There are many designations for this labor employment. In the textile industry, blue-collar worker supervisors are called second-hands. In shipping they are called boat swains, and in construction, overseers or gang leaders. No matter what the title is, the job has always been similar. Supervisors tell employees what work is to be done. They oversee the labor to make sure it is being done correctly, and they act as the link between labor and management.
There have always been bosses. People whose job it has been to make sure others are doing their work efficiently and properly. As society became more complex, so did the modes of production and distribution. During the Industrial Revolution, the division of labor became more and more pronounced, giving rise to what is known as first-line management. Blue-collar worker supervisors occupy the lowest rungs of the management ladder. Originally, their jobs were concentrated in manufacturing where they supervised largely unskilled, immigrant labor, etc. Among its labor jobs, this is a supervisory position that entails directing the activities of other employees. Often, it means ensuring that millions of dollars of equipment and materials are used correctly. This is a multifaceted job that requires strong leadership qualities. Blue-collar supervisors are responsible for work output. They make work schedules, keep production and employee records, and plan job activities. In their planning, such unforeseen problems as machine breakdowns and employee absenteeism must be taken into account. For example, truck terminal loading supervisors assign workers to load the trucks, checking each vehicle to make sure it is loaded correctly and fully. They may mark freight bills as well as record the weight and load of each truck.
It can be noted that supervisors also teach employees about safe work practices, enforcing safety rules and regulations. They may demonstrate time-saving or labor-saving techniques to workers. In addition, they train new employees. An important function of the job is strengthening the link between labor and management. Blue-collar worker supervisors inform employees of company policies and plans. Where labor unions exist, they meet with union representatives to discuss work problems and grievances. They must be aware of union contracts and run their operations accordingly. Supervisors recommend productive workers for raises, awards, and promotions. They deal with nonproductive workers by retraining them, issuing warnings, recommending disciplinary action, or suggesting termination.
Blue-collar worker jobs supervisors should be skilled, experienced workers familiar with the jobs they oversee. They must possess strong leadership qualities. They also must be able to get along with people so as to motivate their workers, maintain high morale, and command respect. The nature of the job defines the special requirements that center on the personality traits already described. Other requirements are related to the industry in which the supervisor works.
The job of a blue-collar worker supervisor is somewhat ambivalent. On one side, the job is challenging and multifaceted. Frequently, a worker who has risen through the ranks to occupy this more prestigious position experiences great satisfaction. This individual knows that the job being done is essential to the company’s operations and is recognized as such. Conversely, the supervisor occupies a position between labor and management. He or she may have to oversee the work of friends or relatives. If labor problems arise, the blue-collar worker supervisor is often caught in the middle. In addition, new supervisors recruited from outside may face hostile treatment from workers who thought they were deserving of promotion.
The nature of the job requires an individual who is organized and can work under pressure. The job can be stressful. It may require the supervisor to act as an amateur psychologist to maintain morale and command employee respect. It also brings with it the authority to reward or punish workers, which can prove to be a heavy responsibility.
The number of labor jobs for blue-collar worker supervisors is expected to increase more slowly than the national average for all occupations. In most cases, expansion is tied to the economy. As income rises, and demand for goods increases, so do the job openings. Retirement, death, and transfer to other occupations will also crate opportunities for employment. While most supervisors are employed in production industries, the greatest increase is expected to occur in the trade and service sectors.
To look for hundreds of listings in blue collar jobs, you can find it at BlueCollarCrossing.com. You will discover vast opportunities just right for you. Sign up there for free today.
