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Published on Jan 12,2021
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Published on Jan 12,2021
Learn about a variety of jobs in professional, office services, light industrial, and skilled trades positions. Read More
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Written by Caleb Yen, — Powered by — Content Marketing Specialist Express Employment Professionals International Headquarters — eBook — A Publication of JobJourney.com

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Introduction 3 PROFESSIONAL POSITIONS 6 • Accountant 7 • Accounts Payable/Receivable Specialist 9 • Graphic Designer 10 • Market Research Analyst 11 • Sales Manager 12 OFFICE SERVICES POSITIONS 14 • Claim Service Representative 15 • Customer Service Representative 16 • Data Entry Specialist 17 • Human Resources Generalist 18 • Medical Administrative Assistant 20 LIGHT INDUSTRIAL POSITIONS 22 • General Construction Worker 23 • Grounds Maintenance 25 • Order Filler 26 • Shipping and Receiving Clerk 27 • Warehouse Worker 28 SKILLED TRADES POSITIONS 29 • CDL Driver 30 • Forklift Operator 31 • HVAC Technician 32 • Mechanic 33 • Welder 34 Contact Express Employment Professionals 35

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If you’re looking to get started in a new career, Express Employment Professionals wants to help. But before we dig into some career options, ask yourself these questions to get a better idea of the job that’s right for you. What Do I Want in a Job? Before you venture out into the job search jungle, figure out what kind of job you want. What matters to you? Is it the company culture? Your job duties? A certain kind of leadership style? Once you’ve answered those questions, you’ll be able to narrow your search. What’s Your Long-Term Goal? Decide what you ultimately want to do in the future. It’s never too late to start working toward a new dream—however, you need to know the steps required to get there. If you want to work in a new industry, research the industry online and discover what common career paths look like. Enroll in online or after-hours classes if you can. Develop a good understanding of the job you want and what a career path in that job looks like. —3—

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Find Your Preferred Work Culture What type of work culture do you thrive in? • FAMILY A family-oriented work culture is one in which “everybody knows your name,” from accounting to marketing to the CEO. Your boss might see your kid’s school play or organize a fundraiser when your co- worker’s mom is ill.There are periodic company events, like holiday parties or other social gatherings, where everyone gets together just to have fun. The key word here is relationships—people who like each other and work toward a common goal. • COMPETITIVE In a competitive work culture, the focus is on reaching goals and milestones with an aggressive drive. People go to work to work, to meet or exceed their goals, and make as much profit as possible. This can mean long hours, and not much time to socialize. It isn’t that people are cold or don’t like each other; they’re just focused on surpassing their competitors and achieving their goals. Nobody is going to ask how you’re doing because it’s assumed you’re doing well, or you wouldn’t be there. • INNOVATIVE In an innovative work culture, the goal is to keep coming up with new ideas, breaking those ideas, and coming up with even better ideas after that. Everyone has their own pet project in addition to their main role, and individual input is valued highly. There are many different types of work cultures out there— the key is to discover what culture is best for you. —4—

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What Kind of Boss Do You Like? Now it’s time to talk about your boss.What kinds of bosses have you had in the past? Do you prefer someone that keeps you on task and checks in frequently, or a more laid-back manager that trusts you to get your job done on your own? Knowing what type of managerial style you thrive under is important when it comes to interviewing. You’ll want to make sure that the company and potential manager is right for you, just as much as determining whether you are right for the company. Once you know what you want out of a job, and the path to achieve that job, it’s time to start a new career. There are jobs available in all sorts of industries. From Professional to Office Services, Skilled Trades to Light Industrial, there’s a career out there for you. This eBook details some of the most in-demand jobs in each category. All salary data within this report represent national trends and was provided via Emsi, a third-party, labor market data and analytics research company. More information about Emsi and their research methodology is available at EconomicModeling.com. — 5 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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PRPOOFSEISTSIIOONNSAL Professional positions are more specialized, advanced-level roles within a broad range of categories that typically require some level of higher education, such as a 4-year degree. Fields include accounting, information technology, engineering, manufacturing, technical, sales, marketing, advertising, human resources, legal, health care, scientific industries, and more. All salary data within this report represent national trends and was provided via Emsi, a third-party, labor market data and analytics research company. More information about Emsi and their research methodology is available at EconomicModeling.com. —6—

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ACCOUNTANT Note: The Accounting/Finance industry is a broad category, so the following applies generally. Any company would be hard-pressed to function without some type of accountant. Accountants are in charge of monitoring and interpreting financial information. Responsibilities include dealing with financial records and making sure taxes are paid on-time. Required Education: Bachelor’s degree Compensation: Although average payrates vary depending on a variety of factors (e.g. experience, industry, geographic area, etc.), median annual compensation for accountants is $70,008 in the U.S. and $72,300 in Canada. What Accountants Do: Accountants handle a variety of responsibilities, which may include: • Keeping track of business analysis trends, alternative investment planning, return analysis and reporting, and executive briefings • Managing all accounting operations based on accounting principles • Preparing budget and financial forecasts • Publishing financial statements on time • Conducting month-end and year-end closing process • Collecting, analyzing, and summarizing account information — 7 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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ACCOUNTANT (CONTINUED) What Companies Look for in Accountants: Every position is different, but many companies need the following skills and attributes: • CPA Certification • Degree in Accounting, Finance, or similar • Industry experience is a plus • Accounting software experience • Standard cost accounting knowledge • Excellent attention to detail and confidentiality • Proven working experience as a cost accountant or in a meaningful field • Thorough knowledge of accounting and corporate finance principles and procedures — 8 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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ACCOUNTS PAYABLE/ RECEIVABLE SPECIALIST Folks working in accounts payable/receivable keep the business running by handling customer payments, preparing vendor invoices, and managing delinquent accounts. Key qualities include attention to detail, organizational skills, and general math knowledge. Required Education: Typically, at least some college. Compensation: Although average payrates vary depending on a variety of factors (e.g. experience, industry, geographic area, etc.), median annual compensation for accounts payable/receivable specialists is $40,024 in the U.S. and $45,200 in Canada. What Accounts Payable/Receivable Specialists Do: They deal with a variety of tasks, including: • Sorting information and documents • Paying invoices and verifying transaction information • Computing refunds and charges • Alerting customers to insufficient payments and delinquent accounts • Reconciling accounting ledgers What Companies Look for in Accounts Payable/ Receivable Specialists: Every position is different, but many companies look for the following skills and attributes: • Basic writing skills • An eye for detail • Organizational abilities • Data entry experience • General math knowledge — 9 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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GRAPHIC DESIGNER Graphic designers use their artistic sensibilities to help businesses design collateral and other image work. The main responsibility for a graphic designer is to use graphic design skills to work on websites, books, magazines, product packaging, exhibitions, corporate branding, and more. Required Education: Typically a bachelor’s degree, although there can be exceptions. Compensation: Although average payrates vary depending on a variety of factors (e.g. experience, industry, geographic area, etc.), median annual compensation for graphic designers is $50,008 in the U.S. and $54,900 in Canada. What Graphic Designers Do: Those in graphic design positions handle a variety of responsibilities, which may include: • Working with a wide range of media using industry- leading graphic design software • Developing new design concepts, graphics, layouts, etc. • Working in cooperation with other teams (copywriting, sales, etc.) to create brochures and material in a variety of media forms, include digital, print, and display What Companies Look for in Graphic Designers: Every position is different, but many companies need the following skills and attributes: • Proven design experience • Creativity and versatility • Strong portfolio of work • Knowledge of leading software • Ability to communicate ideas and vision • Proven ability to meet deadlines and budgets

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MARKET RESEARCH ANALYST Market research analysts study, track, and report the data and key success metrics when it comes to sales trends and marketing campaigns. Key qualities include attention to detail, and strong analytical and mathematical abilities. Required Education: Typically, at least a bachelor’s degree. Compensation: Although average payrates vary depending on a variety of factors (e.g. experience, industry, geographic area, etc.), median annual compensation for market research analysts is $64,024 in the U.S. and $72,200 in Canada. What Market Research Analysts Do: Market Research Analysts deal with a variety of responsibilities, including: • Monitoring and predicting sales trends • Measuring campaign efficacy • Creating and reviewing surveys and polls • Brainstorming new ideas for gathering data What Companies Look for in Market Research Analysts: Every position is different, but many companies need the following skills and attributes: • Ability to take data and turn it into a story to help others understand what it means for the company as a whole • Communication skills • Critical thinking and math abilities • Detail-oriented personality — 11 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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SALES MANAGER Most every business has some type of sales function. How else would they find clients? The main responsibility for a sales manager is to lead sales teams in order to reach sales targets. This includes hiring and subsequently training team members, developing sales goals, measuring team performance, and ensuring sales goals are met. Required Education: At least a Bachelor’s degree may be required, although experience can also lead to management positions. Compensation: Although average payrates vary depending on a variety of factors (e.g. experience, industry, geographic area, etc.), median annual compensation for sales managers is $124,856 in the U.S. and $97,900 in Canada. What Sales Managers Do: Sales managers handle a variety of responsibilities, which may include: • Achieving agreed upon sales targets and outcomes within a time frame • Performing cost-benefit and needs analysis of existing/potential customers • Establishing, developing, and maintaining positive business and customer relationships • Reaching out to customer leads through cold calling in person, via email, or on the phone • Coordinating sales efforts with team members and other departments • Analyzing the territory/market’s potential, track sales, and creating status reports • Setting sales goals, both for each team member and the team as a whole • Training and developing sales team — 12 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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SALES MANAGER (CONTINUED) What Companies Look for in Sales Managers: Every sales manager is different, but many need the following skills and attributes: • Ability to thrive in a deadline-oriented environment • Friendly personality/ability to resolve conflict • Keen knowledge of current best practices and promotional trends • Ability to continuously improve through feedback • Management experience • Communication skills     — 13 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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SEORFVFIICCEES POSITIONS As the name implies, Office Services positions typically take place in an office setting or service role. These individuals provide clerical and administrative support to keep businesses running at optimum efficiency. Nearly every business has office or administrative- type roles which may include jobs that are more clerical or data-entry focused, or customer focused, like front desk/receptionists or call center agents. Office services roles typically require at least a high school degree but can require more education depending on the scope of responsibility within the position. All salary data within this report represent national trends and was provided via Emsi, a third-party, labor market data and analytics research company. More information about Emsi and their research methodology is available at EconomicModeling.com. — 14 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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CLAIM SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE Claim service representatives act as administrative support assistants to staff processing insurance claims. Responsibilities include receiving and making calls, and using custom company software. Required Education: Typically, a high school diploma or the equivalent. Compensation: Although average payrates vary depending on a variety of factors (e.g. experience, industry, geographic area, etc.), median annual compensation for claim service representatives is $39,000 in the U.S. and $52,300 in Canada. What Claim Service Representatives Do: Claim service representatives deal with a variety of responsibilities, including: • Receiving inbound calls regarding customer/ client claims • Making outbound follow-up calls to clients • Using custom company software • Regular use of Microsoft Office Suite What Companies Look for in Claim Service Representatives: Every position is different, but many companies need the following skills and attributes: • Basic understanding of Microsoft Office Suite • Ability to resolve challenges professionally and clearly • Incredible customer service skills • Six months or more experience in a retail or customer service setting • Type 30+ words per minute — 15 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE Customer service representatives help customers overcome problems and answer questions. Responsibilities include regularly interacting with customers and clients, receiving inbound and outbound calls, and potentially working with custom company software. Required Education: Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent, although there can be exceptions. Compensation: Although average payrates vary depending on a variety of factors (e.g. experience, industry, geographic area, etc.), median annual compensation for customer service representatives is $33,016 in the U.S. and $38,500 in Canada. What Customer Service Representatives Do: Those in customer service positions handle a variety of responsibilities, which may include: • Regular interaction with customers and clients • Answering phone calls (both internal and external) • Overseeing guests’ experience • Learning and using company technology platforms to interact with customers (email, phone, etc.) What Companies Look for in Customer Service Representatives: Every position is different, but many companies need the following skills and attributes: • Basic understanding of the Microsoft Office Suite • Ability to resolve challenges professionally • Previous experience in a retail or customer service setting • Ability to type 30+ words per minute — 16 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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DATA ENTRY SPECIALIST Data entry specialists handle data input tasks for their companies. Responsibilities include filing and handling mail, data-entry, typing, and other office-related tasks. The position also requires regular interaction with management and other office staff. Required Education: High-school diploma Compensation: Although average payrates vary depending on a variety of factors (e.g. experience, industry, geographic area, etc.), median annual compensation for data entry specialists is $31,208 in the U.S. and $41,600 in Canada. What Data Entry Specialists Do: Data entry specialists deal with a variety of responsibilities, which may include: • Typing and filing reports • Maintaining records • Collecting data • Providing information and greeting customers/clients • Additional routine clerical tasks What Companies Look for in Data Entry Specialists: Every position is different, but many companies need the following skills and attributes: • Experience using Microsoft Office Suite • Type 30+ words per minute • Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize projects • Pleasant disposition and ability to work well with others • Organization skills and attention to detail — 17 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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HUMAN RESOURCES GENERALIST Human Resources isn’t going away any time soon. Businesses need employees in order to function. The main responsibility for an HR generalist is to implement a variety of human resource programs. The HR department will depend on your assistance in a number of important functions such as staffing, compensation and benefits, training, and development. Required Education: Usually a Bachelor’s Degree, although there can be exceptions. Compensation: Although average payrates vary depending on a variety of factors (e.g. experience, industry, geographic area, etc.), median annual compensation for HR generalists is $62,424 in the U.S. and $75,700 in Canada. What HR Generalists Do: HR generalists handle a variety of responsibilities, which may include: • Administering compensation and benefit plans • Assisting in talent acquisition and recruitment processes • Conducting employee onboarding and helping plan training and development • Providing support to employees in various HR related topics such as leave, compensation, etc., and resolve issues • Promoting HR programs to create an efficient and conflict-free workplace • Assisting in development and implementation of human resource policies • Undertaking tasks in performance management • Gathering and analyzing data with useful HR metrics • Maintaining employee files and records in electronic and paper form — 18 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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HUMAN RESOURCES GENERALIST (CONTINUED) What Companies Look for in HR Generalist: Every HR generalist is different, but many need the following skills and attributes: • Proven HR experience • Understanding of general human resources policies and procedures • Good knowledge of employment/labor laws • Outstanding knowledge of MS Office; HRIS systems (e.g. PeopleSoft) can be a plus • Excellent communication and people skills • Aptitude in problem-solving • BS/BA in Business Administration or relevant field recommended • Three or more years of experience in an applicable setting • Being comfortable with data entry and administrative duties — 19 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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MEDICAL ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Although administrative assistants and medical administrative assistants share some responsibilities, the overall environment is completely different. Medical administrative assistants ensure the smooth workflow of medical facilities while simultaneously interacting with patients, many of whom may feel stress or worry due to medical problems. Required Education: Associate’s degree or certification program Compensation: Although average payrates vary depending on a variety of factors (e.g. experience, industry, geographic area, etc.), median annual compensation for medical administrative assistants is $35,000 in the U.S. and $45,600 in Canada. What Medical Administrative Assistants Do: Medical administrative assistants handle a variety of responsibilities, which may include: • Managing patient flow and data • Responding to general patient questions and processing inquiries • General office organization • Processing medical claims • Scheduling, coding, and billing • Transcribing medical reports • Recording of simple medical histories, arranging hospitalizations, and ordering supplies — 20 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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MEDICAL ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT (CONTINUED) What Companies Look for in Medical Administrative Assistants: Every medical administrative assistant is different, but many need the following skills: • A desire to serve patients • Depending on the office, an acceptance of what could be a casual work environment (some offices are closed on Fridays or Friday afternoons) • A willingness to work in in doctor’s offices, clinics, nursing homes, hospitals, or insurance companies. • Kind and pleasant demeanor • Recognition and understanding of medical and scientific terminology • Being a good team player — 21 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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INDLUIGSTHRTIAL POSITIONS A light industrial position typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, and often includes on-the-job training or trade school programs. Fields include assembly, maintenance, shipping/receiving, hospitality, and more. All salary data within this report represent national trends and was provided via Emsi, a third-party, labor market data and analytics research company. More information about Emsi and their research methodology is available at EconomicModeling.com. — 22 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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GENERAL CONSTRUCTION WORKER General construction workers help build structures and clear debris. Key responsibilities include loading and unloading equipment and materials and maintaining safety standards. Required Education: Typically, no formal education required, although high school classes in mathematics, blueprint reading, welding, and other vocational subjects can be helpful. Compensation: Although average payrates vary depending on a variety of factors (e.g. experience, industry, geographic area, etc.), median annual compensation for general construction workers is $35,000 in the U.S. and $43,900 in Canada. What General Construction Workers Do: General construction workers deal with a variety of responsibilities, including: • Helping with certain construction site tasks that include physical labor • Loading and unloading various equipment and materials • Cleaning sites of debris and dangerous materials • Maintaining safety standards while working in what are often dangerous circumstances • Additional responsibilities depending on the type of construction — 23 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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GENERAL CONSTRUCTION WORKER (CONTINUED) What Companies Look for in General Construction Workers: Every position is different, but many companies need the following skills and attributes: • Experience with similar work • In some cases, a license to work with hazardous materials • Good health and ability to lift heavy objects • Some companies expect workers to have steel-toed boots, and, in some cases, their own tools — 24 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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GROUNDS MAINTENANCE Those working in grounds maintenance maintain the grounds of businesses, college campuses, parks, and more, ensuring everything is clean and free of trash. Responsibilities include assisting with general tasks, such as clean up, light construction, and some mechanically inclined occurrences. Required Education: No formal education required, although a high school diploma is a plus. Compensation: Although average payrates vary depending on a variety of factors (e.g. experience, industry, geographic area, etc.), median annual compensation for grounds maintenance is $28,088 in the U.S. and $36,400 in Canada. What Grounds Maintenance Does: Grounds maintenance workers handle a variety of responsibilities, which may include: • Making sure grounds of houses, business, parks, etc. are clean and attractive • Setting up and tearing down light construction elements • Working with outside contractors and vendors for completion of large-scale projects What Companies Look for in Grounds Maintenance: Every position is different, but many companies need the following skills and attributes: • Ability to regularly lift 25 lbs., and at times, up to 50 lbs. safely • Work history in construction, landscaping, or groundskeeping • Experience using powered equipment and tools • Ability to communicate clearly and manage a project list — 25 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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ORDER FILLER Any business with physical inventory needs order filler positions. Responsibilities include pulling items from shelves and preparing them to be packed and shipped, as well as inspecting items to ensure quality and appearance, packaging items per specifications, and maintaining warehouse inventory. Required Education: Usually a high school diploma or equivalent, although there can be exceptions. Compensation: Although average payrates vary depending on a variety of factors (e.g. experience, industry, geographic area, etc.), median annual compensation for order fillers is $24,872 in the U.S. and $28,400 in Canada. What Order Fillers Do: Order fillers handle a variety of responsibilities, which may include: • Sorting and arranging boxes • Loading and unloading delivery trucks • Packaging all finished goods as specified by work orders • Maintaining a clean production floor • Passing along all ongoing activities to workers on the next shift What Companies Look for in Order Fillers: Every order filler is different, but many companies need the following skills and attributes: • Ability to work individually and in a team setting • Basic math skills • Strong attention to detail — 26 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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SHIPPING AND RECEIVING CLERK As long as people are buying products, those products will need to be shipped and received. Responsibilities include receiving and checking-in each arriving package, as well as distributing and logging the internal delivery of the received goods. Required Education: Usually a high school diploma or equivalent, although there can be exceptions. Compensation: Although average payrates vary depending on a variety of factors (e.g. experience, industry, geographic area, etc.), median annual compensation for shipping and receiving clerks is $32,008 in the U.S. and $37,800 in Canada. What Shipping and Receiving Clerks Do: Shipping and receiving clerks handle a variety of responsibilities, which may include: • Unpacking and examining shipments, looking for any damaged or missing items • Recording stock amounts and contacting the shipper with any problems • Maintaining, restocking, and using shipping materials • Maintaining safety and cleanliness in the shipping/ receiving area • Using computer programs to track goods What Companies Look for in Shipping and Receiving Clerks: Every shipping and receiving clerk position is different, but many need the following skills and attributes: • Three or more years of experience with shipping and receiving may be preferred • Ability to regularly lift 25 pounds, and at times up to 50 pounds, safely • Communicating and working well with others — 27 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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WAREHOUSE WORKER Warehouse workers can include material handlers, packers, and laborers; they do more than unload cargo. They lift boxes, push carts, organize inventory, and process goods. Responsibilities include getting everything organized for shipment as quickly as possible and distributing the internal delivery of received goods. Required Education: High school diploma or GED certificate. Compensation: Although average payrates vary depending on a variety of factors (e.g. experience, industry, geographic area, etc.), median annual compensation for warehouse workers is $27,048 in the U.S. and $37,200 in Canada. What Warehouse Workers Do: Warehouse workers handle a variety of responsibilities, including: • Receiving and checking in arriving packages • Distributing and logging the internal delivery of the received goods into inventory • Processing and checking outgoing packages • Acting as an internal resource on delivery logistics, quality goals, and employee training What Companies Look for in Warehouse Workers: Every shipping and receiving clerk position is different, but many need the following skills and attributes: • Willingness to gain industry training and skills • Accountability and a strong work ethic • Experience in maintaining a safe workspace • Applicable experience in a similar job role, if possible • Experience using forklifts and pallet jacks, along with being familiar with warehousing and delivery related processes — 28 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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SKIPLOLSEIDTTIORNASDES Skilled Trades positions include a variety of higher- expertise roles that typically require special certifications, on-the-job training or apprenticeships, or education via a career technical school. Skilled trades jobs are often overlooked, yet can provide a well-paid, fulfilling career in some of the workforce’s most important jobs. Common fields for skilled trades include CNC machinists, HVAC, welders, operators, pipefitting, and more. All salary data within this report represent national trends and was provided via Emsi, a third-party, labor market data and analytics research company. More information about Emsi and their research methodology is available at EconomicModeling.com. — 29 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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CDL DRIVER Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Drivers transport goods from one place to another using a commercial vehicle. Required Education: Typically some trade school and a commercial driver’s license. Compensation: Although average payrates vary depending on a variety of factors (e.g. experience, industry, geographic area, etc.), median annual compensation for CDL drivers is $43,000 in the U.S. and $47,400 in Canada. What CDL Drivers Do: They deal with a variety of tasks, including: • Delivering freight • Managing proof of delivery paperwork from customers • Assisting workers in loading and unloading trucks • Checking mechanical aspects of the vehicle • Safely performing all aspects of their role What Companies Look for in CDL Drivers: Every position is different, but many companies look for the following skills and attributes: • A valid CDL license • Excellent customer service skills • Ability to work independently • Good communication skills — 30 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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FORKLIFT OPERATOR Forklift operators use forklifts to transport materials and stock. Operating a forklift with the utmost care to ensure efficiency and safety is an essential part of the job. Required Education: No formal education is required with the exception of a license, although some employers may prefer a high school diploma. Compensation: Although average payrates vary depending on a variety of factors (e.g. experience, industry, geographic area, etc.), median annual compensation for forklift operators is $33,304 in the U.S. and $44,500 in Canada. What Forklift Operators Do: They deal with a variety of tasks, including: • Driving and operating a forklift safely • Helping support the unloading, checking-in, and distribution of freight • Loading semi-truck trailers • Managing shipping pallet organization • Ensuring the highest quality pallets are used for shipments What Companies Look for in Forklift Operators: Every position is different, but many companies look for the following skills and attributes: • Strong hand-eye coordination • Forklift and loading/unloading experience • Experience with reading bill of lading and other freight forms • Attention to detail and a spotless safety record • A valid applicable license — 31 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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HVAC TECHNICIAN Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) Technicians deal with the installation and maintenance of heating and cooling systems. This includes identifying maintenance risks on equipment and diagnosing electrical and mechanical faults. Required Education: Typically, a postsecondary non-degree award and an apprenticeship of some kind. Compensation: Although average payrates vary depending on a variety of factors (e.g. experience, industry, geographic area, etc.), median annual compensation for HVAC technicians is $47,864 in the U.S. and $68,200 in Canada. What HVAC Technicians Do: HVAC Technicians deal with a variety of responsibilities, including: • Installing, maintaining, and repairing ventilation and air conditioning systems and equipment • Identifying maintenance risks on equipment • Diagnosing electrical and mechanical faults in HVAC systems • Performing emergency repairs promptly and efficiently • Keeping daily logs and records of maintenance functions What Companies Look for in HVAC Technicians: Every position is different, but many companies need the following skills and attributes: • High school diploma or equivalent • A postsecondary non-degree award • Experience as an HVAC technician • A valid driver’s license • Working knowledge of boiler systems • Proficiency in reading schematics and work plans • Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal skills

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MECHANIC Mechanics repair and work on a variety of vehicles. Responsibilities include running diagnostic tasks and building and assembling mechanical components. Required Education: Employers often prefer mechanics who have completed a program at a trade school, and industry certification is frequently required once an individual is hired. Compensation: Although average payrates vary depending on a variety of factors (e.g. experience, industry, geographic area, etc.), median annual compensation for mechanics is $39,544 in the U.S. and $52,700 in Canada. What Mechanics Do: Mechanics deal with a variety of responsibilities, including: • Working on a variety of vehicle types, including building and assembling mechanical components • Repairing common mechanical issues in vehicles • Running diagnostic tests to discover potential issues What Companies Look for in Mechanics: Every position is different, but many companies need the following skills and attributes: • Proven experience as a mechanic • Aptitude in various hand tools and machinery • Valid certification (ASTE) preferred • Good communication skills • Commitment to health and safety guidelines — 33 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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WELDER Welders use high-temperature equipment to combine separate metal pieces into a completely new product. Responsibilities include preparing and operating welding equipment. Required Education: Associate’s degree or certification program Compensation: Although average payrates vary depending on a variety of factors (e.g. experience, industry, geographic area, etc.), median annual compensation for welders is $40,024 in the U.S. and $53,800 in Canada. What Welders Do: Welders handle a variety of responsibilities, which may include: • Preparing and maintaining welding equipment • Operating various welding machines to complete projects • Employing the use of diagrams and sketches to decide upon material quantities and project completion time What Companies Look for in Welders: Every position is different, but many require the following skills: • Willingness to gain training and skills • Comprehension and application of industry safety regulations • Ability to be extremely accurate and precise • Teamwork and communication abilities — 34 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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CEOXPNRTAESCST PREMOPFELSOSYIMOENNATLS If any of these positions sound interesting to you, don’t hesitate to call your local Express Employment Professionals office. After a short application process, if your skills, experience, and availability are a match for our client companies, you may be interviewed. Our employment experts will match your skills and desires with the right local company, placing you with top employers in the area that many job seekers don’t have access too. Then you’ll get to work! And remember, Express never charges job seekers any fees. Headquartered in Oklahoma City, OK, Express is a leading staffing provider in the U.S. and Canada. Annually, Express employs more than half a million people, who serve more than 80,000 client companies. If you have any questions about jobs in your area or the job search in general, contact your local Express office, download the ExpressJobs app from your mobile store, or fill out our online contact form. — 35 — TABLE OF CONTENTS

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