Aircraft Pilots and Flight Engineers

Job Zone

Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed

Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Job Zones group occupations into one of five categories based on the education, experience, and training typically needed to perform them.

O’NET publishes details below this occupation’s level. Showing Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers — one of 2 occupations here: Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers, Commercial Pilots.

Tasks

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

Use instrumentation to guide flights when visibility is poor.98
Start engines, operate controls, and pilot airplanes to transport passengers, mail, or freight, adhering to flight plans, regulations, and procedures.97
Work as part of a flight team with other crew members, especially during takeoffs and landings.97
Respond to and report in-flight emergencies and malfunctions.97
Inspect aircraft for defects and malfunctions, according to pre-flight checklists.96
Contact control towers for takeoff clearances, arrival instructions, and other information, using radio equipment.95
Monitor engine operation, fuel consumption, and functioning of aircraft systems during flights.93
Monitor gauges, warning devices, and control panels to verify aircraft performance and to regulate engine speed.93
Steer aircraft along planned routes, using autopilot and flight management computers.92
Check passenger and cargo distributions and fuel amounts to ensure that weight and balance specifications are met.90
Confer with flight dispatchers and weather forecasters to keep abreast of flight conditions.85
Coordinate flight activities with ground crews and air traffic control and inform crew members of flight and test procedures.83

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Order changes in fuel supplies, loads, routes, or schedules to ensure safety of flights.81
Brief crews about flight details, such as destinations, duties, and responsibilities.81
Conduct in-flight tests and evaluations at specified altitudes and in all types of weather to determine the receptivity and other characteristics of equipment and systems.79
File instrument flight plans with air traffic control to ensure that flights are coordinated with other air traffic.77
Perform minor maintenance work, or arrange for major maintenance.76
Choose routes, altitudes, and speeds that will provide the fastest, safest, and smoothest flights.74
Direct activities of aircraft crews during flights.74
Evaluate other pilots or pilot-license applicants for proficiency.71
Record in log books information, such as flight times, distances flown, and fuel consumption.68
Instruct other pilots and student pilots in aircraft operations and the principles of flight.68
Make announcements regarding flights, using public address systems.55
Plan and formulate flight activities and test schedules and prepare flight evaluation reports.52

Skills

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

Operation and Control97
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Operations Monitoring91
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Active Listening78
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.
Critical Thinking78
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Monitoring78
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Judgment and Decision Making75
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Reading Comprehension72
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Time Management72
Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Active Learning69
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Speaking69
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Complex Problem Solving66
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Coordination66
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.

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Social Perceptiveness56
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Systems Analysis56
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Systems Evaluation56
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
Mathematics53
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Quality Control Analysis53
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Troubleshooting53
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Writing53
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Instructing50
Teaching others how to do something.
Learning Strategies50
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Management of Personnel Resources47
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
Service Orientation47
Actively looking for ways to help people.
Persuasion44
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
Science44
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Negotiation41
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
Operations Analysis28
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
Management of Material Resources22
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
Equipment Maintenance19
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
Management of Financial Resources16
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
Technology Design16
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
Programming13
Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Repairing3
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
Equipment Selection0
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Installation0
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.

Knowledge

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

Transportation95
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
English Language73
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Geography68
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.
Mechanical68
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Public Safety and Security68
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.
Mathematics60
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Computers and Electronics59
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Physics58
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.
Law and Government57
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Administration and Management53
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.
Customer and Personal Service53
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.
Engineering and Technology47
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.

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Psychology46
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.
Education and Training41
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Telecommunications37
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Personnel and Human Resources22
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Communications and Media21
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Chemistry20
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.
Design19
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Administrative17
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Sociology and Anthropology15
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Philosophy and Theology10
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.
Therapy and Counseling10
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Medicine and Dentistry9
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.
Economics and Accounting8
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
Foreign Language8
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.
Production and Processing8
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Biology7
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Building and Construction5
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Sales and Marketing4
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.
History and Archeology2
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Fine Arts0
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
Food Production0
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

Response Orientation97
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.
Problem Sensitivity94
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Control Precision91
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Far Vision81
The ability to see details at a distance.
Near Vision81
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Reaction Time81
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
Deductive Reasoning78
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Depth Perception78
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.
Perceptual Speed78
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.
Rate Control78
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.
Arm-Hand Steadiness75
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Flexibility of Closure75
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.

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Inductive Reasoning75
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Information Ordering75
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).
Multilimb Coordination75
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.
Oral Comprehension75
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Oral Expression75
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Selective Attention75
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
Spatial Orientation75
The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
Time Sharing75
The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
Written Comprehension75
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Peripheral Vision72
The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
Hearing Sensitivity69
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
Speech Clarity69
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Speech Recognition69
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
Glare Sensitivity66
The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
Visual Color Discrimination66
The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
Manual Dexterity63
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Night Vision60
The ability to see under low-light conditions.
Speed of Closure60
The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
Visualization60
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Auditory Attention56
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
Number Facility56
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
Finger Dexterity53
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
Mathematical Reasoning53
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
Memorization53
The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
Written Expression53
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Category Flexibility50
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
Fluency of Ideas50
The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
Originality47
The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
Sound Localization47
The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
Speed of Limb Movement44
The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
Wrist-Finger Speed44
The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
Extent Flexibility38
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Static Strength28
The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
Trunk Strength28
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.
Gross Body Equilibrium25
The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
Dynamic Strength22
The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
Gross Body Coordination19
The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
Stamina16
The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
Explosive Strength13
The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
Dynamic Flexibility0
The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events97
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials96
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems93
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings93
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards92
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Getting Information92
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment91
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
Processing Information87
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge86
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Controlling Machines and Processes83
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates75
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Analyzing Data or Information74
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.

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Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others68
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Working with Computers64
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Documenting/Recording Information63
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information63
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work63
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People62
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Coaching and Developing Others55
Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others55
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Developing and Building Teams52
Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Training and Teaching Others49
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships47
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates45
Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization43
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Developing Objectives and Strategies43
Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Handling and Moving Objects43
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public43
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources41
Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Thinking Creatively41
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Assisting and Caring for Others39
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Scheduling Work and Activities35
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others34
Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others31
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment29
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.
Performing General Physical Activities26
Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
Performing Administrative Activities24
Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment18
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment13
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.
Selling or Influencing Others13
Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
Staffing Organizational Units13
Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.

Work Styles

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

Attention to Detail100
A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
Cautiousness100
A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
Self-Control100
A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
Dependability98
A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
Stress Tolerance98
A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
Self-Confidence80
A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
Leadership Orientation78
A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
Perseverance73
A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
Achievement Orientation71
A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.
Integrity70
A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
Cooperation64
A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
Intellectual Curiosity56
A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.

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Adaptability47
A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
Initiative28
A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.
Optimism27
A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even under difficult circumstances.
Social Orientation26
A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
Sincerity25
A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
Humility17
A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
Empathy15
A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feelings at work.
Tolerance for Ambiguity5
A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.

Interests (RIASEC)

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

Conventional62
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Realistic62
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Enterprising47
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
Investigative36
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Social25
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.
Artistic7
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Extremely important84%
- Very important16%
Spend Time Sitting
- Continually or almost continually74%
- More than half the time26%
Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Every day78%
- Once a month or more but not every week11%
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
- Continually or almost continually63%
- More than half the time36%
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment
- Every day74%
- Once a week or more but not every day16%
Time Pressure
- Every day72%
- Once a week or more but not every day17%
Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
- Extremely important65%
- Very important24%
- Important11%
Contact With Others
- Constant contact with others75%
- Occasional contact with others16%
Health and Safety of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility63%
- High responsibility20%
- Moderate responsibility16%
Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results
- Very important results67%
- Important results19%
Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
- Every day54%
- Once a week or more but not every day38%
Consequence of Error
- Extremely serious77%
- Serious12%

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Freedom to Make Decisions
- A lot of freedom58%
- Some freedom30%
- Very little freedom12%
Frequency of Decision Making
- Every day65%
- Once a year or more but not every month12%
E-Mail
- Every day46%
- Once a week or more but not every day33%
- Once a year or more but not every month11%
Level of Competition
- Extremely competitive42%
- Highly competitive39%
Physical Proximity
- Very close (near touching)11%
- Moderately close (at arm's length)83%
Importance of Repeating Same Tasks
- Extremely important39%
- Very important38%
Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility38%
- High responsibility23%
- Moderate responsibility32%
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Every day53%
- Once a week or more but not every day16%
- Never17%
Public Speaking
- Every day57%
- Once a week or more but not every day11%
- Never21%
Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities
- Extremely important29%
- Very important27%
- Important36%
Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
- A lot of freedom29%
- Some freedom24%
- Limited freedom29%
- Very little freedom18%
Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions
- Every day35%
- Once a week or more but not every day31%
- Once a month or more but not every week15%
- Never15%
Exposed to High Places
- Every day45%
- Once a week or more but not every day20%
- Never22%
Degree of Automation
- Highly automated67%
- Moderately automated25%
Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
- Every day18%
- Once a week or more but not every day31%
- Once a month or more but not every week43%
Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Every day54%
- Once a year or more but not every month14%
- Never22%
Exposed to Contaminants
- Every day35%
- Once a week or more but not every day22%
- Once a year or more but not every month30%
Exposed to Radiation
- Every day39%
- Once a week or more but not every day28%
- Never28%
Conflict Situations
- Every day26%
- Once a week or more but not every day24%
- Once a month or more but not every week20%
- Once a year or more but not every month30%
Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions
- Every day40%
- Once a week or more but not every day15%
- Once a month or more but not every week15%
- Never22%
Telephone Conversations
- Once a week or more but not every day50%
- Once a month or more but not every week27%
- Once a year or more but not every month17%
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
- Extremely important42%
- Very important21%
- Not important at all32%
Deal With External Customers or the Public in General
- Extremely important20%
- Very important30%
- Important24%
- Fairly important15%
- Not important at all11%
Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People
- Once a week or more but not every day47%
- Once a month or more but not every week23%
- Once a year or more but not every month28%
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
- Continually or almost continually20%
- More than half the time28%
- Less than half the time25%
- Never21%
Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions
- Every day26%
- Once a week or more but not every day20%
- Once a year or more but not every month11%
- Never38%
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
- Every day26%
- Once a month or more but not every week22%
- Never39%
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment
- Every day28%
- Once a month or more but not every week13%
- Once a year or more but not every month11%
- Never39%
Work Schedules
- Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration)73%
- Regular (established routine, set schedule)27%
Written Letters and Memos
- Once a week or more but not every day13%
- Once a month or more but not every week20%
- Once a year or more but not every month33%
- Never26%
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled
- Every day16%
- Once a week or more but not every day13%
- Once a year or more but not every month20%
- Never43%
Duration of Typical Work Week
- More than 40 hours20%
- 40 hours23%
- Less than 40 hours57%
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration
- Every day13%
- Once a week or more but not every day18%
- Never57%
Exposed to Disease or Infections
- Every day15%
- Never62%
Spend Time Walking or Running
- Less than half the time88%
Spend Time Standing
- Less than half the time94%
Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection
- Once a month or more but not every week12%
- Once a year or more but not every month30%
- Never47%
Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body
- Less than half the time67%
- Never24%
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings
- Once a year or more but not every month15%
- Never69%
Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People
- Once a year or more but not every month51%
- Never43%
Outdoors, Under Cover
- Once a year or more but not every month19%
- Never66%
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles
- Less than half the time47%
- Never50%
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance
- Less than half the time23%
- Never70%
In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment
- Never82%
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling
- Less than half the time36%
- Never64%

Typical Education Levels Reported

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

Bachelor’s degree
High school diploma or equivalent
Less than high school diploma

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

Object or component oriented development software
Document Object Model DOM Scripting, R
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Data base user interface and query software
Airline Pilots Daily Aviation Log PPC, AirSmith FlightPrompt, CoPilot Flight Planning & E6B, Skylog Services Skylog Pro
Route navigation software
IFT-Pro, Navzilla
Information retrieval or search software
AeroPlanner, Notam Development Group Airport Insight
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Electronic mail software
Microsoft Outlook
Office suite software
Microsoft Office software
Word processing software
Microsoft Word
Analytical or scientific software
Pilot Navigator Software Load Balance
Calendar and scheduling software
SBS International Maestro Suite
Process mapping and design software
Microsoft Visio

Professional Associations

Organizations related to this occupation, such as industry and licensing bodies.

Related Occupations

Occupations that call for similar work and worker requirements.

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

Pilot aircraft.
Notify others of emergencies, problems, or hazards.
Report vehicle or equipment malfunctions.
Respond to transportation emergencies.
Inspect aircraft or aircraft components.
Communicate with others to coordinate vehicle movement.
Monitor engine operation or functioning.
Monitor equipment gauges or displays to ensure proper operation.
Monitor work environment to ensure safety or adherence to specifications.
Coordinate flight control or management activities.
Meet with coworkers to communicate work orders or plans.
Resolve issues affecting transportation operations.

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Test performance of aircraft equipment.
Arrange maintenance activities.
Maintain locomotives or other rail equipment in good working condition.
Choose optimal transportation routes or speeds.
Evaluate performance of applicants, trainees, or employees.
Record operational details of travel.
Train transportation or material moving personnel.
Provide transportation information to passengers or customers.
Plan flight operations.

This page incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Based on federal labor and demographic data. Data source & methodology