Introduction - hdbk1117990007

DOE-HDBK-1117-99

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose

This guide has been developed based on functional responsibilities typical of the electrical,

instrument and control, mechanical, and maintenance supervisor positions. This guide applies

to all levels of maintenance supervision, up to but not including the maintenance manager. The

following are included in these guidelines:

An assessment and selection process for supervisor candidates.

An outline for an initial supervisory training program for the selected candidates to

enhance their current skills.

An outline for a continuing training program to maintain and improve the abilities of

supervisors.

Incumbent supervisors should be trained on selected subjects of these guidelines, based on

identified needs.

When selecting personnel for assignment to the maintenance supervisor position, facility

management should compare the candidates' demonstrated leadership, work standards, and

analytical abilities, as well as experience, past performance, education, training, and knowledge

of the facility, as they relate to the responsibilities of the position. Facility line managers should

select those individuals who have the potential to demonstrate high qualities of leadership,

supervision, judgment, motivation, integrity, and professionalism demanded of supervisors

within the Department of Energy (DOE) community.

Individuals selected as maintenance supervisors typically have several years of experience in

their technical field of expertise. They are knowledgeable in the technical aspects of their

profession but may not have the broad range of skills and knowledge required to function

effectively as supervisors. Maintenance supervisors need a detailed perspective of both

maintenance management and facility operations, and an understanding of personnel and

administrative procedures. It is important that maintenance supervisors have a detailed

knowledge of the work control administrative requirements, including engineering review

requirements and facility safety review requirements.

Preparation and development of candidates for facility maintenance supervisor positions, and

continuing training and development for existing supervisors, can be enhanced through career

planning and individualized training programs. Also, the development of supervisory skills is

enhanced by the individual's routine contact with supervisors and managers who reinforce the

standards of the facility.

Facilities should use these guidelines as a list of topics to consider for their supervisory training

programs and choose those topics that are appropriate for the particular job function. Existing

training materials that cover the subjects/topics discussed in these guidelines should be used