| 2 | Job Zone 1-2: Very Little to Some Preparation Needed | Some occupations may need little or no previous experience; others require several months to a year of experience. For example, landscaping and groundskeeping workers might require very little training or previous experience, while agricultural equipment operators can benefit from on-the job training. | Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not. | Ranges from a few days to one year of on-the-job training. | These occupations involve following instructions and often involve using your knowledge and skills to help others. Examples include dishwashers, landscaping and groundskeeping workers, counter and rental clerks, dental laboratory technicians, and security guards. | (Below 6.0) |
| 3 | Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed | Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job. | Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. | Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations. | These occupations usually involve using communication and organizational skills to coordinate, supervise, manage, or train others to accomplish goals. Examples include hydroelectric production managers, desktop publishers, electricians, agricultural technicians, barbers, court reporters and simultaneous captioners, and medical assistants. | (6.0 to < 7.0) |
| 4 | Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed | A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified. | Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not. | Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training. | Many of these occupations involve coordinating, supervising, managing, or training others. Examples include real estate brokers, sales managers, database administrators, graphic designers, conservation scientists, art directors, and cost estimators. | (7.0 to < 8.0) |
