How Much Does a Shift Supervisor Make?
If you’re considering moving into a leadership role on the production floor, becoming a shift supervisor is a strong next step. These roles offer hands-on leadership experience, opportunities for advancement, and competitive salary potential across manufacturing, warehouse, and industrial environments. But what does the pay look like—and what factors influence it? Here’s what you need to know.
Role Responsibilities
Before exploring salary expectations, it helps to understand the core responsibilities of a shift supervisor. These leaders keep operations running smoothly by:
- Managing team schedules and daily workflows
- Training new employees and supporting ongoing development
- Ensuring productivity goals are met
- Overseeing safety procedures and maintaining compliance
- Troubleshooting problems on the floor
- Communicating with management and other departments
Because the shift supervisor role blends leadership, communication, and technical skills, employers look for reliability, strong decision-making abilities, and industry knowledge.
Shift Supervisor Salary Overview
So, how much does a shift supervisor make? While pay varies by industry and region, most supervisors earn a competitive salary that reflects their leadership responsibilities.
Here are the biggest factors that impact shift supervisor salary:
1. Industry
Manufacturing, logistics, and distribution centers tend to offer higher pay due to the complexity and pace of their operations.
2. Experience Level
Those with previous supervisory experience, technical certifications, or training often earn a higher salary.
3. Shift Type
Night and weekend shifts may include differential pay, boosting overall earnings.
4. Location
Pay varies nationwide based on cost of living and workforce demand.
Typical Salary Range for Shift Supervisors
While exact pay differs by company and region, many shift supervisor roles fall into ranges such as:
- Entry-level: Competitive hourly wages with opportunities for overtime
- Experienced supervisors: Higher hourly rates or an annual salary based on leadership experience
- Supervisors in high-volume or specialized facilities: Often receive premium pay
Additionally, many employers offer benefits such as performance bonuses, paid time off, and opportunities for advancement into management roles.
Is a Shift Supervisor Role Right for You?
If you enjoy problem-solving, guiding others, and working in a fast-paced environment, the shift supervisor position may be a perfect fit. It’s a strong stepping stone toward roles like production manager, operations manager, or plant supervisor—and the leadership experience gained is valuable across many industries.
Start Your Supervisory Career With NCW
Whether you’re exploring leadership roles or actively searching for your next opportunity, NCW’s recruiting team is here to help. Connect with us today to explore open roles and learn how we can support your career growth. Let NCW help you find a job that moves you forward.