistics, and global trade while contributing to Ireland’s green and innovative logistics industry.
Grow Personally & Professionally: Build confidence, independence, and a strong work ethic.
Graduate Ready: Finish with a qualification, experience, and clear career direction.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
A minimum of H7/O6 or above in five Leaving Certificate subjects (including at least O6 in English and O6 or B2 in Foundation Level Mathematics).
Holders of a QQI Level 5 or Level 6 qualification (or equivalent) in a related area.
Candidates may also qualify through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) based on relevant work experience.
