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Job Title	Key Points
Accountant or Auditor	Most jobs require at least a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field. Job opportunities should be favorable; those who have earned professional recognition through certification or licensure, especially a CPA, should enjoy the best prospects. Much faster than average employment growth will result from an increase in the number of businesses, changing financial laws and regulations, and greater scrutiny of company finances.
Actor	Actors endure long periods of unemployment, intense competition for roles, and frequent rejections in auditions. Formal training through a university or acting conservatory is typical; however, many actors find work on the basis of their experience and talent alone. Because earnings may be erratic, many actors supplement their incomes by holding jobs in other fields.
Actuary	A strong background in mathematics is essential. Actuaries generally have a bachelor’s degree and must pass a series of examinations—often taking 4 to 8 years—to gain full professional status. Competition for jobs will be keen as the number of qualified candidates is expected to exceed the number of positions available. About 55 percent of actuaries are employed by insurance carriers.
Administrative Assistant	This occupation ranks among those with the largest number of job openings. Opportunities should be best for applicants with extensive knowledge of computer software applications. Secretaries and administrative assistants are increasingly assuming responsibilities once reserved for managerial and professional staff.
Administrative Services Manager	Key Points Applicants for the limited number of higher-level management jobs will face keen competition; less severe competition is expected for lower-level management jobs. Administrative services managers work throughout private industry and government and have a wide range of responsibilities, experience, earnings, and education. Like other managers, administrative services managers should be analytical, detail-oriented, flexible, decisive, and have good leadership and communication skills.
Advertising and Promotions Manager	Keen competition is expected for these highly coveted jobs. College graduates with related experience, a high level of creativity, and strong communication and computer skills should have the best job opportunities. High earnings, substantial travel, and long hours, including evenings and weekends, are common. Because of the importance and high visibility of their jobs, these managers often are prime candidates for advancement to the highest ranks.
Advertising Sales Agent	Applicants who have sales experience and a college degree should have the best opportunities, but keen competition for jobs is expected during downturns in spending on advertising. Educational requirements vary; the ability to communicate effectively and persuasively is important for entry-level candidates. Performance-based pay, including bonuses and commissions, can make up a large portion of an advertising sales agent’s earnings. Pressure to meet monthly sales quotas can be stressful.
Aerospace Engineer	Employment is projected to grow about as fast as the average, with new technologies for commercial and military aircraft and spacecraft expected to increase aerospace engineering job opportunities. A bachelor's degree in engineering is required for most entry-level jobs, but some research positions may require a graduate degree. Starting salaries are among the highest of all college graduates. Continuing education is critical for engineers in order to keep up with improvements in technology.
Agricultural Engineer	Employment is projected to grow about as fast as the average, due to demand for greater innovation in food production techniques and increasing concerns for conservation of natural resources. A bachelor's degree in engineering is required for most entry-level jobs, but some research positions may require a graduate degree. Starting salaries are among the highest of all college graduates. Continuing education is critical for engineers in order to keep up with improvements in technology.
Agricultural or Food Scientist	Faster than average growth is expected as agricultural and food scientists develop new products using biotechnology and work to limit the negative environmental impact of agriculture. A bachelor's degree in agricultural science is sufficient for most jobs in product development; a master's or Ph.D. degree is generally required for research positions. Opportunities are expected to be good.
Air Traffic Controller	The vast majority of air traffic controllers are employed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), an agency of the Federal Government. Applicants without prior air traffic control experience must be 30 years of age or younger. Replacement needs will continue to account for most job openings, reflecting the large number of air traffic controllers who will be eligible to retire over the next decade. Competition for jobs will remain keen.
Animal Caretaker, Groomer, or Trainer	Animal lovers get satisfaction in this occupation, but the work can be unpleasant, physically and emotionally demanding, and sometimes dangerous. Most workers are trained on the job, but employers generally prefer to hire people who have experience with animals; some jobs require formal education. Most positions will present excellent employment opportunities; however, keen competition is expected for jobs as zookeepers and marine mammal trainers. Earnings are relatively low.
Announcer	Competition for announcer jobs will continue to be keen. Jobs at small stations usually have low pay, but offer the best opportunities for inexperienced announcers. Applicants who have completed internships or have related work experience, and those with more advanced computer skills, may have an advantage in the job market. Employment is projected to decline slowly.
Anthropologist or Archaeologist	Anthropologists and archaeologists can expect 28 percent employment growth. Candidates who hold a master's or Ph.D. degree in a social science will have the best employment prospects and advancement opportunities; some entry-level positions are available to those with a bachelor's degree. Despite much faster than average job growth overall, applicants are likely to face competition because the number of qualified candidates is expected to exceed the number of positions available.
Architect	About 21 percent of architects are self-employed—almost 3 times the proportion for all occupations. Licensing requirements include a professional degree in architecture, at least 3 years of practical work, training, and passing all divisions of the Architect Registration Examination. Architecture graduates may face competition, especially for jobs in the most prestigious firms.
Archivist or Curator	Most worked in museums, historical sites, and similar venues; in educational institutions; or in Federal, State, or local government. A graduate degree and related work experience are required for most positions; museum technicians may enter with a bachelor's degree. Keen competition is expected for most jobs because qualified applicants generally outnumber job openings.
Art Director	About 60 percent of art directors are self-employed. Keen competition is expected for both salaried jobs and freelance work because the arts attract many talented people with creative ability. Artists usually develop their skills through a bachelor's degree program or other postsecondary training in art or design. Earnings for self-employed artists vary widely; some well-established artists earn more than salaried artists, while others find it difficult to rely solely on income earned from selling their services.
Athlete or Coach	These jobs require immense overall knowledge of the game, usually acquired through years of experience at lower levels. Career-ending injuries are always a risk for athletes. Job opportunities will be best for part-time coaches, sports instructors, umpires, referees, and sports officials in high schools, sports clubs, and other settings. Aspiring professional athletes will continue to face extremely keen competition.
Athletic Trainer	A bachelor's degree is usually the minimum requirement, but many athletic trainers hold a master's or doctoral degree. Long hours, sometimes including nights and weekends, are common. Job prospects should be good in the healthcare industry and in high schools, but competition is expected for positions with professional and college sports teams.
Atmospheric Scientist	About 34 percent of atmospheric scientists are employed by the Federal Government; most of these work in the National Weather Service. A bachelor's degree in meteorology, or in a closely related field with courses in meteorology, is the minimum educational requirement; a master's degree is necessary for some positions, and a Ph.D. degree is required for most basic research positions. Keen competition is expected for jobs; those with graduate degrees should enjoy better prospects than those with only a bachelor’s degree.
Attorney	About 26 percent of lawyers are self-employed, either as partners in law firms or in solo practices. Formal requirements to become a lawyer usually include a 4-year college degree, 3 years of law school, and passing a written bar examination; however, some requirements may vary by State. Competition for admission to most law schools is intense. Competition for job openings should be keen because of the large number of students graduating from law school each year.
Audiologist	About 64 percent worked in healthcare facilities; many others were employed by educational services. All States regulate licensure of audiologists; requirements vary by State. A master's degree in audiology (hearing) is the standard level of education required; however, a doctoral degree is becoming more common for new entrants. Job prospects will be favorable for those possessing the doctoral (Au.D.) degree.
Author or Writer	Most jobs require a college degree, preferably in communications, journalism, or English. Keen competition is expected for writing jobs as many people are attracted to this occupation. Online publications and services are growing in number and sophistication, spurring the demand for writers with Web or multimedia experience.
Auto Mechanic	Automotive service technicians and mechanics must continually adapt to changing technology and repair techniques. Formal automotive technician training is the best preparation. Opportunities should be very good for those who complete postsecondary automotive training programs; those without formal automotive training are likely to face competition for entry-level jobs.
Bill or Account Collector	Employment of bill and account collectors is projected to grow by about 19 percent over the 2008-18 decade, which is faster than average for all occupations. Most jobs in this occupation require only a high school diploma, though many employers prefer workers with some customer service experience. Job prospects should be favorable, especially for those with related work experience.
Biological Scientist	Biotechnological research and development should continue to drive much faster than average employment growth. A Ph.D. is usually required for independent research, but a bachelor's degree is sufficient for some jobs in applied research or product development; temporary postdoctoral research positions are common. Competition for independent research positions in academia is expected.
Biomedical Engineer	Employment is projected to grow much faster than average, due to demand for more sophisticated medical equipment and procedures and an increased concern for cost-effectiveness. A bachelor's degree in engineering is required for most entry-level jobs, but some research positions may require a graduate degree. Starting salaries are among the highest of all college graduates. Continuing education is critical for engineers in order to keep up with improvements in technology.
Boilermaker	Most boilermakers learn their job through a formal apprenticeship; people with a welding certification or other welding training get priority in selection to boilermaker apprenticeship programs. Boilermakers use potentially dangerous equipment and the work is physically demanding. Job opportunities are expected to be favorable.
Bookbinder	Employment is expected to decline rapidly, reflecting the use of more productive machinery and the growth of electronic media. Opportunities for hand bookbinders are limited because of the declining demand for this highly specialized work and the resulting decline in the number of establishments that do this work. Most bookbinders and bindery workers train on the job.
Budget Analyst	The need for sound financial analysis will spur job growth for budget analysts. A bachelor's degree generally is the minimum educational requirement, but some employers prefer or require a master's degree. Candidates with a master's degree are expected to have the best opportunities. About 41 percent of all budget analysts work in government.
Building Inspector	About 44 percent of inspectors worked for local governments, primarily municipal or county building departments. Many home inspectors are self-employed. Training requirements vary widely; some States require a license or certificate. Opportunities should be best for those with construction-related work experience; training in engineering, architecture, construction technology, or related fields; or certification as a construction inspector.
Buyer or Purchasing Agent	About 42 percent of purchasing managers, buyers, and purchasing agents are employed in wholesale trade or manufacturing establishments. Employment is projected to grow 7 percent, which is as fast as the average. Opportunities should be best for those with a college degree in engineering, business, economics, or one of the applied sciences. Prospects often need continuing education or certification to advance.
Cardiovascular Technologist or Technician	Key Points Employment is expected to grow much faster than average. Technologists and technicians with multiple professional credentials, trained to perform a wide range of procedures, will have the best prospects. About 77 percent of jobs are in hospitals. Workers typically need a 2-year associate degree at a junior or community college; most employers also require a professional credential.
Carpenter	About 32 percent of all carpenters are self-employed. Job opportunities should be best for those with the most training and skills. Carpenters can learn their craft through on-the-job training, vocational schools or technical colleges, or formal apprenticeship programs, which often takes 3 to 4 years.
Cashier	Cashiers need little or no work experience; they are trained on the job. Opportunities for full-time and part-time jobs are expected to be good because of the need to replace the large number of workers who leave cashier jobs. Many cashiers start at the minimum wage.
Chef	Key Points Most workers in these occupations have prior experience in the food service or hospitality industries. While most workers have some postsecondary training, many experienced workers with less education can still be promoted into these positions. Job opportunities are expected to be good, largely because of high turnover; however, keen competition is expected for jobs at upscale restaurants that generally pay more.
Chemical Engineer	Employment is projected to decline, although chemical companies will continue to seek chemical engineers to research and develop new chemicals and more efficient processes. A bachelor's degree in engineering is required for most entry-level jobs, but some research positions may require a graduate degree. Starting salaries are among the highest of all college graduates. Continuing education is critical for engineers in order to keep up with improvements in technology.
Chemist or Materials Scientist	A bachelor's degree in chemistry or a related discipline is the minimum educational requirement; however, many research jobs require a master's degree or a Ph.D. Job growth will occur in professional, scientific, and technical services firms as manufacturing companies continue to outsource their research and development and testing operations to these smaller, specialized firms. New chemists at all levels may experience competition for jobs, particularly in declining chemical manufacturing industries; graduates with a master's degree, and particularly those with a Ph.D., will enjoy better opportunities at larger pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms.
Child Care Worker	About 33 percent of child care workers are self-employed, most of whom provided child care in their homes. Training requirements range from a high school diploma to a college degree, although some jobs require less than a high school diploma. Many workers leave these jobs every year, creating good job opportunities.
Child, Family and School Social Worker	Employment is projected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 42 percent of jobs were in federal, state, and local governments; 38 percent in healthcare and social assistance industries; and 16 percent in educational services industries. While a bachelor's degree is necessary for entry-level positions, a master's degree in social work or a related field is necessary for some positions. Job prospects are expected to be favorable, particularly for social workers who work in rural areas.
Chiropractor	Job prospects should be good. Chiropractors must be licensed, requiring 2 to 4 years of undergraduate education, the completion of a 4-year chiropractic college course, and passing scores on national and State examinations. About 44 percent of chiropractors are self-employed. Earnings typically are relatively low in the beginning but increase as the practice grows.
Civil Engineer	Employment is projected to grow much faster than average, as population growth drives the need for continued improvement of the Nation's infrastructure. A bachelor's degree in engineering is required for most entry-level jobs, but some research positions may require a graduate degree. Starting salaries are among the highest of all college graduates. Continuing education is critical for engineers in order to keep up with improvements in technology.
Claims Adjuster or Investigator	Employment is concentrated in insurance-related industries. Training and entry requirements vary widely. College graduates and those with related experience should have the best opportunities for most types of jobs; competition will be keen for jobs as investigators. Job opportunities should be best in health insurance companies, and in regions susceptible to natural disasters.
Clinical Laboratory Technologist or Technician	Excellent job opportunities are expected. Clinical laboratory technologists usually have a bachelor's degree with a major in medical technology or in one of the life sciences; clinical laboratory technicians generally need either an associate degree or a certificate. Most jobs will continue to be in hospitals, but employment will grow rapidly in other settings, as well.
Commercial or Industrial Designer	Commercial and industrial designers usually work closely with a range of specialists including engineers, materials scientists, marketing and corporate strategy staff, cost estimators, and accountants. A bachelor's degree is usually required for entry. Keen competition for jobs is expected.
Computer and IS Manager	Employment is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations. A bachelor's degree in a computer-related field usually is required for management positions, although employers often prefer a graduate degree, especially an MBA with technology as a core component. Many managers possess advanced technical knowledge gained from working in a computer occupation. Job prospects should be excellent.
Computer Hardware Engineer	Employment is projected to grow slower than the average due to increased foreign competition for computer hardware engineering services. A bachelor's degree in engineering is required for most entry-level jobs, but some research positions may require a graduate degree. Starting salaries are among the highest of all college graduates. Continuing education is critical for engineers in order to keep up with improvements in technology.
Computer Network or Database Administrator	Employment is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations and add 286,600 new jobs over the 2008-18 decade. Excellent job prospects are expected. Workers can enter this field with many different levels of formal education, but relevant computer skills are always needed.
Computer Programmer	Employment of computer programmers is expected to decline by 3 percent through 2018. As technology evolves and newer, more sophisticated tools emerge, programmers will need to update their skills in order to remain competitive. Job prospects will be best for applicants with a bachelor's or higher degree and relevant experience.
Computer Repairer	Key Points Employment is expected to decline slowly. Job prospects will be best for applicants with knowledge of electronics, certification, formal training, and repair experience. Workers qualify for these jobs by receiving training in electronics from associate degree programs, the military, vocational schools, equipment manufacturers, or employers.
Computer Scientist	Most computer scientists are required to possess a Ph.D. Employment is projected to increase much faster than the average for all occupations. Job prospects are expected to be excellent.
Computer Software Engineer	Computer software engineers are among the occupations projected to grow the fastest and add the most new jobs over the 2008-18 decade, resulting in excellent job prospects. Demand for computer software engineers will increase as computer networking continues to grow. Job prospects will be best for applicants with a bachelor's or higher degree and relevant experience.
Computer Support Specialist	Job growth is projected to be faster than the average for all occupations. A bachelor’s degree is required for some jobs, while an associate degree or certification is adequate for others. Job prospects should be good, especially for college graduates with relevant skills and experience.
Computer Systems Analyst	Employment is expected to increase much faster than average. Excellent job prospects are expected as organizations continue to adopt increasingly sophisticated technologies. Employers generally prefer applicants who have at least a bachelor's degree; relevant work experience also is very important.
Construction Manager	About 61 percent of construction managers are self-employed. Jobseekers who combine construction work experience with a bachelor's degree in a construction-related field should enjoy the best prospects. Certification, although not required, is increasingly important for construction managers.
Cook	Many cooks and food preparation workers are young—35 percent are below the age of 24. One-third of these workers are employed part time. Job openings are expected to be plentiful because many of these workers will leave the occupation for full-time employment or better wages.
Correctional Officer	The work can be stressful and hazardous; correctional officers have one of the highest rates of nonfatal on-the-job injuries. Most jobs are in State and local government prisons and jails. Job opportunities are expected to be favorable.
Cost Estimator	About 59 percent of cost estimators work in the construction industry, and another 15 percent are employed by manufacturers. Good job opportunities are expected; those with industry work experience and a bachelor's degree in a related field will have the best prospects. Voluntary certification can be beneficial to cost estimators; some employers may require professional certification for employment.
Courier or Messenger	A high school diploma is sufficient for most positions; those operating a vehicle require a valid State driver’s license. Little or no change in employment is expected over the 2008-2018 period.
Court Reporter	Job prospects are expected to be excellent, especially for those with certification. Demand for real-time broadcast captioning and translating will spur employment growth. The amount of training required to become a court reporter varies by specialization; licensure requirements vary by State.
Craft Artist	About 60 percent of craft artists are self-employed. Keen competition is expected for both salaried jobs and freelance work because the arts attract many talented people with creative ability. Artists usually develop their skills through a bachelor's degree program or other postsecondary training in art or design. Earnings for self-employed artists vary widely; some well-established artists earn more than salaried artists, while others find it difficult to rely solely on income earned from selling art.
Customer Service Representative	Customer service representatives held about 2.3 million jobs in 2008, ranking among the largest occupations. Most companies require a high school diploma and will provide job training. Employment is projected to grow faster than average, and job prospects should be good.
Dancer or Choreographer	Many dancers stop performing by their late thirties, but some remain in the field as choreographers, dance teachers, or artistic directors. Most dancers begin formal training at an early age—between 5 and 15—and many have their first professional audition by age 17 or 18; becoming a choreographer usually requires years of experience. Dancers and choreographers face intense competition; only the most talented find regular work. Earnings from dancing are usually low because employment is irregular; dancers often supplement their income.
Dental Assistant	Job prospects should be excellent. Dentists are expected to hire more assistants to perform routine tasks so dentists may devote their time to more complex procedures. Many assistants learn their skills on the job, although an increasing number are trained in dental-assisting programs; most programs take 1 year or less to complete. More than one-third of dental assistants worked part time in 2008.
Dental Hygienist	A degree from an accredited dental hygiene school and a State license are required for this job. Dental hygienists rank among the fastest growing occupations. Job prospects are expected to be favorable in most areas, but strong competition for jobs is likely in some areas. About half of all dental hygienists work part time, and flexible scheduling is a distinctive feature of this job.
Dentist	About 3 out of 4 dentists are solo practitioners. Dentists must graduate from an accredited dental school and pass written and practical examinations; competition for admission to dental school is keen. Faster than average employment growth is projected. Job prospects should be good, reflecting the need to replace the large number of dentists expected to retire.
Desktop Publisher	About 38 percent work for newspaper, periodical, book, and directory publishers; another 21 percent work in the printing industry. Employment is expected to decline rapidly. Most employers prefer to hire experienced desktop publishers; among persons without experience, opportunities should be best for those with certificates or degrees in desktop publishing or graphic design.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer	Key Points Job opportunities should be favorable. Employment will grow as sonography becomes an increasingly attractive alternative to radiological procedures. Hospitals employed about 59 percent of all sonographers. Sonographers may receive education and training in hospitals, vocational-technical institutions, colleges or universities, or the Armed Forces.
Dietitian or Nutritionist	Most jobs are in hospitals, nursing care facilities, outpatient care centers, and offices of physicians or other health practitioners. Dietitians and nutritionists need at least a bachelor's degree; licensure, certification, or registration requirements vary by State. Applicants with specialized training, an advanced degree, or certifications beyond the particular State's minimum requirement should enjoy the best job opportunities.
Drafter	Opportunities should be best for individuals with at least 2 years of postsecondary training in drafting. Overall employment is projected to grow more slowly than average, but growth will vary by specialty. Demand for various types of drafters depends on the needs of local industry.
Drywall Installer	Most workers learn their trade through informal training programs or through an apprenticeship. Work is physically demanding. Job prospects are expected to be good. Workers may be idled when downturns in the economy slow construction activity.
Economist	Slower than average job growth is expected, as the vast majority of bachelor’s degree holders in economics find employment in closely related fields, such as business, finance, or insurance. Candidates who hold a master's or Ph.D. degree in economics will have the best employment prospects and advancement opportunities; some entry-level positions are available to those with a bachelor's degree. Quantitative skills are important in all economics specialties.
Editor	Most jobs require a college degree, preferably in communications, journalism, or English. Keen competition is expected for editing jobs as many people are attracted to this occupation. Online publications and services are growing in number and sophistication, spurring the demand for editors with Web or multimedia experience.
Education Administrator	Many jobs require a master’s or doctoral degree and experience in a related occupation, such as teaching or admissions counseling. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential because much of an administrator’s job involves working and collaborating with others. Excellent opportunities are expected for most jobs.
Electrical Engineer	Employment growth is projected to be slower than average, with favorable job prospects expected. A bachelor's degree in engineering is required for most entry-level jobs, but some research positions may require a graduate degree. Starting salaries are among the highest of all college graduates. Continuing education is critical for engineers in order to keep up with improvements in technology.
Electrician	Job opportunities should be good, especially for those with the broadest range of skills. Most electricians acquire their skills by completing an apprenticeship program usually lasting 4 years. About 79 percent of electricians work in the construction industry or are self-employed, but there also will be opportunities for electricians in other industries.
Electronics Engineer	Employment growth is projected to be slower than average, with favorable job prospects expected. A bachelor's degree in engineering is required for most entry-level jobs, but some research positions may require a graduate degree. Starting salaries are among the highest of all college graduates. Continuing education is critical for engineers in order to keep up with improvements in technology.
Emergency Medical Technician or Paramedic	Employment is projected to grow as fast as the average for all occupations. Emergency medical technicians and paramedics need formal training and certification or licensure, but requirements vary by State. Emergency services function 24 hours a day, so emergency medical technicians and paramedics have irregular working hours. Opportunities will be best for those who have earned advanced certifications.
Engineering Technician	Electrical and electronic engineering technicians make up 33 percent of all engineering technicians. Employment of engineering technicians is influenced by economic conditions similar to those which affect engineers; as a result, job outlook varies by specialty. Opportunities will be best for individuals with an associate degree or other postsecondary training in engineering technology.
Environmental Engineer	Employment growth is projected to be much faster than average, with favorable job prospects. A bachelor's degree in engineering is required for most entry-level jobs, but some research positions may require a graduate degree. Starting salaries are among the highest of all college graduates. Continuing education is critical for engineers in order to keep up with improvements in technology.
Environmental Scientist	Federal, State, and local governments employ 44 percent of all environmental scientists and specialists. A bachelor’s degree in any life or physical science is generally sufficient for most entry-level positions, although many employers prefer a master’s degree. Job prospects are expected to be favorable, particularly for environmental health workers in State and local government.
Farmer or Rancher	Modern farming requires knowledge of new developments in agriculture, often gained through growing up on a farm or through postsecondary education. Overall employment is projected to decline because of increasing productivity and consolidation of farms. Small-scale, local farming, particularly horticulture and organic farming, offer the best opportunities for entering the occupation.
Fashion Designer	The highest numbers of fashion designers were employed in New York and California. Employers usually seek designers with a 2-year or 4-year degree who are knowledgeable about textiles, fabrics, ornamentation, and fashion trends. Keen competition for jobs is expected as many applicants are attracted to the creativity and glamour associated with the occupation.
Film Editor or Camera Operator	Keen competition for jobs is expected due to the large number of people who wish to enter the broadcasting and motion picture industries. Opportunities will be best for those with a bachelor’s degree or postsecondary training.
Financial Analyst	Financial analyst positions require a bachelor's or master's degree. Positions may also require professional licenses and certifications. Keen competition is anticipated for these highly paid positions. Financial analysts earn high wages.
Financial Manager	Jobseekers are likely to face competition. About 3 out of 10 work in finance and insurance industries. Most financial managers need a bachelor's degree, and many have a master's degree or professional certification. Experience may be more important than formal education for some financial manager positions—most notably, branch managers in banks.
Fine Artist	About 60 percent of fine artists are self-employed. Keen competition is expected for both salaried jobs and freelance work because the arts attract many talented people with creative ability. Artists usually develop their skills through a bachelor's degree program or other postsecondary training in art or design. Earnings for self-employed artists vary widely; some well-established artists earn more than salaried artists, while others find it difficult to rely solely on income earned from selling art.
Firefighter	Fire fighting involves hazardous conditions and long, irregular hours. About 9 out of 10 fire fighters were employed by local governments. Applicants generally must pass written, physical, and medical examinations, and candidates with some postsecondary education are increasingly preferred. Keen competition for jobs is expected because this occupation attracts many qualified candidates.
Fisher or Fishing Vessel Operator	This occupation is characterized by strenuous work, long hours, seasonal employment, and some of the most hazardous conditions in the workforce. About 56 percent of all workers are self-employed, among the highest proportions in the workforce. Fishers usually begin as deckhands and acquire their occupational skills on the job. Employment is projected to decline moderately.
Flight Attendant	Competition for positions is expected to remain keen because the opportunity for travel attracts more applicants than there are jobs. Job duties are learned through formal on-the-job training at a flight training center. A high school diploma is the minimum educational requirement, but airlines prefer applicants with a college degree and with experience in dealing with the public.
Flooring Installer and Finisher	Most workers learn on the job. About 35 percent of carpet, floor, and tile installers and finishers are self-employed. Projected job growth varies by specialty; for example, tile and marble setters are expected to grow by 14 percent, while carpet installers is projected to decline by 1 percent. Employment of carpet, floor, and tile installers and finishers is less sensitive to fluctuations in construction activity than is employment of workers in other construction trades.
Floral Designer	Despite the projected decline in employment, job opportunities should be good as many people leave this occupation, due to relatively low wages and limited advancement opportunities. Floral design is the only design specialty that does not require formal postsecondary training. Many floral designers work long hours on weekends and holidays, filling orders and setting up decorations for weddings and other events.
Forest and Conservation Worker	Key Points Most forest and conservation workers develop skills through on-the-job training. Seasonal demand for forest and conservation workers can vary by region and time of year. The best employment opportunities should continue to be in Maine, the Southeast, and the Pacific Northwest.
Forester or Conservation Scientist	About 68 percent of conservation scientists and foresters work for Federal, State, or local governments. Most jobs require a bachelor's degree; research and teaching positions usually require a graduate degree. Foresters and conservation scientists should enjoy working outdoors, be able to tolerate extensive walking and other types of physical exertion, and be willing to relocate to find work. In addition to job openings from growth, many openings are expected as today's conservation scientists and foresters retire.
Funeral Director	Job opportunities should be good, particularly for those who also embalm. Some mortuary science graduates relocate to get a job. Funeral directors are licensed by the State in which they practice. Funeral directors need the ability to communicate easily and compassionately and to comfort people in a time of sorrow.
Geographer	Geographers can expect 26 percent employment growth. Candidates who hold a master's or Ph.D. degree in a social science will have the best employment prospects and advancement opportunities; some entry-level positions are available to those with a bachelor's degree. Despite much faster than average job growth overall, applicants are likely to face competition because the number of qualified candidates is expected to exceed the number of positions available.
Geoscientist or Hydrologist	Work at remote field sites is common. Twenty-three percent of all geoscientists and hydrologists are employed in government. Employers prefer applicants with a master's degree for most positions; a Ph.D. degree is required for most research and college teaching positions. Excellent job opportunities are expected for geoscientists with a master's degree.
Glazier	Glaziers generally learn the trade by helping experienced workers, sometimes with supplemental classroom training. Job opportunities are expected to be good. Employment is expected to grow 8 percent, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
Graphic Designer	Employment is expected to grow about as fast as the average, with many new jobs associated with interactive media. A bachelor's degree in graphic design is usually required. Jobseekers are expected to face keen competition; individuals with Web site design and animation experience will have the best opportunities.
Grounds Maintenance Worker	Most grounds maintenance workers need no formal education and are trained on the job; however, some workers may require formal education. Occupational characteristics include full-time and part-time jobs, seasonal jobs, physically demanding work, and low earnings. Job opportunities are expected to be good.

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