Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers

Job Zone

Job Zone 1-2: Very Little to Some Preparation Needed

Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may 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.

Discard or reject products, materials, or equipment not meeting specifications.92
Mark items with details, such as grade or acceptance-rejection status.89
Measure dimensions of products to verify conformance to specifications, using measuring instruments, such as rulers, calipers, gauges, or micrometers.87
Notify supervisors or other personnel of production problems.87
Inspect, test, or measure materials, products, installations, or work for conformance to specifications.87
Write test or inspection reports describing results, recommendations, or needed repairs.85
Recommend necessary corrective actions, based on inspection results.84
Read dials or meters to verify that equipment is functioning at specified levels.83
Make minor adjustments to equipment, such as turning setscrews to calibrate instruments to required tolerances.83
Read blueprints, data, manuals, or other materials to determine specifications, inspection and testing procedures, adjustment methods, certification processes, formulas, or measuring instruments required.83
Monitor production operations or equipment to ensure conformance to specifications, making necessary process or assembly adjustments.82
Check arriving materials to ensure that they match purchase orders, submitting discrepancy reports as necessary.82

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Inspect or test raw materials, parts, or products to determine compliance with environmental standards.82
Record inspection or test data, such as weights, temperatures, grades, or moisture content, and quantities inspected or graded.81
Analyze test data, making computations as necessary, to determine test results.81
Compare colors, shapes, textures, or grades of products or materials with color charts, templates, or samples to verify conformance to standards.79
Clean, maintain, calibrate, or repair measuring instruments or test equipment, such as dial indicators, fixed gauges, or height gauges.78
Fabricate, install, position, or connect components, parts, finished products, or instruments for testing or operational purposes.78
Administer tests to assess whether engineers or operators are qualified to use equipment.77
Monitor machines that automatically measure, sort, or inspect products.76
Interpret legal requirements, provide safety information, or recommend compliance procedures to contractors, craft workers, engineers, or property owners.75
Position products, components, or parts for testing.73
Remove defects, such as chips, burrs, or lap corroded or pitted surfaces.73
Adjust, clean, or repair products or processing equipment to correct defects found during inspections.73
Compute usable amounts of items in shipments.71
Collect or select samples for testing or for use as models.69
Grade, classify, or sort products according to sizes, weights, colors, or other specifications.68
Disassemble defective parts or components, such as inaccurate or worn gauges or measuring instruments.68
Compute defect percentages or averages, using formulas and calculators.68
Stack or arrange tested products for further processing, shipping, or packaging.66
Weigh materials, products, containers, or samples to verify packaging weights or ingredient quantities.63

Skills

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

Quality Control Analysis69
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Critical Thinking56
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Writing56
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Active Listening53
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.
Judgment and Decision Making53
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Reading Comprehension53
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Speaking53
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Monitoring50
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Operations Monitoring50
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Time Management50
Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Complex Problem Solving47
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Coordination47
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.

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Operation and Control47
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Social Perceptiveness47
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Mathematics41
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Active Learning35
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Service Orientation35
Actively looking for ways to help people.
Persuasion31
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
Troubleshooting31
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Management of Personnel Resources28
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
Negotiation28
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
Systems Analysis28
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Systems Evaluation28
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
Equipment Selection25
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Instructing25
Teaching others how to do something.
Learning Strategies25
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Operations Analysis25
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
Management of Material Resources22
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
Equipment Maintenance19
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
Management of Financial Resources19
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
Repairing16
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
Science16
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Technology Design16
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
Programming13
Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Installation0
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.

Knowledge

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

Production and Processing82
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
English Language64
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 Service59
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.
Mechanical56
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Mathematics54
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Computers and Electronics47
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Education and Training41
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Administrative39
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Engineering and Technology39
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.
Public Safety and Security38
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.
Chemistry37
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.
Design36
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.

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Administration and Management33
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.
Personnel and Human Resources32
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Physics31
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.
Psychology25
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.
Transportation24
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Sales and Marketing22
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.
Telecommunications22
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
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.
Building and Construction17
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Economics and Accounting17
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
Communications and Media16
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Law and Government15
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Therapy and Counseling14
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Geography12
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.
Biology9
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
History and Archeology9
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Philosophy and Theology9
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.
Food Production8
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
Sociology and Anthropology8
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Medicine and Dentistry2
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.
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.

Oral Expression66
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Near Vision63
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Oral Comprehension63
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Perceptual Speed60
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.
Flexibility of Closure56
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
Problem Sensitivity56
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.
Category Flexibility53
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
Information Ordering53
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 Comprehension53
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Arm-Hand Steadiness50
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Deductive Reasoning50
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Finger Dexterity50
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.

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Manual Dexterity50
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Selective Attention50
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
Speech Clarity50
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Speech Recognition50
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
Visualization50
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Far Vision47
The ability to see details at a distance.
Inductive Reasoning47
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Visual Color Discrimination47
The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
Written Expression47
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Auditory Attention44
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
Control Precision41
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Extent Flexibility38
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Mathematical Reasoning38
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
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.
Reaction Time38
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
Fluency of Ideas35
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).
Static Strength35
The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
Time Sharing35
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 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.
Number Facility31
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
Originality31
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.
Speed of Closure31
The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
Dynamic Strength28
The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
Gross Body Equilibrium28
The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
Hearing Sensitivity28
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
Memorization28
The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
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.
Response Orientation28
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.
Depth Perception25
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.
Explosive Strength25
The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
Gross Body Coordination25
The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
Stamina25
The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
Wrist-Finger Speed25
The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
Spatial Orientation16
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 Movement16
The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
Glare Sensitivity13
The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
Night Vision13
The ability to see under low-light conditions.
Peripheral Vision13
The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
Sound Localization13
The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
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.

Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings84
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials83
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events82
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates81
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Documenting/Recording Information81
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Getting Information77
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems75
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards73
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People69
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Handling and Moving Objects68
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge68
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Processing Information65
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.

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Performing General Physical Activities64
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.
Analyzing Data or Information60
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work60
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Controlling Machines and Processes58
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information58
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Working with Computers57
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Performing Administrative Activities55
Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
Training and Teaching Others50
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships49
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Coaching and Developing Others47
Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Developing and Building Teams47
Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Thinking Creatively47
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Assisting and Caring for Others45
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others45
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment44
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment41
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.
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates39
Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others39
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Scheduling Work and Activities39
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment38
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.
Developing Objectives and Strategies37
Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others36
Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Selling or Influencing Others36
Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization34
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.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others33
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment33
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources27
Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public24
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Staffing Organizational Units21
Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.

Work Styles

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

Attention to Detail100
A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
Cautiousness83
A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
Dependability82
A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
Integrity65
A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
Achievement Orientation36
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.
Perseverance34
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.
Self-Control27
A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
Cooperation24
A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
Self-Confidence20
A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
Adaptability15
A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
Sincerity15
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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Intellectual Curiosity14
A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
Initiative13
A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.
Humility6
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.

Realistic79
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.
Conventional73
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.
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.
Enterprising6
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.
Artistic0
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.
Social0
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.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Every day91%
Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Every day93%
Contact With Others
- Constant contact with others57%
- Contact with others most of the time42%
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Extremely important60%
- Very important36%
Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
- Extremely important64%
- Very important22%
- Important14%
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled
- Every day66%
- Once a week or more but not every day19%
Exposed to Contaminants
- Every day69%
- Once a week or more but not every day13%
- Once a year or more but not every month11%
E-Mail
- Every day77%
- Never15%
Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
- Every day52%
- Once a week or more but not every day33%
- Never11%
Freedom to Make Decisions
- A lot of freedom49%
- Some freedom25%
- Limited freedom15%
- Very little freedom11%
Duration of Typical Work Week
- More than 40 hours51%
- 40 hours49%
Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
- A lot of freedom42%
- Some freedom35%

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Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities
- Extremely important43%
- Very important24%
- Important21%
- Fairly important11%
Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility49%
- High responsibility20%
- Moderate responsibility13%
- Limited responsibility14%
Health and Safety of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility46%
- High responsibility22%
- Limited responsibility25%
Spend Time Standing
- Continually or almost continually41%
- About half the time44%
Frequency of Decision Making
- Every day52%
- Once a month or more but not every week21%
- Never16%
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
- Continually or almost continually42%
- More than half the time12%
- About half the time25%
- Less than half the time20%
Telephone Conversations
- Every day40%
- Once a week or more but not every day19%
- Once a month or more but not every week28%
- Never13%
Time Pressure
- Every day27%
- Once a week or more but not every day40%
- Once a month or more but not every week21%
- Never11%
Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results
- Very important results42%
- Important results20%
- Moderate results14%
- Minor results11%
- No results13%
Importance of Repeating Same Tasks
- Extremely important26%
- Very important32%
- Important32%
Spend Time Walking or Running
- Continually or almost continually35%
- More than half the time18%
- About half the time12%
- Less than half the time35%
Physical Proximity
- Very close (near touching)13%
- Moderately close (at arm's length)47%
- Slightly close (e.g., shared office)14%
- I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)18%
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment
- Every day41%
- Once a week or more but not every day17%
- Never27%
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Every day42%
- Once a week or more but not every day14%
- Once a year or more but not every month13%
- Never31%
Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
- Every day27%
- Once a week or more but not every day19%
- Once a year or more but not every month36%
Written Letters and Memos
- Every day24%
- Once a week or more but not every day27%
- Once a month or more but not every week15%
- Once a year or more but not every month15%
- Never19%
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
- Continually or almost continually17%
- More than half the time22%
- About half the time24%
- Less than half the time36%
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
- Extremely important40%
- Fairly important20%
- Not important at all25%
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
- Every day28%
- Once a week or more but not every day21%
- Once a year or more but not every month14%
- Never31%
Deal With External Customers or the Public in General
- Very important42%
- Fairly important25%
- Not important at all18%
Conflict Situations
- Once a week or more but not every day38%
- Once a month or more but not every week20%
- Once a year or more but not every month27%
- Never15%
Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People
- Once a week or more but not every day36%
- Once a month or more but not every week15%
- Once a year or more but not every month35%
- Never12%
Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions
- Once a week or more but not every day27%
- Once a month or more but not every week22%
- Once a year or more but not every month13%
- Never31%
Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions
- Every day18%
- Once a week or more but not every day25%
- Once a year or more but not every month15%
- Never42%
Level of Competition
- Highly competitive15%
- Moderately competitive28%
- Slightly competitive20%
- Not at all competitive29%
Consequence of Error
- Extremely serious14%
- Serious21%
- Fairly serious24%
- Not serious at all33%
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings
- Every day20%
- Once a month or more but not every week13%
- Once a year or more but not every month14%
- Never45%
Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body
- Continually or almost continually14%
- About half the time14%
- Less than half the time53%
- Never18%
Spend Time Sitting
- More than half the time14%
- About half the time25%
- Less than half the time44%
- Never17%
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling
- More than half the time14%
- Less than half the time60%
- Never18%
Degree of Automation
- Moderately automated32%
- Slightly automated39%
- Not at all automated25%
Public Speaking
- Once a week or more but not every day11%
- Once a month or more but not every week20%
- Once a year or more but not every month11%
- Never51%
Exposed to High Places
- Once a week or more but not every day14%
- Once a month or more but not every week14%
- Never57%
Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions
- Once a week or more but not every day13%
- Once a year or more but not every month13%
- Never53%
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance
- Continually or almost continually12%
- Less than half the time39%
- Never48%
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 week14%
- Once a year or more but not every month21%
- Never57%
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment
- Once a week or more but not every day14%
- Once a month or more but not every week13%
- Never73%
Outdoors, Under Cover
- Never73%
In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment
- Once a week or more but not every day20%
- Never79%
Work Schedules
- Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration)26%
- Regular (established routine, set schedule)74%
Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People
- Never77%
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles
- Less than half the time42%
- Never58%
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration
- Never93%
Exposed to Disease or Infections
- Never99%
Exposed to Radiation
- Never100%

Typical Education Levels Reported

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

High school diploma or equivalent
Post-secondary certificate
Some college, no degree

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

Computer aided design CAD software
Autodesk AutoCAD, Dassault Systemes CATIA, Dassault Systemes SolidWorks, Mastercam Design
Desktop communications software
Skype
Analytical or scientific software
Data analysis software, Minitab, The MathWorks MATLAB, Tolerance analysis software
Data base user interface and query software
Data entry software, Database software, Microsoft Access, Structured query language SQL
Industrial control software
Coordinate measuring machine software, Cybermetrics GAGETrak, Verisurf Metrology, Wilcox Associates PC-DMIS Inspection Planner
Electronic mail software
IBM Lotus Notes, IBM Notes, Microsoft Outlook
Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
Computer-aided inspection software, Mastercam computer-aided design and manufacturing software
Data base management system software
Apache Hive, Apache Pig
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Label making software
Inspection marking systems
Medical software
Medical condition coding software
Content workflow software
Atlassian JIRA
Optical character reader OCR or scanning software
Label inspection systems
Document management software
Microsoft SharePoint
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
SAP software
Enterprise application integration software
Extensible markup language XML
Office suite software
Microsoft Office software
Word processing software
Microsoft Word
Object or component oriented development software
R
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Program testing software
Selenium
Process mapping and design software
Microsoft Visio

Professional Associations

Organizations related to this occupation, such as industry and licensing bodies.

Related Occupations

Occupations that call for similar work and worker requirements.

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

Evaluate quality of materials or products.
Mark products, workpieces, or equipment with identifying information.
Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
Notify others of equipment repair or maintenance needs.
Record operational or production data.
Advise others on ways to improve processes or products.
Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.
Calibrate equipment to specifications.
Read work orders or other instructions to determine product specifications or materials requirements.
Review blueprints or other instructions to determine operational methods or sequences.
Test chemical or physical characteristics of materials or products.
Monitor equipment operation to ensure that products are not flawed.

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Analyze test results.
Compare physical characteristics of materials or products to specifications or standards.
Clean production equipment.
Repair production equipment or tools.
Connect electrical components or equipment.
Fabricate parts or components.
Maintain production or processing equipment.
Test products for functionality or quality.
Evaluate capabilities or training needs.
Instruct workers to use equipment or perform technical procedures.
Mount materials or workpieces onto production equipment.
Smooth metal surfaces or edges.
Collect samples of materials or products for testing.
Disassemble equipment for maintenance or repair.
Inspect items for damage or defects.
Sort materials or products for processing, storing, shipping, or grading.
Stack finished items for further processing or shipment.
Measure ingredients or substances to be used in production processes.
Weigh finished products.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

Airplane Inspector
Automobile Repair-Service Estimator
Automobile Tester
Cable Tester (Tel & Tel)
Calibrator (Military)
Coatings Inspector
Complaint Inspector
Diesel Engine Tester
Electric Meter Tester
Electric-Distribution Checker
Electronics Tester
Experimental Assembler
Experimental Test Mechanic
Grader (Woodworking)
Hydrometer Calibrator
Inspector, Electromechanic
Inspector, Metal Fabricate
Inspector, Outside Product
Inspector, Precision
Inspector, Set-Up & Lay-Out (Alternate Title: Senior Noncommissioned Logistician)
Operational Test Mechanic
Quality Control Inspector
Radiographer
Relay Tester
Rubber Tester
Testing & Regulating Technician
Thermometer Tester
Tool & Die Making (Inspec, Set Up & Lay-Out)
Trouble Locator Test Desk
X-Ray Equipment Tester

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