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Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors

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.

  • Inspect trucks prior to beginning routes to ensure safe operating condition.88
  • Drive trucks, following established routes, through residential streets or alleys or through business or industrial areas.84
  • Refuel trucks or add other fluids, such as oil or brake fluid.83
  • Dump refuse or recyclable materials at disposal sites.83
  • Fill out defective equipment reports.82
  • Operate automated or semi-automated hoisting devices that raise refuse bins and dump contents into openings in truck bodies.76
  • Dismount garbage trucks to collect garbage and remount trucks to ride to the next collection point.75
  • Operate equipment that compresses collected refuse.75
  • Communicate with dispatchers concerning delays, unsafe sites, accidents, equipment breakdowns, or other maintenance problems.74
  • Check road or weather conditions to determine how routes will be affected.70
  • Tag garbage or recycling containers to inform customers of problems, such as excess garbage or inclusion of items that are not permitted.70
  • Clean trucks or compactor bodies after routes have been completed.65
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  • Make special pickups of recyclable materials, such as food scraps, used oil, discarded computers, or other electronic items.59
  • Organize schedules for refuse collection.57

Skills

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

  • Operation and Control50

    Controlling operations of equipment or systems.

  • Operations Monitoring50

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

  • Active Listening47

    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.

  • Speaking47

    Talking to others to convey information effectively.

  • Critical Thinking44

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

  • Equipment Maintenance44

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

  • Coordination41

    Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.

  • Reading Comprehension41

    Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

  • Monitoring38

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

  • Repairing38

    Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.

  • Social Perceptiveness38

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

  • Time Management38

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

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  • Troubleshooting38

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

  • Writing38

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

  • Complex Problem Solving35

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

  • Judgment and Decision Making35

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

  • Service Orientation35

    Actively looking for ways to help people.

  • Active Learning31

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

  • Quality Control Analysis31

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

  • Management of Personnel Resources25

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

  • Negotiation25

    Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.

  • Persuasion25

    Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.

  • Instructing22

    Teaching others how to do something.

  • Equipment Selection19

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

  • Learning Strategies10

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

  • Systems Analysis10

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

  • Systems Evaluation10

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

  • Operations Analysis3

    Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.

  • Installation0

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

  • Management of Financial Resources0

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

  • Management of Material Resources0

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

  • Mathematics0

    Using mathematics to solve problems.

  • Programming0

    Writing computer programs for various purposes.

  • Science0

    Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

  • Technology Design0

    Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.

Knowledge

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

  • Mechanical56

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

  • English Language45

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

  • Transportation40

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

  • Customer and Personal Service39

    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.

  • Public Safety and Security39

    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.

  • Administration and Management28

    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.

  • Computers and Electronics26

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

  • Telecommunications26

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

  • Mathematics25

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

  • Education and Training24

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

  • Administrative22

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

  • Production and Processing22

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

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  • Law and Government21

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

  • Economics and Accounting19

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

  • Geography19

    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.

  • Sales and Marketing19

    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.

  • Personnel and Human Resources16

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

  • Communications and Media14

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

  • Foreign Language14

    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.

  • Physics14

    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.

  • Engineering and Technology12

    Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

  • Chemistry8

    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.

  • Design5

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

  • Psychology3

    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.

  • Biology2

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

  • Building and Construction2

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

  • 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.

  • Therapy and Counseling2

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

  • History and Archeology1

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

  • Philosophy and Theology1

    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.

  • Fine Arts0

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

  • Food Production0

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

  • Sociology and Anthropology0

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

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

  • Multilimb Coordination60

    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.

  • Arm-Hand Steadiness56

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

  • Static Strength56

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

  • Manual Dexterity53

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

  • Reaction Time53

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

  • Trunk Strength53

    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.

  • Extent Flexibility50

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

  • Far Vision50

    The ability to see details at a distance.

  • Near Vision50

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

  • Oral Comprehension50

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

  • Control Precision47

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

  • Information Ordering47

    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).

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  • Oral Expression47

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

  • Problem Sensitivity47

    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 Clarity47

    The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.

  • Speech Recognition47

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

  • Visual Color Discrimination47

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

  • Auditory Attention44

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

  • Category Flexibility44

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

  • Depth Perception44

    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.

  • Finger Dexterity44

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

  • Glare Sensitivity44

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

  • Hearing Sensitivity44

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

  • Selective Attention44

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

  • Stamina44

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

  • Deductive Reasoning41

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

  • Dynamic Strength41

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

  • Gross Body Coordination41

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

  • Rate Control41

    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 Orientation41

    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.

  • Time Sharing41

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

  • Inductive Reasoning38

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

  • Peripheral Vision38

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

  • Visualization38

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

  • Written Comprehension38

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

  • Written Expression38

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

  • Flexibility of Closure35

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

  • Gross Body Equilibrium35

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

  • Night Vision35

    The ability to see under low-light conditions.

  • Perceptual Speed35

    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.

  • Spatial Orientation35

    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 Movement28

    The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.

  • Memorization25

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

  • Sound Localization25

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

  • Speed of Closure25

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

  • Explosive Strength22

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

  • Fluency of Ideas19

    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).

  • Wrist-Finger Speed16

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

  • Originality13

    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.

  • Dynamic Flexibility0

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

  • Mathematical Reasoning0

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

  • Number Facility0

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

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

  • Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment83

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

  • Performing General Physical Activities68

    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.

  • Handling and Moving Objects67

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

  • Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials60

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

  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates57

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

  • Controlling Machines and Processes54

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

  • Getting Information54

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

  • Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings53

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

  • Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards50

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

  • Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment49

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

  • Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships39

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

  • Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events38

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

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  • Making Decisions and Solving Problems36

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

  • Communicating with People Outside the Organization35

    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.

  • Developing and Building Teams35

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

  • Performing for or Working Directly with the Public33

    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 People32

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

  • Documenting/Recording Information31

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

  • Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work31

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

  • Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others29

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

  • Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge29

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

  • Coaching and Developing Others28

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

  • Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information23

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

  • Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates23

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

  • Processing Information20

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

  • Performing Administrative Activities18

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

  • Providing Consultation and Advice to Others18

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

  • Scheduling Work and Activities18

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

  • Assisting and Caring for Others17

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

  • Training and Teaching Others17

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

  • Analyzing Data or Information15

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

  • Developing Objectives and Strategies15

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

  • Thinking Creatively14

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

  • Working with Computers14

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

  • Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others12

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

  • Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment11

    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.

  • Monitoring and Controlling Resources10

    Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.

  • Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others9

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

  • Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment5

    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.

  • Selling or Influencing Others1

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

  • Staffing Organizational Units0

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

Work Styles

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

  • Dependability74

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

  • Cautiousness48

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

  • Attention to Detail36

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

  • Stress Tolerance34

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

  • Integrity32

    A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.

  • Perseverance29

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

  • Cooperation24

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

  • Self-Control23

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

  • Optimism22

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

  • Achievement Orientation13

    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.

  • Initiative12

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

  • Adaptability10

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

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  • Self-Confidence7

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

  • Sincerity7

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

  • Humility1

    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.

  • Realistic100

    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.

  • Conventional59

    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.

  • Investigative14

    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.

  • Social5

    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.

  • 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.

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

    • Every day99%
  • Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions

    • Every day95%
  • In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment

    • Every day90%
  • Exposed to Contaminants

    • Once a month or more but not every week12%
  • Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions

    • Continually or almost continually57%
    • More than half the time20%
    • About half the time20%
  • Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures

    • Every day56%
    • Once a week or more but not every day20%
    • Once a month or more but not every week15%
  • Duration of Typical Work Week

    • More than 40 hours64%
    • 40 hours29%
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls

    • Continually or almost continually64%
    • About half the time17%
    • Less than half the time16%
  • Freedom to Make Decisions

    • A lot of freedom35%
    • Some freedom38%
    • Very little freedom17%
  • Time Pressure

    • Every day50%
    • Once a week or more but not every day24%
    • Never24%
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment

    • Every day57%
    • Once a week or more but not every day15%
    • Never28%
  • Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams

    • Every day53%
    • Once a month or more but not every week13%
    • Once a year or more but not every month19%
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  • Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals

    • A lot of freedom39%
    • Limited freedom33%
  • Contact With Others

    • Constant contact with others22%
    • Contact with others most of the time42%
    • Contact with others about half the time12%
    • Occasional contact with others24%
  • Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable

    • Every day41%
    • Once a week or more but not every day19%
    • Once a month or more but not every week19%
    • Never21%
  • Spend Time Sitting

    • Continually or almost continually38%
    • More than half the time16%
    • Less than half the time34%
  • Importance of Repeating Same Tasks

    • Extremely important31%
    • Very important30%
    • Not important at all16%
  • Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results

    • Very important results17%
    • Important results43%
    • Minor results30%
  • Consequence of Error

    • Extremely serious29%
    • Very serious14%
    • Serious19%
    • Fairly serious22%
    • Not serious at all16%
  • Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body

    • Continually or almost continually16%
    • More than half the time31%
    • Less than half the time41%
  • Spend Time Standing

    • More than half the time39%
    • Less than half the time46%
  • Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions

    • Every day29%
    • Once a week or more but not every day24%
    • Once a year or more but not every month12%
    • Never35%
  • Frequency of Decision Making

    • Every day29%
    • Once a week or more but not every day15%
    • Once a year or more but not every month14%
    • Never32%
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate

    • Very important27%
    • Important23%
    • Fairly important30%
  • Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People

    • Once a week or more but not every day25%
    • Once a month or more but not every week11%
    • Once a year or more but not every month54%
  • Exposed to Disease or Infections

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

      • Every day34%
      • Once a month or more but not every week15%
      • Once a year or more but not every month15%
      • Never32%
    • Health and Safety of Other Workers

      • Very high responsibility18%
      • High responsibility33%
      • No responsibility33%
    • Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team

      • Very important16%
      • Important51%
      • Not important at all19%
    • Deal With External Customers or the Public in General

      • Important49%
      • Fairly important25%
    • In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment

      • Every day39%
      • Once a year or more but not every month14%
      • Never43%
    • Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment

      • Extremely important30%
      • Fairly important26%
      • Not important at all33%
    • Telephone Conversations

      • Every day30%
      • Once a week or more but not every day14%
      • Never47%
    • Spend Time Walking or Running

      • Continually or almost continually15%
      • Less than half the time55%
    • Level of Competition

      • Moderately competitive58%
      • Slightly competitive15%
    • Physical Proximity

      • Very close (near touching)16%
      • Moderately close (at arm's length)26%
      • I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)19%
      • I don't work near other people (beyond 100 ft.)40%
    • Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities

      • Very important20%
      • Important40%
      • Fairly important12%
      • Not important at all27%
    • Conflict Situations

      • Every day11%
      • Once a month or more but not every week29%
      • Once a year or more but not every month15%
      • Never36%
    • Degree of Automation

      • Slightly automated17%
      • Not at all automated31%
    • Exposed to Whole Body Vibration

      • Every day23%
      • Never60%
    • Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance

      • More than half the time16%
      • Less than half the time54%
      • Never18%
    • Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled

      • Every day25%
      • Never62%
    • Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers

      • High responsibility14%
      • Moderate responsibility16%
      • Limited responsibility11%
      • No responsibility50%
    • Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling

      • Less than half the time48%
      • Never28%
    • Outdoors, Under Cover

      • Every day22%
      • Once a year or more but not every month12%
      • Never67%
    • Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions

      • Every day15%
      • Never72%
    • Exposed to Hazardous Conditions

      • Once a year or more but not every month14%
      • Never66%
    • Work Schedules

      • Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration)18%
      • Regular (established routine, set schedule)73%
    • Written Letters and Memos

      • Once a week or more but not every day16%
      • Once a year or more but not every month13%
      • Never70%
    • Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles

      • About half the time16%
      • Less than half the time25%
      • Never58%
    • Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection

      • Never89%
    • Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People

      • Once a year or more but not every month12%
      • Never77%
    • Exposed to High Places

      • Never84%
    • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled

      • Never84%
    • E-Mail

      • Never90%
    • Exposed to Radiation

      • Never94%
    • Public Speaking

      • Never96%

    Typical Education Levels Reported

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

    • High school diploma or equivalent
    • Associate’s degree or other 2-year degree
    • Post-secondary certificate

    Technology Skills

    Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

    • Data base user interface and query software

      Dossier software, Mileage logging software

    • Mobile location based services software

      Global positioning system GPS software

    • Facilities management software

      Computerized maintenance management system CMMS

    • Cloud-based data access and sharing software

      Squeegee

    • Time accounting software

      Payroll software

    • Analytical or scientific software

      AMCS Platform

    • Materials requirements planning logistics and supply chain software

      Fleet management software

    • Map creation software

      Routeware software

    • Compliance software

      WAM 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.

    • Inspect motor vehicles.
    • Operate vehicles or material-moving equipment.
    • Dispose of trash or waste materials.
    • Maintain vehicles in good working condition.
    • Prepare accident or incident reports.
    • Operate cranes, hoists, or other moving or lifting equipment.
    • Climb ladders or vehicles to perform duties.
    • Operate packing or other material processing equipment.
    • Notify others of emergencies, problems, or hazards.
    • Report vehicle or equipment malfunctions.
    • Gather information about work conditions or locations.
    • Explain regulations, policies, or procedures.
    Show all 15
    • Clean vehicles or vehicle components.
    • Load shipments, belongings, or materials.
    • Schedule operational activities.
    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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