Question 1

What does a production supervisor do in Australia?

Accepted Answer

A production supervisor oversees and coordinates production team activities in manufacturing environments. They supervise production workers, schedule work, allocate tasks, monitor team performance, ensure quality standards are met, enforce workplace health and safety procedures, and prepare production reports. Under the Manufacturing and Associated Industries and Occupations Award 2020 (MA000010), production supervisors are typically classified at supervisory/technical employee levels C5-C7 depending on the complexity of operations and level of responsibility.

Question 2

What award covers production supervisors in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Production supervisors in manufacturing are typically covered by the Manufacturing and Associated Industries and Occupations Award 2020 (MA000010). This award sets minimum pay rates, penalty rates and conditions for employees working in manufacturing operations. Always verify which award applies to your specific manufacturing business.

Question 3

What classification level should I use for a production supervisor?

Accepted Answer

Under the Manufacturing Award 2020, production supervisors typically fall under Level C5-C7 (Supervisory/Technical Employee) depending on the scope of their responsibilities, number of staff supervised, and complexity of operations. Level C5 applies to supervisors with limited scope, C6 for supervisors managing larger teams or more complex operations, and C7 for senior supervisors with significant responsibility. Classification depends on the specific duties and organisational structure.

Question 4

Should I include pay rates in a production supervisor job description?

Accepted Answer

While not legally required, including indicative pay rates helps attract suitable candidates and sets clear expectations. You can reference the applicable award rate or use phrases like 'Award rates plus penalties' or 'Competitive rates based on experience.' Check the Manufacturing Award 2020 for current supervisory classification rates.

Question 5

What qualifications do production supervisors need in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Production supervisors typically require a minimum of 3 years production experience and preferably previous supervisory experience. Certificate IV in Leadership and Management or Certificate IV in Competitive Manufacturing are preferred qualifications. First Aid certification is required, and a forklift licence is often preferred. Industry-specific certifications may also be required depending on the manufacturing sector.

Question 6

How long does it take to get a Certificate IV in Leadership and Management?

Accepted Answer

A Certificate IV in Leadership and Management typically takes 6-12 months to complete. It can be studied full-time, part-time, or through workplace-based training. The qualification covers team leadership, operational planning, workplace safety, and performance management - all essential skills for production supervisors.

Question 7

Do production supervisors need First Aid certification?

Accepted Answer

Yes, First Aid certification is typically required for production supervisors in manufacturing environments. As supervisors are responsible for workplace safety and emergency response, current First Aid and CPR certification is essential. Many manufacturing facilities also require additional safety certifications specific to their operations.

Question 8

What is the difference between a production supervisor and a production manager?

Accepted Answer

Production supervisors directly supervise production workers on the factory floor, managing day-to-day operations, shift coordination and immediate problem-solving. Production managers typically have broader responsibilities including production planning, budgeting, multiple shift coordination, and strategic operational improvements. Supervisors report to managers and are classified at lower award levels.

Question 9

Should I hire full-time or permanent production supervisors?

Accepted Answer

Production supervisors are typically hired as permanent full-time employees due to their leadership role and the need for consistency in team management. Some manufacturers may use casual or contract supervisors for short-term projects or peak periods. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Question 10

What penalty rates apply to production supervisors?

Accepted Answer

Penalty rates under the Manufacturing Award 2020 apply for shift work, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. Supervisors working afternoon or night shifts receive shift loadings. Weekend and public holiday work attracts higher penalty rates. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately based on the specific classification level.

Question 11

What are typical shift patterns for production supervisors?

Accepted Answer

Production supervisors typically work the same shift patterns as their teams, which may include day, afternoon or night shifts on rotating rosters. Many manufacturing facilities operate 24/7 requiring supervisors to work various shifts. Supervisors are often on-call for production emergencies outside their regular hours. Shift patterns should be clearly outlined in the employment contract.

Question 12

What should I include in a production supervisor employment contract?

Accepted Answer

Key elements include: position title and classification level (C5-C7), employment type, hourly or salary rate, applicable award, reporting structure, supervisory responsibilities (number of staff supervised), shift patterns and hours, overtime expectations, on-call requirements, safety responsibilities, and required certifications. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Question 13

How far in advance must I provide rosters to production supervisors?

Accepted Answer

Under the Manufacturing Award 2020, rosters must be provided at least 7 days in advance. Changes within this period require employee agreement. For supervisors managing multiple shifts or coordinating team rosters, providing schedules further in advance helps with production planning. Using rostering software helps support compliance and gives supervisors visibility for team coordination.

Question 14

How do I roster production supervisors for shift coverage?

Accepted Answer

Production supervisors should be rostered to align with team shifts, ensuring supervisory coverage during all production hours. Consider shift changeovers, production peaks, and the need for supervisor presence during critical operations. For 24/7 operations, rotate supervisors through different shifts or assign dedicated shift supervisors. Use rostering software to manage complex shift patterns.

Question 15

What breaks are production supervisors entitled to?

Accepted Answer

Under the Manufacturing Award 2020, employees are entitled to meal breaks and paid rest breaks based on their shift length. Supervisors receive the same break entitlements as other employees, though they may need to coordinate their breaks to ensure continuous supervisory coverage on the factory floor.

Question 16

How do I schedule production supervisors for on-call duties?

Accepted Answer

On-call arrangements for production supervisors should be clearly defined in their employment contract, including on-call allowances (if applicable under the award), response time expectations, and call-out rates. Rotate on-call duties fairly among supervisors and ensure adequate rest periods between shifts. Use rostering software to track on-call schedules and support compliance with minimum rest requirements.

Production supervisor job description