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Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Workers

Job Zone
Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed
Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

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.

  • Clean and polish metal items and jewelry pieces, using jewelers' tools, polishing wheels, and chemical baths.88
  • Smooth soldered joints and rough spots, using hand files and emery paper, and polish smoothed areas with polishing wheels or buffing wire.87
  • Create jewelry from materials such as gold, silver, platinum, and precious or semiprecious stones.86
  • Cut and file pieces of jewelry such as rings, brooches, bracelets, and lockets.85
  • Examine assembled or finished products to ensure conformance to specifications, using magnifying glasses or precision measuring instruments.84
  • Make repairs, such as enlarging or reducing ring sizes, soldering pieces of jewelry together, and replacing broken clasps and mountings.84
  • Compute costs of labor and materials to determine production costs of products and articles.83
  • Position stones and metal pieces, and set, mount, and secure items in place, using setting and hand tools.83
  • Grade stones based on their color, perfection, and quality of cut.82
  • Select and acquire metals and gems for designs.81
  • Shape and straighten damaged or twisted articles by hand or using pliers.81
  • Buy and sell jewelry, or serve as agents between buyers and sellers.81
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  • Determine appraised values of diamonds and other gemstones based on price guides, market fluctuations, and stone grades and rarity.81
  • Create new jewelry designs and modify existing designs, using computers as necessary.73
  • Plate articles such as jewelry pieces and watch dials, using silver, gold, nickel, or other metals.72
  • Record the weights and processing times of finished pieces.71
  • Construct preliminary models of wax, metal, clay, or plaster, and form sample castings in molds.70
  • Write or modify design specifications such as the metal contents and weights of items.68
  • Soften metal to be used in designs by heating it with a gas torch and shape it, using hammers and dies.68
  • Pierce and cut open designs in ornamentation, using hand drills and scroll saws.66
  • Research and analyze reference materials, and consult with interested parties to develop new products or modify existing designs.64
  • Mark, engrave, or emboss designs on metal pieces such as castings, wire, or jewelry, following specifications.63
  • Lay out designs on metal stock, and cut along markings to fabricate pieces used to cast metal molds.62
  • Design and fabricate molds, models, and machine accessories, and modify hand tools used to cast metal and jewelry pieces.59
  • Pour molten metal alloys or other materials into molds to cast models of jewelry.57
  • Cut designs in molds or other materials to be used as models in the fabrication of metal and jewelry products.57
  • Rout out locations where parts are to be joined to items, using routing machines.56
  • Weigh, mix, and melt metal alloys or materials needed for jewelry models.54
  • Anneal precious metal objects such as coffeepots, tea sets, and trays in gas ovens for prescribed times to soften metal for reworking.46
  • Rotate molds to distribute alloys and to prevent formation of air pockets.40

Skills

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

  • 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.

  • Critical Thinking50

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

  • Speaking50

    Talking to others to convey information effectively.

  • Coordination47

    Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.

  • Judgment and Decision Making47

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

  • Social Perceptiveness47

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

  • Monitoring44

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

  • Reading Comprehension44

    Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

  • Complex Problem Solving41

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

  • Service Orientation41

    Actively looking for ways to help people.

  • Time Management41

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

  • Instructing38

    Teaching others how to do something.

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  • Writing38

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

  • Active Learning35

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

  • Learning Strategies31

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

  • Negotiation31

    Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.

  • Persuasion31

    Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.

  • Management of Personnel Resources28

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

  • Operations Monitoring28

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

  • Quality Control Analysis28

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

  • Equipment Selection25

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

  • Mathematics25

    Using mathematics to solve problems.

  • Operation and Control25

    Controlling operations of equipment or systems.

  • Systems Analysis25

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

  • Equipment Maintenance22

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

  • Management of Material Resources22

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

  • Repairing22

    Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.

  • Systems Evaluation22

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

  • Troubleshooting22

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

  • Technology Design19

    Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.

  • Management of Financial Resources16

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

  • Programming10

    Writing computer programs for various purposes.

  • Operations Analysis6

    Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.

  • Science6

    Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

  • Installation0

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

Knowledge

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

  • Customer and Personal Service82

    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.

  • Design76

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

  • Production and Processing71

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

  • Sales and Marketing71

    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.

  • Administration and Management68

    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.

  • Mechanical60

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

  • Administrative54

    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 Technology54

    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.

  • Mathematics54

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

  • Fine Arts53

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

  • Economics and Accounting52

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

  • Education and Training50

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

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  • Computers and Electronics49

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

  • English Language47

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

  • Personnel and Human Resources44

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

  • Chemistry42

    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.

  • Communications and Media42

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

  • Public Safety and Security40

    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.

  • Physics38

    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.

  • Psychology30

    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.

  • Law and Government29

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

  • Building and Construction28

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

  • Telecommunications23

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

  • Transportation20

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

  • Sociology and Anthropology19

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

  • History and Archeology16

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

  • Foreign Language12

    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.

  • Geography11

    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.

  • Philosophy and Theology8

    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.

  • Therapy and Counseling6

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

  • Food Production4

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

  • Medicine and Dentistry4

    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.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

  • Near Vision72

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

  • Finger Dexterity66

    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 Steadiness63

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

  • Oral Comprehension56

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

  • Category Flexibility53

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

  • Oral Expression53

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

  • 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.

  • Visualization53

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

  • Deductive Reasoning50

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

  • Information Ordering50

    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).

  • Problem Sensitivity50

    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 Clarity50

    The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.

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  • Speech Recognition50

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

  • Visual Color Discrimination50

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

  • Control Precision47

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

  • Fluency of Ideas47

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

  • Inductive Reasoning47

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

  • Manual Dexterity47

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

  • Written Comprehension47

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

  • Flexibility of Closure44

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

  • Selective Attention44

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

  • Written Expression41

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

  • Perceptual Speed38

    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.

  • Far Vision35

    The ability to see details at a distance.

  • 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).

  • Depth Perception31

    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.

  • Number Facility28

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

  • Wrist-Finger Speed28

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

  • Auditory Attention25

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

  • Hearing Sensitivity25

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

  • Mathematical Reasoning25

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

  • Memorization25

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

  • 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.

  • Speed of Closure25

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

  • Trunk Strength25

    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.

  • Dynamic Strength22

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

  • Reaction Time22

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

  • Static Strength22

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

  • Extent Flexibility19

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

  • Rate Control19

    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.

  • Explosive Strength13

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

  • Peripheral Vision10

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

  • Response Orientation10

    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 Orientation10

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

  • Gross Body Coordination6

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

  • Gross Body Equilibrium6

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

  • Speed of Limb Movement6

    The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.

  • Stamina6

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

  • Dynamic Flexibility3

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

  • Glare Sensitivity3

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

  • Night Vision3

    The ability to see under low-light conditions.

  • Sound Localization3

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

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

  • Thinking Creatively85

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

  • Controlling Machines and Processes74

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

  • Getting Information73

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

  • Making Decisions and Solving Problems71

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

  • Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships69

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

  • Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events69

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

  • Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials69

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

  • Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings69

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

  • Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work65

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

  • Performing for or Working Directly with the Public64

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

  • Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People62

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

  • Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge60

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

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  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates59

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

  • Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information57

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

  • Selling or Influencing Others57

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

  • Documenting/Recording Information54

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

  • Handling and Moving Objects54

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

  • Training and Teaching Others54

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

  • Processing Information53

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

  • Developing Objectives and Strategies52

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

  • Monitoring and Controlling Resources52

    Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.

  • Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards51

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

  • Scheduling Work and Activities50

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

  • Communicating with People Outside the Organization49

    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.

  • Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment48

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

  • Working with Computers47

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

  • Developing and Building Teams46

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

  • Coaching and Developing Others44

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

  • Analyzing Data or Information43

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

  • Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment43

    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.

  • Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others43

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

  • Performing Administrative Activities42

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

  • Providing Consultation and Advice to Others42

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

  • Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others41

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

  • Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others38

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

  • Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates36

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

  • Performing General Physical Activities34

    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.

  • Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment33

    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.

  • Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment31

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

  • Staffing Organizational Units22

    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.

  • Dependability73

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

  • Cautiousness69

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

  • Integrity65

    A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.

  • Innovation60

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

  • Achievement Orientation57

    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.

  • Perseverance57

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

  • Self-Confidence38

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

  • Initiative30

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

  • Intellectual Curiosity29

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

  • Self-Control28

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

  • Stress Tolerance27

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

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  • Adaptability26

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

  • Sincerity26

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

  • Optimism11

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

  • Cooperation8

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

  • Tolerance for Ambiguity8

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

  • Social Orientation5

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

  • Empathy3

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

Interests (RIASEC)

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

  • Realistic93

    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.

  • Artistic45

    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.

  • Conventional39

    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.

  • Investigative27

    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.

  • Enterprising9

    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.

  • Social1

    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.

  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate

    • Extremely important78%
    • Very important22%
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled

    • Every day88%
  • Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams

    • Every day72%
    • Once a week or more but not every day28%
  • Freedom to Make Decisions

    • A lot of freedom71%
    • Some freedom29%
  • Time Pressure

    • Every day64%
    • Once a week or more but not every day36%
  • Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals

    • A lot of freedom71%
    • Limited freedom27%
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls

    • Continually or almost continually62%
    • More than half the time29%
  • Frequency of Decision Making

    • Every day72%
  • Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results

    • Very important results67%
    • Moderate results20%
  • Contact With Others

    • Constant contact with others53%
    • Contact with others most of the time19%
    • Contact with others about half the time28%
  • Telephone Conversations

    • Every day55%
    • Once a week or more but not every day28%
  • Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team

    • Extremely important66%
    • Important11%
    • Fairly important20%
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  • E-Mail

    • Every day63%
    • Once a month or more but not every week15%
    • Once a year or more but not every month20%
  • Spend Time Sitting

    • Continually or almost continually22%
    • More than half the time66%
    • About half the time13%
  • Exposed to Contaminants

    • Every day33%
    • Once a week or more but not every day34%
    • Once a month or more but not every week19%
    • Never12%
  • Duration of Typical Work Week

    • More than 40 hours47%
    • 40 hours38%
    • Less than 40 hours15%
  • Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities

    • Extremely important44%
    • Important18%
    • Not important at all11%
  • Importance of Repeating Same Tasks

    • Extremely important34%
    • Very important11%
    • Important37%
  • Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers

    • Very high responsibility51%
    • High responsibility12%
    • No responsibility27%
  • Deal With External Customers or the Public in General

    • Extremely important43%
    • Very important13%
    • Important16%
    • Not important at all27%
  • Level of Competition

    • Extremely competitive16%
    • Highly competitive25%
    • Moderately competitive48%
  • Physical Proximity

    • Very close (near touching)11%
    • Moderately close (at arm's length)39%
    • Slightly close (e.g., shared office)20%
    • I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)28%
  • Health and Safety of Other Workers

    • Very high responsibility29%
    • High responsibility27%
    • No responsibility27%
  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets

    • Every day49%
    • Never34%
  • Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions

    • Continually or almost continually25%
    • More than half the time30%
    • Less than half the time22%
    • Never19%
  • Written Letters and Memos

    • Every day32%
    • Once a week or more but not every day25%
    • Never25%
  • Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable

    • Every day25%
    • Once a week or more but not every day17%
    • Once a month or more but not every week26%
    • Never22%
  • Conflict Situations

    • 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 month28%
    • Never11%
  • Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People

    • Every day13%
    • Once a month or more but not every week47%
    • Once a year or more but not every month28%
  • Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings

    • Every day31%
    • Once a month or more but not every week26%
    • Once a year or more but not every month18%
    • Never22%
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment

    • Every day32%
    • Once a year or more but not every month26%
    • Never36%
  • Consequence of Error

    • Extremely serious15%
    • Serious15%
    • Fairly serious49%
    • Not serious at all17%
  • Exposed to Hazardous Conditions

    • Every day21%
    • Once a year or more but not every month21%
    • Never54%
  • Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection

    • Once a week or more but not every day15%
    • Never68%
  • Spend Time Standing

    • About half the time13%
    • Less than half the time80%
  • Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions

    • Once a month or more but not every week26%
    • Once a year or more but not every month17%
    • Never49%
  • Spend Time Walking or Running

    • Less than half the time88%
  • Public Speaking

    • Once a month or more but not every week17%
    • Once a year or more but not every month25%
    • Never51%
  • Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures

    • Once a year or more but not every month29%
  • Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body

    • Less than half the time55%
    • Never38%
  • Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People

    • Once a year or more but not every month18%
    • Never68%
  • In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment

    • Never70%
  • Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions

    • Once a month or more but not every week24%
    • Never72%
  • Degree of Automation

    • Slightly automated34%
    • Not at all automated58%
  • Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled

    • Once a year or more but not every month20%
    • Never72%
  • Exposed to High Places

    • Once a month or more but not every week15%
    • Never77%
  • Exposed to Disease or Infections

    • Never83%
  • Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment

    • Fairly important30%
    • Not important at all70%
  • Exposed to Radiation

    • Never93%
  • Outdoors, Under Cover

    • Never85%
  • Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling

    • Less than half the time25%
    • Never75%
  • Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles

    • Less than half the time16%
    • Never82%
  • Work Schedules

    • Regular (established routine, set schedule)92%
  • Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions

    • Never96%
  • Exposed to Whole Body Vibration

    • Never93%
  • Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance

    • Never98%
  • In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment

    • 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.

  • Graphics or photo imaging software

    Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop

  • Computer aided design CAD software

    Computer assisted jewelry design CAD software, Metal designing software

  • Spreadsheet software

    Microsoft Excel

  • Electronic mail software

    Microsoft Outlook

  • Accounting software

    Intuit QuickBooks

  • Point of sale POS software

    Jewelry store point of sale POS software

  • Customer relationship management CRM software

    Customer information databases

  • Word processing software

    Microsoft Word

  • Internet browser software

    Web browser software

  • Data base user interface and query software

    Retail management software

  • Inventory management software

    Inventory tracking software

Professional Associations

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

Related Occupations

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

  • Polish materials, workpieces, or finished products.
  • Clean workpieces or finished products.
  • Smooth metal surfaces or edges.
  • Design jewelry or decorative objects.
  • Cut industrial materials in preparation for fabrication or processing.
  • Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
  • Repair precision devices or workpieces.
  • Solder parts or workpieces.
  • Align parts or workpieces to ensure proper assembly.
  • Estimate costs of products, services, or materials.
  • Evaluate quality of materials or products.
  • Reshape small metal components for precision assembly.
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  • Order materials, supplies, or equipment.
  • Select production input materials.
  • Determine the value of goods or services.
  • Purchase products or services.
  • Sell products or services.
  • Apply protective or decorative finishes to workpieces or products.
  • Record operational or production data.
  • Build production molds.
  • Heat material or workpieces to prepare for or complete production.
  • Shape metal workpieces with hammers or other small hand tools.
  • Drill holes in parts, equipment, or materials.
  • Confer with customers or designers to determine order specifications.
  • Engrave designs, text, or other markings onto materials, workpieces, or products.
  • Draw guide lines or markings on materials or workpieces using patterns or other references.
  • Place materials into molds.
  • Measure ingredients or substances to be used in production processes.
  • Melt metal, plastic, or other materials to prepare for production.
  • Mix ingredients to create specific finishes.
  • Prepare materials for processing.
  • Adjust position of molds during processing.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

  • Bench Hand (Jewelry-Silver)
  • Bracelet & Brooch Maker
  • Chaser (Jewelry-Silver)
  • Engine Turner (Jewelry)
  • Jeweler
  • Model Maker Ii (Jewelry)
  • Mold Maker (Pottery & Porc)
  • Mold Maker I (Jewelry)
  • Mold Maker Ii (Jewelry)
  • Pewter Caster
  • Pewter Fabricator
  • Pewter Finisher
  • Pewter Turner (Silverware) C379
  • Pewterer
  • Silversmith Ii
  • Solderer (Jewelry)
  • Stone Setter (Jewelry)
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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