Operations Supervisor in Tennessee Career Overview

As an Operations Supervisor, you play a vital role in managing the daily functions of a business or organization. This position involves overseeing operational activities, ensuring that team members are working efficiently and effectively to meet organizational objectives. Your responsibilities often include:

  • Coordinating workflows to optimize production and service delivery
  • Monitoring employee performance and providing coaching as needed
  • Managing schedules, resources, and staff assignments to maintain productivity
  • Implementing and adhering to company policies and standards to ensure quality control
  • Analyzing operational metrics to identify areas for improvement

In many industries, including manufacturing, logistics, and services, your leadership can directly impact overall success. By maintaining high operational standards, you help facilitate smooth processes that lead to increased profitability and customer satisfaction. Your ability to translate business goals into actionable tasks contributes significantly to maintaining a competitive edge in the market.

Through effective oversight, you help cultivate a productive work environment, which is essential for team morale and retention. Your role serves as a bridge between management and frontline employees, ensuring that communication flows smoothly and that everyone is aligned with the organization’s objectives.

Operations Supervisor Salary in Tennessee

Annual Median: $102,300
Hourly Median: $49.18

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become an Operations Supervisor in Tennessee

To become an Operations Supervisor in Tennessee, you typically need to meet specific educational qualifications and training requirements. These may include the following college degree programs:

  • Operations Management and Supervision

    • Focuses on the principles and practices of managing operations in various industries.
    • Covers essential topics like supply chain management, quality control, and process improvement.
  • Business Administration and Management

    • Provides a broad understanding of business operations, including finance, marketing, and management strategies.
    • Offers insights into effectively leading teams and organizations.
  • Business Operations Support and Secretarial Services

    • Emphasizes administrative skills and knowledge to support business operations.
    • Prepares you for roles that involve coordination, communication, and organizational tasks.
  • Construction Site Management

    • Specializes in managing construction projects, including planning, scheduling, and resource allocation.
    • Ensures that you are prepared to oversee projects effectively and manage on-site operations.
  • Hospitality Administration and Management

    • Focuses on managing hospitality-related operations, such as hotels, restaurants, and event management.
    • Equips you with the skills to oversee service delivery and operational efficiency in the hospitality sector.

In addition to these degrees, pursuing relevant certifications and hands-on training through internships or entry-level positions can also enhance your qualifications for an Operations Supervisor role.

Best Schools to become a Operations Supervisor in Tennessee 2024

University of Phoenix-Arizona

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$9,552
Out-of-State Tuition:$9,552
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:18%
Total Enrollment:88,891

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

In-State Tuition:$15,000
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,000
Admission Rate:96%
Graduation Rate:41%
Total Enrollment:164,091

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT

In-State Tuition:$7,404
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,404
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:49%
Total Enrollment:156,935

Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, CO

In-State Tuition:$12,036
Out-of-State Tuition:$12,036
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:20%
Total Enrollment:24,808

Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$16,407
Out-of-State Tuition:$16,407
Admission Rate:78%
Graduation Rate:45%
Total Enrollment:101,816

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA

In-State Tuition:$15,467
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,467
Admission Rate:99%
Graduation Rate:66%
Total Enrollment:96,709
Operations Supervisor Job Description:
  • Plan, direct, or coordinate the work activities and resources necessary for manufacturing products in accordance with cost, quality, and quantity specifications.

Operations Supervisor Required Skills and Competencies in Tennessee

  • Leadership Ability: As an Operations Supervisor, you must inspire and guide your team, fostering a positive work environment and promoting collaboration.

  • Communication Skills: Effective verbal and written communication is essential for conveying information clearly and coordinating with various departments and personnel.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: You should possess the ability to diagnose operational issues quickly and develop practical solutions that optimize processes.

  • Time Management: Prioritizing tasks efficiently and managing time effectively ensures that projects are completed within deadlines.

  • Analytical Skills: You need to analyze data and metrics to assess operational efficiency and identify areas for improvement.

  • Attention to Detail: Paying close attention to details helps maintain quality standards and prevent errors in processes.

  • Decision-Making Capacity: Strong decision-making skills enable you to evaluate options and make informed choices that impact operations positively.

  • Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with various operational tools, software, and technology relevant to your industry is important for managing tasks and processes.

  • Team Building: You should be adept at identifying strengths within your team, promoting development, and fostering an environment of trust and support.

  • Adaptability: The ability to adjust quickly to changing circumstances or unexpected challenges is vital for maintaining operational effectiveness.

  • Project Management Skills: Strong project management abilities are necessary to plan, execute, and monitor projects, ensuring resources are utilized effectively.

  • Customer Focus: Understanding customer needs and incorporating feedback into operational strategies can enhance service and satisfaction.

Job Duties for Operations Supervisors

  • Direct or coordinate production, processing, distribution, or marketing activities of industrial organizations.

  • Review processing schedules or production orders to make decisions concerning inventory requirements, staffing requirements, work procedures, or duty assignments, considering budgetary limitations and time constraints.

  • Set and monitor product standards, examining samples of raw products or directing testing during processing, to ensure finished products are of prescribed quality.

Technologies and Skills Used by Operations Supervisors

Enterprise resource planning ERP software

  • Oracle PeopleSoft
  • SAP software

Industrial control software

  • Schneider Electric CitectSCADA
  • Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software

Video creation and editing software

  • Adobe After Effects
  • YouTube

Basic Skills

  • Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
  • Talking to others

People and Technology Systems

  • Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Operations Supervisor in Tennessee

The job market for Operations Supervisors in Tennessee is currently healthy, with several factors contributing to the demand for these professionals.

  • Increased Demand: Many industries in Tennessee are experiencing growth, which has led to an increased need for Operations Supervisors. Sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and retail are particularly active in hiring, as they strive to improve efficiency and manage operations effectively.

  • Growth Potential: The role of Operations Supervisor is expected to see sustained demand in the coming years. As companies continue to optimize their operations and enhance productivity, the need for effective leadership in these areas becomes essential. According to labor forecasts, employment opportunities in this field are likely to grow steadily as workforce management becomes increasingly complex.

  • Geographical Hotspots: Certain regions in Tennessee are emerging as hotspots for Operations Supervisor roles:

    • Nashville: The capital city has a diverse economy with a strong emphasis on healthcare, tourism, and transportation. The rapid growth in these sectors contributes to a high demand for supervisory roles in operations.
    • Memphis: Known for its robust logistics and distribution services, Memphis is home to major transportation companies. The presence of FedEx has established the city as a central hub for operations management, creating ample job opportunities.
    • Knoxville: As an educational and manufacturing center, Knoxville offers numerous opportunities in operations supervision, particularly within technology and engineering firms.
    • Chattanooga: This city is recognized for its efforts in economic development, particularly in manufacturing and technology. The growth of local companies increases the need for skilled operations supervisors.
  • Industry Variations: Different industries have varying levels of demand for Operations Supervisors. Manufacturing remains the largest employer in this field, while sectors like healthcare and technology are also showing a promising trend in hiring.

As an aspiring Operations Supervisor, engaging with local professional networks and industry-specific job boards can provide insights into new opportunities within these geographic hotspots and industries.

Additional Resources To Help You Become an Operations Supervisor in Tennessee

  • Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

    • Website: osha.gov
    • Provides guidelines and resources related to workplace safety standards, crucial for an Operations Supervisor overseeing various operations.
  • National Association of Manufacturers (NAM)

    • Website: nam.org
    • A key organization for networking and advocacy in manufacturing and operations. It offers resources for best practices and industry standards.
  • American Society of Quality (ASQ)

    • Website: asq.org
    • Focuses on quality control and improvement within operations. Access learning resources, certifications, and networking opportunities.
  • Project Management Institute (PMI)

    • Website: pmi.org
    • Offers resources for project management methodologies that can enhance operational efficiency. Pursue certifications and professional development.
  • Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)

    • Website: shrm.org
    • Provides resources on human resource management, essential for supervisors managing team dynamics and labor relations.
  • Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development

    • Website: dol.tn.gov
    • Offers labor market information, workforce training programs, and resources tailored for employers and employees in Tennessee.
  • LinkedIn Learning

    • Website: linkedin.com/learning
    • A valuable platform for online courses in operations management, leadership, and project management skills.
  • Tennessee Economic and Community Development

    • Website: tn.gov/ecd
    • Stay informed on economic trends and business development in Tennessee, vital for operations strategy and growth.
  • Institute for Supply Management (ISM)

    • Website: ismworld.org
    • Focuses on supply chain management and procurement processes, providing tools and resources for operations supervisors.
  • Books and Publications:

    • "The Operations Management Primer" by Richard J. Schonberger
    • "The Lean Six Sigma Pocket Toolbook" by Michael L. George
    • "Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap... and Others Don't" by Jim Collins
    • Available through major retailers or local libraries for foundational and advanced knowledge in operations management.

Utilizing these resources will enhance your understanding of the operations supervisor role and strengthen your skill set within this field.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Operations Supervisor in Tennessee

  • What are the primary responsibilities of an Operations Supervisor?
    As an Operations Supervisor, you will oversee daily operations, manage staff, ensure compliance with company policies, and implement strategies to improve productivity and efficiency. You're also responsible for monitoring performance metrics and addressing any operational challenges.

  • What qualifications do I need to become an Operations Supervisor?
    Typically, you will need at least a bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, or a related field. Additionally, prior experience in a supervisory role or within operations management is often required.

  • What skills are essential for an Operations Supervisor?
    Key skills include strong leadership and interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, effective communication, time management, and a solid understanding of operational processes and methodologies.

  • Is certification necessary for this role?
    While certification is not strictly necessary, obtaining credentials like Certified Operations Manager (COM) or Project Management Professional (PMP) can enhance your qualifications and demonstrate your commitment to the field.

  • What advancement opportunities are available for Operations Supervisors?
    You can advance to higher managerial positions, such as Operations Manager, Director of Operations, or even Chief Operating Officer (COO), depending on your experience and the organizational structure.

  • What industries typically hire Operations Supervisors?
    Operations Supervisors are needed in a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, logistics, retail, healthcare, and service-oriented businesses.

  • What salary can I expect as an Operations Supervisor in Tennessee?
    Salaries can vary based on industry, location, and your level of experience. As of now, Operations Supervisors in Tennessee typically earn between $55,000 and $90,000 annually.

  • What is the job outlook for Operations Supervisors in Tennessee?
    The job outlook is generally positive, with a steady demand for qualified Operations Supervisors as businesses continue to focus on efficiency and productivity.

  • How can I gain experience to become an Operations Supervisor?
    Consider entry-level positions in operations or management, internships, or roles that involve project management. Additionally, taking on leadership roles in current positions can provide valuable experience.

  • Do Operations Supervisors work regular hours?
    While many Operations Supervisors work typical weekday hours, depending on the industry, you may also need to work evenings, weekends, or be on-call to address operational issues as they arise.