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Industrial Production Managers

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.

  • Set and monitor product standards, examining samples of raw products or directing testing during processing, to ensure finished products are of prescribed quality.75
  • Direct or coordinate production, processing, distribution, or marketing activities of industrial organizations.75
  • Review processing schedules or production orders to make decisions concerning inventory requirements, staffing requirements, work procedures, or duty assignments, considering budgetary limitations and time constraints.75
  • Review operations and confer with technical or administrative staff to resolve production or processing problems.71
  • Hire, train, evaluate, or discharge staff or resolve personnel grievances.71
  • Develop or implement production tracking or quality control systems, analyzing production, quality control, maintenance, or other operational reports to detect production problems.70
  • Prepare and maintain production reports or personnel records.68
  • Review plans and confer with research or support staff to develop new products or processes.64
  • Develop budgets or approve expenditures for supplies, materials, or human resources, ensuring that materials, labor, or equipment are used efficiently to meet production targets.64
  • Negotiate materials prices with suppliers.63
  • Maintain current knowledge of the quality control field, relying on current literature pertaining to materials use, technological advances, or statistical studies.62
  • Coordinate or recommend procedures for facility or equipment maintenance or modification, including the replacement of machines.61
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  • Initiate or coordinate inventory or cost control programs.57
  • Conduct site audits to ensure adherence to safety and environmental regulations.
  • Develop or enforce procedures for normal operation of manufacturing systems.
  • Implement operational and emergency procedures.
  • Maintain records to demonstrate compliance with safety and environmental laws, regulations, or policies.
  • Monitor permit requirements for updates.
  • Optimize operational costs and productivity consistent with safety and environmental rules and regulations.
  • Prepare reports on operations and system productivity or efficiency.
  • Supervise subordinate employees.

Skills

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

  • Coordination75

    Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.

  • 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.

  • Monitoring75

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

  • Speaking75

    Talking to others to convey information effectively.

  • 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.

  • Management of Personnel Resources72

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

  • Reading Comprehension72

    Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

  • Time Management72

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

  • Learning Strategies69

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

  • Systems Analysis69

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

  • Active Learning66

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

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  • Complex Problem Solving66

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

  • Social Perceptiveness63

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

  • Management of Financial Resources60

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

  • Mathematics60

    Using mathematics to solve problems.

  • Systems Evaluation60

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

  • Writing60

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

  • Management of Material Resources56

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

  • Negotiation56

    Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.

  • Instructing53

    Teaching others how to do something.

  • Operations Monitoring53

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

  • Persuasion53

    Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.

  • Quality Control Analysis53

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

  • Service Orientation50

    Actively looking for ways to help people.

  • Operations Analysis47

    Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.

  • Operation and Control44

    Controlling operations of equipment or systems.

  • Troubleshooting31

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

  • Equipment Selection28

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

  • Repairing28

    Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.

  • Equipment Maintenance25

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

  • Programming16

    Writing computer programs for various purposes.

  • Science16

    Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

  • Technology Design16

    Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.

  • Installation0

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

Knowledge

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

  • Production and Processing85

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

  • Administration and Management77

    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.

  • Customer and Personal Service64

    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.

  • Education and Training60

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

  • Mathematics60

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

  • Personnel and Human Resources60

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

  • English Language57

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

  • Mechanical57

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

  • Engineering and Technology55

    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.

  • Administrative49

    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 Electronics49

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

  • Public Safety and Security48

    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.

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  • Psychology44

    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.

  • Design40

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

  • Economics and Accounting38

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

  • Transportation37

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

  • Law and Government36

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

  • Communications and Media33

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

  • Telecommunications29

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

  • Sales and Marketing28

    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.

  • Chemistry27

    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.

  • Physics24

    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.

  • Building and Construction23

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

  • Sociology and Anthropology23

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

  • Geography21

    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.

  • Foreign Language18

    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.

  • Therapy and Counseling18

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

  • Philosophy and Theology14

    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.

  • Biology12

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

  • Medicine and Dentistry10

    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.

  • Food Production8

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

  • History and Archeology4

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

  • Fine Arts0

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

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

  • Deductive Reasoning75

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

  • Information Ordering75

    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).

  • Oral Comprehension75

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

  • Oral Expression75

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

  • Problem Sensitivity75

    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 Comprehension75

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

  • Inductive Reasoning72

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

  • Speech Clarity69

    The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.

  • Speech Recognition66

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

  • Fluency of Ideas63

    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).

  • Written Expression63

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

  • Category Flexibility56

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

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  • Near Vision56

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

  • Mathematical Reasoning53

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

  • Number Facility53

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

  • Originality53

    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.

  • Perceptual Speed53

    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.

  • Visualization53

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

  • Far Vision50

    The ability to see details at a distance.

  • 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.

  • Selective Attention50

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

  • Memorization47

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

  • Speed of Closure47

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

  • 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).

  • Auditory Attention44

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

  • Visual Color Discrimination44

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

  • Finger Dexterity38

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

  • Arm-Hand Steadiness35

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

  • Trunk Strength35

    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.

  • Control Precision31

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

  • Manual Dexterity31

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

  • Reaction Time31

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

  • Depth Perception28

    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.

  • Rate Control28

    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.

  • Extent Flexibility25

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

  • Gross Body Coordination25

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

  • Hearing Sensitivity25

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

  • Multilimb Coordination25

    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.

  • Static Strength25

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

  • Wrist-Finger Speed25

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

  • Stamina22

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

  • Dynamic Strength19

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

  • Response Orientation19

    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.

  • 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 Movement19

    The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.

  • Sound Localization13

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

  • Explosive Strength10

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

  • Gross Body Equilibrium10

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

  • Peripheral Vision10

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

  • Glare Sensitivity6

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

  • Night Vision6

    The ability to see under low-light conditions.

  • Dynamic Flexibility0

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

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

  • Getting Information87

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

  • Making Decisions and Solving Problems86

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

  • Working with Computers83

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

  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates80

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

  • Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings80

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

  • Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials76

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

  • Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events74

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

  • Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships72

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

  • Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work71

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

  • Coaching and Developing Others70

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

  • Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others69

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

  • Developing and Building Teams69

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

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  • Processing Information69

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

  • Documenting/Recording Information68

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

  • Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates68

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

  • Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People67

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

  • Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards66

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

  • Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others66

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

  • Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge66

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

  • Scheduling Work and Activities65

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

  • Controlling Machines and Processes64

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

  • Developing Objectives and Strategies64

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

  • Thinking Creatively64

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

  • Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information63

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

  • Analyzing Data or Information62

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

  • Training and Teaching Others62

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

  • Monitoring and Controlling Resources61

    Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.

  • Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others60

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

  • Communicating with People Outside the Organization58

    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.

  • Handling and Moving Objects58

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

  • Performing Administrative Activities53

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

  • Providing Consultation and Advice to Others53

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

  • Performing General Physical Activities52

    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.

  • Staffing Organizational Units50

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

  • Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment46

    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 Equipment45

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

  • Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment43

    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.

  • Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment42

    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.

  • Assisting and Caring for Others39

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

  • Selling or Influencing Others37

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

  • Performing for or Working Directly with the Public31

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

Work Styles

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

  • Leadership Orientation91

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

  • Dependability87

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

  • Attention to Detail86

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

  • Achievement Orientation72

    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.

  • Initiative67

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

  • Cautiousness66

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

  • Stress Tolerance66

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

  • Integrity65

    A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.

  • Perseverance65

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

  • Self-Confidence62

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

  • Adaptability61

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

  • Self-Control57

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

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  • Cooperation54

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

  • Innovation45

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

  • Social Orientation43

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

  • Intellectual Curiosity42

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

  • Tolerance for Ambiguity38

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

  • Sincerity31

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

  • Optimism30

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

  • Empathy25

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

  • Humility16

    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.

  • Enterprising84

    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.

  • Conventional70

    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.

  • Realistic50

    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.

  • Investigative32

    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.

  • Social14

    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.

  • 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.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

  • E-Mail

    • Every day92%
  • Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams

    • Every day89%
  • Contact With Others

    • Constant contact with others72%
    • Contact with others most of the time25%
  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets

    • Every day84%
  • Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals

    • A lot of freedom60%
    • Some freedom35%
  • Health and Safety of Other Workers

    • Very high responsibility66%
    • High responsibility23%
  • Telephone Conversations

    • Every day70%
    • Once a week or more but not every day23%
  • Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team

    • Extremely important55%
    • Very important42%
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate

    • Extremely important52%
    • Very important44%
  • Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers

    • Very high responsibility70%
    • High responsibility18%
  • Frequency of Decision Making

    • Every day66%
    • Once a week or more but not every day16%
    • Once a month or more but not every week14%
  • Duration of Typical Work Week

    • More than 40 hours73%
    • 40 hours23%
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  • Freedom to Make Decisions

    • A lot of freedom56%
    • Some freedom30%
    • Limited freedom11%
  • Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results

    • Very important results48%
    • Important results40%
  • Time Pressure

    • Every day41%
    • Once a week or more but not every day41%
    • Once a month or more but not every week15%
  • Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities

    • Extremely important30%
    • Very important54%
    • Important16%
  • Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled

    • Every day59%
    • Never20%
  • Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable

    • Every day39%
    • Once a week or more but not every day25%
    • Once a month or more but not every week18%
    • Never11%
  • Exposed to Contaminants

    • Every day49%
    • Once a week or more but not every day14%
    • Never30%
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled

    • Every day58%
    • Never34%
  • Spend Time Standing

    • Continually or almost continually14%
    • More than half the time34%
    • About half the time37%
    • Less than half the time15%
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment

    • Every day39%
    • Once a week or more but not every day23%
    • Never31%
  • Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment

    • Extremely important31%
    • Very important25%
    • Not important at all27%
  • Physical Proximity

    • Moderately close (at arm's length)30%
    • Slightly close (e.g., shared office)46%
    • I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)17%
  • Conflict Situations

    • Every day11%
    • Once a week or more but not every day36%
    • Once a month or more but not every week23%
    • Once a year or more but not every month20%
  • Importance of Repeating Same Tasks

    • Extremely important11%
    • Very important29%
    • Important30%
    • Fairly important24%
  • Written Letters and Memos

    • Once a week or more but not every day40%
    • Once a month or more but not every week12%
    • Once a year or more but not every month31%
  • Consequence of Error

    • Extremely serious17%
    • Very serious19%
    • Serious30%
    • Fairly serious20%
    • Not serious at all15%
  • Level of Competition

    • Highly competitive29%
    • Moderately competitive30%
    • Slightly competitive18%
    • Not at all competitive13%
  • Spend Time Walking or Running

    • More than half the time27%
    • About half the time31%
    • Less than half the time27%
  • Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People

    • Once a week or more but not every day29%
    • Once a month or more but not every week21%
    • Once a year or more but not every month32%
  • Deal With External Customers or the Public in General

    • Extremely important21%
    • Very important13%
    • Important24%
    • Fairly important18%
    • Not important at all24%
  • Public Speaking

    • Every day18%
    • Once a week or more but not every day18%
    • Once a month or more but not every week13%
    • Once a year or more but not every month27%
    • Never24%
  • Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures

    • Every day14%
    • Once a week or more but not every day19%
    • Once a month or more but not every week16%
    • Once a year or more but not every month24%
    • Never27%
  • Spend Time Sitting

    • More than half the time14%
    • About half the time39%
    • Less than half the time39%
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls

    • More than half the time21%
    • About half the time29%
    • Less than half the time23%
    • Never20%
  • Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings

    • Every day20%
    • Once a month or more but not every week23%
    • Once a year or more but not every month14%
    • Never37%
  • In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment

    • Once a week or more but not every day24%
    • Once a month or more but not every week11%
    • Once a year or more but not every month12%
    • Never45%
  • Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions

    • Once a week or more but not every day11%
    • Once a month or more but not every week21%
    • Once a year or more but not every month26%
    • Never34%
  • Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions

    • Once a week or more but not every day16%
    • Once a year or more but not every month14%
    • Never50%
  • Exposed to Hazardous Conditions

    • Every day14%
    • Once a month or more but not every week13%
    • Never54%
  • Degree of Automation

    • Moderately automated33%
    • Slightly automated19%
    • Not at all automated42%
  • Exposed to High Places

    • Once a month or more but not every week18%
    • Once a year or more but not every month25%
    • Never45%
  • Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions

    • Once a month or more but not every week26%
    • Once a year or more but not every month15%
    • Never50%
  • Outdoors, Under Cover

    • Once a month or more but not every week18%
    • Once a year or more but not every month22%
    • Never50%
  • Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions

    • Less than half the time56%
    • Never30%
  • In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment

    • Once a year or more but not every month27%
    • Never53%
  • Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body

    • Less than half the time53%
    • Never40%
  • Work Schedules

    • Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration)21%
    • Regular (established routine, set schedule)74%
  • Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection

    • Once a month or more but not every week12%
    • Once a year or more but not every month21%
    • Never62%
  • Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance

    • Less than half the time24%
    • Never68%
  • Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling

    • Less than half the time50%
    • Never48%
  • Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People

    • Once a year or more but not every month39%
    • Never59%
  • Exposed to Whole Body Vibration

    • Once a year or more but not every month12%
    • Never74%
  • Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles

    • Less than half the time38%
    • Never62%
  • Exposed to Disease or Infections

    • Never86%
  • Exposed to Radiation

    • Never97%

Typical Education Levels Reported

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

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

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

  • Enterprise resource planning ERP software

    Oracle JD Edwards EnterpriseOne, Oracle PeopleSoft, ProcessPro Premier, SAP software

  • Video creation and editing software

    Adobe After Effects, Apple Final Cut Pro, YouTube

  • Industrial control software

    AVEVA InTouch HMI, Prosys Open Platform Communications unified architecture software, Schneider Electric CitectSCADA, Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software

  • Data base user interface and query software

    Database software, Exact Software JobBOSS, FileMaker Pro, Scadex Technologies MAESTRO

  • Electronic mail software

    Email software, IBM Notes, Microsoft Outlook

  • Facilities management software

    ABB Optimize IT Predict & Control, Computerized maintenance management system CMMS, Plant management software

  • Human resources software

    Clockware, Computer integrated manufacturing CIM time manager software, Employee performance management system

  • Analytical or scientific software

    Landfill gas analysis software, Landtec System Software LFG Pro, Minitab

  • Calendar and scheduling software

    Computer integrated manufacturing CIM software, Employee scheduling software, WorkSchedule.net

  • Graphics or photo imaging software

    Adobe Photoshop, JamBoard

  • Document management software

    Adobe Acrobat, QUMAS quality management solution software

  • Computer aided design CAD software

    Autodesk AutoCAD, PTC Creo Parametric

  • Spreadsheet software

    Microsoft Excel

  • Accounting software

    Intuit QuickBooks

  • Development environment software

    IBM Rational ClearQuest

  • Desktop communications software

    Eko

  • Desktop publishing software

    Adobe InDesign

  • Office suite software

    Microsoft Office software

  • Word processing software

    Microsoft Word

  • Financial analysis software

    Financial planning software

  • Business intelligence and data analysis software

    Qlik Tech QlikView

  • Internet browser software

    Web browser software

  • Presentation software

    Microsoft PowerPoint

  • Project management software

    Microsoft Project

  • Inventory management software

    Computer integrated manufacturing CIM warehouse shipping manager software

Professional Associations

Related Occupations

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

  • Analyze data to inform operational decisions or activities.
  • Develop operating strategies, plans, or procedures.
  • Direct organizational operations, projects, or services.
  • Direct sales, marketing, or customer service activities.
  • Evaluate quality of materials or products.
  • Confer with organizational members to accomplish work activities.
  • Conduct employee training programs.
  • Evaluate employee performance.
  • Hire personnel.
  • Monitor organizational procedures to ensure proper functioning.
  • Develop organizational methods or procedures.
  • Implement organizational process or policy changes.
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  • Maintain personnel records.
  • Prepare operational progress or status reports.
  • Approve expenditures.
  • Develop specifications for new products or processes.
  • Prepare operational budgets.
  • Negotiate sales or lease agreements for products or services.
  • Maintain knowledge of current developments in area of expertise.
  • Direct facility maintenance or repair activities.
  • Recommend organizational process or policy changes.
  • Manage control system activities in organizations.
  • Conduct environmental audits.
  • Design industrial processing systems.
  • Direct operational or production activities.
  • Implement design or process improvements.
  • Maintain regulatory or compliance documentation.
  • Monitor external affairs or events affecting business operations.
  • Prepare operational reports.
  • Respond to emergencies to provide assistance.
  • Supervise employees.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

  • Wine Maker (Vinous Liquor)
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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