North Far North Careers

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Advanced Manufacturing

Advanced manufacturing is a diverse, fast-growing industry in the North Far North region. In recent years, factory activity has reached a four-decade high, and current projections show that over 2 million jobs will be available industry-wide. Multinational companies, such as Intel, PepsiCo, General Motors, Bristol-Myers, and Hitachi, to name just a few, have openings for advanced manufacturing positions.

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View data from the:

Region
43,525
2023 Jobs
+8%
2023–2028 Projected Change
22.45/hr.
2023 Avg. Entry Level Wage

Top jobs that Require Community College Credentials

How much will I make per hour?

What can I train for? Job openings per year Entry-level Median Experienced
First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers 305 $27.34 $35.48 $45.49 View programs
Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers 294 $18.91 $23.26 $29.88
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers 255 $21.84 $27.75 $32.72 View programs
Industrial Machinery Mechanics 159 $27.68 $32.46 $39.15 View programs
Electrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers 145 $18.02 $21.98 $26.47 View programs
Machinists 136 $20.51 $25.95 $33.43 View programs
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians 72 $29.06 $37.43 $46.05 View programs
Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators 58 $21.76 $23.97 $29.48 View programs
Molders, Shapers, and Casters, Except Metal and Plastic 56 $20.52 $23.35 $27.51 View programs
Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door 43 $39.11 $50.10 $58.40 View programs
Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other 38 $29.28 $38.02 $47.64
Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment 38 $28.72 $37.22 $46.70 View programs
Home Appliance Repairers 27 $17.02 $23.75 $30.02
Chemical Equipment Operators and Tenders 21 $20.06 $23.06 $30.03
Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians 6 $18.11 $21.89 $31.89

First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers

Job openings per year:

305

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $27.34/hr.
  • Median: $35.48/hr.
  • Experienced: $45.49/hr.

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Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers

Job openings per year:

294

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $18.91/hr.
  • Median: $23.26/hr.
  • Experienced: $29.88/hr.

Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers

Job openings per year:

255

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $21.84/hr.
  • Median: $27.75/hr.
  • Experienced: $32.72/hr.

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Industrial Machinery Mechanics

Job openings per year:

159

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $27.68/hr.
  • Median: $32.46/hr.
  • Experienced: $39.15/hr.

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Electrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers

Job openings per year:

145

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $18.02/hr.
  • Median: $21.98/hr.
  • Experienced: $26.47/hr.

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Machinists

Job openings per year:

136

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $20.51/hr.
  • Median: $25.95/hr.
  • Experienced: $33.43/hr.

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Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians

Job openings per year:

72

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $29.06/hr.
  • Median: $37.43/hr.
  • Experienced: $46.05/hr.

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Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators

Job openings per year:

58

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $21.76/hr.
  • Median: $23.97/hr.
  • Experienced: $29.48/hr.

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Molders, Shapers, and Casters, Except Metal and Plastic

Job openings per year:

56

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $20.52/hr.
  • Median: $23.35/hr.
  • Experienced: $27.51/hr.

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Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door

Job openings per year:

43

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $39.11/hr.
  • Median: $50.10/hr.
  • Experienced: $58.40/hr.

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Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other

Job openings per year:

38

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $29.28/hr.
  • Median: $38.02/hr.
  • Experienced: $47.64/hr.

Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment

Job openings per year:

38

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $28.72/hr.
  • Median: $37.22/hr.
  • Experienced: $46.70/hr.

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Home Appliance Repairers

Job openings per year:

27

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $17.02/hr.
  • Median: $23.75/hr.
  • Experienced: $30.02/hr.

Chemical Equipment Operators and Tenders

Job openings per year:

21

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $20.06/hr.
  • Median: $23.06/hr.
  • Experienced: $30.03/hr.

Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians

Job openings per year:

6

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $18.11/hr.
  • Median: $21.89/hr.
  • Experienced: $31.89/hr.

Top Employers & Skills

Employers

  • Siemens
  • State of California
  • University of California
  • Intel
  • Cepheid
  • Stantec
  • Micron Technology
  • San Francisco Bay Coffee Co
  • Kratos Defense & Security Solutions
  • Sacramento Municipal Utility District
  • PG&E
  • Tellus Solutions
  • Jmax Properties
  • Carvana
  • Northrop Grumman
  • Milgard Manufacturing
  • Save Mart Supermarkets
  • Sam's Club
  • Marriott International
  • Jeld-Wen

Specialized skills

  • Project Management
  • Auditing
  • Hand Tools
  • Machinery
  • Warehousing
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Continuous Improvement Process
  • Automation
  • Food Safety And Sanitation
  • Construction

Technology & software skills

  • Microsoft Office (Access, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word)
  • AutoCAD
  • Spreadsheets
  • Python (Programming Language)
  • SAP Applications
  • Autodesk Revit
  • SolidWorks (CAD)
  • Microsoft Windows
  • Operating Systems
  • Perl (Programming Language)

Source: Lightcast 2024.3; QCEW, non-QCEW, Self-Employed. Compiled by the North/Far North Center of Excellence for Labor Market Research. 

First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers

Directly supervise and coordinate the activities of production and operating workers, such as inspectors, precision workers, machine setters and operators, assemblers, fabricators, and plant and system operators. Excludes team or work leaders.

Sample of reported job titles:

Sample of reported job titles: Assembly Supervisor, Line Supervisor, Manufacturing Supervisor, Molding Supervisor, Plant Supervisor, Production Manager, Production Supervisor, Quality Assurance Supervisor (QA Supervisor)

Tasks:

  • Enforce safety and sanitation regulations.
  • Keep records of employees’ attendance and hours worked.
  • Inspect materials, products, or equipment to detect defects or malfunctions.
  • Read and analyze charts, work orders, production schedules, and other records and reports to determine production requirements and to evaluate current production estimates and outputs.
  • Plan and establish work schedules, assignments, and production sequences to meet production goals.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Enforce rules or regulations.
  • Record operational or production data.
  • Inspect production equipment.
  • Study blueprints or other instructions to determine equipment setup requirements.
  • Plan production or operational procedures or sequences.

Work Context:

  • Contact With Others — 90% responded “Constant contact with others.”
  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets — 92% responded “Every day.”
  • Face-to-Face Discussions — 88% responded “Every day.”
  • Duration of Typical Work Week — 83% responded “More than 40 hours.”
  • Time Pressure — 69% responded “Every day.”
  • Work With Work Group or Team — 66% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Frequency of Decision Making — 73% responded “Every day.”
  • Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable — 72% responded “Every day.”
  • Electronic Mail — 85% responded “Every day.”
  • Responsibility for Outcomes and Results — 54% responded “Very high responsibility.”
  • Responsible for Others’ Health and Safety — 51% responded “Very high responsibility.”
  • Freedom to Make Decisions — 51% responded “A lot of freedom.”
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment — 59% responded “Every day.”
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — 41% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results — 50% responded “Very important results.”
  • Structured versus Unstructured Work — 49% responded “Some freedom.”
  • Coordinate or Lead Others — 54% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled — 63% responded “Every day.”
  • Spend Time Standing — 36% responded “Continually or almost continually.”
  • Telephone — 67% responded “Every day.”
  • Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment — 41% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Frequency of Conflict Situations — 34% responded “Once a week or more but not every day.”
  • Exposed to Contaminants — 55% responded “Every day.”
  • Very Hot or Cold Temperatures — 38% responded “Once a week or more but not every day.”
  • Deal With Unpleasant or Angry People — 35% responded “Once a week or more but not every day.”
  • Physical Proximity — 38% responded “Slightly close (e.g., shared office).”
  • Spend Time Walking and Running — 33% responded “About half the time.”
  • Public Speaking — 34% responded “Every day.”
  • Importance of Repeating Same Tasks — 26% responded “Very important.”
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — 50% responded “Every day.”
  • Exposed to Hazardous Conditions — 40% responded “Every day.”
  • Consequence of Error — 27% responded “Extremely serious.”
  • Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings — 27% responded “Never.”
  • Level of Competition — 40% responded “Highly competitive.”
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Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers

Inspect, test, sort, sample, or weigh nonagricultural raw materials or processed, machined, fabricated, or assembled parts or products for defects, wear, and deviations from specifications. May use precision measuring instruments and complex test equipment.

Sample of reported job titles:

Sample of reported job titles: Inspector, QA Auditor (Quality Assurance Auditor), QA Inspector (Quality Assurance Inspector), QA Technician (Quality Assurance Technician), QC Technician (Quality Control Technician), Quality Auditor, Quality Control Inspector (QC Inspector), Quality Inspector, Quality Technician, Test Technician

Tasks:

  • Discard or reject products, materials, or equipment not meeting specifications.
  • Mark items with details, such as grade or acceptance-rejection status.
  • Measure dimensions of products to verify conformance to specifications, using measuring instruments, such as rulers, calipers, gauges, or micrometers.
  • Notify supervisors or other personnel of production problems.
  • Inspect, test, or measure materials, products, installations, or work for conformance to specifications.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Evaluate quality of materials or products.
  • Mark products, workpieces, or equipment with identifying information.
  • Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
  • Notify others of equipment repair or maintenance needs.
  • Record operational or production data.

Work Context:

  • Face-to-Face Discussions — 91% responded “Every day.”
  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets — 93% responded “Every day.”
  • Contact With Others — 57% responded “Constant contact with others.”
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — 60% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Work With Work Group or Team — 64% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled — 66% responded “Every day.”
  • Exposed to Contaminants — 69% responded “Every day.”
  • Electronic Mail — 77% responded “Every day.”
  • Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable — 52% responded “Every day.”
  • Freedom to Make Decisions — 49% responded “A lot of freedom.”
  • Duration of Typical Work Week — 51% responded “More than 40 hours.”
  • Structured versus Unstructured Work — 42% responded “A lot of freedom.”
  • Coordinate or Lead Others — 43% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Responsibility for Outcomes and Results — 49% responded “Very high responsibility.”
  • Responsible for Others’ Health and Safety — 46% responded “Very high responsibility.”
  • Spend Time Standing — 44% responded “About half the time.”
  • Frequency of Decision Making — 52% responded “Every day.”
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls — 42% responded “Continually or almost continually.”
  • Telephone — 40% responded “Every day.”
  • Time Pressure — 40% responded “Once a week or more but not every day.”
  • Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results — 42% responded “Very important results.”
  • Importance of Repeating Same Tasks — 32% responded “Very important.”
  • Spend Time Walking and Running — 35% responded “Continually or almost continually.”
  • Physical Proximity — 47% responded “Moderately close (at arm’s length).”
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment — 41% responded “Every day.”
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — 42% responded “Every day.”
  • Letters and Memos — 27% responded “Once a week or more but not every day.”
  • Very Hot or Cold Temperatures — 36% responded “Once a year or more but not every month.”
  • Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions — 36% responded “Less than half the time.”
  • Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment — 40% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Exposed to Hazardous Conditions — 31% responded “Never.”
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Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers

Use hand-welding, flame-cutting, hand-soldering, or brazing equipment to weld or join metal components or to fill holes, indentations, or seams of fabricated metal products.

Sample of reported job titles:

Sample of reported job titles: Assembly Line Brazer, Brazer, Fabrication Welder, Maintenance Welder, MIG Welder (Metal Inert Gas Welder), Solderer, TIG Welder (Tungsten Inert Gas Welder), Welder, Welder Fitter, Wirer

Tasks:

  • Operate safety equipment and use safe work habits.
  • Examine workpieces for defects and measure workpieces with straightedges or templates to ensure conformance with specifications.
  • Weld components in flat, vertical, or overhead positions.
  • Detect faulty operation of equipment or defective materials and notify supervisors.
  • Recognize, set up, and operate hand and power tools common to the welding trade, such as shielded metal arc and gas metal arc welding equipment.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Maintain safety.
  • Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
  • Operate welding equipment.
  • Notify others of equipment repair or maintenance needs.
  • Watch operating equipment to detect malfunctions.

Work Context:

  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets — 86% responded “Every day.”
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls — 74% responded “Continually or almost continually.”
  • Time Pressure — 72% responded “Every day.”
  • Face-to-Face Discussions — 67% responded “Every day.”
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — 56% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Exposed to Contaminants — 62% responded “Every day.”
  • Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable — 58% responded “Every day.”
  • Work With Work Group or Team — 38% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Contact With Others — 44% responded “Constant contact with others.”
  • Duration of Typical Work Week — 65% responded “40 hours.”
  • Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled — 59% responded “Every day.”
  • Spend Time Standing — 40% responded “Continually or almost continually.”
  • Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings — 48% responded “Every day.”
  • Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions — 33% responded “Continually or almost continually.”
  • Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results — 30% responded “Very important results.”
  • Structured versus Unstructured Work — 40% responded “Some freedom.”
  • Frequency of Decision Making — 50% responded “Every day.”
  • Responsible for Others’ Health and Safety — 28% responded “Very high responsibility.”
  • Freedom to Make Decisions — 27% responded “Limited freedom.”
  • Physical Proximity — 50% responded “Moderately close (at arm’s length).”
  • Consequence of Error — 33% responded “Extremely serious.”
  • Very Hot or Cold Temperatures — 33% responded “Every day.”
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment — 41% responded “Every day.”
  • Importance of Repeating Same Tasks — 26% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting — 46% responded “Every day.”
  • Responsibility for Outcomes and Results — 30% responded “Very high responsibility.”
  • Spend Time Bending or Twisting the Body — 36% responded “Less than half the time.”
  • Coordinate or Lead Others — 30% responded “Fairly important.”
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Industrial Machinery Mechanics

Repair, install, adjust, or maintain industrial production and processing machinery or refinery and pipeline distribution systems. May also install, dismantle, or move machinery and heavy equipment according to plans.

Sample of reported job titles:

Sample of reported job titles: Industrial Machinery Mechanic, Industrial Mechanic, Loom Fixer, Loom Technician, Machine Adjuster, Machine Mechanic, Maintenance Technician, Mechanic, Overhauler, Sewing Machine Mechanic

Tasks:

  • Repair or maintain the operating condition of industrial production or processing machinery or equipment.
  • Repair or replace broken or malfunctioning components of machinery or equipment.
  • Clean, lubricate, or adjust parts, equipment, or machinery.
  • Disassemble machinery or equipment to remove parts and make repairs.
  • Reassemble equipment after completion of inspections, testing, or repairs.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Maintain work equipment or machinery.
  • Repair worn, damaged, or defective mechanical parts.
  • Replace worn, damaged, or defective mechanical parts.
  • Adjust equipment to ensure optimal performance.
  • Clean equipment, parts, or tools to repair or maintain them in good working order.

Work Context:

  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets — 87% responded “Every day.”
  • Face-to-Face Discussions — 78% responded “Every day.”
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls — 71% responded “Continually or almost continually.”
  • Work With Work Group or Team — 54% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Contact With Others — 49% responded “Contact with others most of the time.”
  • Exposed to Contaminants — 44% responded “Every day.”
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment — 54% responded “Every day.”
  • Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings — 46% responded “Every day.”
  • Duration of Typical Work Week — 53% responded “40 hours.”
  • Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable — 43% responded “Every day.”
  • Spend Time Standing — 40% responded “Continually or almost continually.”
  • Freedom to Make Decisions — 48% responded “Some freedom.”
  • Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled — 68% responded “Every day.”
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — 35% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Physical Proximity — 35% responded “Moderately close (at arm’s length).”
  • Time Pressure — 49% responded “Once a week or more but not every day.”
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — 53% responded “Every day.”
  • Responsible for Others’ Health and Safety — 40% responded “High responsibility.”
  • Structured versus Unstructured Work — 37% responded “Some freedom.”
  • Spend Time Walking and Running — 34% responded “Less than half the time.”
  • Exposed to Hazardous Conditions — 38% responded “Every day.”
  • Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment — 29% responded “Very important.”
  • Coordinate or Lead Others — 37% responded “Important.”
  • Very Hot or Cold Temperatures — 33% responded “Once a month or more but not every week.”
  • Telephone — 33% responded “Once a week or more but not every day.”
  • Exposed to High Places — 45% responded “Once a week or more but not every day.”
  • Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results — 31% responded “Very important results.”
View more information on this job

Electrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers

Assemble or modify electrical or electronic equipment, such as computers, test equipment telemetering systems, electric motors, and batteries.

Sample of reported job titles:

Assembler, Assembly Worker, Electrical Assembler, Electronic Assembler, Electronics Assembler, Factory Assembler, Manufacturing Assembler, Transformer Assembler

Tasks:

  • Read and interpret schematic drawings, diagrams, blueprints, specifications, work orders, or reports to determine materials requirements or assembly instructions.
  • Assemble electrical or electronic systems or support structures and install components, units, subassemblies, wiring, or assembly casings, using rivets, bolts, soldering or micro-welding equipment.
  • Adjust, repair, or replace electrical or electronic components to correct defects and to ensure conformance to specifications.
  • Position, align, or adjust workpieces or electrical parts to facilitate wiring or assembly.
  • Explain assembly procedures or techniques to other workers.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Read work orders or other instructions to determine product specifications or materials requirements.
  • Review blueprints or other instructions to determine operational methods or sequences.
  • Assemble electrical or electronic equipment.
  • Operate welding equipment.
  • Solder parts or workpieces.

Work Context:

  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — 80% responded “Every day.”
  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets — 80% responded “Every day.”
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls — 70% responded “Continually or almost continually.”
  • Time Pressure — 62% responded “Every day.”
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — 49% responded “Very important.”
View more information on this job

Machinists

Set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts and instruments out of metal. Includes precision instrument makers who fabricate, modify, or repair mechanical instruments. May also fabricate and modify parts to make or repair machine tools or maintain industrial machines, applying knowledge of mechanics, mathematics, metal properties, layout, and machining procedures.

Sample of reported job titles:

Sample of reported job titles: CNC Machinist (Computer Numeric Controlled Machinist), CNC Machinist (Computer Numerically Controlled Machinist), Gear Machinist, Machine Repair Person, Machinist, Maintenance Machinist, Manual Lathe Machinist, Production Machinist, Tool Room Machinist

Tasks:

  • Calculate dimensions or tolerances, using instruments, such as micrometers or vernier calipers.
  • Machine parts to specifications, using machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders.
  • Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments, such as micrometers.
  • Set up, adjust, or operate basic or specialized machine tools used to perform precision machining operations.
  • Program computers or electronic instruments, such as numerically controlled machine tools.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
  • Calculate dimensions of workpieces, products, or equipment.
  • Operate cutting equipment.
  • Operate grinding equipment.
  • Operate metal or plastic forming equipment.

Work Context:

  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets — 94% responded “Every day.”
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls — 89% responded “Continually or almost continually.”
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — 61% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Face-to-Face Discussions — 78% responded “Every day.”
  • Spend Time Standing — 62% responded “Continually or almost continually.”
  • Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment — 69% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Time Pressure — 57% responded “Every day.”
  • Freedom to Make Decisions — 42% responded “Some freedom.”
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — 75% responded “Every day.”
  • Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions — 46% responded “Continually or almost continually.”
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment — 62% responded “Every day.”
  • Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable — 56% responded “Every day.”
  • Duration of Typical Work Week — 56% responded “40 hours.”
  • Importance of Repeating Same Tasks — 40% responded “Very important.”
  • Structured versus Unstructured Work — 38% responded “Some freedom.”
  • Work With Work Group or Team — 39% responded “Very important.”
  • Contact With Others — 36% responded “Contact with others most of the time.”
  • Frequency of Decision Making — 54% responded “Every day.”
  • Responsible for Others’ Health and Safety — 38% responded “Very high responsibility.”
  • Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results — 33% responded “Important results.”
  • Coordinate or Lead Others — 41% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Physical Proximity — 26% responded “Moderately close (at arm’s length).”
  • Responsibility for Outcomes and Results — 37% responded “High responsibility.”
  • Spend Time Bending or Twisting the Body — 31% responded “Less than half the time.”
  • Exposed to Contaminants — 43% responded “Every day.”
  • Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings — 27% responded “Every day.”
  • Level of Competition — 36% responded “Moderately competitive.”
  • Consequence of Error — 25% responded “Fairly serious.”
  • Degree of Automation — 49% responded “Moderately automated.”
View more information on this job

Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians

Apply electrical and electronic theory and related knowledge, usually under the direction of engineering staff, to design, build, repair, adjust, and modify electrical components, circuitry, controls, and machinery for subsequent evaluation and use by engineering staff in making engineering design decisions.

Sample of reported job titles:

Sample of reported job titles: Communications Technologist, Electrical Engineering Technician, Electrical Technician, Electronics Engineering Technician, Electronics Technician, Engineering Technician (Engineering Tech), Engineering Technologist, System Technologist, Technologist

Tasks:

  • Modify, maintain, or repair electronics equipment or systems to ensure proper functioning.
  • Replace defective components or parts, using hand tools and precision instruments.
  • Set up and operate specialized or standard test equipment to diagnose, test, or analyze the performance of electronic components, assemblies, or systems.
  • Read blueprints, wiring diagrams, schematic drawings, or engineering instructions for assembling electronics units, applying knowledge of electronic theory and components.
  • Identify and resolve equipment malfunctions, working with manufacturers or field representatives as necessary to procure replacement parts.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Maintain electronic equipment.
  • Test performance of electrical, electronic, mechanical, or integrated systems or equipment.
  • Review technical documents to plan work.
  • Install instrumentation or electronic equipment or systems.
  • Confer with other personnel to resolve design or operational problems.

Work Context:

  • Electronic Mail — How often do you use electronic mail in this job?
  • Face-to-Face Discussions — How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions?
  • Freedom to Make Decisions — How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer?
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?
  • 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?
  • Telephone — How often do you have telephone conversations in this job?
  • Work With Work Group or Team — How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job?
  • 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?
  • Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results — What results do your decisions usually have on other people or the image or reputation or financial resources of your employer?
  • 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?
  • Spend Time Sitting — How much does this job require sitting?
  • Coordinate or Lead Others — How important is it to coordinate or lead others in accomplishing work activities in this job?
  • Time Pressure — How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines?
  • 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?
  • Responsible for Others’ Health and Safety — How much responsibility is there for the health and safety of others in this job?
  • 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?
  • Responsibility for Outcomes and Results — How responsible is the worker for work outcomes and results of other workers?
  • Letters and Memos — How often does the job require written letters and memos?
  • 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?
  • 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?
  • Consequence of Error — How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not readily correctable?
  • Physical Proximity — To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks in close physical proximity to other people?
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Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators

Operate computer-controlled tools, machines, or robots to machine or process parts, tools, or other work pieces made of metal, plastic, wood, stone, or other materials. May also set up and maintain equipment.

Sample of reported job titles:

Sample of reported job titles: CNC Gear Operator (Computer Numerical Control Gear Operator), CNC Lathe Operator (Computer Numerical Control Lathe Operator), CNC Machine Operator (Computer Numerical Control Machine Operator), CNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist), CNC Mill Operator (Computer Numerical Control Mill Operator), CNC Operator (Computer Numerical Control Operator), CNC Set Up Operator (Computer Numerical Control Set Up Operator), Machine Operator, Machine Set Up Operator

Tasks:

  • Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures.
  • Set up and operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic workpieces.
  • Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments.
  • Review program specifications or blueprints to determine and set machine operations and sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, or numerical control sequences.
  • Stop machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement, according to required machining sequences.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
  • Program equipment to perform production tasks.
  • Install mechanical components in production equipment.
  • Mount attachments or tools onto production equipment.
  • Mount materials or workpieces onto production equipment.

Work Context:

  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets — 99% responded “Every day.”
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — 81% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Spend Time Standing — 77% responded “Continually or almost continually.”
  • Time Pressure — 62% responded “Every day.”
  • Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable — 52% responded “Every day.”
  • Face-to-Face Discussions — 63% responded “Every day.”
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls — 65% responded “Continually or almost continually.”
  • Exposed to Contaminants — 53% responded “Every day.”
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment — 60% responded “Every day.”
  • Contact With Others — 51% responded “Constant contact with others.”
  • Freedom to Make Decisions — 39% responded “A lot of freedom.”
  • Duration of Typical Work Week — 50% responded “More than 40 hours.”
  • Importance of Repeating Same Tasks — 45% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment — 44% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results — 37% responded “Very important results.”
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — 70% responded “Every day.”
  • Work With Work Group or Team — 42% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Frequency of Decision Making — 48% responded “Every day.”
  • Structured versus Unstructured Work — 36% responded “A lot of freedom.”
  • Coordinate or Lead Others — 39% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Consequence of Error — 36% responded “Extremely serious.”
  • Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings — 42% responded “Every day.”
  • Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions — 33% responded “Continually or almost continually.”
  • Degree of Automation — 35% responded “Moderately automated.”
  • Spend Time Walking and Running — 41% responded “Less than half the time.”
  • Physical Proximity — 79% responded “Slightly close (e.g., shared office).”
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Molders, Shapers, and Casters, Except Metal and Plastic

Mold, shape, form, cast, or carve products such as food products, figurines, tile, pipes, and candles consisting of clay, glass, plaster, concrete, stone, or combinations of materials.

Sample of reported job titles:

Sample of reported job titles: Bed Laborer, Caster, Injection Molding Machine Operator, Machine Operator, Mold Mechanic, Molder, Molding Line Operator, Press Operator

Tasks:

  • Read work orders or examine parts to determine parts or sections of products to be produced.
  • Trim or remove excess material, using scrapers, knives, or band saws.
  • Brush or spray mold surfaces with parting agents or insert paper into molds to ensure smoothness and prevent sticking or seepage.
  • Engrave or stamp identifying symbols, letters, or numbers on products.
  • Assemble, insert, and adjust wires, tubes, cores, fittings, rods, or patterns into molds, using hand tools and depth gauges.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Read work orders or other instructions to determine product specifications or materials requirements.
  • Apply parting agents or other solutions to molds.
  • Engrave designs, text, or other markings onto materials, workpieces, or products.
  • Build production molds.
  • Apply lubricants or coolants to workpieces.

Work Context:

  • 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?
  • Spend Time Standing — How much does this job require standing?
  • 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?
  • Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions — How much does this job require making repetitive motions?
  • 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?
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?
  • Time Pressure — How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines?
  • Work With Work Group or Team — How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job?
  • Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in non-controlled environmental conditions (e.g., warehouse without heat)?
  • 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?
  • Spend Time Walking and Running — How much does this job require walking and running?
  • Face-to-Face Discussions — How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?
  • 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.)
  • Exposed to Contaminants — How often does this job require working exposed to contaminants (such as pollutants, gases, dust or odors)?
  • Coordinate or Lead Others — How important is it to coordinate or lead others in accomplishing work activities in this job?
  • Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings — How often does this job require exposure to minor burns, cuts, bites, or stings?
  • Spend Time Bending or Twisting the Body — How much does this job require bending or twisting your body?
  • 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?
  • Physical Proximity — To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks in close physical proximity to other people?
  • Responsibility for Outcomes and Results — How responsible is the worker for work outcomes and results of other workers?
  • Responsible for Others’ Health and Safety — How much responsibility is there for the health and safety of others in this job?
  • Consequence of Error — How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not readily correctable?
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous equipment?
  • Freedom to Make Decisions — How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer?
  • 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?
  • Level of Competition — To what extent does this job require the worker to compete or to be aware of competitive pressures?
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Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door

Install, repair, and maintain mechanical regulating and controlling devices, such as electric meters, gas regulators, thermostats, safety and flow valves, and other mechanical governors.

Sample of reported job titles:

Sample of reported job titles: Control Valve Mechanic, Control Valve Technician, Electric Meter Technician, Instrument and Electrical Technician (I and E Technician), Instrument Technician, Measurement Technician, Meter Technician, Service Technician, Valve Technician, Water Plant Maintenance Mechanic

Tasks:

  • Record maintenance information, including test results, material usage, and repairs made.
  • Disassemble and repair mechanical control devices or valves, such as regulators, thermostats, or hydrants, using power tools, hand tools, and cutting torches.
  • Lubricate wearing surfaces of mechanical parts, using oils or other lubricants.
  • Calibrate instrumentation, such as meters, gauges, and regulators, for pressure, temperature, flow, and level.
  • Install, inspect and test electric meters, relays, and power sources to detect causes of malfunctions and inaccuracies, using hand tools and testing equipment.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Maintain repair or maintenance records.
  • Install metering equipment.
  • Calibrate equipment to specifications.
  • Inspect electrical or electronic systems for defects.
  • Install electrical components, equipment, or systems.
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Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other

Apply electrical and electronic theory and related knowledge, usually under the direction of engineering staff, to design, build, repair, adjust, and modify electrical components, circuitry, controls, and machinery for subsequent evaluation and use by engineering staff in making engineering design decisions.

Sample of reported job titles:

Communications Technologist, Electrical Engineering Technician, Electrical Technician, Electronics Engineering Technician, Electronics Technician, Engineering Technician (Engineering Tech), Engineering Technologist, System Technologist, Technologist

Tasks:

  • Modify, maintain, or repair electronics equipment or systems to ensure proper functioning.
  • Replace defective components or parts, using hand tools and precision instruments.
  • Set up and operate specialized or standard test equipment to diagnose, test, or analyze the performance of electronic components, assemblies, or systems.
  • Read blueprints, wiring diagrams, schematic drawings, or engineering instructions for assembling electronics units, applying knowledge of electronic theory and components.
  • Identify and resolve equipment malfunctions, working with manufacturers or field representatives as necessary to procure replacement parts.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Maintain electronic equipment.
  • Test performance of electrical, electronic, mechanical, or integrated systems or equipment.
  • Review technical documents to plan work.
  • Install instrumentation or electronic equipment or systems.
  • Confer with other personnel to resolve design or operational problems.

Work Context:

  • Electronic Mail — How often do you use electronic mail in this job?
  • Face-to-Face Discussions — How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions?
  • Freedom to Make Decisions — How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer?
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?
View more information on this job

Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment

Repair, test, adjust, or install electronic equipment, such as industrial controls, transmitters, and antennas.

Sample of reported job titles:

Sample of reported job titles: Control Technician, E and I Mechanic (Electrical and Instrument Mechanic), E and I Mechanic (Electrical and Instrumentation Mechanic), Electrical and Instrument Technician (E and I Tech), Electrical Maintenance Technician, Electronic Technician, I and C Tech (Instrument and Control Technician), Instrument and Electrical Technician (I and E Tech), Repair Technician, Scale Technician

Tasks:

  • Test faulty equipment to diagnose malfunctions, using test equipment or software, and applying knowledge of the functional operation of electronic units and systems.
  • Maintain equipment logs that record performance problems, repairs, calibrations, or tests.
  • Set up and test industrial equipment to ensure that it functions properly.
  • Inspect components of industrial equipment for accurate assembly and installation or for defects, such as loose connections or frayed wires.
  • Install repaired equipment in various settings, such as industrial or military establishments.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Test electrical equipment or systems to ensure proper functioning.
  • Maintain repair or maintenance records.
  • Test mechanical equipment to ensure proper functioning.
  • Inspect equipment to locate or identify electrical problems.
  • Install electrical components, equipment, or systems.
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Home Appliance Repairers

Repair, adjust, or install all types of electric or gas household appliances, such as refrigerators, washers, dryers, and ovens.

Sample of reported job titles:

Sample of reported job titles: Appliance Mechanic, Appliance Repair Mechanic, Appliance Repair Technician (Appliance Repair Tech), Appliance Service Technician, Appliance Technician (Appliance Tech), Repair Man, Repair Technician, Service Technician (Service Tech), Vacuum Repairer

Tasks:

  • Bill customers for repair work, and collect payment.
  • Observe and examine appliances during operation to detect specific malfunctions such as loose parts or leaking fluid.
  • Talk to customers or refer to work orders to establish the nature of appliance malfunctions.
  • Refer to schematic drawings, product manuals, and troubleshooting guides to diagnose and repair problems.
  • Trace electrical circuits, following diagrams, and conduct tests with circuit testers and other equipment to locate shorts and grounds.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Collect payments for goods or services.
  • Observe equipment in operation to detect potential problems.
  • Confer with customers or users to assess problems.
  • Read work orders or descriptions of problems to determine repairs or modifications needed.
  • Read technical information needed to perform maintenance or repairs.

Work Context:

  • Telephone — 97% responded “Every day.”
  • Contact With Others — 87% responded “Constant contact with others.”
  • Face-to-Face Discussions — 89% responded “Every day.”
  • Deal With External Customers — 77% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls — 78% responded “Continually or almost continually.”
  • Freedom to Make Decisions — 70% responded “A lot of freedom.”
  • Frequency of Decision Making — 77% responded “Every day.”
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — 47% responded “Very important.”
  • In an Enclosed Vehicle or Equipment — 78% responded “Every day.”
  • Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions — 53% responded “Once a week or more but not every day.”
  • Structured versus Unstructured Work — 49% responded “A lot of freedom.”
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — 59% responded “Every day.”
  • Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results — 50% responded “Very important results.”
  • Exposed to Contaminants — 45% responded “Every day.”
  • Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings — 35% responded “Every day.”
  • Very Hot or Cold Temperatures — 38% responded “Once a week or more but not every day.”
  • Time Pressure — 37% responded “Every day.”
  • Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled — 36% responded “Once a week or more but not every day.”
  • Physical Proximity — 52% responded “Moderately close (at arm’s length).”
  • Work With Work Group or Team — 30% responded “Very important.”
  • Deal With Unpleasant or Angry People — 49% responded “Once a month or more but not every week.”
  • Electronic Mail — 35% responded “Every day.”
  • Outdoors, Exposed to Weather — 49% responded “Once a month or more but not every week.”
  • Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling — 30% responded “More than half the time.”
  • Duration of Typical Work Week — 49% responded “40 hours.”
  • Spend Time Bending or Twisting the Body — 36% responded “Less than half the time.”
  • Coordinate or Lead Others — 27% responded “Important.”
  • Spend Time Standing — 52% responded “About half the time.”
  • Level of Competition — 48% responded “Moderately competitive.”
  • Exposed to Hazardous Conditions — 32% responded “Never.”
  • Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting — 35% responded “Once a week or more but not every day.”
  • Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions — 33% responded “Less than half the time.”
  • Frequency of Conflict Situations — 33% responded “Once a month or more but not every week.”
  • Importance of Repeating Same Tasks — 40% responded “Important.”
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Chemical Equipment Operators and Tenders

Operate or tend equipment to control chemical changes or reactions in the processing of industrial or consumer products. Equipment used includes devulcanizers, steam-jacketed kettles, and reactor vessels.

Sample of reported job titles:

Sample of reported job titles: Chemical Operator, Chlorination Operator, Multiskill Operator, Outside Operator, Process Operator, Spray Dry Operator, Vessel Operator

Tasks:

  • Observe safety precautions to prevent fires or explosions.
  • Record operational data, such as temperatures, pressures, ingredients used, processing times, or test results.
  • Control or operate equipment in which chemical changes or reactions take place during the processing of industrial or consumer products.
  • Patrol work areas to detect leaks or equipment malfunctions or to monitor operating conditions.
  • Draw samples of products at specified stages so that analyses can be performed.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Maintain safety.
  • Record operational or production data.
  • Operate chemical processing or water treatment systems or equipment.
  • Watch operating equipment to detect malfunctions.
  • Adjust equipment controls to regulate gas flow.

Work Context:

  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets — 100% responded “Every day.”
  • Face-to-Face Discussions — 90% responded “Every day.”
  • Exposed to Contaminants — 89% responded “Every day.”
  • Exposed to Hazardous Conditions — 77% responded “Every day.”
  • Responsible for Others’ Health and Safety — 61% responded “Very high responsibility.”
  • Electronic Mail — 71% responded “Every day.”
  • Work With Work Group or Team — 55% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable — 56% responded “Every day.”
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — 45% responded “Very important.”
  • Very Hot or Cold Temperatures — 53% responded “Every day.”
  • Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled — 68% responded “Every day.”
  • Contact With Others — 52% responded “Constant contact with others.”
  • Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment — 60% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Outdoors, Exposed to Weather — 47% responded “Every day.”
  • Duration of Typical Work Week — 53% responded “More than 40 hours.”
  • Coordinate or Lead Others — 40% responded “Extremely important.”
  • Time Pressure — 41% responded “Every day.”
  • Consequence of Error — 45% responded “Extremely serious.”
  • Freedom to Make Decisions — 49% responded “Some freedom.”
  • Responsibility for Outcomes and Results — 48% responded “Very high responsibility.”
  • Importance of Repeating Same Tasks — 46% responded “Very important.”
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment — 55% responded “Every day.”
  • Structured versus Unstructured Work — 45% responded “Some freedom.”
  • Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection — 47% responded “Every day.”
  • Telephone — 55% responded “Every day.”
  • Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results — 44% responded “Very important results.”
  • Frequency of Decision Making — 47% responded “Every day.”
  • Spend Time Standing — 45% responded “More than half the time.”
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls — 41% responded “Continually or almost continually.”
  • Spend Time Walking and Running — 38% responded “Continually or almost continually.”
  • Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings — 31% responded “Every day.”
  • Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions — 43% responded “Once a week or more but not every day.”
  • Exposed to High Places — 44% responded “Once a month or more but not every week.”
  • Letters and Memos — 24% responded “Once a week or more but not every day.”
  • Level of Competition — 43% responded “Moderately competitive.”
  • Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions — 42% responded “Less than half the time.”
  • Physical Proximity — 36% responded “Slightly close (e.g., shared office).”
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Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians

Cut, grind, and polish eyeglasses, contact lenses, or other precision optical elements. Assemble and mount lenses into frames or process other optical elements. Includes precision lens polishers or grinders, centerer-edgers, and lens mounters.

Sample of reported job titles:

Sample of reported job titles: Edger Technician, Finishing Lab Technician, Lab Technician (Laboratory Technician), Lens Grinder and Polisher, Line Operator, Optical Lab Technician (Optical Laboratory Technician), Optical Technician, Polisher, Surfacing Technician

Tasks:

  • Mount and secure lens blanks or optical lenses in holding tools or chucks of cutting, polishing, grinding, or coating machines.
  • Inspect lens blanks to detect flaws, verify smoothness of surface, and ensure thickness of coating on lenses.
  • Set up machines to polish, bevel, edge, or grind lenses, flats, blanks, or other precision optical elements.
  • Inspect, weigh, and measure mounted or unmounted lenses after completion to verify alignment and conformance to specifications, using precision instruments.
  • Shape lenses appropriately so that they can be inserted into frames.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Mount materials or workpieces onto production equipment.
  • Inspect finished products to locate flaws.
  • Shape glass or similar materials.
  • Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
  • Weigh finished products.
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The North region encompasses seven counties (El Dorado, Nevada, Placer, Sacramento, Sutter, Yolo, Yuba).

The Far North region encompasses 15 counties (Butte, Colusa, Del Norte, Glenn, Humboldt, Lake, Lassen, Mendocino, Modoc, Plumas, Shasta, Sierra, Siskiyou, Tehama, Trinity).

Specialized skills are specific to the occupation, or group of occupations, and represent job-specific competencies.

Technical skills refer to the specific software and technology regularly encountered on the job.

Employability skills (sometimes referred to as “common skills”) are foundational skills that cross occupations and industries. Many common skills, like, communication and team work, are also considered soft skills.