First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers

What this job is

Directly supervise and coordinate the activities of production and operating workers, such as inspectors, precision workers, machine setters and operators, assemblers, fabricators, and plant and system operators. Excludes team or work leaders.

What they do day to day

• Enforce safety and sanitation regulations.
• Keep records of employees' attendance and hours worked.
• Inspect materials, products, or equipment to detect defects or malfunctions.
• Read and analyze charts, work orders, production schedules, and other records and reports to determine production requirements and to evaluate current production estimates and outputs.
• Plan and establish work schedules, assignments, and production sequences to meet production goals.
• Confer with other supervisors to coordinate operations and activities within or between departments.
• Interpret specifications, blueprints, job orders, and company policies and procedures for workers.
• Observe work and monitor gauges, dials, and other indicators to ensure that operators conform to production or processing standards.
• Direct and coordinate the activities of employees engaged in the production or processing of goods, such as inspectors, machine setters, or fabricators.
• Conduct employee training in equipment operations or work and safety procedures, or assign employee training to experienced workers.

Skills and knowledge that matter most

Importance rated by people working in the job (1 = not important, 5 = extremely important).

Education and preparation

Preparation level 3 of 5 — Medium preparation. Usually vocational training, an associate's degree or an apprenticeship.

Typical entry education (BLS): High school diploma or equivalent, plus less than 5 years of related work experience.

Who this job suits

Based on the Holland (RIASEC) interest profile for this occupation.

Job titles you'll see in postings

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