What Does an IT Supervisor Do?

An information technology supervisor, also known as an IT supervisor, is in charge of managing a computer network. The job usually includes implementing security measures, maintaining systems interoperability, and managing user access points. As a supervisor, this person is also typically in charge of overseeing other IT professionals. Training staff, setting work schedules, and ensuring quality control are common parts of the supervisor’s day-to-day work.

Information technology is very important to a wide range of organizations. Most corporations have robust IT departments to manage e-mail accounts, troubleshoot access problems, and help fix hardware malfunctions, among other things. Nearly any group with a computer network needs IT support. Schools, government agencies, community centers, and non-profits all have need of information technology services. An IT supervisor is usually the person who ensures that all of these services are running smoothly and meeting the needs of the parent organization.

Broad network management is an IT supervisor’s primary duty. This generally includes everything from setting up spam filters and virus protection software to helping clients troubleshoot problems. The work is very technical and usually requires a deep understanding of technological infrastructures, coding, and cyber security.

An IT supervisor must usually also be familiar with computer hardware, including modems, routers, monitors, and hard drives. Telephones and mobile communications platforms usually also come within an IT department’s purview. Any time clients, employees, or customers have problems with some aspect of technology or Internet connectivity, calling an IT staff member is usually the first step.

Supervisors oversee general staff, and intervene in complex cases. In this sense, the IT supervisor often acts as something of a resident expert. Other employees and tech workers default to the supervisor’s knowledge.

In large companies, supervisors usually serve as full-time staff. They maintain offices, but often keep irregular hours such that they can be called in case of technological emergency. Smaller companies often house IT supervisors off-site, often only accessible remotely. This sort of virtual IT supervisor is often able to liaise with staff who are on-site and can usually also monitor network activity, traffic, and problems from any Internet connection.

Supervisors generally also assume a number of business administration tasks. They are often responsible for generating feasibility reports and budget proposals, for instance. Surveying technology needs and presenting proposals to more senior executives is also part of the job. In nearly every respect, the IT supervisor’s job is to look out for all aspects of a computer network and technology platform. He or she must keep the systems running all the while ensuring that they are operated in adherence to the organization’s broader policies and goals.