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Athletes, Coaches, Umpires, and Related Workers

Job Zone
Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed
Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Job Zones group occupations into one of five categories based on the education, experience, and training typically needed to perform them.

Tasks

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

  • Plan, organize, and conduct practice sessions.90
  • Provide training direction, encouragement, motivation, and nutritional advice to prepare athletes for games, competitive events, or tours.88
  • Adjust coaching techniques, based on the strengths and weaknesses of athletes.86
  • Instruct individuals or groups in sports rules, game strategies, and performance principles, such as specific ways of moving the body, hands, or feet, to achieve desired results.85
  • Plan strategies and choose team members for individual games or sports seasons.85
  • Monitor the academic eligibility of student athletes.83
  • Counsel student athletes on academic, athletic, and personal issues.83
  • Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of opposing teams to develop game strategies.83
  • Coordinate travel arrangements and travel with team to away contests.80
  • Plan and direct physical conditioning programs that will enable athletes to achieve maximum performance.80
  • Evaluate athletes' skills and review performance records to determine their fitness and potential in a particular area of athletics.79
  • Monitor athletes' use of equipment to ensure safe and proper use.79
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  • Identify and recruit potential athletes by sending recruitment letters, meeting with recruits, and arranging and offering incentives, such as athletic scholarships.79
  • Keep abreast of changing rules, techniques, technologies, and philosophies relevant to their sport.77
  • Explain and enforce safety rules and regulations.77
  • Hire, supervise, and work with extended coaching staff.75
  • Serve as organizer, leader, instructor, or referee for outdoor and indoor games, such as volleyball, football, and soccer.75
  • Teach instructional courses and advise students.73
  • Contact the parents of players to provide information and answer questions.71
  • Oversee the development and management of the sports program budget and fundraising activities.69
  • Develop and arrange competition schedules and programs.69
  • Keep and review paper, computerized, and video records of athlete, team, and opposing team performance.69
  • Arrange and conduct sports-related activities, such as training camps, skill-improvement courses, clinics, and pre-season try-outs.66
  • File scouting reports that detail player assessments, provide recommendations on athlete recruitment, and identify locations and individuals to be targeted for future recruitment efforts.66
  • Explain and demonstrate the use of sports and training equipment, such as trampolines or weights.65
  • Select, acquire, store, and issue equipment and other materials as necessary.61
  • Perform activities that support a team or a specific sport, such as participating in community outreach activities, meeting with media representatives, and appearing at fundraising events.60

Skills

Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge.

  • Instructing94

    Teaching others how to do something.

  • Speaking85

    Talking to others to convey information effectively.

  • Learning Strategies78

    Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.

  • Monitoring78

    Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

  • Active Listening75

    Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

  • Critical Thinking75

    Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

  • Judgment and Decision Making75

    Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

  • Reading Comprehension75

    Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

  • Social Perceptiveness75

    Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.

  • Active Learning72

    Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

  • Complex Problem Solving72

    Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

  • Coordination72

    Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.

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  • Management of Personnel Resources72

    Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.

  • Persuasion72

    Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.

  • Systems Analysis72

    Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.

  • Time Management72

    Managing one's own time and the time of others.

  • Service Orientation69

    Actively looking for ways to help people.

  • Negotiation66

    Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.

  • Systems Evaluation66

    Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.

  • Writing66

    Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

  • Operations Analysis44

    Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.

  • Quality Control Analysis41

    Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.

  • Management of Material Resources38

    Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.

  • Mathematics28

    Using mathematics to solve problems.

  • Management of Financial Resources25

    Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.

  • Operations Monitoring25

    Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.

  • Equipment Selection22

    Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.

  • Technology Design22

    Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.

  • Troubleshooting22

    Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.

  • Operation and Control16

    Controlling operations of equipment or systems.

  • Science16

    Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

  • Programming6

    Writing computer programs for various purposes.

  • Equipment Maintenance0

    Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.

  • Installation0

    Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.

  • Repairing0

    Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.

Knowledge

Organized sets of principles and facts that apply in general domains.

  • Education and Training71

    Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.

  • English Language67

    Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.

  • Administration and Management65

    Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.

  • Psychology64

    Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.

  • Customer and Personal Service63

    Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.

  • Communications and Media56

    Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.

  • Personnel and Human Resources54

    Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.

  • Public Safety and Security53

    Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.

  • Computers and Electronics51

    Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

  • Administrative50

    Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.

  • Therapy and Counseling46

    Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.

  • Mathematics45

    Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

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  • Sales and Marketing43

    Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.

  • Transportation40

    Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.

  • Sociology and Anthropology38

    Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.

  • Medicine and Dentistry35

    Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.

  • Telecommunications30

    Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.

  • Design29

    Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.

  • Law and Government29

    Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.

  • Economics and Accounting28

    Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.

  • Philosophy and Theology27

    Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.

  • Production and Processing26

    Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.

  • Biology25

    Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.

  • Foreign Language21

    Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.

  • Physics21

    Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.

  • Geography19

    Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.

  • Mechanical19

    Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.

  • Engineering and Technology18

    Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

  • Fine Arts16

    Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.

  • Chemistry15

    Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.

  • History and Archeology14

    Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.

  • Food Production12

    Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.

  • Building and Construction9

    Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

  • Oral Expression91

    The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.

  • Oral Comprehension78

    The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.

  • Speech Clarity75

    The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.

  • Speech Recognition75

    The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.

  • Information Ordering72

    The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).

  • Originality72

    The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.

  • Category Flexibility69

    The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.

  • Deductive Reasoning69

    The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.

  • Fluency of Ideas69

    The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).

  • Inductive Reasoning69

    The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).

  • Problem Sensitivity69

    The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.

  • Written Comprehension69

    The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.

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  • Near Vision66

    The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).

  • Written Expression63

    The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.

  • Visualization60

    The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.

  • Far Vision56

    The ability to see details at a distance.

  • Flexibility of Closure53

    The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.

  • Selective Attention53

    The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.

  • Static Strength47

    The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.

  • Time Sharing47

    The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).

  • Trunk Strength47

    The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.

  • Auditory Attention44

    The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.

  • Memorization44

    The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.

  • Speed of Closure44

    The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.

  • Arm-Hand Steadiness41

    The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.

  • Perceptual Speed41

    The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.

  • Stamina41

    The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.

  • Visual Color Discrimination41

    The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.

  • Depth Perception38

    The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.

  • Dynamic Strength38

    The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.

  • Multilimb Coordination38

    The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.

  • Manual Dexterity35

    The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.

  • Mathematical Reasoning31

    The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.

  • Hearing Sensitivity28

    The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.

  • Extent Flexibility25

    The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.

  • Finger Dexterity25

    The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.

  • Gross Body Coordination25

    The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.

  • Gross Body Equilibrium25

    The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.

  • Number Facility25

    The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.

  • Control Precision22

    The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.

  • Explosive Strength22

    The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.

  • Peripheral Vision19

    The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.

  • Spatial Orientation19

    The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.

  • Speed of Limb Movement13

    The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.

  • Wrist-Finger Speed10

    The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.

  • Dynamic Flexibility6

    The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.

  • Glare Sensitivity3

    The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.

  • Sound Localization3

    The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.

  • Night Vision0

    The ability to see under low-light conditions.

  • Rate Control0

    The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.

  • Reaction Time0

    The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.

  • Response Orientation0

    The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

  • Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships86

    Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.

  • Coaching and Developing Others83

    Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.

  • Making Decisions and Solving Problems83

    Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

  • Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work82

    Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.

  • Developing and Building Teams81

    Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.

  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates76

    Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.

  • Getting Information76

    Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

  • Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People76

    Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.

  • Scheduling Work and Activities76

    Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.

  • Thinking Creatively75

    Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.

  • Communicating with People Outside the Organization74

    Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.

  • Developing Objectives and Strategies74

    Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.

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  • Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events74

    Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.

  • Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates71

    Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.

  • Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge71

    Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.

  • Performing General Physical Activities70

    Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.

  • Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others68

    Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.

  • Processing Information68

    Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.

  • Providing Consultation and Advice to Others67

    Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.

  • Analyzing Data or Information66

    Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.

  • Working with Computers66

    Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.

  • Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings63

    Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.

  • Performing Administrative Activities63

    Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.

  • Training and Teaching Others63

    Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.

  • Documenting/Recording Information61

    Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.

  • Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others60

    Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.

  • Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others59

    Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.

  • Assisting and Caring for Others57

    Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.

  • Handling and Moving Objects54

    Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.

  • Monitoring and Controlling Resources54

    Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.

  • Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards51

    Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.

  • Performing for or Working Directly with the Public48

    Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.

  • Selling or Influencing Others48

    Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.

  • Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials45

    Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.

  • Staffing Organizational Units45

    Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.

  • Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment32

    Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.

  • Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information31

    Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.

  • Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment20

    Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.

  • Controlling Machines and Processes18

    Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).

  • Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment12

    Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.

  • Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment12

    Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.

Work Styles

Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.

  • Leadership Orientation90

    A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.

  • Dependability85

    A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.

  • Achievement Orientation81

    A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.

  • Social Orientation80

    A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.

  • Self-Confidence79

    A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.

  • Cooperation77

    A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.

  • Stress Tolerance74

    A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.

  • Perseverance73

    A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.

  • Self-Control71

    A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.

  • Initiative68

    A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.

  • Optimism59

    A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even under difficult circumstances.

  • Sincerity57

    A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.

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  • Adaptability54

    A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.

  • Innovation53

    A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.

  • Empathy51

    A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feelings at work.

  • Integrity50

    A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.

  • Tolerance for Ambiguity44

    A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.

  • Attention to Detail42

    A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.

  • Intellectual Curiosity37

    A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.

  • Humility28

    A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.

Interests (RIASEC)

Holland's six occupational interest types (RIASEC) this work tends to attract.

  • Social72

    Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.

  • Enterprising69

    Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.

  • Realistic54

    Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.

  • Conventional41

    Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.

  • Artistic24

    Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.

  • Investigative19

    Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

  • Contact With Others

    • Constant contact with others80%
    • Contact with others most of the time14%
  • E-Mail

    • Every day78%
    • Once a week or more but not every day12%
  • Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team

    • Extremely important63%
    • Very important18%
    • Important19%
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled

    • Every day66%
    • Once a week or more but not every day20%
    • Never11%
  • Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams

    • Every day44%
    • Once a week or more but not every day41%
  • Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals

    • A lot of freedom26%
    • Some freedom65%
  • Frequency of Decision Making

    • Every day62%
    • Once a month or more but not every week16%
    • Once a year or more but not every month13%
  • Freedom to Make Decisions

    • A lot of freedom23%
    • Some freedom62%
  • Public Speaking

    • Every day50%
    • Once a week or more but not every day23%
    • Once a year or more but not every month25%
  • Physical Proximity

    • Very close (near touching)27%
    • Moderately close (at arm's length)47%
    • Slightly close (e.g., shared office)20%
  • Level of Competition

    • Extremely competitive27%
    • Highly competitive41%
    • Moderately competitive30%
  • Spend Time Standing

    • Continually or almost continually29%
    • More than half the time28%
    • About half the time35%
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  • Conflict Situations

    • Every day14%
    • Once a week or more but not every day47%
    • Once a month or more but not every week31%
  • Duration of Typical Work Week

    • More than 40 hours50%
    • 40 hours33%
    • Less than 40 hours17%
  • Time Pressure

    • Every day19%
    • Once a week or more but not every day43%
    • Once a month or more but not every week25%
    • Once a year or more but not every month12%
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate

    • Extremely important28%
    • Very important18%
    • Important44%
  • Telephone Conversations

    • Every day45%
    • Once a week or more but not every day22%
    • Never22%
  • Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities

    • Extremely important22%
    • Very important44%
    • Important18%
    • Not important at all16%
  • Health and Safety of Other Workers

    • Very high responsibility28%
    • High responsibility35%
    • Moderate responsibility12%
    • No responsibility23%
  • Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions

    • Every day27%
    • Once a week or more but not every day28%
    • Once a year or more but not every month13%
    • Never22%
  • Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results

    • Very important results14%
    • Important results39%
    • Moderate results12%
    • Minor results27%
  • Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers

    • Very high responsibility18%
    • High responsibility27%
    • Moderate responsibility22%
    • Limited responsibility11%
    • No responsibility23%
  • Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable

    • Every day19%
    • Once a week or more but not every day27%
    • Once a year or more but not every month40%
    • Never11%
  • Deal With External Customers or the Public in General

    • Extremely important17%
    • Very important31%
    • Important12%
    • Fairly important11%
    • Not important at all29%
  • Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People

    • Once a week or more but not every day15%
    • Once a month or more but not every week35%
    • Once a year or more but not every month40%
  • Spend Time Walking or Running

    • More than half the time26%
    • About half the time28%
    • Less than half the time38%
  • Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures

    • Every day20%
    • Once a week or more but not every day14%
    • Once a month or more but not every week20%
    • Once a year or more but not every month17%
    • Never29%
  • Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions

    • More than half the time19%
    • About half the time36%
    • Less than half the time11%
    • Never28%
  • Consequence of Error

    • Extremely serious16%
    • Serious13%
    • Fairly serious57%
  • Spend Time Sitting

    • More than half the time16%
    • About half the time37%
    • Less than half the time41%
  • Written Letters and Memos

    • Once a week or more but not every day20%
    • Once a month or more but not every week34%
    • Once a year or more but not every month15%
    • Never27%
  • In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment

    • Every day17%
    • Once a week or more but not every day15%
    • Once a month or more but not every week17%
    • Never51%
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls

    • More than half the time16%
    • About half the time18%
    • Less than half the time27%
    • Never30%
  • Importance of Repeating Same Tasks

    • Very important23%
    • Important13%
    • Fairly important25%
    • Not important at all36%
  • Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled

    • Every day24%
    • Once a week or more but not every day11%
    • Never59%
  • Work Schedules

    • Seasonal (only during certain times of the year)26%
    • Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration)16%
    • Regular (established routine, set schedule)58%
  • Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings

    • Every day12%
    • Once a month or more but not every week19%
    • Never55%
  • Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body

    • About half the time18%
    • Less than half the time26%
    • Never43%
  • Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions

    • Once a week or more but not every day26%
    • Never68%
  • Exposed to Contaminants

    • Every day12%
    • Once a month or more but not every week12%
    • Never68%
  • Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling

    • Less than half the time51%
    • Never43%
  • Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance

    • Less than half the time20%
    • Never64%
  • Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People

    • Once a year or more but not every month27%
    • Never66%
  • Degree of Automation

    • Moderately automated13%
    • Slightly automated18%
    • Not at all automated69%
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment

    • Never88%
  • Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions

    • Once a year or more but not every month11%
    • Never78%
  • Exposed to Disease or Infections

    • Never84%
  • In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment

    • Never88%
  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets

    • Never87%
  • Outdoors, Under Cover

    • Never88%
  • Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment

    • Not important at all87%
  • Exposed to Hazardous Conditions

    • Never89%
  • Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles

    • Less than half the time17%
    • Never83%
  • Exposed to Whole Body Vibration

    • Once a year or more but not every month11%
    • Never89%
  • Exposed to Radiation

    • Never94%
  • Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection

    • Never93%
  • Exposed to High Places

    • Never97%

Typical Education Levels Reported

Education levels O*NET survey respondents in this occupation most often reported having.

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Master’s degree
  • Associate’s degree or other 2-year degree

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

  • Word processing software

    Evernote, Google Docs, Microsoft Word

  • Video creation and editing software

    Flipgrid, Screencast-O-Matic, Screencastify, YouTube

  • Desktop communications software

    Bloomz, Edmodo, ParentSquare

  • Multi-media educational software

    Edpuzzle, Nearpod, Seesaw

  • Analytical or scientific software

    Motion analysis software, Statistical software, Video analysis software

  • Computer based training software

    Edulastic, Schoology

  • Instant messaging software

    GroupMe, Twitter

  • Presentation software

    Microsoft PowerPoint, Pear Deck

  • Data base user interface and query software

    Online registration software, Performance database software

  • Web page creation and editing software

    Facebook, Website creation software

  • Spreadsheet software

    Microsoft Excel

  • Electronic mail software

    Microsoft Outlook

  • Graphics or photo imaging software

    Graphics creation software

  • Data conversion software

    Video file conversion software

  • Video conferencing software

    Google Meet

  • Desktop publishing software

    Microsoft Publisher

  • Office suite software

    Microsoft Office software

  • Cloud-based data access and sharing software

    Google Drive

  • Object or component oriented development software

    C++

  • Internet browser software

    Web browser software

  • Project management software

    Google Classroom

  • Calendar and scheduling software

    Scheduling software

Professional Associations

Related Occupations

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

  • Coordinate athletic or sporting events or activities.
  • Train others on performance techniques.
  • Coach others.
  • Select staff, team members, or performers.
  • Evaluate skills of athletes or performers.
  • Evaluate characteristics of individuals to determine needs or eligibility.
  • Monitor student behavior, social development, or health.
  • Monitor student performance.
  • Coordinate logistics for productions or events.
  • Advise athletes, coaches, or trainers on exercise regimens, nutrition, or equipment use.
  • Monitor activities of individuals to ensure safety or compliance with rules.
  • Monitor performance of organizational members or partners.
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  • Participate in staffing decisions.
  • Recruit personnel.
  • Maintain knowledge of laws or regulations.
  • Provide educational information to the public.
  • Maintain records, documents, or other files.
  • Manage operations of artistic or entertainment departments or organizations.
  • Maintain inventories of materials, equipment, or products.
  • Select materials or props.
  • Promote products, activities, or organizations.
O*NET in-it

This page incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Based on federal labor and demographic data. Data source & methodology

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