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Economics – Personal Finance Project
Job Descriptions and Salaries
Art Director – Average Salary $55,000 / year
This is a fast-paced, creative position that is most often found in large media
organizations such as newspapers, magazines, publishing houses, production companies
and advertising firms.
In larger organizations, the Art Director may report to a Senior Art Director, while in
other organizations he or she may report directly to the Vice President or other executive
staff. The Art Director will typically manage junior associates including graphic
designers, photographers and other junior creatives.
A person in this role will usually work closely with the organization’s Marketing Director
or other creative lead. He or she will also work with vendors and clients outside of the
organization, cultivating and maintaining these important relationships.
To succeed in this role, a person should be creative, have strong communication skills,
exhibit a great attention to detail, easily build rapport with others and excel at managing
and motivating team members. This role should be held by someone who can
successfully manage shifting priorities, tight deadlines and last minute requests. This
person would also need to be well versed in the Adobe Creative Suite, particularly
Photoshop, InDesign and Illustrator, and he or she should have a love of typography and
design.
Accountant – Average Salary $46,000 / year
An accountant will spend most of the time within an office setting. Standard working
hours are first shift Monday-Friday. In order to meet the requirements of becoming an
accountant, one must posses certain qualities. A sense of organization is strongly needed,
as there are many records within the company that the accountant must keep track of.
Records will include but may not be limited to: liabilities, assets, tax liabilities, profit and
loss, and any of the organization's other financial activities. The accountant will also be
responsible for preparing the financial reports by reviewing and analyzing the financial
data received from the company. Management will also require the accountant to
generate and interpret financial records. In addition to preparing reports and maintaining
records, the accountant will also be in charge of maintaining the general ledger. Holding
a Bachelor's or Master's degree in accounting is typically required for this position. The
majority of this job revolves around the use of numbers and computations, and much of
the work will be done on a computer. The accountant will often times have to talk to
upper management, and it will be necessary to not only have written, but verbal
communication skills as well. This position can be mentally stressful at times, but an
accountant must be willing to pay attention to detail each and every day. The accountant
will be trusted with the financial data of the company and will be required to examine the
data to make sure that all financial records are accurate.
Attorney/ Lawyer – Average Salary $75, 000 / year
Attorneys apply the law to specific situations and advise their clients on a course of
action based on legal rights and responsibilities. Some attorneys work in the business
world, providing counsel to corporate clients on business transactions. Other attorneys
work with persons in the legal system, advocating on their behalf and representing them
in court actions.
Attorneys specialize in an area of law, such as contracts, criminal cases, or patent
litigation. Most lawyers work in private practice, either self-employed or with a group of
attorneys hired by clients for specific matters. Some lawyers work as in-house counsel for
a corporation or government entity.
Since much of the legal system is time-sensitive, most attorneys must work long hours.
Most attorneys work in an office environment, law library, or a courtroom setting.
Attorneys must complete many years of education; after attaining an undergraduate
degree, they must complete a program, typically three years long, at a law school to
obtain the juris doctorate degree (J.D.). To practice as an attorney, one must pass a
lengthy, difficult examination that varies state by state. Attorneys must have excellent
analytic ability and be able to interpret laws and legal rulings. They must be skilled at
gathering and applying information, as well as be very detail-oriented, able to retain large
amounts of information, and accurate in execution of their duties. Attorneys must have
excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, and be able to generate
persuasive arguments. They also must excel at problem-solving tasks.
Bank Teller – Average Salary $10/ hour = Approx. $25, 000 / year
Bank tellers hold one of the most visible positions at any bank or credit union. Whether
it’s withdrawing funds or depositing them, at some point, each bank customer interacts
with a teller; that means customer service skills are paramount in keeping the customers
happy. The position also requires absolute accuracy, as being off on your “drawer” is not
allowed.
The average day for a bank teller requires a wide variety of skills. The bank teller must
have the ability to perform basic arithmetic; counting money can be a tedious task, but it
is one of the most important in a bank. Besides customer service and math skills, a bank
teller must be proficient with computers and inputting data; most banking-related tasks
require constant and consistent record keeping. A bank teller will usually work alongside
other bank tellers and staff, reporting the bank’s management staff. The primary focus of
the bank teller is working the customer, so interactions with customers comprise most of
the teller's day. Tellers are needed from the time the bank opens in the morning until
close in the evening; some banks have tellers work long shifts, but most have shorter
shifts to break up the work load among various tellers.
Bank tellers hold an entry-level position in the financial industry. Educational
requirements usually include a high school diploma or GED, and the banks provide
training and certifications based on company policies and regulations regarding tellers.
Carpenter – Average Salary $18 / hour = Approx. $40,000 / year
A carpenter must be able to build closets, counters, shelves, cabinets, doors, bulletin
boards, window, wall panels and other related finish carpentry items. The work is mostly
physical labor, but mental ability is needed as well. A carpenter must have good math
skills to be able to measure correctly. The job involves bending, lifting and some
repetitive motions. A carpenter must be able to work with the general public and
accommodate their needs. He or she must be able to work from blueprints, sketches and
drawings in addition to following verbal and written descriptions to accomplish the job.
They must be able to select lumber, materials and supplies; and dismantle or demolish
and remove designated items prior to the commencement of repairs. A carpenter ust be
able to use a variety of power tools and hand tools. Work can be inside or outside in most
any weather. Almost all types of businesses have a need for a carpenter eventually. Work
can be done in solitary or with a team of other carpenters and supervisors. Most
companies that hire carpenters are looking for experience or apprenticeship work or some
kind of formal training. A carpenter usually works a typical daytime shift, but could be
asked to work non-typical hours that do not coincide with the client's work hours so as
not to disrupt the normal business. Carpenters can have a specialty that they are proficient
in, such as cabinetry, or can do general carpentry work.
Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) – Average Salary $10/ hr. = Approx. $25,000 / year
A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is an health medical professional that works in a
variety of healthcare environments, including hospitals, nursing homes, retirement
communities, and physician offices. CNAs generally work under the supervision of a
registered nurse, performing direct patient care tasks. Job duties of a CNA may include
taking patient vital signs, assisting with activities of daily living (bathing, eating, and
mobility), administering medications, and attending to patient needs. The CNA reports
any changes in patient condition to the registered nurse for further assessment. To be
employed as a CNA, one must first complete a technical program to learn the skills
necessary to be successful in the field. Coursework in a CNA program includes basic
anatomy, pharmacology, and nursing skills. Programs generally range in length from 6
months to 1 year. After completion of a formal program, the title CNA is earned via
passing a state certification exam. To be successful as a CNA, several qualities are
needed. A good CNA must be organized, efficient, and able to multi-task. Attention to
details is key. The job, although indoors, requires some physical ability. The strength to
lift and move adult patients is required. CNAs generally work the same schedule as other
health care personnel, either five 8-hour shifts per week or three 12-hour shifts per week.
Hours can vary, and may include nights, weekends and holidays. Overall, a career as a
CNA is a perfect choice for career stability and those dedicated to helping others.
Chemical Engineer – Average Salary $75,000 / year
Chemical engineers find solutions to problems such as pollution, world hunger, and
energy demands. They also conduct research to develop new and improved chemical
manufacturing processes that are more efficient and less harmful to the environment.
They typically work indoors in laboratories, utilizing the newest and most advanced
technology.
Chemical engineers will typically find themselves working in teams with other engineers.
All of them may be specialized in different areas in order to cover all aspects of a project.
A forty to fifty hour week is typical for a chemical engineer. Their average work day
consists of performing calculations and experiments, going over variables, and creating
computer models. Chemical engineers perform density, gravity, and pressure tests at
various stages of production in order to ensure accurate results. They are constantly faced
with challenges that require innovative thinking. They are efficient with time and money,
consistently evaluating the time and cost to complete projects. Since they work with
dangerous chemicals, they are concerned with developing safety procedures for
themselves and others working close to possible chemical reactions.
Most chemical engineering positions only require a bachelor's degree, but leadership
opportunities and higher salaries are available to those who have a master's or doctorate
degree. All types of industries employ chemical engineers, from food and textile
companies to aerospace, electronic, and pharmaceutical companies. Chemical engineers
can depend on finding consistent and challenging work in any field.
Computer Programmer – Average Salary $52,000 / year
The basic role of a Computer Programer is to create and modify the software programs
that provide the instructions that tell a computer how to accomplish a specific task. They
write these programs in special languages known as programming languages (such as
C++) that allow computers to understand and accomplish the desired goals of the
program.
In addition to writing and creating computer software Computer Programers also are
responsible for the maintenance and repair of existing software, as well as modifying
programs to meet the specific needs and desires of the end-users of the programs. To
effectively understand and obtain the desired results from their software programers work
collaborate closely with both end-users and the systems administrators of the networks
running the software. When issues arise with their software, programmers in conjunction
with Network Administrators and Help Desk Support Techs, troubleshoot the problems
and develop fixes for the specific problem.
For software intended for used by a large customer base or in an enterprise environment
Computer Programers very often work on development teams with Software and
Hardware Engineers to write software programs that avoid potential issues caused by
known hardware/software conflicts. The ability to brainstorm ideas, collaborate with
others and troubleshoot work process are the basic traits of successful Computer
Programers.
Once Computer Programers have written their software they work very closely with the
individuals who will write the actually documentation that will provided instructions to
the end-users of the software. In some cases the end-user documentation may be written
by the Computer Programer who actually wrote the software.
As Computer Programers gain experience and knowledge they ofter progress on to
becoming Software Engineers, a role requiring more experience and technical education.
Dental Hygienist – Average Salary $31 / hour = Approximately $60,000 / year
A Dental Hygienist’s responsibility is to help prevent dental related diseases in their
patients. Dental Hygienists will usually work with a certified dentist to meet the oral
health concerns of patients. Some basic job responsibilities and tasks include, giving
patients routine cleanings in order to remove plaque and other caustic substances from all
surfaces of the teeth, testing patients’ teeth for cavities and other abnormalities,
assessment of the patient’s health history, applying anesthesia to patients going through
surgery, applying different treatments such as fluoride in order to prevent future cavities
and diseases, taking and developing dental X-rays in order to assess current and future
dental problems, and assisting dentists with their work. It is also the responsibility of a
Dental Hygienist to talk to their patients about proper dental care and promote good
nutrition habits in order to prevent further dental health problems. Along with these hands
on activities, Dental Hygienists also perform general documentation procedures and
office management involving their patient’s documented information.
To become a Dental Hygienist, one can go through a variety of different accredited
academic programs offered at Universities, Technical Schools, Community Colleges and
Dental Schools. The dental hygiene programs offered at Universities will more than
likely require two years of schooling in order to get a Baccalaureate or Master's Degree.
Community college programs are also usually two years but will require you to take
additional examinations in order to become a licensed dental worker.
Dentist – Average Salary $120,000 / year
Dentistry is a field of medicine that pertains to the health and treatment of the teeth and
mouth. Dentists can be general practitioners or specialists; specialties include dental
public health, endodontics, oral and maxillofacial pathology, oral and maxillofacial
radiology, oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics,
pediatric dentistry, periodontics, and prosthodontics.
Dentists typically go through four years of dental schooling after completing a bachelor's
degree program. Dentists seeking further accreditation in specialty areas often additional
years of schooling. Once they complete the program, they will receive a DDS or DMD
degree, allowing them to practice.
Dentists prevent, diagnose, and treat problems with the mouth, teeth, or gums. They can
treat diseases (such as gum disease), injuries, or malformations that occur. Dentists
examine x-rays to identify underlying problems with a person’s mouth and help correct
those issues. They fill cavities and place sealants where necessary. Dentists can also
repair broken teeth or correct the orientation of crooked teeth by strengthening them.
Dentists often help patients improve their smile by using cosmetic dental procedures such
as whitening. They can develop molds of a person’s mouth to create dentures for missing
teeth. They advise patients on how to maintain the health of their teeth by brushing,
flossing, and other aspects of dental care.
Most dentists are self-employed, building up their own practices and working full time.
This usually requires a start-up investment. They must hire and train dental hygienists
and secretaries; having staff means dentists provide medical insurance and other benefits
to their employees.
Elementary School Teacher – Average Salary $41,000 / year
To work as an elementary school teacher, patience is a requirement. You should be able
to use audiovisual aids in order to help teach lessons and lectures. Duties include
preparation and correction and grading of assignments and tests, ability to counsel
students when there are classroom issues, keep up with attendance as is required by the
school, coordinate educational field trips, and maintain order of a large group of children
in and outside of the classroom while on school property. Minimum requirements include
certification from the state in elementary education and a Bachelor’s degree in
Elementary Education. Elementary school teachers are required to be able to listen and
speak for long periods of time and spend hours walking, standing and occasionally
sitting. This is a physical and mental job. Most company will include a classroom of
students grades 6 or below and on occasion other teachers or school principal. This job is
5 days a week in the classroom from morning to mid afternoon and requires time spent at
home to be focused on work, grading, and creating outlines of study plans as well.
Elementary school teachers may be employed in elementary schools only and should
have prior experience in dealing with children, especially for long periods of time.
Special knowledge in certain subjects such as English and early education mathematics is
also necessary for this job. Teachers are also expected to keep track of grades and have
open communication with both students and their parents and be able to maturely address
any issues that may arise with behavioral problems or grades.
Event Coordinator – Average Salary $37,000 / year
An Event Coordinator is a person who is hired by a client or employer that needs
assistance in planning one or many events. The job of the coordinator is to meet with
clients in order to plan, brainstorm and budget the event that will be held. The
coordinator will then hire staff, decide who caters, they hire the bands and all the little
accessories that go along with any event. They can also be in charge of the guest list and
the marketing of the event. The coordinator is the “Go To” person. They ultimately are
the one in charge of everyone working on the event. If a problem surfaces they are who
must set up another plan. If someone cancels they find a replacement. The duties are
endless and the responsibility is overwhelming at times. There is more to an Event
Coordinator then picking colors and deciding what food will be served. The coordinator
must be a leader, they must take charge and be decisive. They have to be bookkeepers
and secretaries. They are an essential part of an event. They are the part that makes things
run smoothly and in an orderly fashion. They time the food and the dances. They resolve
the problems that can be caused by a hundred different things. The job is heavy and the
Event Coordinator must always be on top of things. And when the event is over the
coordinator is who makes sure the staff is paid and the venders get back equipment that
was borrowed.
Family Nurse Practitioner – Average Salary $80,000 / year
A Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) is an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner
(ARNP) with a specialty certification in family practice. To become a FNP, one must first
be licensed as a registered nurse. A minimum of a master’s degree in nursing is required,
which generally takes 6 years of continuous studies. Some college programs have begun
requiring a minimum of a doctorate degree for entry into practice. Most master’s degree
programs have strict requirements for entrance, including experience, volunteer work and
excellent references. The program is intense, requiring both classroom and clinical
components. It is ideal not to maintain employment for the duration of the program.
Family Nurse Practitioners are nationally certified by the American Nurses Credentialing
Center, and individually licensed by each individual state board of nursing. The scope of
practice of an FNP/ARNP varies by state. In general, an FNP provides primary care
services to men, women and children under the supervision of a physician. The FNP role
includes assessment, diagnosis and treatment of common conditions, as well as
preventative care services. FNPs may order laboratory work, medical tests, and
prescriptions. They may also assist physicians during surgery or complicated medical
procedures. FNPs work in a variety of settings, including physicians' offices, hospitals,
nursing homes, and urgent care clinics. Working conditions are very favorable.
Generally, FNPs work a constant schedule of Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Nights, holidays and weekends are rare for the FNP. A career as an FNP is a great choice
for those interested in both medicine and nursing.
Front Desk Receptionist – Average Salary $11.00 / hour = Approx. $25,000 / year
The front desk receptionist is the first line of contact with those who contact the office,
including visitors, customers, and the general public. As the position requires a great deal
of interaction with people, a socially outgoing and gregarious person would do well in the
job. The receptionist will greet and respond to all manner of inquiries (in person, by
phone, or by other means such as mail or email) from customers, visitors, and the general
public, as well as announce visitors and keep a log of office guests. The ability to operate
a telephone switchboard to answer, screen, and transfer calls as well as make outgoing
calls are key elements of the job, as are taking down and relaying messages to coworkers
when necessary. The receptionist will be responsible for administrative support duties
that include the use of computers, calculators, and fax machines as well as other standard
office equipment. The position requires mastery of typing and proofreading skills
(impeccable English skills are a must), and the receptionist will also be asked to prepare
and process outgoing mail and sign for deliveries that are brought to the office. The
position is full-time, and the receptionist would be expected to work during normal
business hours on weekdays, with occasional additional hours on weeknights to finish
any extra administrative work that was not completed during standard hours. The front
desk receptionist reports directly to the office manager, though the receptionist may be
asked to complete tasks for other professionals in the office.
General Manager (Restaurant) – Average Salary $43,000 / year
The general manager of a restaurant is responsible for overseeing all of the restaurant's
operations, which includes hiring and firing staff, purchasing food, supplies and
equipment, and dealing with suppliers and vendors. The general manager also oversees
maintenance and upkeep of the dining areas, kitchen, and exterior grounds of the
restaurant; scheduling of staff; decisions regarding the menu; budgeting, accounting,
payroll, and other financial matters; promoting and advertising the restaurant; and dealing
with the legal and regulatory issues involved in running a business. The general manager
is likely to be on the premises much of the time, particularly during busy dining times or
busy seasons. They may interact with customers from time to time, but are more likely
working behind the scenes to keep the whole operation running smoothly. There may be
additional areas of responsibility, such as marketing and promotion, or finding
entertainment or scheduling other events.
The general manager must be skilled in handling stressful working conditions, be an
excellent multitasker, and be able to deal with frequent interruptions calmly and
decisively. Depending on the size of the restaurant, the general manager may not directly
involve themselves in every aspect or task in the restaurant; that means delegation is a
key skill for any manager. Extensive experience with restaurant employment and
management is helpful to the general manager.
High School Teacher – Average Salary $44,000 / year
A high school teacher is instrumental in the education of our youth. These teachers help
to shape the future by providing not only knowledge to high school students, but a sense
of confidence and self-worth, as well. Students in high school look to their teachers for
accurate information on the class subject matter as well as fair and honest grading on
assignments, as only with good feedback can students improve and excel. A good teacher
is attentive to detail and is able to work with teenagers with a sense of patience and
understanding. A teacher should be able to determine if the class is moving too fast and
be able to slow things down so that students can keep up. High school teachers should
also be familiar with the signs of domestic abuse, and are required to report any such
suspicions to the appropriate state agencies. A degree in education is preferred, but a
bachelor's degree in a related subject area may also be accepted. Teachers must have
passed the PRAXIS or other state-required exam, and must have a teaching certificate in
the state of employment. High school teachers should be familiar with any state testing
requirements, and should know what level of accountability will apply to the teacher. A
good teacher will be able to work with the state-required curriculum as well as that
teacher’s own plans for the classroom. Good interpersonal skills are essential, not only
for working with the students but for maintaining a good working relationship with other
teachers, with the school’s administration, and with the other staff employed by the
school. School days are typically Monday through Friday, and a teacher can expect to
spend time at home planning lessons and grading papers.
Interior Designer – Average Salary $41,000 / year
An interior designer works with clients and contractors from a variety of fields to
transform the interior space of residential, commercial and industrial buildings. Whether
decorating or completely remodeling, an interior designer takes the lead of a team that
may include carpenters, architects, engineers and plumbers. An interior designer
shoulders the ultimate responsibility of creating an interior environment that the client
finds beautiful, functional and safe.
Unlike some other creative fields for which one's work may supersede the need for
formal education, a bachelor's degree in a relevant field is standard for interior design.
The need for a specialized degree is commensurate with the scope of a designer's
responsibilities. In addition to an appealing aesthetic sensibility, an interior designer must
possess expert knowledge of a wide range of practical design elements, including
architecture, finishes, fabrics, furniture, lighting and paint, to name only a few. An
interior designer must understand the business side of design, as well, and is expected to
both capably estimate the cost of proposals submitted for client approval and orchestrate
a collaborative effort with contractors from a wide range of disciplines. This requires
knowledge of building codes, computer software, and excellent communication skills.
Many interior designers work for firms within the design services industry, while others
are employed as staff members of architecture and engineering firms. Some designers
prefer to specialize in any of a number of different sub-fields, such as industrial spaces,
airports or kitchens. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in 2010, about 30% of
interior designers were self-employed.
Marketing Associate – Average Salary $41,000 / year
Marketing associates generally work in entry-level positions within a marketing team.
They can work in numerous industries, such as medical or entertainment fields, and they
often work with a team of other marketing associates and are usually overseen by a
company's head of marketing. While some marketing associates do a lot of administrative
duties, this job is not limited to just that. They might do research, edit marketing copy or
follow industry trends.
An important part of marketing is being able to analyze information, so a marketing
associate might help with collecting data on customer demographics, forecasting
marketing and sales trends, assessing the satisfaction of employees and customers, and
finding and implementing advertising needs. Marketing associates may also serve as a
liaison between their company and its clients, and they may assist with planning events
and handling social media.
Marketing associates are usually required to have a bachelor's degree in communications,
marketing or business. Having top-notch communication and writing skills is also
necessary. Familiarity with industry style guides -- such as the Chicago Manual of Style
and/or AP Style -- is also usually a plus because preparing press releases is not out of the
norm for marketing associates. Those with creative sides can do well in this field because
finding new, original solutions to marketing needs is a constant part of the job.
Network Administrator – Average Salary $53,000 / year
Network administrators are responsible for the upkeep of computer hardware and
software systems. They usually focus on the network components within their company.
In some cases it is the responsibility of network administrators to design and implement
new networks. Although some of the responsibilities for network administrators may vary
depending on the size and locations of the company they work for, there are still some
common responsibilities that all administrators will share. They are generally in charge of
network address assignments, management and implementation of protocols. They also
handle the maintenance of networks and file servers. When working for smaller
companies, network administrators are also usually in charge of conducting maintenance
on computers, printer, routers, smartphones, etc. Their duties include network
monitoring, testing for weaknesses, handling updates, installing and implementing
security programs, and evaluating network management software. Network
administrators are also responsible for ensuring that the network used by the organization
is working effectively and is properly maintained. Administrators who work for smaller
companies also have the responsibility of making sure that licenses are paid for and up to
date, checking for security breaches, and maintaining proper installations and
applications. In order to become a network administrator it is important to have extensive
technical knowledge. It is also important to have a bachelor’s degree in computer science,
information systems, mathematics, or another related field. Working as a network
administrator can be stimulating and exciting for those with an interest in technology and
computer networks.
Pastor – Average Salary $43,000 / year
A pastor leads a congregation at a Christian church in prayer, song, and general spiritual
guidance. In many modern Christian sects, pastoral duties are reserved for men. While
the exact requirements for pastors vary depending on their sect, the pastor leads the
routine worship services, in which Christians gather in prayer and listen to sermons. A
pastor must have strong writing and speaking skills to create and deliver speeches
emphasizing the importance of faith in the lives of the congregation's members. A strong
command of scripture and biblical history, as well as the ability to interpret and relate this
information to their congregation, is a must. Work is traditionally indoors, inside church
auditoriums and offices. Although the work schedule varies by church, most pastors lead
services at least several times on Sunday, and they often lead a service at another point in
the week.
A pastor almost always must be officially ordained by church authorities and have a
college degree in theology or religious studies. Most services regularly incorporate song
into their programs, so singing skills may be helpful. They must also have strong
communication skills to work with other members of the church's leadership and
congregations. Fundraising abilities are occasionally important to bring in necessary
donations.
Pharmacist – Average Salary $102,000
Pharmacists are trained health professionals who work with a variety of prescribed and
over-the-counter medications each day. A pharmacist is required to properly handle
medications to ensure patient safety and dosage requirements that have been ordered and
prescribed by the patient's doctor. Pharmacists frequently interact with patients and
answer any questions or concerns related to the medication that is being prescribed to
them. It is also the pharmacist's responsibility to understand the laws about each type of
medication that is being prescribed to be aware of any potential liability from selling the
medication to an underage patient or distributing a medication that is not legal for
purchase at the time. Abiding by all federal and state laws when distributing any type of
medication is required for all pharmacists.
Researching and consistently learning about new medications and prescribing trends
helps to ensure patients are not receiving medications that can cause a negative
interactions or side effects. Keeping patients from abusing medications that are being
excessively prescribed is also a duty of anyone working as a pharmacist. Pharmacists also
understand how to store, use and monitor the side effects of all prescribed drugs. Most
pharmacists work within dispensaries at hospitals, doctors' offices and drugstores and
generally have traditional work hours.
Physical Therapist – Average Salary #63,000 / year
A physical therapist is a health care professional who possess a four-year degree and is
front and center in assisting individuals who have suffered from a severe accident and
need physical rehabilitation.
A physical therapist assesses a wide variety of their clients' movements, looking
specifically at such elements as strength, range of motion, balance and flexibility. After
assessment, a physical therapist will then create a treatment program designed
specifically for each individual patient and will address their specific needs. A physical
therapist may work with a wide variety of individuals, including athletes, the elderly,
children with disabilities, and anyone who has suffered a workplace injury. Physical
therapists can play an important role in their patients' lives, helping them to recover and
return to their normal lives.
A physical therapist may be employed in numerous settings, such as a specialty clinic, a
school with children suffering from neurological or orthopedic disabilities, a facility
working specifically with those who need assistance in returning home after an illness or
injury, and general hospitals. Physical therapists also potentially travel to patients' homes
to provide treatment.
Police Officer – Average Salary $47,000 / year
A police officer is part of one of the three areas of our criminal justice system. Members
of the police force are responsible for enforcing the law. An officer will patrol
neighborhoods to deter criminal activity as well as monitor any threat to public safety. A
police officer will respond to incidents and complaints reported to the police department,
document interactions with suspects, victims, and witnesses, and collect evidence at the
scene of the crime. Police officers arrest offenders and suspects, collect evidence from
them, and testify in court about cases in which they were involved. A member of the
police force will also work with the community to coordinate community service events
and outreach programs and to offer educational services to the neighborhoods the officer
patrols. A police officer must complete the police academy training program, and quite
often a certificate or degree in a criminal justice program is required. People applying to
join the police force must pass a strict background check including their criminal history,
driving record, and credit reports, in order to ensure that all members of the police force
are upstanding members of society who will be a good fit with the community. A police
officer must be in and remain in good physical condition, as the job may sometimes
require strenuous physical activity. Hours for the position vary and are subject to changes
based on the availability of other employees, and quite often a police officer will work
night shifts and weekends.
Project Architect – Average Salary $63,000 / year
A project architect coordinates the many parts of a project; they are in charge of product
design, development of plans, construction documents, and consultation with other
experts about the job being completed. The duties of a project architect depend greatly on
the size of the project assigned to them. They oversee the workers involved in the design
of the project, and they also are in charge of coordinating different pieces of the project
with staff and clients. In some cases, the project architect also is responsible for
communicating with the engineers and city officials that may be involved with the design
phase of each project. They also determine the construction materials and the best
methods for the project. They make sure that each project meets local zoning and
building codes.
It is important for a project architect to have exceptional leadership and communication
skills; they also need to have good knowledge of architectural software programs. A
bachelor's degree in architecture is required, and some employers may require a master's
degree as well.
Registered Nurse – Average Salary $28.00 / hour = Approx. $56,000 / year
A registered nurse (RN) may be employed in a variety of medical settings, including
physicians' offices, schools, hospitals, prison settings, and assisted living
facilities/nursing homes. RNs provide direct care to patients under the order and
supervision of a licensed prescriber (physician, nurse practitioner or physician's
assistant). Daily activities of a nurse may include receiving a patient assignment,
assessment of each patient, administering daily medications, attending to patient needs,
facilitating patient, family and physician communication, assisting the physician with
bedside procedures, monitoring laboratory results, delivering meals and snacks as
needed, and monitoring for any changes in condition. The RN creates a daily care plan to
manage patient care. The RN may also supervise ancillary staff. Attention to detail and
organization is key. The RN must keep meticulous medical records, and may be required
to use computers for charting. Health care promotion and education is also a key role of
the RN. To become employed as a RN, one must complete a minimum of a 2-year degree
in nursing, pass a national nursing certification exam (NCLEX) and become licensed as a
registered nurse in the state of residence. Employers show preference to those with a 4year nursing degree. Specialty areas of nursing (such as critical care, labor and delivery,
etc.) may require additional certifications and training. The schedule of an RN varies
based on employment location. Hospital-based nurses generally work a total of 3 twelvehour shifts per week. Office-based nurses work 5-day, 40-hour weeks. Overtime is
occasionally required. Shifts for hospital-based RNs can include nights, weekends, and
holidays. The RN role may include heavy lifting of patients, exposure to bodily fluids,
and large amounts of time on one's feet. With the new health care laws, careers as an RN
are in high demand as access to medical care increases.
Retail Manager – Average Salary $41,000 / year
Retail managers are in charge of overseeing the operation of a retail store, including
hiring and firing store employees, overseeing inventory, and managing customer service.
The responsibilities of a retail manger vary depending on the size of the store. Many
times, managers in small stores have a wider range of responsibilities than managers in
larger ones. Managers of small stores typically control inventory and set prices; in some
cases, they are in charge of deciding when inventory goes on sale. Large retail shops
usually have computers track their inventory and do not have much control on pricing or
sales; in these cases, it is the manager’s responsibility to ensure that the inventory is
priced correctly.
Retail managers are in charge of hiring staff, and they are expected to review all job
applications and conduct interviews. They also are in charge of securing the store during
times store is not in operation. Managers also are responsible for securely storing or
depositing store revenue.
While no college degree is needed for this position, an associate's or bachelor’s degree
may help a store manager acquire necessary skills in business. Previous management and
retail experience typically required.
Social Worker – Average Salary $41,000 / year
A social worker will work closely with patients and their families to assess and treat a
myriad of issues, and to help in understanding and coping with emotional and social
problems of various natures. Excellent communication skills are integral to the job, as the
social worker must be able to facilitate education, work with support groups, and provide
referrals to patients. The employee will have the resources and research abilities to find
information that is relevant to issues particular to a patient’s case and disseminate that
information in a way that the patient and his or her family can understand. A social
worker must have good time management and organization skills to maintain a caseload
and sufficiently document cases as patients are reevaluated at appropriate intervals
throughout their treatment. The worker will be the patient’s advocate and will provide the
patient with resources that can help in dealing with his or her issues and learning to
function as a normal member of society. Education requirements typically include a
master’s degree in social work (MSW), and a social worker must be licensed in the state
of employment or must be able to obtain a license before the first day of work. An
applicant should be able to work with people of all walks of life, and be comfortable with
a diverse patient base as the issues that strike patients do not discriminate on any basis.
Knowledge of other languages is helpful for a social worker, but is not a requirement for
employment.
Truck Driver – Average Salary $16.00 / hour = Approx. $35,000 / year
Truck driver/tractor-trailer drivers must have knowledge of commercial driving
regulations in order to transport all types of goods from livestock to materials over longdistance hauls. They must know how to maneuver the truck into the unloading and
loading positions. Truck drivers must know how to go through a weigh station before and
after loading. They also have to go through weigh stations while on the road. Truck
drivers must maintain a log according to I.C.C. regulations. The log is presented to any
law enforcement that requests it or to an employer. Some only drive during the day on
short haul trips. Others may drive cross-country and take many days to get there. They
are only allowed to drive 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty. Truck drivers
must navigate through big cities, small towns, rain and snow. Knowledge of how to drive
in any weather condition is a must. Truck drivers have to go to school to get the special
license. They must complete a CDL (Commercial Driver License) class. They must have
a CDL-A in order to drive a heavy truck. Tests and classes are given at a truck driving
school. Truck driving must be taken very seriously. Truck drivers put their own lives and
other people's lives in the line of fire by being careless. Safety is essential for this job.
Veterinarian – Average Salary $70,000 / year
The main task of a veterinarian is to examine animals to detect and determine their health
status as well as diagnose any injuries or illnesses they may be afflicted with. A
veterinarian must then be capable of providing treatment, advice, and/or prescriptions to
treat whatever may be ailing the sick animal. If a veterinarian is unable to treat the animal
himself or herself, then he or she must be able to refer the pet's owner to a specialist who
can treat the animal. In addition to treating the animal, a veterinarian must be able to
professionally interact with the pet's owner(s). He or she must be able to counsel pet
owners regarding the best form of treatment, as well as provide calm assistance during
difficult times for a family who may have to euthanize their pet.
The work of a veterinarian is both physically and mentally demanding. The veterinarian
must be capable of standing on his or her feet for long periods of time, and should be able
to lift heavy patients and equipment. The work also requires the constant use of one's
mental abilities. A veterinarian must always be ready to diagnose any illness or injury, as
well as be able to identify the best form of treatment for both the patient and the family.
A veterinarian typically works indoors in a veterinary hospital or clinic. He or she must
be able to work well with many other people, including nurses, assistants, and veterinary
technicians. Extensive education is required to become a veterinarian, including high
school, college, and postgraduate training.
Web Designer – Average Salary $43,000 / year
The main task of a web designer is to plan and set up websites and interactive mobile
technologies for various clients. Web designers communicate with customers and work
with internal teams to code websites to the latest standards. They also provide technical
support and solve website-related problems for clients and co-workers. Designers must be
able to give clear feedback and suggestions to improve existing and newly developing
websites.
A strong interest in graphic design and a passion for clean code are necessary for web
designers. A background in web marketing, website design, or information technology
gives a candidate an advantage in the field. Web designers must show their ability to
write HTML and CSS code, and many companies require candidates to complete a
competency test to evaluate their design and coding skills. Knowledge of Adobe
Photoshop, Javascript, and underlying web technologies is helpful in the area of web
design. Familiarity and experience with search engine optimization techniques and web
marketing strategies are a plus.
Web designers often work full-time, but freelance web designers set their own hours.
They may work with PCs or Mac computers and must be able to learn new tools and
software quickly. The ability to multi-task allows web designers to manage more than
one project at a time, and an eye for detail is important to ensure clients are satisfied with
the final websites. Web designers should be team players since much of the work is
handled by multiple designers and content creators.