Supervisors in this field are responsible for overseeing the work of personnel involved in farming, fishing and forestry. This includes assigning work to employees, training and coordinating work schedules. Supervisors may analyze management or operational records and reports, consult with managers, modify work duties and processes to meet deadlines, oversee work progress to ensure safety standards are being met, perform safety inspections and resolve worker issues or problems.
They may also be involved in operating fishing, forestry and farming equipment, preserve and store meat, poultry or fish; order materials, supplies and equipment; use fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides and related products; identify animal diseases; observe fish ponds or beds; and monitor crop production. Supervisors working in agriculture are also involved in directing and assisting with repairs needed for farm machinery and equipment. Those working in forestry may be responsible for monitoring logging operations, work methods to ensure compliance with safety, industry and government regulations.
Summary
- Supervisors in this field work in various climates, weather and temperatures.
- Those working in farms and in forestry may spend time outdoors in rural settings.
- According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in this field is expected to be average through 2018.
- The average annual wage of supervisors in this field was $43,720 in 2009, as reported by the BLS.
Work Environment for First-Line Supervisors & Managers of Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Workers
The work environment for supervisors in this field depends on their specialty. Those working in the fishing industry carry out their work in climates determined by the body of water they are working on. Wind, storms and fog may cause fishing activities to be suspended at times. Those working on farms often spend time outdoors in rural settings. During busy planting and harvesting seasons, they may have to work longer hours.
Exposure to hazardous chemicals that are spayed over plants and crops is a risk that can be minimal if certain safety precautions are followed. Those working in forestry can take precautions by wearing eye protection, hardhats, boots and safety clothing to reduce the risk of accident or injury.
Employment Figures, Projections, Outlook and Earnings for First-Line Supervisors Managers of Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Workers
According to research published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), first-line supervisors managers of farming, fishing, and forestry workers approximately 20,200 jobs in May 2009. Most of these jobs were related to support for crop production, logging and state government. Other jobs were related to support activities for animal production and miscellaneous nondurable goods merchant wholesalers. Employment in this field is forecasted by the BLS to be average through 2018.
BLS records for May 2009 indicate that the average annual wage for first-line supervisors managers of farming, fishing, and forestry workers was $43,720. The middle 50% earned between $29,880 and $55,150. While the lowest 10% had a yearly salary of $22,930 or less, the highest 10% earned upwards of $69,550 annually.