Updated 2004
In-Demand

Details Report for:
19-4031.00 - Chemical Technicians

Conduct chemical and physical laboratory tests to assist scientists in making qualitative and quantitative analyses of solids, liquids, and gaseous materials for purposes, such as research and development of new products or processes, quality control, maintenance of environmental standards, and other work involving experimental, theoretical, or practical application of chemistry and related sciences.

Sample of reported job titles: Laboratory Technician (Lab Tech), Research Technician, Laboratory Tester (Lab Tester), Research and Development Technician, Chemical Technician, Formulation Technician, Laboratory Analyst (Lab Analyst), Research Associate

View report: Summary  Details  Custom

Tasks  |  Tools & Technology  |  Knowledge  |  Skills  |  Abilities  |  Work Activities  |  Work Context  |  Job Zone  |  Interests  |  Work Styles  |  Work Values  |  Work Needs  |  Related Occupations  |  Education  |  Wages & Employment  |  Additional Information

Tasks   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Importance
Category Task
86   Core Monitor product quality to ensure compliance to standards and specifications.
84   Core Set up and conduct chemical experiments, tests, and analyses using techniques such as chromatography, spectroscopy, physical and chemical separation techniques, and microscopy.
82   Core Conduct chemical and physical laboratory tests to assist scientists in making qualitative and quantitative analyses of solids, liquids, and gaseous materials.
79   Core Compile and interpret results of tests and analyses.
75   Core Provide technical support and assistance to chemists and engineers.
75   Core Prepare chemical solutions for products and processes following standardized formulas, or create experimental formulas.
71   Core Maintain, clean, and sterilize laboratory instruments and equipment.
66   Core Write technical reports or prepare graphs and charts to document experimental results.
60   Core Order and inventory materials to maintain supplies.
74   Supplemental Develop and conduct programs of sampling and analysis to maintain quality standards of raw materials, chemical intermediates, and products.
66   Supplemental Direct or monitor other workers producing chemical products.
62   Supplemental Operate experimental pilot plants, assisting with experimental design.
57   Supplemental Develop new chemical engineering processes or production techniques.
50   Supplemental Design and fabricate experimental apparatus to develop new products and processes.

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Tools & Technology   Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Tools used in this occupation:

Arc lamps — Deuterium lamps; Hollow cathode lamps
Fume hoods or cupboards — Exhaust hoods; Explosion-proof fume hoods; Perchloric acid hoods; Radioisotope fume hoods
Gas burners — Bunsen burners; Laminar flow burners; Meker burners
Heating or drying equipment or accessories — Dessicators; Steam baths
Laboratory balances — Single-pan balances; Torsion balances; Unequal-arm balances; Westphal balances
Laboratory flasks — Claisen flasks; Reaction flasks; Vacuum flask traps; Volumetric flasks
Laboratory mixers — Agitation tanks; Magnetic agitators
Laboratory vacuum pumps — Computer-controlled pumps; Diffusion pumps; Volume displacement pumps; Water aspirators (see all 5 examples)
Lasers — Dye lasers; Ruby lasers
Manometers — Closed-end manometers; U-tube manometers
Pipette washers — Automatic buret cleaners; Automatic pipette cleaners
Vacuum gauges — Ionization gauges; McLeod gauges; Pirani gauges
Vacuum or rotary evaporators — Evaporator rotators; Rotary evaporators
Viscosimeters — Automated microviscometers; Viscosity meters

Technology used in this occupation:

Analytical or scientific software — Laboratory information management system LIMS software
Data base user interface and query software — Database software
Electronic mail software — Email software
Office suite software — Microsoft Office
Spreadsheet software — Microsoft Excel
Word processing software — Microsoft Word

See all 147 T2 categories

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Knowledge   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Importance
Knowledge
66   Chemistry — 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.
56   English Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
53   Mathematics — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
52   Mechanical — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
49   Computers and Electronics — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
49   Customer and Personal Service — 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.
38   Production and Processing — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
35   Administration and Management — 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.
35   Clerical — Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology.
34   Engineering and Technology — 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.
30   Public Safety and Security — 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.
27   Physics — 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.
26   Education and Training — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
21   Communications and Media — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
20   Law and Government — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
19   Biology — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
19   Transportation — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
16   Personnel and Human Resources — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
15   Telecommunications — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
14   Design — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
12   Economics and Accounting — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
10   Medicine and Dentistry — 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.
  Building and Construction — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
  Psychology — 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.
  Therapy and Counseling — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
  Sales and Marketing — 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.
  Sociology and Anthropology — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures and their history and origins.
  Foreign Language — 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.
  Geography — 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.
  Food Production — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
  Philosophy and Theology — 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.
  History and Archeology — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
 Fine Arts — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.

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Skills   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Importance
Skill
84   Science — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
80   Reading Comprehension — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
79   Quality Control Analysis — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
77   Mathematics — Using mathematics to solve problems.
74   Operation Monitoring — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
70   Active Listening — 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.
68   Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
67   Time Management — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
67   Writing — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
65   Active Learning — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
65   Operation and Control — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
64   Equipment Maintenance — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
62   Troubleshooting — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
59   Complex Problem Solving — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
58   Learning Strategies — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
57   Equipment Selection — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
56   Instructing — Teaching others how to do something.
55   Monitoring — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
55   Speaking — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
54   Coordination — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
49   Systems Evaluation — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
48   Judgment and Decision Making — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
47   Operations Analysis — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
46   Systems Analysis — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
44   Repairing — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
42   Technology Design — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
41   Social Perceptiveness — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
38   Persuasion — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
37   Installation — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
33   Service Orientation — Actively looking for ways to help people.
28   Management of Material Resources — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
27   Negotiation — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
26   Management of Personnel Resources — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
15   Management of Financial Resources — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
13   Programming — Writing computer programs for various purposes.

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Abilities   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Importance
Ability
78   Deductive Reasoning — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
78   Near Vision — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
75   Information Ordering — 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).
72   Problem Sensitivity — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.
72   Written Comprehension — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
69   Inductive Reasoning — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
66   Oral Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
66   Written Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
63   Oral Comprehension — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
56   Mathematical Reasoning — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
56   Speech Clarity — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
56   Speech Recognition — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
53   Category Flexibility — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
53   Selective Attention — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
47   Arm-Hand Steadiness — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
47   Flexibility of Closure — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
44   Control Precision — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
41   Auditory Attention — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
41   Memorization — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
41   Originality — 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.
41   Perceptual Speed — 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.
41   Time Sharing — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
41   Trunk Strength — 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.
38   Finger Dexterity — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
38   Visual Color Discrimination — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
35   Manual Dexterity — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
35   Multilimb Coordination — 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.
35   Visualization — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
31   Fluency of Ideas — 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).
31   Speed of Closure — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
25   Depth Perception — 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.
25   Wrist-Finger Speed — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
22   Number Facility — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
22   Reaction Time — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
22   Stamina — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
19   Gross Body Coordination — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
16   Spatial Orientation — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
13   Static Strength — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
10   Hearing Sensitivity — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
10   Response Orientation — 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.
10   Speed of Limb Movement — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
  Extent Flexibility — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
  Far Vision — The ability to see details at a distance.
  Sound Localization — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
  Dynamic Flexibility — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
  Dynamic Strength — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
  Gross Body Equilibrium — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
  Rate Control — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
 Explosive Strength — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
 Glare Sensitivity — The ability to see objects in the presence of glare or bright lighting.
 Night Vision — The ability to see under low light conditions.
 Peripheral Vision — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.

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Work Activities   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Importance
Work Activity
84   Documenting/Recording Information — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
  • inventory stock to ensure adequate supplies
  • record test results, test procedures, or inspection data
83   Processing Information — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
  • compile numerical or statistical data
  • develop tables depicting data
  • measure, weigh, or count products or materials
80   Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
  • collect scientific or technical data
  • collect statistical data
  • obtain technical support instructions from scientists or engineers
  • read work order, instructions, formulas, or processing charts
79   Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
  • examine biological or other material specimens under microscope
  • understand properties of gases or liquids
76   Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
  • monitor the chemical action of substances
75   Analyzing Data or Information — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
  • analyze chemical experimental, test, or analysis data or findings
  • analyze scientific research data or investigative findings
  • conduct analyses or tests of organic compounds
  • conduct analyses to determine physical properties of materials
  • conduct laboratory research or experiments
  • conduct standardized qualitative laboratory analyses
  • conduct standardized quantitative laboratory analyses
  • evaluate manufacturing or processing systems
  • perform statistical analysis in physical science or geological research
74   Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
74   Making Decisions and Solving Problems — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
72   Interacting With Computers — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
  • develop or maintain databases
  • use computers to enter, access or retrieve data
  • use relational database software
  • use spreadsheet software
  • use word processing or desktop publishing software
71   Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
70   Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
65   Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
  • adhere to safety procedures
  • maintain established procedures concerning quality assurance
63   Controlling Machines and Processes — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
  • operate chemical processing equipment
  • operate specialized equipment in chemical laboratory
  • use laboratory equipment
  • use microscope
  • use precision measuring tools or equipment
62   Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
  • follow safe waste disposal procedures
  • use chemical processing emergency procedures
  • use chemical testing or analysis procedures
  • use hazardous materials information
  • use knowledge of investigation techniques
  • use knowledge of metric system
  • use mathematical or statistical methods to identify or analyze problems
  • use oral or written communication techniques
  • use physical science research techniques
  • use quality assurance techniques
  • use quantitative research methods
  • use scientific research methodology
56   Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
  • work as a team member
55   Judging the Qualities of Things, Services, or People — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
55   Thinking Creatively — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
  • create mathematical or statistical diagrams or charts
  • design equipment, apparatus, or instruments for scientific research
  • design manufacturing processes or methods
  • develop new chemical processing techniques or formulas
52   Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
52   Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
  • explain complex mathematical information
51   Scheduling Work and Activities — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
50   Training and Teaching Others — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
43   Handling and Moving Objects — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
  • mix paint, ingredients, or chemicals, according to specifications
  • prepare sample for laboratory testing, analysis, or microscopy
  • sterilize or clean laboratory or healthcare equipment
42   Developing Objectives and Strategies — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
  • develop plans for programs or projects
41   Performing Administrative Activities — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
  • maintain records, reports, or files
  • prepare reports
  • prepare technical reports or related documentation
41   Performing General Physical Activities — Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.
35   Communicating with Persons Outside Organization — 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.
  • communicate technical information
33   Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
  • maintain laboratory or field equipment
31   Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
  • direct and coordinate activities of workers or staff
31   Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment — 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.
  • set up or calibrate laboratory equipment
31   Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
30   Developing and Building Teams — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
27   Monitoring and Controlling Resources — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
  • order or purchase supplies, materials, or equipment
26   Coaching and Developing Others — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
26   Provide Consultation and Advice to Others — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
23   Assisting and Caring for Others — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
21   Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment — 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.
21   Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or water craft.
20   Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
17   Selling or Influencing Others — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
  Performing for or Working Directly with the Public — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
  Staffing Organizational Units — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.

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Work Context   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Context
Work Context
98   Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets — How much does this job require wearing common protective or safety equipment such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hard hats or life jackets?
95   Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions?
91   Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?
86   Electronic Mail — How often do you use electronic mail in this job?
86   Telephone — How often do you have telephone conversations in this job?
85   Face-to-Face Discussions — How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?
81   Time Pressure — How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines?
78   Exposed to Hazardous Conditions — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous conditions?
76   Freedom to Make Decisions — How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer?
74   Importance of Repeating Same Tasks — How important is repeating the same physical activities (e.g., key entry) or mental activities (e.g., checking entries in a ledger) over and over, without stopping, to performing this job?
73   Structured versus Unstructured Work — To what extent is this job structured for the worker, rather than allowing the worker to determine tasks, priorities, and goals?
72   Exposed to Contaminants — How often does this job require working exposed to contaminants (such as pollutants, gases, dust or odors)?
70   Contact With Others — How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it?
70   Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable — How often does this job require working exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable?
66   Letters and Memos — How often does the job require written letters and memos?
63   Spend Time Standing — How much does this job require standing?
59   Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results — How do the decisions an employee makes impact the results of co-workers, clients or the company?
58   Duration of Typical Work Week — Number of hours typically worked in one week.
57   Frequency of Decision Making — How frequently is the worker required to make decisions that affect other people, the financial resources, and/or the image and reputation of the organization?
51   Work With Work Group or Team — How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job?
49   Responsible for Others' Health and Safety — How much responsibility is there for the health and safety of others in this job?
47   Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls — How much does this job require using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls?
46   Responsibility for Outcomes and Results — How responsible is the worker for work outcomes and results of other workers?
39   Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions — How much does this job require making repetitive motions?
38   Coordinate or Lead Others — How important is it to coordinate or lead others in accomplishing work activities in this job?
38   Spend Time Walking and Running — How much does this job require walking and running?
37   Consequence of Error — How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not readily correctable?
36   Physical Proximity — To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks in close physical proximity to other people?
35   Spend Time Sitting — How much does this job require sitting?
33   Exposed to Hazardous Equipment — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous equipment?
30   Degree of Automation — How automated is the job?
27   Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings — How often does this job require exposure to minor burns, cuts, bites, or stings?
27   Very Hot or Cold Temperatures — How often does this job require working in very hot (above 90 F degrees) or very cold (below 32 F degrees) temperatures?
25   Deal With External Customers — How important is it to work with external customers or the public in this job?
25   Frequency of Conflict Situations — How often are there conflict situations the employee has to face in this job?
25   Level of Competition — To what extent does this job require the worker to compete or to be aware of competitive pressures?
21   Deal With Unpleasant or Angry People — How frequently does the worker have to deal with unpleasant, angry, or discourteous individuals as part of the job requirements?
20   Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in non-controlled environmental conditions (e.g., warehouse without heat)?
20   Spend Time Bending or Twisting the Body — How much does this job require bending or twisting your body?
19   In an Enclosed Vehicle or Equipment — How often does this job require working in a closed vehicle or equipment (e.g., car)?
18   Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions — How often does this job require working in cramped work spaces that requires getting into awkward positions?
17   Public Speaking — How often do you have to perform public speaking in this job?
16   Work Schedules — How regular are the work schedules for this job?
14   Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment — How important is it to this job that the pace is determined by the speed of equipment or machinery? (This does not refer to keeping busy at all times on this job.)
11   Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection — How much does this job require wearing specialized protective or safety equipment such as breathing apparatus, safety harness, full protection suits, or radiation protection?
  Exposed to Radiation — How often does this job require exposure to radiation?
  Outdoors, Exposed to Weather — How often does this job require working outdoors, exposed to all weather conditions?
  Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling — How much does this job require kneeling, crouching, stooping or crawling?
  Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting — How often does this job require working in extremely bright or inadequate lighting conditions?
  Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles — How much does this job require climbing ladders, scaffolds, or poles?
  Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance — How much does this job require keeping or regaining your balance?
  Outdoors, Under Cover — How often does this job require working outdoors, under cover (e.g., structure with roof but no walls)?
  Exposed to High Places — How often does this job require exposure to high places?
  Deal With Physically Aggressive People — How frequently does this job require the worker to deal with physical aggression of violent individuals?
  Exposed to Disease or Infections — How often does this job require exposure to disease/infections?
  In an Open Vehicle or Equipment — How often does this job require working in an open vehicle or equipment (e.g., tractor)?
 Exposed to Whole Body Vibration — How often does this job require exposure to whole body vibration (e.g., operate a jackhammer)?

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Job Zone   Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Component Description
Title Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed
 
Overall Experience Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
 
Job Training Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers.
 
Job Zone Examples These occupations usually involve using communication and organizational skills to coordinate, supervise, manage, or train others to accomplish goals. Examples include funeral directors, electricians, forest and conservation technicians, legal secretaries, interviewers, and insurance sales agents.
 
SVP Range (6.0 to < 7.0)
 
Education Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. Some may require a bachelor's degree.

There are 4 recognized apprenticeable specialties associated with this occupation:
Chemical Laboratory Technician; Laboratory Technician; Laboratory Tester; Chemical-Engineering Technician

To learn about specific apprenticeship opportunities, please consult the U.S. Department of Labor State Apprenticeship Information external site website.

For general information about apprenticeships, training, and partnerships with business, visit the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship external site website.

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Interests   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Occupational Interest
Interest
89   Realistic — Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
72   Investigative — Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.
50   Conventional — Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.
22   Artistic — Artistic occupations frequently involve working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.
17   Enterprising — Enterprising occupations frequently involve starting up and carrying out projects. These occupations can involve leading people and making many decisions. Sometimes they require risk taking and often deal with business.
17   Social — Social occupations frequently involve working with, communicating with, and teaching people. These occupations often involve helping or providing service to others.

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Work Styles   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Importance
Work Style
88   Integrity — Job requires being honest and ethical.
86   Attention to Detail — Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
86   Dependability — Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
80   Cooperation — Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
77   Independence — Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
75   Adaptability/Flexibility — Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
74   Analytical Thinking — Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
68   Initiative — Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
67   Stress Tolerance — Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high stress situations.
65   Concern for Others — Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.
65   Persistence — Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
63   Self Control — Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
58   Innovation — Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.
52   Achievement/Effort — Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.
51   Leadership — Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction.
49   Social Orientation — Job requires preferring to work with others rather than alone, and being personally connected with others on the job.

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Work Values   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Extent
Work Value
58   Achievement — Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
57   Support — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.
55   Working Conditions — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.
49   Relationships — Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.
47   Independence — Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employs to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
46   Recognition — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.

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Work Needs   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Extent
Work Need
72   Moral Values — Workers on this job are never pressured to do things that go against their sense of right and wrong.
63   Activity — Workers on this job are busy all the time.
63   Security — Workers on this job have steady employment.
63   Supervision, Human Relations — Workers on this job have supervisors who back up their workers with management.
59   Ability Utilization — Workers on this job make use of their individual abilities.
59   Working Conditions — Workers on this job have good working conditions.
56   Achievement — Workers on this job get a feeling of accomplishment.
56   Co-workers — Workers on this job have co-workers who are easy to get along with.
56   Company Policies and Practices — Workers on this job are treated fairly by the company.
56   Compensation — Workers on this job are paid well in comparison with other workers.
53   Advancement — Workers on this job have opportunities for advancement.
53   Autonomy — Workers on this job plan their work with little supervision.
53   Supervision, Technical — Workers on this job have supervisors who train their workers well.