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Compensation, benefits, and job analysis specialists

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.

  • Administer employee insurance, pension, and savings plans, working with insurance brokers and plan carriers.86
  • Ensure company compliance with federal and state laws, including reporting requirements.85
  • Develop and administer compensation programs, such as merit or incentive pay.81
  • Research employee benefit and health and safety practices, and recommend changes or modifications to existing policies.77
  • Evaluate job positions, determining classification, exempt or non-exempt status, and salary.73
  • Prepare occupational classifications, job descriptions, and salary scales.73
  • Consult with, or serve as, technical liaison between business, industry, government, and union officials.73
  • Perform multifactor data and cost analyses that may be used in areas such as support of collective bargaining agreements.70
  • Develop, implement, administer, and evaluate personnel and labor relations programs, including performance appraisal, affirmative action, and employment equity programs.70
  • Advise managers and employees on state and federal employment regulations, collective agreements, benefit and compensation policies, personnel procedures, and classification programs.69
  • Provide advice on the resolution of classification and salary complaints.58
  • Negotiate collective agreements on behalf of employers or workers, and mediate labor disputes and grievances.57
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  • Analyze organizational, occupational, and industrial data to facilitate organizational functions and provide technical information to business, industry, and government.56
  • Assess need for and develop job analysis instruments and materials.55
  • Observe, interview, and survey employees and conduct focus group meetings to collect job, organizational, and occupational information.52
  • Plan and develop curricula and materials for training programs and conduct training.50
  • Assist in preparing and maintaining personnel records and handbooks.50
  • Plan, develop, evaluate, improve, and communicate methods and techniques for selecting, promoting, compensating, evaluating, and training workers.48
  • Research job and worker requirements, structural and functional relationships among jobs and occupations, and occupational trends.48
  • Prepare reports, such as organization and flow charts and career path reports, to summarize job analysis and evaluation and compensation analysis information.47
  • Advise staff of individuals' qualifications.43
  • Prepare research results for publication in form of journals, books, manuals, and film.21

Skills

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

  • Active Listening72

    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.

  • Reading Comprehension72

    Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

  • Speaking72

    Talking to others to convey information effectively.

  • Critical Thinking69

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

  • Active Learning60

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

  • Writing60

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

  • Complex Problem Solving53

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

  • Judgment and Decision Making53

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

  • Mathematics53

    Using mathematics to solve problems.

  • Monitoring53

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

  • Systems Analysis53

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

  • Systems Evaluation53

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

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  • Coordination50

    Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.

  • Negotiation50

    Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.

  • Persuasion50

    Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.

  • Service Orientation50

    Actively looking for ways to help people.

  • Social Perceptiveness50

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

  • Time Management50

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

  • Instructing47

    Teaching others how to do something.

  • Learning Strategies47

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

  • Management of Personnel Resources47

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

  • Operations Analysis38

    Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.

  • Management of Financial Resources25

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

  • Science22

    Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

  • Management of Material Resources19

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

  • Programming16

    Writing computer programs for various purposes.

  • Operations Monitoring13

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

  • Technology Design13

    Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.

  • Quality Control Analysis10

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

  • Equipment Maintenance0

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

  • Equipment Selection0

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

  • Installation0

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

  • Operation and Control0

    Controlling operations of equipment or systems.

  • Repairing0

    Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.

  • Troubleshooting0

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

Knowledge

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

  • Personnel and Human Resources81

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

  • English Language74

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

  • Customer and Personal Service70

    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.

  • Mathematics69

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

  • Administration and Management64

    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.

  • Economics and Accounting56

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

  • Administrative55

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

  • Computers and Electronics51

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

  • Law and Government50

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

  • Communications and Media49

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

  • Education and Training46

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

  • Psychology31

    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.

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  • Public Safety and Security30

    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.

  • Sociology and Anthropology25

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

  • Sales and Marketing24

    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.

  • Telecommunications23

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

  • Therapy and Counseling23

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

  • Geography20

    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.

  • Medicine and Dentistry20

    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.

  • Production and Processing20

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

  • Design17

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

  • Transportation16

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

  • Foreign Language13

    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.

  • Biology12

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

  • Chemistry12

    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.

  • Engineering and Technology12

    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.

  • Building and Construction10

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

  • Mechanical8

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

  • History and Archeology7

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

  • Philosophy and Theology6

    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.

  • Physics6

    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.

  • Fine Arts5

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

  • Food Production4

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

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

  • Oral Expression75

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

  • Oral Comprehension72

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

  • Written Comprehension72

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

  • Deductive Reasoning66

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

  • Inductive Reasoning66

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

  • Problem Sensitivity66

    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.

  • Speech Clarity63

    The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.

  • Information Ordering60

    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).

  • Written Expression60

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

  • Near Vision56

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

  • Speech Recognition56

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

  • Mathematical Reasoning53

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

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  • Category Flexibility50

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

  • Flexibility of Closure50

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

  • Fluency of Ideas50

    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).

  • Originality50

    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.

  • Selective Attention50

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

  • Number Facility47

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

  • Far Vision41

    The ability to see details at a distance.

  • 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.

  • Speed of Closure41

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

  • Auditory Attention25

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

  • Memorization25

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

  • Time Sharing25

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

  • Visualization25

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

  • Trunk Strength19

    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.

  • Visual Color Discrimination19

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

  • Finger Dexterity16

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

  • Hearing Sensitivity16

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

  • Wrist-Finger Speed16

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

  • Arm-Hand Steadiness13

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

  • Manual Dexterity10

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

  • Control Precision6

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

  • Depth Perception6

    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 Strength6

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

  • Dynamic Flexibility0

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

  • Explosive Strength0

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

  • Extent Flexibility0

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

  • Glare Sensitivity0

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

  • Gross Body Coordination0

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

  • Gross Body Equilibrium0

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

  • Multilimb Coordination0

    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.

  • Night Vision0

    The ability to see under low-light conditions.

  • Peripheral Vision0

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

  • 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.

  • Sound Localization0

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

  • Spatial Orientation0

    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 Movement0

    The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.

  • Stamina0

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

  • Static Strength0

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

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

  • Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards82

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

  • Getting Information81

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

  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates80

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

  • Working with Computers80

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

  • Analyzing Data or Information79

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

  • Making Decisions and Solving Problems76

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

  • Processing Information76

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

  • Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships74

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

  • Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work74

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

  • Communicating with People Outside the Organization73

    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.

  • Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge72

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

  • Documenting/Recording Information66

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

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  • Performing Administrative Activities62

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

  • Providing Consultation and Advice to Others62

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

  • Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others61

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

  • Developing Objectives and Strategies58

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

  • Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others57

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

  • Thinking Creatively55

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

  • Developing and Building Teams54

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

  • Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People53

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

  • Training and Teaching Others48

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

  • Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events47

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

  • Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings47

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

  • Coaching and Developing Others45

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

  • Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates45

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

  • Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others43

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

  • Monitoring and Controlling Resources42

    Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.

  • Selling or Influencing Others40

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

  • Scheduling Work and Activities39

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

  • Assisting and Caring for Others38

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

  • Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information38

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

  • Staffing Organizational Units36

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

  • Performing for or Working Directly with the Public28

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

  • Handling and Moving Objects17

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

  • Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials17

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

  • Performing General Physical Activities16

    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.

  • Controlling Machines and Processes13

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

  • Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment12

    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.

  • 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 Equipment8

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

  • Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment7

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

Work Styles

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

  • Attention to Detail92

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

  • Dependability82

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

  • Integrity70

    A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.

  • Cautiousness64

    A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.

  • Achievement Orientation59

    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.

  • Intellectual Curiosity55

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

  • Cooperation54

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

  • Self-Control46

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

  • Adaptability42

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

  • Self-Confidence42

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

  • Social Orientation42

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

  • Initiative38

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

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  • Sincerity34

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

  • Perseverance33

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

  • Stress Tolerance32

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

  • Leadership Orientation30

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

  • Empathy29

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

  • Tolerance for Ambiguity28

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

  • Innovation25

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

  • Humility17

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

  • Optimism14

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

Interests (RIASEC)

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

  • Conventional80

    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.

  • Enterprising73

    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.

  • Social44

    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.

  • Investigative40

    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.

  • Artistic7

    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.

  • Realistic5

    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.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

  • E-Mail

    • Every day95%
  • Telephone Conversations

    • Every day86%
  • Spend Time Sitting

    • Continually or almost continually71%
    • More than half the time29%
  • Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams

    • Every day67%
    • Once a week or more but not every day29%
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate

    • Extremely important48%
    • Very important52%
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled

    • Every day86%
    • Never14%
  • Contact With Others

    • Constant contact with others48%
    • Contact with others most of the time43%
  • Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team

    • Extremely important38%
    • Very important43%
    • Important14%
  • Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results

    • Very important results38%
    • Important results38%
    • Moderate results14%
  • Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals

    • A lot of freedom24%
    • Some freedom62%
  • Frequency of Decision Making

    • Every day43%
    • Once a week or more but not every day24%
    • Once a month or more but not every week24%
  • Duration of Typical Work Week

    • More than 40 hours43%
    • 40 hours57%
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  • Time Pressure

    • Every day24%
    • Once a week or more but not every day43%
    • Once a month or more but not every week29%
  • Freedom to Make Decisions

    • Some freedom62%
    • Limited freedom29%
  • Importance of Repeating Same Tasks

    • Extremely important19%
    • Very important52%
    • Important14%
    • Fairly important14%
  • Written Letters and Memos

    • Every day24%
    • Once a week or more but not every day29%
    • Once a month or more but not every week38%
  • Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities

    • Very important29%
    • Important38%
    • Fairly important14%
  • Deal With External Customers or the Public in General

    • Very important38%
    • Important14%
    • Fairly important24%
    • Not important at all14%
  • Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions

    • Continually or almost continually29%
    • More than half the time24%
    • Less than half the time19%
    • Never29%
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls

    • Continually or almost continually38%
    • Never43%
  • Consequence of Error

    • Extremely serious19%
    • Serious19%
    • Fairly serious43%
  • Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People

    • Once a week or more but not every day14%
    • Once a month or more but not every week38%
    • Once a year or more but not every month43%
  • Physical Proximity

    • Moderately close (at arm's length)14%
    • Slightly close (e.g., shared office)52%
    • I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)33%
  • Level of Competition

    • Highly competitive24%
    • Moderately competitive29%
    • Slightly competitive29%
    • Not at all competitive14%
  • Conflict Situations

    • Once a week or more but not every day14%
    • Once a month or more but not every week33%
    • Once a year or more but not every month43%
  • Degree of Automation

    • Highly automated19%
    • Moderately automated33%
    • Slightly automated19%
    • Not at all automated29%
  • Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers

    • Moderate responsibility19%
    • Limited responsibility52%
    • No responsibility14%
  • Public Speaking

    • Once a month or more but not every week24%
    • Once a year or more but not every month67%
  • Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable

    • Once a month or more but not every week19%
    • Once a year or more but not every month19%
    • Never43%
  • Health and Safety of Other Workers

    • Moderate responsibility14%
    • Limited responsibility43%
    • No responsibility33%
  • Spend Time Standing

    • Less than half the time76%
    • Never14%
  • Spend Time Walking or Running

    • Less than half the time45%
    • Never55%
  • In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment

    • Never86%
  • Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body

    • Less than half the time29%
    • Never71%
  • Exposed to Contaminants

    • Never90%
  • Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled

    • Never90%
  • Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions

    • Never86%
  • Outdoors, Under Cover

    • Never86%
  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets

    • Never90%
  • Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection

    • Never95%
  • Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions

    • Once a year or more but not every month14%
    • Never86%
  • Exposed to Hazardous Conditions

    • Never95%
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment

    • Never95%
  • Exposed to Radiation

    • Never95%
  • Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling

    • Less than half the time15%
    • Never85%
  • Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People

    • Never90%
  • Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures

    • Never90%
  • In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment

    • Never95%
  • Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment

    • Not important at all95%
  • Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance

    • Never90%
  • Work Schedules

    • Regular (established routine, set schedule)95%
  • Exposed to Disease or Infections

    • Never95%
  • Exposed to High Places

    • Never95%
  • Exposed to Whole Body Vibration

    • Never95%
  • Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles

    • Never95%
  • Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions

    • Never100%
  • Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings

    • Never100%

Typical Education Levels Reported

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

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Post-baccalaureate certificate
  • High school diploma or equivalent

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

  • Enterprise resource planning ERP software

    Microsoft Dynamics, Oracle PeopleSoft, SAP software, Workday software

  • Presentation software

    Microsoft PowerPoint

  • Human resources software

    Actuarial Systems Corporation Defined Benefit System, Human resource management software HRMS, Oracle E-Business Suite Human Resources Management System, Oracle Taleo

  • Data base user interface and query software

    Microsoft Access, Microsoft SQL Server, O*NET OnLine, Structured query language SQL

  • Medical software

    Healthcare common procedure coding system HCPCS, Medical condition coding software, Medical procedure coding software

  • Document management software

    Actuarial Systems Corporation Document Generation and Management System, Document management system software, Microsoft SharePoint

  • Time accounting software

    ADP Enterprise eTIME, Kronos Workforce Timekeeper, Sage HRMS

  • Business intelligence and data analysis software

    IBM Cognos Impromptu, MicroStrategy

  • Analytical or scientific software

    IBM SPSS Statistics, SAS

  • Project management software

    Microsoft Project, Project planning software

  • Spreadsheet software

    Microsoft Excel

  • Electronic mail software

    Microsoft Outlook

  • Development environment software

    Microsoft Visual Basic

  • Office suite software

    Microsoft Office software

  • Word processing software

    Microsoft Word

  • Data base management system software

    Relational database management software

  • Data base reporting software

    SAP Crystal Reports

  • Internet browser software

    Microsoft Internet Explorer

  • Web page creation and editing software

    LinkedIn

Professional Associations

Related Occupations

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

  • Oversee business processes.
  • Monitor organizational compliance with regulations.
  • Administer compensation or benefits programs.
  • Develop organizational policies or programs.
  • Advise others on human resources topics.
  • Evaluate effectiveness of personnel policies or practices.
  • Analyze jobs using observation, survey, or interview techniques.
  • Communicate with government agencies.
  • Establish business management methods.
  • Analyze business or financial data.
  • Arrange collective bargaining agreements.
  • Inform individuals or organizations of status or findings.
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  • Conduct surveys in organizations.
  • Maintain personnel records.
  • Train personnel in organizational or compliance procedures.
  • Prepare operational reports.
  • Prepare research reports.
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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