Electrical and Electronics 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 Electrical Engineers — one of 2 occupations here: Electrical Engineers, Electronics Engineers, Except Computer.

Tasks

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

Design, implement, maintain, or improve electrical instruments, equipment, facilities, components, products, or systems for commercial, industrial, or domestic purposes.80
Oversee project production efforts to assure projects are completed on time and within budget.76
Direct or coordinate manufacturing, construction, installation, maintenance, support, documentation, or testing activities to ensure compliance with specifications, codes, or customer requirements.74
Perform detailed calculations to compute and establish manufacturing, construction, or installation standards or specifications.72
Operate computer-assisted engineering or design software or equipment to perform engineering tasks.71
Confer with engineers, customers, or others to discuss existing or potential engineering projects or products.69
Investigate or test vendors' or competitors' products.68
Inspect completed installations and observe operations to ensure conformance to design and equipment specifications and compliance with operational, safety, or environmental standards.67
Collect data relating to commercial or residential development, population, or power system interconnection to determine operating efficiency of electrical systems.67
Investigate customer or public complaints to determine the nature and extent of problems.66
Prepare technical drawings, specifications of electrical systems, or topographical maps to ensure that installation and operations conform to standards and customer requirements.66
Develop systems that produce electricity with renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, or biofuels.66

Show all 22 →

Compile data and write reports regarding existing or potential electrical engineering studies or projects.65
Prepare specifications for purchases of materials or equipment.65
Develop software to control electrical systems.65
Estimate labor, material, or construction costs for budget preparation purposes.64
Plan or implement research methodology or procedures to apply principles of electrical theory to engineering projects.62
Supervise or train project team members, as necessary.61
Assist in developing capital project programs for new equipment or major repairs.60
Integrate electrical systems with renewable energy systems to improve overall efficiency.56
Conduct field surveys or study maps, graphs, diagrams, or other data to identify and correct power system problems.55
Design electrical systems or components that minimize electric energy requirements, such as lighting systems designed to account for natural lighting.52

Skills

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

Writing78
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Critical Thinking75
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Reading Comprehension75
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Active Learning72
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Active Listening72
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Complex Problem Solving72
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Speaking72
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Monitoring63
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Mathematics60
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Coordination56
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Judgment and Decision Making56
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Systems Analysis56
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.

Show all 35 →

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.
Operations Analysis53
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
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 Resources50
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
Quality Control Analysis50
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Science50
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Social Perceptiveness50
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Time Management50
Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Operations Monitoring47
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Persuasion47
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
Negotiation44
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
Service Orientation44
Actively looking for ways to help people.
Troubleshooting44
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Management of Financial Resources35
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
Management of Material Resources31
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
Technology Design31
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
Equipment Selection28
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Programming28
Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Equipment Maintenance25
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
Repairing25
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
Operation and Control10
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Installation0
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.

Knowledge

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

Engineering and Technology94
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.
Computers and Electronics92
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Design78
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
English Language69
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Mathematics68
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Physics65
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.
Production and Processing56
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Mechanical55
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Public Safety and Security55
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.
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.
Administrative48
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Administration and Management47
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.

Show all 33 →

Education and Training47
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Telecommunications40
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Communications and Media36
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Chemistry34
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.
Law and Government34
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Building and Construction33
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Economics and Accounting33
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
Personnel and Human Resources32
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Sales and Marketing30
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.
Transportation28
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Geography20
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.
Psychology19
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.
Foreign Language14
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
Sociology and Anthropology11
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Philosophy and Theology9
Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
Food Production8
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
History and Archeology8
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Medicine and Dentistry7
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Therapy and Counseling7
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Biology4
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Fine Arts3
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

Written Comprehension78
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Written Expression78
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Deductive Reasoning75
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Inductive Reasoning75
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Oral Comprehension75
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Oral Expression75
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Problem Sensitivity75
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Category Flexibility72
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
Information Ordering72
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).
Near Vision69
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Speech Recognition66
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
Mathematical Reasoning63
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.

Show all 52 →

Number Facility60
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
Fluency of Ideas56
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).
Originality56
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.
Speech Clarity56
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Perceptual Speed53
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.
Selective Attention53
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
Visualization53
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Far Vision50
The ability to see details at a distance.
Flexibility of Closure50
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
Time Sharing47
The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
Memorization44
The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
Visual Color Discrimination44
The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
Auditory Attention28
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
Control Precision28
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Finger Dexterity28
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
Hearing Sensitivity28
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
Manual Dexterity28
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Speed of Closure28
The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
Arm-Hand Steadiness25
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Depth Perception25
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.
Trunk Strength19
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.
Wrist-Finger Speed16
The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
Dynamic Strength13
The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
Extent Flexibility10
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Peripheral Vision3
The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
Reaction Time3
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
Sound Localization3
The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
Spatial Orientation3
The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
Dynamic Flexibility0
The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Explosive Strength0
The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
Glare Sensitivity0
The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
Gross Body Coordination0
The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
Gross Body Equilibrium0
The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
Multilimb Coordination0
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.
Night Vision0
The ability to see under low-light conditions.
Rate Control0
The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
Response Orientation0
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.
Speed of Limb Movement0
The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
Stamina0
The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
Static Strength0
The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

Working with Computers98
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems97
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Scheduling Work and Activities90
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Documenting/Recording Information89
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge88
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment84
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.
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work84
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Analyzing Data or Information83
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Getting Information83
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards81
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Thinking Creatively80
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates79
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.

Show all 41 →

Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events75
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Processing Information73
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings71
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization69
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.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others68
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others66
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People66
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships64
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Developing Objectives and Strategies63
Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others63
Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources60
Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Training and Teaching Others59
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Developing and Building Teams58
Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Coaching and Developing Others57
Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information57
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others48
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials47
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment47
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.
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates42
Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Performing Administrative Activities41
Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
Performing General Physical Activities33
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.
Staffing Organizational Units33
Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment32
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
Assisting and Caring for Others30
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Controlling Machines and Processes30
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Handling and Moving Objects25
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public20
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Selling or Influencing Others19
Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
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.

Work Styles

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

Attention to Detail91
A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
Dependability86
A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
Innovation77
A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.
Cautiousness76
A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
Intellectual Curiosity73
A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
Achievement Orientation70
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.
Integrity65
A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
Perseverance56
A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
Self-Confidence53
A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
Adaptability51
A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
Initiative48
A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.
Leadership Orientation43
A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.

Show all 21 →

Cooperation39
A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
Stress Tolerance39
A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
Self-Control38
A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
Tolerance for Ambiguity37
A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
Social Orientation29
A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
Sincerity22
A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
Empathy13
A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feelings at work.
Optimism13
A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even under difficult circumstances.
Humility12
A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.

Interests (RIASEC)

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

Realistic84
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.
Investigative74
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.
Conventional57
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.
Enterprising24
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.
Artistic19
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.
Social12
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.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

E-Mail
- Every day87%
- Once a week or more but not every day13%
Telephone Conversations
- Every day80%
- Once a week or more but not every day20%
Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Every day70%
- Once a week or more but not every day30%
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Every day77%
- Once a week or more but not every day20%
Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
- A lot of freedom70%
- Some freedom19%
- Limited freedom11%
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Extremely important61%
- Very important36%
Freedom to Make Decisions
- A lot of freedom61%
- Some freedom24%
- Limited freedom14%
Contact With Others
- Constant contact with others48%
- Contact with others most of the time39%
- Contact with others about half the time14%
Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
- Extremely important44%
- Very important42%
- Important14%
Duration of Typical Work Week
- More than 40 hours58%
- 40 hours42%
Frequency of Decision Making
- Every day39%
- Once a week or more but not every day36%
- Once a month or more but not every week24%
Spend Time Sitting
- Continually or almost continually35%
- More than half the time48%
- Less than half the time13%

Show all 57 →

Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results
- Very important results37%
- Important results29%
- Moderate results30%
Time Pressure
- Every day26%
- Once a week or more but not every day39%
- Once a month or more but not every week34%
Importance of Repeating Same Tasks
- Extremely important24%
- Very important47%
- Important14%
- Fairly important13%
Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility18%
- High responsibility47%
- Moderate responsibility24%
Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities
- Extremely important21%
- Very important36%
- Important33%
Level of Competition
- Highly competitive40%
- Moderately competitive28%
- Slightly competitive20%
Conflict Situations
- Every day14%
- Once a week or more but not every day19%
- Once a month or more but not every week42%
- Once a year or more but not every month24%
Physical Proximity
- Very close (near touching)22%
- Moderately close (at arm's length)15%
- Slightly close (e.g., shared office)26%
- I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)38%
Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Every day41%
- Once a week or more but not every day14%
- Once a year or more but not every month12%
- Never32%
Deal With External Customers or the Public in General
- Very important30%
- Important38%
- Fairly important15%
Health and Safety of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility19%
- High responsibility25%
- Moderate responsibility12%
- Limited responsibility34%
Consequence of Error
- Extremely serious30%
- Very serious15%
- Fairly serious32%
- Not serious at all20%
Written Letters and Memos
- Every day20%
- Once a week or more but not every day28%
- Once a month or more but not every week12%
- Never29%
Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
- Every day14%
- Once a week or more but not every day24%
- Once a month or more but not every week24%
- Once a year or more but not every month19%
- Never19%
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
- Continually or almost continually26%
- About half the time28%
- Less than half the time28%
- Never15%
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
- More than half the time20%
- About half the time39%
- Less than half the time34%
Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People
- Once a week or more but not every day15%
- Once a month or more but not every week38%
- Once a year or more but not every month23%
- Never20%
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled
- Once a week or more but not every day25%
- Once a month or more but not every week16%
- Once a year or more but not every month35%
- Never24%
Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
- Once a week or more but not every day25%
- Once a year or more but not every month46%
- Never20%
Spend Time Standing
- Continually or almost continually14%
- Less than half the time61%
- Never17%
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment
- Every day21%
- Once a year or more but not every month36%
- Never37%
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
- Very important19%
- Important26%
- Fairly important19%
- Not important at all35%
Public Speaking
- Once a week or more but not every day13%
- Once a month or more but not every week24%
- Once a year or more but not every month39%
- Never24%
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
- Once a month or more but not every week35%
- Once a year or more but not every month13%
- Never40%
Degree of Automation
- Highly automated19%
- Moderately automated24%
- Slightly automated14%
- Not at all automated43%
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment
- Once a week or more but not every day17%
- Once a year or more but not every month32%
- Never39%
Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions
- Once a week or more but not every day30%
- Once a year or more but not every month13%
- Never49%
Spend Time Walking or Running
- More than half the time18%
- Less than half the time67%
- Never15%
Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions
- Once a month or more but not every week30%
- Once a year or more but not every month29%
- Never37%
Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions
- Once a week or more but not every day17%
- Once a year or more but not every month36%
- Never40%
Outdoors, Under Cover
- Once a week or more but not every day16%
- Once a year or more but not every month19%
- Never56%
Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body
- More than half the time13%
- Less than half the time32%
- Never50%
Exposed to Contaminants
- Once a month or more but not every week19%
- Once a year or more but not every month29%
- Never47%
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings
- Once a week or more but not every day13%
- Once a year or more but not every month41%
- Never45%
Exposed to High Places
- Once a month or more but not every week28%
- Once a year or more but not every month14%
- Never54%
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling
- More than half the time13%
- Less than half the time28%
- Never54%
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles
- More than half the time13%
- Less than half the time27%
- Never57%
In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment
- Once a month or more but not every week24%
- Never67%
Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection
- Once a week or more but not every day16%
- Never77%
Work Schedules
- Regular (established routine, set schedule)84%
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance
- About half the time16%
- Never77%
Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People
- Once a year or more but not every month29%
- Never71%
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration
- Once a year or more but not every month16%
- Never84%
Exposed to Radiation
- Never91%
Exposed to Disease or Infections
- Never100%

Typical Education Levels Reported

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

Bachelor’s degree
Associate’s degree or other 2-year degree
Master’s degree

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

Analytical or scientific software
MathWorks Simulink, Minitab, Powersim PSIM, The MathWorks MATLAB
Word processing software
Microsoft OneNote, Microsoft Word
Computer aided design CAD software
Autodesk AutoCAD Civil 3D, Autodesk Revit, Bentley MicroStation, Dassault Systemes SolidWorks
Development environment software
C, Eclipse IDE, Microsoft Visual Basic for Applications VBA, Microsoft Visual Studio
Operating system software
Bash, Microsoft Windows Server, Shell script, UNIX
Object or component oriented development software
C#, C++, Perl, Python
Industrial control software
AVEVA InTouch HMI, Programmable logic controller PLC software, Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software
Geographic information system
ESRI ArcGIS software, ETAP
Program testing software
Debugging software, Defect tracking software
Requirements analysis and system architecture software
Requirements management software, Unified modeling language UML
Project management software
Microsoft Project, Oracle Primavera Enterprise Project Portfolio Management
WAN switching software and firmware
ATD protocol, X.25 Protocol
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Configuration management software
Perforce Helix software
Electronic mail software
IBM Notes
Graphics or photo imaging software
SmugMug Flickr
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
SAP software
Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
Rapid prototyping software
File versioning software
Apache Subversion SVN
Office suite software
Microsoft Office software
Financial analysis software
Oracle E-Business Suite Financials
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Data base user interface and query software
Microsoft SQL Server
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.

Design electrical equipment or systems.
Design structures or facilities.
Maintain electronic equipment.
Direct industrial production activities.
Direct construction activities.
Direct equipment maintenance or repair activities.
Direct installation activities.
Estimate technical or resource requirements for development or production projects.
Operate computer systems.
Confer with technical personnel to prepare designs or operational plans.
Discuss designs or plans with clients.
Test products for functionality or quality.

Show all 29 →

Inspect operational processes.
Collect data about project sites.
Monitor the productivity or efficiency of industrial operations.
Create electrical schematics.
Investigate system, equipment, or product failures.
Design alternative energy systems.
Prepare operational reports.
Design control systems for mechanical or other equipment.
Develop software or applications for scientific or technical use.
Develop software or computer applications.
Estimate operational costs.
Prepare project budgets.
Devise research or testing protocols.
Supervise engineering or other technical personnel.
Train personnel on proper operational procedures.
Design energy-efficient equipment or systems.
Survey land or bodies of water to measure or determine features.

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