A machine shop supervisor’s main responsibilities include supervising the work of other employees, keeping records and lists, and ordering parts as needed. This person’s primary responsibility is to review blueprints in order to assess the work that needs to be done. Other responsibilities for this position include dealing with customer requests and taking phone orders. In a machine shop, the supervisor’s primary responsibility is to oversee the production aspect of the business.
It’s critical for a machine shop supervisor to be able to read and comprehend a series of complex blueprints. In general, this means he’ll have had extensive training and experience reading machine and part designs. He is aware of the geometric dimensioning he will need on the job.
He’ll also know how to use break presses, air gauges, and other shop equipment and tools. He will provide on-the-job training for new employees if necessary, as well as monitor their performance. He will also demonstrate good verbal and communication skills when dealing with the public and other employees who work under his supervision as a supervisor.
Most machine shop supervisors are also knowledgeable about how to repair commonplace equipment that may need to be adjusted on the job. He’ll assess the situation to see if any pieces or parts are malfunctioning. Before the work can be completed, he will order replacement parts or begin necessary repairs.
Another important function of the supervisor is to schedule maintenance for shop equipment repairs. On the phone or in person, he will check on the status of maintenance and other critical work orders. He will order necessary materials as needed as part of his daily routine. He might work with vendors or suppliers directly.
Fabrication departments for assembling, welding, and labor are found in many machine shops. The machine shop supervisor will typically supervise the jobs and tasks at hand, ensuring accuracy and production. As needed, he will make any necessary adjustments or corrections.
Many machine shop supervisors are also responsible for conducting reviews. This could include a review of coworkers’ and staff’s work ethics and performance. He may submit suggestions for how to improve work flow and production in the future.
The machine shop supervisor must check for any errors and ensure that parts are manufactured according to the blueprints’ strict specifications as part of quality assurance. He’ll inspect all materials for flaws, including plastic, aluminum, metal, and krylon. This is usually the final step in the manufacturing of the materials.