They are generally the department head who defers to the film's director and/or producers, and who is in charge of the entire special effects team.
[3] Knowledge of laws and safety protocols are essential when using explosives, firearms, or any other potentially dangerous devices or materials on a production.
[3] Specific health and safety education programs are recommended for special-effects workers, and specialized training is required for handling explosives, firearms, high voltage, and other hazardous equipment.
Photography experience is also an advantage in a supervisor's work, as it helps them plan such things as camera angles and special filming requirements.
People with animation, computer science and industrial design backgrounds are often considered primary candidates for effects work.
[3] Mathematics and finance skills are valuable for such things as effects department budgets, scheduling, and other administrative work.