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Parts Salespersons

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.

  • Receive payment or obtain credit authorization.93
  • Assist customers, such as responding to customer complaints and updating them about back-ordered parts.91
  • Fill customer orders from stock, and place orders when requested items are out of stock.90
  • Receive and fill telephone orders for parts.89
  • Locate and label parts, and maintain inventory of stock.89
  • Prepare sales slips or sales contracts.87
  • Read catalogs, microfiche viewers, or computer displays to determine replacement part stock numbers and prices.86
  • Determine replacement parts required, according to inspections of old parts, customer requests, or customers' descriptions of malfunctions.85
  • Examine returned parts for defects, and exchange defective parts or refund money.82
  • Manage shipments by researching shipping methods or costs and tracking packages.81
  • Mark and store parts in stockrooms, according to prearranged systems.81
  • Maintain and clean work and inventory areas.79
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  • Place new merchandise on display.77
  • Advise customers on substitution or modification of parts when identical replacements are not available.76
  • Discuss use and features of various parts, based on knowledge of machines or equipment.71
  • Demonstrate equipment to customers, and explain functioning of equipment.69
  • Measure parts, using precision measuring instruments, to determine whether similar parts may be machined to required sizes.67
  • Pick up and deliver parts.66
  • Repair parts or equipment.62

Skills

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

  • Active Listening75

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

  • Speaking75

    Talking to others to convey information effectively.

  • Persuasion69

    Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.

  • Reading Comprehension66

    Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

  • Service Orientation66

    Actively looking for ways to help people.

  • Social Perceptiveness60

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

  • Critical Thinking56

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

  • Monitoring53

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

  • Judgment and Decision Making50

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

  • Time Management50

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

  • Writing50

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

  • Active Learning47

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

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  • 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.

  • Instructing47

    Teaching others how to do something.

  • Negotiation47

    Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.

  • Mathematics44

    Using mathematics to solve problems.

  • Learning Strategies35

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

  • Operations Monitoring31

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

  • Systems Analysis31

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

  • Equipment Selection28

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

  • Management of Material Resources28

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

  • Management of Personnel Resources28

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

  • Quality Control Analysis28

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

  • 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.

  • Operation and Control25

    Controlling operations of equipment or systems.

  • Troubleshooting25

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

  • Equipment Maintenance22

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

  • Repairing22

    Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.

  • Management of Financial Resources13

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

  • Technology Design13

    Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.

  • Programming10

    Writing computer programs for various purposes.

  • Operations Analysis6

    Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.

  • Installation0

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

  • Science0

    Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

Knowledge

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

  • Customer and Personal Service86

    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.

  • Sales and Marketing78

    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 Management75

    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.

  • Administrative72

    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 Electronics70

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

  • 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.

  • Economics and Accounting62

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

  • Production and Processing59

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

  • Personnel and Human Resources57

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

  • Mathematics56

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

  • Mechanical53

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

  • Education and Training47

    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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  • Public Safety and Security47

    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.

  • Telecommunications47

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

  • Transportation45

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

  • Engineering and Technology41

    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.

  • Psychology37

    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.

  • Communications and Media34

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

  • Design29

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

  • Law and Government28

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

  • Foreign Language24

    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.

  • 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.

  • Building and Construction16

    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 Anthropology14

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

  • 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.

  • Chemistry12

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

  • Physics9

    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.

  • Philosophy and Theology3

    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.

  • Biology2

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

  • Food Production2

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

  • 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.

  • History and Archeology1

    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.

  • 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.

  • Near Vision72

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

  • Speech Recognition69

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

  • Written Comprehension69

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

  • Speech Clarity66

    The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.

  • Information Ordering63

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

  • Written Expression60

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

  • Inductive Reasoning56

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

  • 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.

  • Deductive Reasoning50

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

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  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Perceptual Speed50

    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.

  • Selective Attention50

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

  • Arm-Hand Steadiness47

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

  • Far Vision47

    The ability to see details at a distance.

  • 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.

  • Number Facility47

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

  • Speed of Closure47

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

  • Fluency of Ideas44

    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).

  • Mathematical Reasoning44

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

  • Multilimb Coordination44

    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.

  • Originality44

    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.

  • Time Sharing44

    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 Strength44

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

  • Visual Color Discrimination44

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

  • Visualization44

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

  • Auditory Attention41

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

  • Memorization41

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

  • Static Strength41

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

  • Extent Flexibility31

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

  • Control Precision28

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

  • Hearing Sensitivity28

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

  • 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.

  • Dynamic Strength22

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

  • Gross Body Equilibrium22

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

  • Response Orientation22

    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 Orientation22

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

  • Depth Perception19

    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.

  • Glare Sensitivity19

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

  • 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.

  • Reaction Time19

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

  • Wrist-Finger Speed19

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

  • Explosive Strength16

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

  • Peripheral Vision16

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

  • Sound Localization16

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

  • Night Vision13

    The ability to see under low-light conditions.

  • Speed of Limb Movement3

    The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.

  • 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.

  • Working with Computers87

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

  • Getting Information84

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

  • Communicating with People Outside the Organization83

    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.

  • Performing for or Working Directly with the Public82

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

  • Making Decisions and Solving Problems81

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

  • Documenting/Recording Information75

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

  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates74

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

  • Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships73

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

  • Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge73

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

  • Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events71

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

  • Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work68

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

  • Processing Information68

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

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  • Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings67

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

  • Selling or Influencing Others67

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

  • Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others64

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

  • Scheduling Work and Activities64

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

  • Performing Administrative Activities63

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

  • Handling and Moving Objects62

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

  • Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others61

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

  • Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others61

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

  • Training and Teaching Others60

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

  • Thinking Creatively57

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

  • Monitoring and Controlling Resources56

    Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.

  • Analyzing Data or Information55

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

  • Developing Objectives and Strategies55

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

  • Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment55

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

  • Developing and Building Teams54

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

  • Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates51

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

  • Performing General Physical Activities51

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

  • Controlling Machines and Processes50

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

  • Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People50

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

  • Providing Consultation and Advice to Others50

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

  • Assisting and Caring for Others49

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

  • Coaching and Developing Others48

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

  • Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards47

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

  • Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment45

    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 Equipment44

    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.

  • Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials43

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

  • Staffing Organizational Units41

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

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

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

  • Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment38

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

Work Styles

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

  • Dependability70

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

  • Social Orientation69

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

  • Attention to Detail67

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

  • Cooperation59

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

  • Integrity57

    A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.

  • Perseverance52

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

  • Self-Confidence42

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

  • Empathy41

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

  • Achievement Orientation40

    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.

  • Optimism40

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

  • Self-Control40

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

  • Cautiousness38

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

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  • Initiative38

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

  • Sincerity36

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

  • Stress Tolerance34

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

  • Adaptability27

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

  • Intellectual Curiosity25

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

  • Leadership Orientation25

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

  • Tolerance for Ambiguity21

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

  • Innovation7

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

Interests (RIASEC)

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

  • Realistic77

    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.

  • Conventional69

    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.

  • Enterprising47

    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.

  • Social16

    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.

  • Investigative10

    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.

  • 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.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

  • Contact With Others

    • Constant contact with others100%
  • Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team

    • Extremely important91%
  • Deal With External Customers or the Public in General

    • Extremely important84%
    • Very important16%
  • Telephone Conversations

    • Every day94%
  • Freedom to Make Decisions

    • A lot of freedom63%
    • Some freedom30%
  • E-Mail

    • Every day76%
    • Once a month or more but not every week12%
  • Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled

    • Every day61%
    • Once a week or more but not every day31%
  • Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable

    • Every day45%
    • Once a week or more but not every day48%
  • Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams

    • Every day75%
    • Once a year or more but not every month20%
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled

    • Every day80%
    • Never18%
  • Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers

    • Very high responsibility58%
    • High responsibility12%
    • Moderate responsibility24%
  • Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals

    • A lot of freedom25%
    • Some freedom63%
    • Limited freedom12%
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  • Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results

    • Very important results45%
    • Important results29%
    • Moderate results20%
  • Duration of Typical Work Week

    • More than 40 hours66%
    • 40 hours22%
    • Less than 40 hours12%
  • Time Pressure

    • Every day42%
    • Once a week or more but not every day25%
    • Once a month or more but not every week32%
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate

    • Extremely important38%
    • Very important39%
    • Important12%
    • Fairly important12%
  • Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People

    • Every day18%
    • Once a week or more but not every day62%
    • Once a month or more but not every week20%
  • Frequency of Decision Making

    • Every day49%
    • Once a week or more but not every day29%
    • Never13%
  • Importance of Repeating Same Tasks

    • Extremely important44%
    • Very important38%
    • Not important at all12%
  • Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities

    • Extremely important33%
    • Very important43%
    • Important11%
    • Fairly important13%
  • Physical Proximity

    • Very close (near touching)17%
    • Moderately close (at arm's length)65%
    • Slightly close (e.g., shared office)13%
  • Exposed to Contaminants

    • Every day44%
    • Once a week or more but not every day34%
    • Never15%
  • Spend Time Standing

    • Continually or almost continually36%
    • More than half the time23%
    • About half the time29%
    • Less than half the time12%
  • Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures

    • Every day41%
    • Once a week or more but not every day27%
    • Once a month or more but not every week15%
    • Never12%
  • Conflict Situations

    • Every day29%
    • Once a week or more but not every day40%
    • Once a year or more but not every month19%
  • Spend Time Walking or Running

    • More than half the time57%
    • About half the time21%
    • Less than half the time22%
  • Health and Safety of Other Workers

    • Very high responsibility26%
    • Moderate responsibility64%
  • Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions

    • Every day25%
    • Once a week or more but not every day29%
    • Once a month or more but not every week13%
    • Once a year or more but not every month16%
    • Never17%
  • Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions

    • Every day27%
    • Once a week or more but not every day27%
    • Once a month or more but not every week11%
    • Never34%
  • Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions

    • Continually or almost continually20%
    • More than half the time27%
    • About half the time13%
    • Less than half the time23%
    • Never17%
  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets

    • Every day30%
    • Once a month or more but not every week13%
    • Once a year or more but not every month18%
    • Never30%
  • Written Letters and Memos

    • Every day31%
    • Once a year or more but not every month24%
    • Never29%
  • Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions

    • Every day16%
    • Once a week or more but not every day25%
    • Once a month or more but not every week17%
    • Once a year or more but not every month15%
    • Never27%
  • In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment

    • Every day21%
    • Once a week or more but not every day21%
    • Once a year or more but not every month24%
    • Never32%
  • Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body

    • About half the time29%
    • Less than half the time45%
  • Spend Time Sitting

    • More than half the time21%
    • About half the time26%
    • Less than half the time30%
    • Never20%
  • Consequence of Error

    • Very serious22%
    • Serious25%
    • Fairly serious25%
    • Not serious at all25%
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment

    • Every day27%
    • Once a week or more but not every day11%
    • Once a year or more but not every month12%
    • Never48%
  • Level of Competition

    • Moderately competitive46%
    • Slightly competitive33%
    • Not at all competitive12%
  • In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment

    • Every day20%
    • Once a week or more but not every day11%
    • Once a month or more but not every week13%
    • Once a year or more but not every month12%
    • Never44%
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls

    • More than half the time17%
    • About half the time26%
    • Less than half the time36%
    • Never19%
  • Exposed to High Places

    • Once a month or more but not every week25%
    • Once a year or more but not every month17%
    • Never42%
  • Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings

    • Once a week or more but not every day11%
    • Once a year or more but not every month33%
    • Never41%
  • Outdoors, Under Cover

    • Once a week or more but not every day29%
    • Never61%
  • Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People

    • Once a month or more but not every week32%
    • Once a year or more but not every month34%
    • Never35%
  • Public Speaking

    • Once a week or more but not every day12%
    • Once a year or more but not every month11%
    • Never66%
  • Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles

    • Less than half the time73%
    • Never21%
  • Exposed to Hazardous Conditions

    • Once a month or more but not every week32%
    • Never60%
  • Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling

    • Less than half the time68%
    • Never24%
  • Degree of Automation

    • Slightly automated42%
    • Not at all automated43%
  • Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance

    • Less than half the time23%
    • Never63%
  • Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment

    • Important11%
    • Fairly important14%
    • Not important at all75%
  • Work Schedules

    • Regular (established routine, set schedule)92%
  • Exposed to Disease or Infections

    • Never99%
  • Exposed to Radiation

    • Never100%
  • Exposed to Whole Body Vibration

    • Never99%
  • Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection

    • Never99%

Typical Education Levels Reported

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

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Some college, no degree
  • Bachelor’s degree

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

  • Spreadsheet software

    Microsoft Excel

  • Presentation software

    Microsoft PowerPoint

  • Inventory management software

    Inventory control system software, Inventory management systems, Inventory tracking software

  • Electronic mail software

    Microsoft Outlook

  • Graphics or photo imaging software

    SmugMug Flickr

  • Document management software

    Adobe Acrobat

  • Enterprise resource planning ERP software

    SAP software

  • Customer relationship management CRM software

    Customer information databases

  • Office suite software

    Microsoft Office software

  • Word processing software

    Microsoft Word

  • Internet browser software

    Web browser 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.

  • Process sales or other transactions.
  • Explain technical product or service information to customers.
  • Order materials, supplies, or equipment.
  • Monitor inventories of products or materials.
  • Take product orders from customers.
  • Prepare sales or other contracts.
  • Gather customer or product information to determine customer needs.
  • Examine condition of property or products.
  • Analyze shipping information to make routing decisions.
  • Calculate shipping costs.
  • Stock products or parts.
  • Clean work areas.
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  • Set up merchandise displays.
  • Advise customers on the use of products or services.
  • Demonstrate products to consumers.
  • Measure product or material dimensions.
  • Arrange delivery of goods or services.
  • Repair parts or assemblies.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

  • Salesperson Parts
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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