What does a Production Supervisor do?
Production Supervisors are responsible for the on-time and efficient delivery of quality products on a production floor. These professionals continuously monitor and improve production processes to ensure maximum output, cost efficiency and safe working conditions. A large part of the job involves the training and management of a production team. Production Supervisors plan work schedules, provide guidance for production team members and take disciplinary action when needed. They also report on a team’s performance to a Production Manager and make recommendations regarding ways to improve employee efficiency and job satisfaction.
Production Supervisor skills and qualifications
Apart from monitoring the equipment and goods on a production floor, Production Supervisors interact with people throughout their working day. The job involves building effective work relationships with other departments, reporting to management and overseeing a production team, so Production Supervisors must have excellent interpersonal skills. A successful Production Supervisor will also have various prerequisite skills and qualifications that typically include:
- Strong communication skills to actively listen to stakeholders and clearly verbalise ideas and action plans
- Excellent organisational skills to plan production schedules and ensure the availability of necessary materials and equipment
- Strong analytical skills to determine problems within the production process and take appropriate action
- Good time-management skills to minimise downtime and ensure a team works efficiently
- The ability to cope with pressure and make sound decisions quickly
- A firm understanding of health and safety regulations
Production Supervisor experience requirements
Production Supervisors typically need several years of experience in production. For positions in highly regulated industries, such as medical device manufacturing, employers may ask for previous manufacturing experience in that industry. In addition, employers may require that applicants have previous supervisory or line management experience. In general, candidates need to show knowledge of production technical standards, processes and relevant legislation. Experience in implementing lean manufacturing principles, as well as a working knowledge of ERP systems is advantageous.
Production Supervisor education and training requirements
There are no set education or training requirements for this position. Production Supervisors may hold a higher national diploma or a degree in a wide range of subjects, including business, management, chemical engineering, electrical engineering or food science and technology.
To grow their skills in management and leadership, they can complete a college course, such as a Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Team Leading. Candidates can also grow their skills and knowledge by obtaining professional qualifications through a professional body. The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), for instance, offers qualifications like a Level 3 Certificate in Operations Management.
Production Supervisor salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Production Supervisor in the UK is £26,579 per year. Salaries, however, will differ according to factors like location, industry and level of experience.
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