← All occupations

Residential Advisors

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.

  • Communicate with other staff to resolve problems with individual students.89
  • Observe students to detect and report unusual behavior.86
  • Supervise, train, and evaluate residence hall staff, including resident assistants, participants in work-study programs, and other student workers.84
  • Provide emergency first aid and summon medical assistance when necessary.84
  • Make regular rounds to ensure that residents and areas are safe and secure.82
  • Mediate interpersonal problems between residents.81
  • Enforce rules and regulations to ensure the smooth and orderly operation of dormitory programs.79
  • Determine the need for facility maintenance and repair, and notify appropriate personnel.77
  • Collaborate with counselors to develop counseling programs that address the needs of individual students.76
  • Develop and coordinate educational programs for residents.75
  • Develop program plans for individuals or assist in plan development.74
  • Oversee departmental budget.73
Show all 31
  • Provide requested information on students' progress and the development of case plans.72
  • Confer with medical personnel to better understand the backgrounds and needs of individual residents.70
  • Administer, coordinate, or recommend disciplinary and corrective actions.70
  • Answer telephones, and route calls or deliver messages.70
  • Counsel students in the handling of issues such as family, financial, and educational problems.69
  • Supervise students' housekeeping work to ensure that it is done properly.69
  • Hold regular meetings with each assigned unit.68
  • Compile information such as residents' daily activities and the quantities of supplies used to prepare required reports.68
  • Process contract cancellations for students who are unable to follow residence hall policies and procedures.68
  • Accompany and supervise students during meals.68
  • Supervise the activities of housekeeping personnel.67
  • Assign rooms to students.64
  • Provide transportation or escort for expeditions, such as shopping trips or visits to doctors or dentists.64
  • Direct and participate in on- and off-campus recreational activities for residents of institutions, boarding schools, fraternities or sororities, children's homes, or similar establishments.62
  • Chaperone group-sponsored trips and social functions.60
  • Order supplies for facilities.57
  • Sort and distribute mail.54
  • Inventory, pack, and remove items left behind by former residents.44
  • Advise student organizations.

Skills

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

  • Social Perceptiveness75

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

  • Active Listening72

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

  • Coordination69

    Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.

  • Monitoring69

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

  • Speaking69

    Talking to others to convey information effectively.

  • Critical Thinking66

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

  • Negotiation66

    Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.

  • Service Orientation66

    Actively looking for ways to help people.

  • Time Management66

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

  • Persuasion60

    Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.

  • Complex Problem Solving53

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

  • Judgment and Decision Making53

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

Show all 35
  • Reading Comprehension53

    Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

  • Active Learning50

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

  • Writing50

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

  • Instructing47

    Teaching others how to do something.

  • Management of Personnel Resources47

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

  • Learning Strategies44

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

  • Systems Analysis44

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

  • Systems Evaluation44

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

  • Management of Material Resources31

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

  • Management of Financial Resources28

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

  • Mathematics25

    Using mathematics to solve problems.

  • Operations Analysis25

    Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.

  • Operations Monitoring25

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

  • Quality Control Analysis25

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

  • Technology Design22

    Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.

  • Operation and Control19

    Controlling operations of equipment or systems.

  • Troubleshooting19

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

  • Programming10

    Writing computer programs for various purposes.

  • Science10

    Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

  • Equipment Maintenance0

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

  • Equipment Selection0

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

  • Installation0

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

  • Repairing0

    Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.

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.

  • Administration and Management80

    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.

  • Public Safety and Security76

    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.

  • Education and Training75

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

  • English Language73

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

  • Sociology and Anthropology69

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

  • Administrative63

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

  • Personnel and Human Resources62

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

  • Therapy and Counseling61

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

  • Psychology54

    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 Media53

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

  • Computers and Electronics52

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

Show all 33
  • Law and Government50

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

  • Medicine and Dentistry45

    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.

  • Telecommunications45

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

  • Transportation38

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

  • Economics and Accounting37

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

  • Philosophy and Theology35

    Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.

  • Food Production32

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

  • Mathematics31

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

  • Production and Processing25

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

  • Design24

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

  • Sales and Marketing21

    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.

  • Engineering and Technology20

    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.

  • Mechanical20

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

  • Fine Arts19

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

  • Foreign Language19

    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.

  • Geography17

    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.

  • Biology15

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

  • Building and Construction15

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

  • History and Archeology14

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

  • Chemistry13

    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.

  • Physics13

    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.

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.

  • Problem Sensitivity75

    The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.

  • Speech Clarity69

    The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.

  • Speech Recognition66

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

  • Deductive Reasoning60

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

  • Written Comprehension60

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

  • Inductive Reasoning53

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

  • Near Vision53

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

  • Written Expression53

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

  • Far Vision50

    The ability to see details at a distance.

  • 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).

Show all 52
  • Selective Attention50

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

  • 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).

  • Originality47

    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 Sharing47

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

  • Category Flexibility44

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

  • Flexibility of Closure41

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

  • 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.

  • Speed of Closure38

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

  • Visualization38

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

  • Hearing Sensitivity31

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

  • Auditory Attention28

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

  • Visual Color Discrimination28

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

  • Finger Dexterity25

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

  • Manual Dexterity25

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

  • 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.

  • Number Facility25

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

  • Stamina25

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

  • Static Strength25

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

  • 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.

  • Arm-Hand Steadiness22

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

  • Depth Perception22

    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.

  • Dynamic Strength22

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

  • Extent Flexibility22

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

  • Gross Body Coordination22

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

  • Gross Body Equilibrium22

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

  • Reaction Time19

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

  • Response Orientation19

    The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.

  • Spatial Orientation16

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

  • Speed of Limb Movement16

    The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.

  • Control Precision10

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

  • Glare Sensitivity10

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

  • Night Vision10

    The ability to see under low-light conditions.

  • Peripheral Vision10

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

  • Rate Control10

    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.

  • Sound Localization10

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

  • Explosive Strength6

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

  • Wrist-Finger Speed6

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

  • 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.

  • Assisting and Caring for Others94

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

  • Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work86

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

  • Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships84

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

  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates80

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

  • Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events78

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

  • Getting Information77

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

  • Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings76

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

  • Making Decisions and Solving Problems75

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

  • Documenting/Recording Information73

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

  • Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards72

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

  • Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others70

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

  • Performing Administrative Activities69

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

Show all 41
  • Processing Information68

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

  • Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others68

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

  • Scheduling Work and Activities68

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

  • Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials67

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

  • Developing and Building Teams65

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

  • Working with Computers64

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

  • Coaching and Developing Others63

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

  • Communicating with People Outside the Organization62

    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 Objectives and Strategies62

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

  • Performing for or Working Directly with the Public62

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

  • Training and Teaching Others61

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

  • Thinking Creatively58

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

  • Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates57

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

  • Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge57

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

  • Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People56

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

  • Analyzing Data or Information53

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

  • Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others53

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

  • Performing General Physical Activities53

    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.

  • Monitoring and Controlling Resources51

    Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.

  • Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information50

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

  • Providing Consultation and Advice to Others48

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

  • Handling and Moving Objects43

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

  • Staffing Organizational Units41

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

  • Selling or Influencing Others39

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

  • Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment31

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

  • Controlling Machines and Processes22

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

  • Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment21

    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 Equipment18

    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.

  • Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment17

    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.

  • Dependability88

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

  • Cooperation84

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

  • Empathy83

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

  • Social Orientation80

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

  • Optimism76

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

  • Integrity74

    A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.

  • Self-Control74

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

  • Leadership Orientation73

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

  • Sincerity70

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

  • Adaptability68

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

  • Stress Tolerance66

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

  • Initiative60

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

Show all 21
  • Perseverance54

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

  • Self-Confidence54

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

  • Attention to Detail52

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

  • Cautiousness46

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

  • Tolerance for Ambiguity44

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

  • Humility41

    A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.

  • Achievement Orientation37

    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.

  • Innovation27

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

  • Intellectual Curiosity18

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

Interests (RIASEC)

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

  • Social71

    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.

  • Conventional61

    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.

  • Realistic30

    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.

  • Investigative23

    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.

  • Artistic21

    Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

  • E-Mail

    • Every day61%
    • Once a week or more but not every day39%
  • Contact With Others

    • Constant contact with others64%
    • Contact with others most of the time29%
  • Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams

    • Every day67%
    • Once a week or more but not every day16%
  • Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team

    • Extremely important48%
    • Very important36%
    • Important15%
  • Health and Safety of Other Workers

    • Very high responsibility37%
    • High responsibility47%
    • Moderate responsibility14%
  • Telephone Conversations

    • Every day40%
    • Once a week or more but not every day41%
    • Once a month or more but not every week17%
  • Conflict Situations

    • Every day36%
    • Once a week or more but not every day41%
    • Once a month or more but not every week23%
  • Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals

    • A lot of freedom29%
    • Some freedom52%
    • Limited freedom18%
  • Freedom to Make Decisions

    • A lot of freedom20%
    • Some freedom52%
    • Limited freedom20%
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled

    • Every day56%
    • Once a week or more but not every day12%
    • Never17%
  • Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers

    • Very high responsibility17%
    • High responsibility45%
    • Moderate responsibility37%
  • Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results

    • Very important results31%
    • Important results31%
    • Moderate results16%
    • Minor results16%
Show all 57
  • Time Pressure

    • Every day24%
    • Once a week or more but not every day27%
    • Once a month or more but not every week40%
  • Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities

    • Extremely important26%
    • Very important20%
    • Important46%
  • Frequency of Decision Making

    • Every day36%
    • Once a week or more but not every day18%
    • Once a month or more but not every week23%
    • Never12%
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate

    • Extremely important18%
    • Very important43%
    • Important17%
    • Fairly important16%
  • Consequence of Error

    • Extremely serious36%
    • Very serious16%
    • Serious18%
    • Fairly serious20%
  • Physical Proximity

    • Moderately close (at arm's length)53%
    • Slightly close (e.g., shared office)18%
    • I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)12%
  • Deal With External Customers or the Public in General

    • Extremely important45%
    • Important17%
    • Fairly important24%
    • Not important at all13%
  • Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People

    • Once a week or more but not every day41%
    • Once a month or more but not every week33%
    • Once a year or more but not every month17%
  • Importance of Repeating Same Tasks

    • Extremely important11%
    • Very important39%
    • Important26%
    • Not important at all16%
  • Spend Time Sitting

    • More than half the time30%
    • About half the time58%
  • Duration of Typical Work Week

    • More than 40 hours50%
    • Less than 40 hours44%
  • Written Letters and Memos

    • Once a week or more but not every day17%
    • Once a month or more but not every week37%
    • Once a year or more but not every month29%
  • Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions

    • Once a week or more but not every day25%
    • Once a month or more but not every week26%
    • Once a year or more but not every month30%
    • Never12%
  • Spend Time Walking or Running

    • About half the time41%
    • Less than half the time41%
  • In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment

    • Every day17%
    • Once a week or more but not every day26%
    • Once a month or more but not every week14%
    • Never40%
  • Public Speaking

    • Every day16%
    • Once a month or more but not every week37%
    • Once a year or more but not every month35%
  • Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable

    • Every day11%
    • Once a week or more but not every day23%
    • Once a month or more but not every week25%
    • Once a year or more but not every month13%
    • Never27%
  • Spend Time Standing

    • About half the time53%
    • Less than half the time37%
  • Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People

    • Every day17%
    • Once a month or more but not every week25%
    • Once a year or more but not every month36%
    • Never22%
  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets

    • Every day35%
    • Never57%
  • Level of Competition

    • Moderately competitive41%
    • Slightly competitive49%
  • Outdoors, Under Cover

    • Once a week or more but not every day14%
    • Once a month or more but not every week28%
    • Once a year or more but not every month21%
    • Never37%
  • Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures

    • Once a week or more but not every day14%
    • Once a month or more but not every week17%
    • Once a year or more but not every month27%
    • Never41%
  • Exposed to Disease or Infections

    • Once a year or more but not every month33%
    • Never48%
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls

    • Less than half the time15%
    • Never59%
  • Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions

    • Less than half the time44%
    • Never39%
  • Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions

    • Once a month or more but not every week26%
    • Never59%
  • Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled

    • Once a year or more but not every month24%
    • Never64%
  • Work Schedules

    • Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration)19%
    • Regular (established routine, set schedule)76%
  • Degree of Automation

    • Moderately automated13%
    • Slightly automated25%
    • Not at all automated60%
  • Exposed to Contaminants

    • Never74%
  • Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings

    • Once a month or more but not every week19%
    • Once a year or more but not every month16%
    • Never65%
  • Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body

    • Less than half the time29%
    • Never63%
  • Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions

    • Once a year or more but not every month17%
    • Never73%
  • Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance

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

    • Less than half the time36%
    • Never63%
  • Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection

    • Never90%
  • In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment

    • Never91%
  • Exposed to Hazardous Conditions

    • Never90%
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment

    • Never99%
  • Exposed to High Places

    • Never98%
  • Exposed to Radiation

    • Never99%
  • Exposed to Whole Body Vibration

    • Never99%
  • Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment

    • Not important at all99%
  • Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles

    • Never98%

Typical Education Levels Reported

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

  • Some college, no degree
  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Less than high school diploma

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

  • Electronic mail software

    Email software, Microsoft Outlook

  • Word processing software

    Google Docs, Microsoft Word

  • Spreadsheet software

    Microsoft Excel

  • Accounting software

    Budgeting software

  • Office suite software

    Microsoft Office software

  • Analytical or scientific software

    Survey software

  • Internet browser software

    Web browser software

  • Presentation software

    Microsoft PowerPoint

  • Web page creation and editing software

    Website development software

Professional Associations

Related Occupations

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

  • Communicate with management or other staff to resolve problems.
  • Monitor patron activities to identify problems or potential problems.
  • Supervise service workers.
  • Administer first aid.
  • Evaluate employee performance.
  • Train service staff.
  • Monitor environment to ensure safety.
  • Mediate disputes.
  • Enforce rules or regulations.
  • Inspect facilities.
  • Develop plans for programs or services.
  • Develop educational or training programs.
Show all 30
  • Teach daily living skills or behaviors.
  • Manage budgets for personal services operations.
  • Inform individuals or organizations of status or findings.
  • Collect information about clients.
  • Enforce rules or policies governing student behavior.
  • Perform administrative or clerical tasks.
  • Provide counsel, comfort, or encouragement to individuals or families.
  • Accompany individuals or groups to activities.
  • Maintain client information or service records.
  • Meet with coworkers to communicate work orders or plans.
  • Prepare administrative documents.
  • Assign resources or facilities to patrons or employees.
  • Provide escort or transportation.
  • Organize recreational activities or events.
  • Order materials, supplies, or equipment.
  • Deliver items.
  • Package materials or products.
  • Store items.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

  • Public Affairs
  • Public Affairs (3n0x1)
  • Services (Base Facilities)
  • Services (Base Facilities), (3m0x1)
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

Limited time offer