First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers
First-line supervisors of production and operating workers directly oversee the day-to-day activities of production staff in manufacturing plants, factories, and processing facilities. They coordinate tasks, monitor quality and safety, and ensure workers follow procedures and meet production targets. The role requires both technical knowledge of operations and people management skills.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against first-line supervisors of production and operating workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves monitoring production lines, checking work quality, addressing equipment issues, and communicating with upper management about progress and problems. Supervisors hold briefings with their teams, resolve scheduling conflicts, investigate safety concerns, and complete paperwork on production metrics. Time is split between the production floor observing workers and at a desk handling reports and planning.
Who this work suits
Holland code ECR. Enterprising work is leading, persuading and making decisions. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to be comfortable with rules and procedures while also enjoying organizing and directing others to complete tasks. You're practical, detail-oriented, and enjoy working toward measurable goals—qualities that help you thrive in manufacturing environments where efficiency and compliance matter.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wyoming | $64,690 | $90,390 | $125,840 | 1,470 |
| Connecticut | $62,890 | $83,150 | $103,500 | 9,150 |
| Rhode Island | $62,920 | $81,650 | $103,540 | 2,660 |
| New Jersey | $62,740 | $81,110 | $100,190 | 15,040 |
| District of Columbia | $58,050 | $80,030 | $108,830 | 350 |
| Massachusetts | $64,090 | $79,920 | $98,940 | 12,390 |
| New Hampshire | $64,160 | $79,310 | $98,090 | 3,000 |
| Washington | $63,510 | $79,310 | $98,690 | 14,500 |
| Delaware | $63,110 | $79,100 | $101,530 | 1,450 |
| Maine | $60,570 | $78,970 | $93,160 | 2,970 |
| Colorado | $61,570 | $78,890 | $100,780 | 9,580 |
| New York | $61,970 | $78,580 | $97,850 | 20,830 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Plant Supervisor (CPS) — Association for Facilities Engineering
- Certified Welding Supervisor — American Welding Society
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
and 39 more
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Four short assessments and your background, scored against first-line supervisors of production and operating workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-1011.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.