Production Supervisor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s manufacturing industry, the role of a Production Supervisor is more critical than ever.

As manufacturing processes advance, the demand for skilled individuals who can manage, enhance, and ensure the efficiency of these operations grows stronger.

But what exactly does a Production Supervisor do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker exploring the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager mapping out the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the behind-the-scenes of production supervision,

You’ve landed at the right spot.

Today, we present a customizable Production Supervisor job description template, crafted for seamless uploading on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Production Supervisor Duties and Responsibilities

Production Supervisors manage the operational aspects of a production line or department.

They play a critical role in ensuring that the company meets its production targets by ensuring that the production process runs smoothly and efficiently.

The Production Supervisor’s duties and responsibilities often include:

• Overseeing the production process, drafting a production schedule and ensuring that it is adhered to
• Ensuring that the production is cost effective and within budget
• Checking the quality of the products being produced to ensure they meet the required standards
• Overseeing the maintenance, repair, and replacement of production equipment to ensure minimal downtime
• Ensuring that health and safety regulations are followed at all times
• Identifying training needs and organizing training sessions for production workers
• Monitoring productivity rates and product standards and implementing quality control programs
• Working with managers to implement the company’s policies and goals
• Collaborating with other supervisors and staff to optimize productivity and efficiency
• Preparing and presenting production reports to upper management
• Identifying and resolving any issues that could cause production delays

 

Production Supervisor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly competent Production Supervisor to oversee our production operations.

The Production Supervisor’s responsibilities include ensuring efficient production processes, scheduling shifts, coordinating production workflows, and maintaining a high standard of product quality.

Our ideal candidate has excellent communication skills and extensive experience in manufacturing processes, including lean manufacturing.

Ultimately, the role of the Production Supervisor is to guarantee that manufacturing processes run reliably and efficiently, meeting business objectives and customer requirements.

 

Responsibilities

• Set daily/weekly/monthly objectives and communicate them to employees
• Organize workflow by assigning responsibilities and preparing schedules
• Oversee and coach employees
• Ensure the safe use of equipment and schedule regular maintenance
• Check production output according to specifications
• Submit reports on performance and progress
• Identify issues in efficiency and suggest improvements
• Train new employees on how to safely use machinery and follow procedures
• Enforce strict safety guidelines and company standards
• Set and manage production budgets

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as Production Supervisor or similar role
• Experience in using various types of manufacturing machinery and tools
• Advanced skills in MS Office
• Organizational and leadership abilities
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Self-motivated with a results-driven approach
• Problem-solving skills
• High School Diploma; Degree in a technical, engineering or relevant field will be an advantage

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Production Supervisor
• Work Environment: This position operates in a manufacturing environment and regularly requires exposure to production site areas.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Production Manager or Operations Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $85,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Production Supervisor Do?

Production Supervisors work primarily in manufacturing and production facilities.

They oversee the day-to-day operations on the production floor, ensuring that products are manufactured efficiently and within the company’s quality standards.

They manage production staff, assign duties, and set daily/weekly/monthly objectives.

They are also responsible for ensuring that the production line has the necessary materials to complete the operations.

Production Supervisors also oversee the maintenance and repair of the production equipment to minimize downtime and disruptions.

They often coordinate with other departments such as procurement, quality control, and logistics to ensure a seamless production process.

Moreover, they are responsible for implementing safety protocols on the production floor and ensuring staff are properly trained on safety procedures.

Production Supervisors also monitor product output and quality, making necessary adjustments to processes or machinery to ensure the company’s standards and goals are met.

They are often involved in problem-solving and process improvements, utilizing lean manufacturing principles and other operational strategies to increase efficiency and productivity.

In the event of production issues, the Production Supervisor is typically the first point of contact, responsible for troubleshooting problems and implementing solutions promptly.

 

Production Supervisor Qualifications and Skills

A production supervisor requires a diverse set of skills and qualifications to effectively oversee production processes, manage staff, and ensure safety and efficiency.

These include:

• Strong leadership abilities to guide and motivate a production team, fostering a collaborative and efficient work environment.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to effectively interact with team members, report to higher management and coordinate with other departments.
• Detailed understanding of production processes and industry standards, ensuring production goals are met within the stipulated time and quality parameters.
• Problem-solving skills to identify, analyze and rectify production issues swiftly, minimizing downtime and maintaining productivity.
• Time management skills to oversee multiple projects and tasks simultaneously, ensuring all processes run smoothly and deadlines are met.
• Risk management abilities to anticipate potential issues and take preventive measures, ensuring safety and quality control.
• Proficiency in using production management software for scheduling, reporting, and inventory control.
• Physical stamina for spending a significant amount of time on the production floor, and the ability to work in a potentially challenging environment.

 

Production Supervisor Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for Production Supervisor positions generally need to have at least 2 to 3 years of experience, often acquired through roles in manufacturing or production operations.

This prior experience often includes responsibilities such as coordinating workflows, managing workers, or overseeing production processes.

In addition to direct experience, many employers value a candidate’s familiarity with production machinery, industry-specific software, and Lean Manufacturing principles.

Some of this knowledge can be acquired through vocational schools, while other aspects are often learned on the job.

Candidates with 5 or more years of experience in production are typically considered for senior roles.

These individuals are likely to have developed more advanced skills, such as the ability to streamline production processes, improve efficiency, and effectively manage a diverse team.

Those with more than 7 years of experience may have additional leadership experience, including managing large teams or overseeing multiple production lines.

These candidates are often ready to take on high-level managerial roles or even positions as Production Managers.

It is also important to note that many employers prefer Production Supervisors who have formal education in fields such as industrial engineering, business administration, or supply chain management.

Such education can contribute to a better understanding of the production process and efficient resource management.

 

Production Supervisor Education and Training Requirements

Production Supervisors typically hold a bachelor’s degree in business management, industrial engineering, or another related field.

They are expected to have a solid understanding of production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.

Experience in a supervisory role is often preferred.

This experience could come from a background in production, manufacturing, or another relevant field.

Some positions may require Production Supervisors to have a master’s degree in business administration or industrial management.

Certifications related to production management, such as Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) or Certified in Production and Inventory Control (CPIC), are also beneficial.

These degrees and certifications demonstrate a candidate’s advanced knowledge and dedication to the field.

Also, several years of on-the-job training or industry experience is often required, as a Production Supervisor needs a broad understanding of the company’s production processes and workforce management.

Knowledge of safety standards and compliance with regulations is also critical in this role.

Ongoing professional development in the form of workshops, seminars, or courses is also highly recommended to keep up with advancements and trends in the industry.

 

Production Supervisor Salary Expectations

A Production Supervisor makes an average of $59,154 (USD) per year.

The actual salary can vary based on factors such as industry experience, the scale of production, geographical location and the specific company.

 

Production Supervisor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a production supervisor need?

Production Supervisors should possess strong leadership and decision-making skills to oversee the production process.

They should be able to assess the quality of goods being produced and problem-solve to ensure production goals are met.

Additionally, technical skills related to the specific industry, and a good understanding of health and safety regulations, are also essential.

 

Do production supervisors need a degree?

While not always required, many production supervisors have a bachelor’s degree in business administration, industrial engineering, or a related field.

Experience in the production environment is often more important, and many supervisors work their way up from other roles within the company.

Some roles may require specific certifications, particularly in industries where safety is a key concern.

 

What should you look for in a production supervisor resume?

A good production supervisor resume should highlight leadership experience and a solid understanding of the production process.

Look for details about problem-solving, team management, and meeting production goals.

Many companies also value experience with lean manufacturing or other efficiency-maximizing practices, so keep an eye out for these on the resume as well.

 

What qualities make a good production supervisor?

A good production supervisor is an effective leader who can motivate a team and make tough decisions under pressure.

They should be detail-oriented to ensure quality standards are met and problem-solving skills to troubleshoot issues as they arise.

Good communication skills are also crucial, as they will need to coordinate with other departments and report to upper management.

 

What are the daily duties of a production supervisor?

A production supervisor’s daily duties typically involve overseeing the production process to ensure it’s running smoothly and efficiently.

They will coordinate with other departments, manage staff, and address any issues that may arise.

They also ensure that health and safety regulations are followed and may be responsible for scheduling shifts, training new staff, and reporting on production performance.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve pulled back the veil to reveal the reality of life as a production supervisor.

And guess what?

It’s not just about overseeing operations.

It’s about orchestrating the rhythm of production, one process at a time.

Armed with our tried-and-tested production supervisor job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why draw the line there?

Delve further into the specifics with our job description generator. It’s your ideal tool for creating ultra-accurate job listings or for sharpening your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every operation is part of the larger production cycle.

Let’s shape the future of industry. Together.

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