Purpose: This study aimed to analyse the effect of supervisor support on quality of work life, the effect of work family conflict on quality of work life, and the effect of supervisor support on quality of work life (QWL) through work family conflict as intervening variable.

Design/methodology/approach: Primary data were collected from 721 train drivers working in the South Central zone of Indian railways. The data collection tool was a questionnaire that is distributed online to the participants. Hierarchical regression analysis and mediation analysis using PROCESS Model 4 were employed to test the hypotheses.

Main findings: Supervisor support had a significant positive effect on quality of work life, work family conflict had a significant negative effect on QWL, supervisor support showed a significant negative effect on work family conflict and work family conflict was found to be partially mediating the effect of supervisor support on QWL. Practical implications: The current research reported that a supportive supervisor can enhance employees’ QWL directly, as well as indirectly by reducing conflicts at work and family interface. This finding suggests that organizations aiming to promote employees’ QWL should invest in training programs that cultivate supportive behaviors among supervisors and also equip them with the resources needed to help employees manage the competing demands of work and family roles.

Originality/value: By investigating the mediating role of work family conflict, this research uncovered the underlying mechanism through which supervisor support influences quality of work life, thereby contributing to the existing literature on QWL