Line supervisors generally work in manufacturing plants and facilities although they may also work at restaurants, banks and several other types of organizations. Line supervisors are responsible for supervising the employees' immediate work on the line, schedules and quality control. They act as the managers eyes and ears on the line during operations. Supervisors do not perform high-management duties beyond process supervision.

Salary and Outlook

The average salary of a line supervisor is $47,000 per year, according to Indeed.com. However, many line managers make in excess of $60,000 per year. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Employment of industrial production managers is expected to decline. Applicants with experience in production occupations along with a college degree in industrial engineering, management, or a related field will enjoy the best job prospects.” This description does not pertain to line supervisors at banks or non-industrial job opportunities.

Requirements

Line supervisor opportunities require two to five years of experience within the specialty area that the business is focused in. For example, a line supervisor job on an automobile production line, would require two to five years of line production work at various positions on the line. Most of these opportunities do not require formal education with exception of banks. Many banks call their teller, drive up teller and customer service supervisors, line supervisors. Banks generally require an associate or bachelor’s degree in business or finance. These opportunities also require a high degree professionalism, attention to detail and communication skills. They are often required to prepare personnel schedules and rotations. This requires a high degree of organization.

Working Conditions

Line supervisors work in variety of conditions and climates. Line supervisors that work in plants, warehouses, manufacturing facilities and industrial complexes generally work outdoors or in non air-conditioned buildings. These jobs are subject to the outside climate and can be hot, cold, wet or very miserable. Line manager opportunities within the technology fields are often done within climate controlled production facilities but require a high degree of specialization.

Primary Duties

The line supervisor is responsible for supervising the line employees’ work quality, productivity and attendance. The supervisor is responsible for maintaining a full roster ensuring that all line positions are manned and operated. In the event that an employee is absent the line supervisor must have a contingency plan in place for ensuring shift coverage. In many situations the line supervisor will cover the vacant position. Making sure that the line operates without incident or down time is the most important responsibility of the line supervisor.

Secondary Duties

The line supervisor is responsible for training and mentoring all new line employees. The supervisor is responsible for the line employees' work and production levels. This requires the supervisor to monitor and asses the lines production quality. Training and mentoring helps ensure the quality of the lines product. The supervisor is also required to assist in all process improvement projects and line enhancements that are completed by management. The supervisor is responsible for providing all of the technical process data involved in these programs. The line supervisor is also responsible for implementing all new procedures and processes required and implemented by management in relation to line operations.