Supervisor of Laborers

What is a Supervisor of Laborers?

A Supervisor of Laborers is responsible for overseeing the work of laborers in various settings such as construction sites, manufacturing plants, or warehouses. They ensure that work is completed efficiently, safely, and in compliance with regulations.

Your test results

?

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Supervisor of Laborers.

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

How much does a Supervisor of Laborers earn

According to ZipRecruiter, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%Bottom 25%Median (average)Top 25%Top 10%
$40K
per year
$47K
per year
$54K
per year
$61K
per year
$66K
per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $4.82K above the national average.

What does a Supervisor of Laborers do?

Work environment

These supervisors typically work in the field alongside the laborers they oversee, whether on construction sites, in manufacturing facilities, or in logistic centers. The environment can be fast-paced and may involve outdoor work, exposure to the elements, and interaction with heavy machinery.

Quick task list

  • Oversees daily operations and laborer activities.
  • Ensures adherence to safety protocols and regulations.
  • Schedules shifts and manages labor resources.
  • Trains new staff and provides ongoing guidance.
  • Resolves workplace issues and conflicts.
  • Monitors project progress and ensures quality standards.

Areas of specialization

  • Construction site supervision
  • Manufacturing production supervision
  • Warehouse and logistics supervision
  • Quality control and safety management

Description

Supervisors of laborers are crucial in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of various labor-intensive projects. They act as the primary point of contact between laborers and higher management, translating project goals and objectives into actionable tasks. An essential part of their role is to maintain a safe work environment, which involves regular safety checks, enforcing compliance with safety regulations, and providing necessary training to their team.

Good communication skills are vital for this role, as these supervisors need to clearly instruct their team, manage expectations, and report progress or issues to management. They are also responsible for scheduling, resource allocation, and sometimes budgeting, ensuring projects are completed on time and within operational limits. Their leadership directly impacts team morale, productivity, and overall project success.

A Supervisor of Laborers needs to be adaptable, able to handle unexpected challenges such as equipment breakdowns, supply issues, or weather disruptions. They must also exhibit strong problem-solving skills, able to swiftly address and resolve conflicts or setbacks that may arise during operations.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

You might make a good Supervisor of Laborers if you are...

Pros:

  • Opportunity for leadership and team management.
  • Varied work with tangible results.
  • Potential for career growth in various industries.

Cons:

  • Physically demanding and potentially stressful.
  • Responsibility for the safety and productivity of a team.
  • May involve long or irregular working hours.

How to become a Supervisor of Laborers

Typical education

While formal education requirements can vary, many supervisors have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Additional vocational training or an associate's degree in fields related to construction, manufacturing, or business management can be beneficial.

High school preparation

Courses:

  • Business and management courses.
  • Vocational training in construction, manufacturing, or related fields.
  • Communication and conflict resolution.
  • Basic safety and first aid courses.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

  • Leadership roles in clubs or sports teams.
  • Part-time jobs or internships in relevant industries.
  • Community service or volunteer work in team-based projects.

Preparation after high school

  • Vocational training or associate's degree in construction management, business administration, or related fields.
  • Certifications in safety management, project management, or specific industry technologies.
  • Entry-level work in the industry to gain practical experience.

More resources