For the last few years shippers have operated in the most challenging logistics and transportation environment the market has ever seen. Shippers feel that they’ve been put to the test, and many believe they’ve passed by proving to management that, through smart transportation management and distribution network re-design, they’ve made a positive impact on the bottom line.

So, when you consider all that you’ve been through, what’s more important than making sure you’re being properly compensated based on your education, experience, responsibilities, time on the job, and overall performance? The answer: Nothing.

The latest figures are in and we want to thank all 1,228 shippers who took the time to complete this year’s salary survey. And, for the third year in a row, Senior Editor Jeff Berman has done a terrific job of putting the findings into perspective.

We just wish we had some more encouraging news to report in terms of the figures. The bad news is that, for the third year in a row, the median salary is quite literally stuck at $80,000—half the salaries are below, the other half are above. However, you’ll find in this year’s report that there are some averages for certain titles and education levels that did see increases.

And there is even a little more light gleaming through the data. Despite the fact that pay has been flat, we’re happy to report that nearly two-thirds of respondents indicated that they are “satisfied” with their logistics or supply chain careers. According to Berman’s report, “A couple predominate reasons shippers cited for career satisfaction were the increasing number of new challenges they’re facing day-to-day and the fact that those challenges have made the work more interesting.”

For the most part, you’re telling us that you’re engaged—and you should be. The current conditions should keep you on your toes. However, if you’re feeling less than engaged and a little stuck, let us give you a hand.

First, I recommend that you visit Mike Regan’s blog called “It’s Personal”. Regan sits on nearly every education committee there is, and he’s made it his mission to help shippers put a new spark under their careers.

Second, I suggest that you join us on March 27 at 1:00 p.m. EST for our live Salary Survey Webcast where Berman will offer shippers the nitty-gritty details of the data. He’ll be joined by supply chain recruiters David Thomas of North American Findings Ltd. and Jim Rohan of JP Canon Associates. Thomas and Rohan will offer their take on this year’s findings and relate the data to the major trends of the current logistics and supply chain employment marketplace.

Don’t feel stuck. Register today at logisticsmgmt.com/salary08.

Comments? E-mail me at michael.levans@reedbusiness.com