How Do I Become a Plant Supervisor?

Plant supervisors are professionals responsible for overseeing the operations of a manufacturing plant. Educational requirements for a person seeking to become a plant supervisor vary dramatically based on geography and employer. Many employers either require or prefer that candidates earn formal degrees, while others are more focused on experience, so you may want to obtain as much of each as possible. Industry certifications are usually beneficial as well. As with other positions, you will need to search and apply for jobs.

If your goal is to become a plant supervisor, you will need to seriously consider a formal education. At one time, a plant supervisor was apt to be an individual who had worked at a facility for a long time and worked his way up to the role. In some cases, this is still true. More and more, however, employers are looking for candidates who have academic or technical degrees.

Both two- and four-year degrees may help you become a plant supervisor, depending on the company and the industry requirements in your area. A four-year degree in a related technical field, such as management or industrial technology, could make you more attractive to employers, however. You might even wish to consider an advanced degree in one of these fields or in business management with a manufacturing focus.

A wide range of certifications is also available within the manufacturing segment, and these are becoming increasingly important to those wishing to become plant supervisors. Such certifications include those in safety, inspection and lean manufacturing — sometimes called Six Sigma. Many industries also have industry-specific certifications available.

Experience remains important, whether your employer is one that promotes from the floor or one that hires from outside. In some companies, you can still become a plant supervisor by working in a manufacturing plant and being promoted up through the ranks. If this applies to you, you will want to take advantage of all certification and training opportunities you are offered, and you should consider participating on safety committees and other company committees.

If you opt to earn a formal degree, you will want to consider programs that include one or more internships. You might also consider seeking work in a manufacturing plant during school breaks. This experience can help you become a plant supervisor or assistant supervisor much more quickly than you might if you waited until after college to begin work.

As with any job, you will need to seek out and apply for jobs. You'll need to have a professional resume and can expect to interview at least once during the process for each job. Depending on the nature of the plant, you may need to pass a credit and/or background check as well.