How to Become a Sanitation Supervisor
A sanitation supervisor controls the cleaning and maintenance of areas related to health, food or everyday public living. Depending on the place of employment, this can involve simple tasks like making sure the garbage outside is picked up promptly, or it can relate to meeting corporate and government specifications on a grand scale. A sanitation supervisor has become an essential part of the food and health industry.
Instructions
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Take high school or college courses in accounting, economics and writing. English, communications and sociology can also be helpful courses to add to your studies. Focus on subjects that will allow you to handle paperwork effectively and quickly, as this may become overwhelming once you get involved in the field.
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Enroll in related courses and certification programs that will help you gain an understanding of the different requirements of this industry. Courses that can help you progress in this field include: hospitality sanitation management, sanitation supervisor/QC technician, quality and food safety programs or a food service sanitation manager certification.
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Consider getting a Bachelor's degree in Food Science if you want to work in the foodstuff industry. You can certainly become a sanitation supervisor without one, but your chances for advancement may be limited. If you want to work in the health industry, similar degrees exist that will prepare you for a long-term career.
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Consider taking an entry-level job in the field you want to specialize in. Observing how the sanitation rules affect the everyday working conditions in the company will give you a good idea of what your future job will entail. This is especially a good idea if you are still in high school or are a recent graduate and you can afford to delay your career decision a while longer.
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Look into your city's Sanitation Program for internship opportunities. They are usually available for those undergoing a training program, but they may also be open to the general public if the positions haven't been completely filled. Opportunities are especially abundant in the fall, when temporary summer workers have left.
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Tips & Warnings
Many people may not realize that much of the work of a sanitation supervisor has to do with filling out reports, tracking balance sheets and filing paperwork. If you are not comfortable with the idea of spending much time on your desk or in front of a computer, this may not be the right field for you.