ConsultaPedia Logo

Associate Degree Careers and Jobs

Explore Careers and Jobs Predominantly Filled by Those with an Associate's Degree or Less - All On One Page.

Sorted by median annual U.S. salary and including percentage of job holders with Associate's Degree or less.

An associate's degree can open doors to skilled technical, healthcare, and business support roles without the time commitment of a four-year degree. For people who want a faster, more affordable path into a stable career. Compare careers ranked by salary, review degree-holder and experience percentages, and access preparation resources for each role.



4 Steps to Use This Page: 1-Explore Careers of Intrerest 2-See Job Listings Matched to Career 3-Prepare for the Career 4-See External Career Resources

Here is a short Helper Video External Link.

This page will take you through 4 steps, relative to an Associate's Degree, to (1) Select a career, (2) Find active job listings, (3) Prepare for the career you chose, and (4) Provide web resources specific to the career you chose.

Step 1: Select a Career: You will be presented with a listing of Associate's Degree careers. The list may be quite long. There are two ways you might like to use this list:
1) Filter - As you enter a word, you will filter (limit) the list of careers below
2) Browse the list (Don't Filter) - You can simply browse the list of careers. There may be many that you might never have considered. This may help you to discover careers that might be of interest.

Once you have identified a career of interest, simply click on it.

Step 2: Find a Job: After you have selected a career/job title above, you will see a form asking for your location. You will see several radio selection choices to utilize the job search site of your choice.



Step 3: Prepare For a Career: In this section you will gain access to detailed information to help you prepare for the career you selected. Information includes core and supplemental duties, general and specific work activities, knowledge required, essential and transferable skills required, day-in-the-life summaries, knowledge required, software skills required, preparation required, educational requirements, training and work experience required, local salary information, certifications, professional associations, current job listings for the job selected along with multiple similar job titles, and related careers (related to what they do, what they know, and what they're called).

Step 4: Career-Specific Resources (detailed and constantly updated): Continue to scroll down the page and you will find tabs that will provide detailed (updated) links to occupational information specific to the career you selected. This information includes:
Videos: Provides a listing of video links related to this career. A great way to get a quick overview of the occupation.
Resumes: Sources for resume materials and techniques. This can help to get you started.
Job Description: Sources that provide job descriptions, which are vital to resume and interview preparation.
Interviews: Provides links that can help you to prepare for and successfully complete the job interview.
Step by Step: Provides links to resources that can help to organize the career search process.
LinkedIn: One of the best professional social media sites that provides links, opportunities, and networking specifically for careers and career development.




Step 1 of 4: Select a Career

Leading Books About Associate Degree Jobs External Link
What jobs can you get with an Associate's Degree? Scroll through the picklist (below). These are careers related to the Associate's Degree level, with at least 30% of job holders having an Associate's Degree. - 571 specific careers are listed, with matching jobs currently available. Select those careers that may be of interest - you will then get links to matching active job listings, and detailed resources to help you prepare.
You can use this form two ways:
1) Enter a Keyword - As you enter a keyword, you will filter (limit) the listing to those careers that contain the keyword entered
2) Browse the list (Don't enter a keyword) - You can simply browse the list of careers. There may be many that you might never have considered. This may help you to discover jobs that might be of interest.

Enter a Keyword (filter the list below)
OR - leave blank and scroll through the choices:



Select a Job Title - Sorted by Annual Salary -(scroll and Select) :
Legend: Career Title Link / (% having Associate's Degree or less) / (Median Annual U.S. Salary)

Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers / (38.99%) / ($219,140)
Computer and Information Systems Managers / (35.15%) / ($169,510)
Clinical Research Coordinators / (33.77%) / ($157,740)
Air Traffic Controllers / (78.05%) / ($137,380)
Purchasing Managers / (36.84%) / ($136,380)
Loss Prevention Managers / (40.91%) / ($133,560)
Wind Energy Operations Managers / (65.24%) / ($133,560)
Advertising and Promotions Managers / (31.69%) / ($131,870)
Anesthesiologist Assistants / (42.69%) / ($130,020)
Computer Network Architects / (35.00%) / ($129,840)
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists / (57.15%) / ($129,840)
Nuclear Power Reactor Operators / (84.67%) / ($120,350)
Industrial Production Managers / (70.50%) / ($116,970)
Geothermal Production Managers / (80.39%) / ($116,970)
Biofuels Production Managers / (47.96%) / ($116,970)
Biomass Power Plant Managers / (38.51%) / ($116,970)
Hydroelectric Production Managers / (77.90%) / ($116,970)
Commercial Pilots / (98.19%) / ($113,080)
Mechatronics Engineers / (32.67%) / ($111,970)
Solar Energy Systems Engineers / (40.74%) / ($111,970)
Administrative Services Managers / (71.74%) / ($106,470)
Web Administrators / (40.00%) / ($104,920)
Information Security Engineers / (47.37%) / ($104,920)
Computer Systems Engineers/Architects / (72.73%) / ($104,920)
Information Technology Project Managers / (33.33%) / ($104,920)
Construction Managers / (55.00%) / ($104,900)
Power Distributors and Dispatchers / (94.36%) / ($104,750)
Computer Systems Analysts / (56.64%) / ($103,800)
Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers / (99.66%) / ($102,420)
Facilities Managers / (92.59%) / ($102,340)
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers / (47.05%) / ($101,800)
First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives / (80.58%) / ($101,750)
Nuclear Monitoring Technicians / (84.15%) / ($101,740)
General and Operations Managers / (72.41%) / ($101,280)
Marine Engineers and Naval Architects / (36.84%) / ($100,270)
Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Technical and Scientific Products / (58.63%) / ($99,710)
Solar Sales Representatives and Assessors / (67.01%) / ($99,710)
Mechanical Engineers / (47.22%) / ($99,510)
Special Effects Artists and Animators / (46.91%) / ($99,060)
Video Game Designers / (45.00%) / ($98,540)
Radiation Therapists / (62.46%) / ($98,300)
Power Plant Operators / (87.46%) / ($97,010)
Biomass Plant Technicians / (90.28%) / ($97,010)
Hydroelectric Plant Technicians / (93.13%) / ($97,010)
Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay / (97.61%) / ($96,600)
Network and Computer Systems Administrators / (37.51%) / ($95,360)
Petroleum Pump System Operators, Refinery Operators, and Gaugers / (100.00%) / ($94,580)
Ship Engineers / (81.03%) / ($94,270)
Nuclear Medicine Technologists / (68.68%) / ($92,500)
Detectives and Criminal Investigators / (90.01%) / ($91,100)
Police Identification and Records Officers / (75.14%) / ($91,100)
Labor Relations Specialists / (33.32%) / ($89,980)
Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels / (90.68%) / ($88,730)
Postmasters and Mail Superintendents / (86.55%) / ($88,670)
Dental Hygienists / (75.18%) / ($87,530)
Aviation Inspectors / (96.07%) / ($87,290)
Transportation Vehicle, Equipment and Systems Inspectors, Except Aviation / (100.00%) / ($87,290)
First-Line Supervisors of Firefighting and Prevention Workers / (86.62%) / ($86,220)
Registered Nurses / (42.65%) / ($86,070)
Critical Care Nurses / (35.71%) / ($86,070)
Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers / (97.19%) / ($85,420)
Web Developers / (50.01%) / ($84,960)
Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes / (41.87%) / ($84,900)
First-Line Supervisors of Non-Retail Sales Workers / (42.07%) / ($84,570)
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers / (66.47%) / ($84,470)
Subway and Streetcar Operators / (100.00%) / ($84,270)
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists / (86.96%) / ($83,740)
Signal and Track Switch Repairers / (100.00%) / ($82,710)
Gas Plant Operators / (100.00%) / ($82,560)
Producers and Directors / (43.30%) / ($82,510)
Media Programming Directors / (48.00%) / ($82,510)
Talent Directors / (30.75%) / ($82,510)
Gambling Managers / (93.26%) / ($82,380)
Technical Writers / (58.04%) / ($80,050)
Chemical Plant and System Operators / (63.22%) / ($80,030)
Online Merchants / (58.72%) / ($79,590)
Fashion Designers / (49.34%) / ($79,290)
Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment / (85.65%) / ($79,160)
Respiratory Therapists / (87.90%) / ($77,960)
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians / (92.08%) / ($77,830)
Avionics Technicians / (96.67%) / ($77,420)
Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents / (34.85%) / ($76,900)
First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers / (89.50%) / ($76,760)
Solar Energy Installation Managers / (93.70%) / ($76,760)
Commercial and Industrial Designers / (32.08%) / ($76,250)
Cartographers and Photogrammetrists / (57.51%) / ($76,210)
First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers / (90.39%) / ($75,820)
Government Property Inspectors and Investigators / (60.66%) / ($75,670)
Coroners / (40.00%) / ($75,670)
Customs Brokers / (80.00%) / ($75,670)
Funeral Home Managers / (93.51%) / ($75,660)
Claims Adjusters, Examiners, and Investigators / (39.64%) / ($75,050)
Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians / (99.37%) / ($75,020)
Locomotive Engineers / (100.00%) / ($74,770)
Search Marketing Strategists / (52.18%) / ($74,680)
Insurance Appraisers, Auto Damage / (98.53%) / ($74,520)
Fire Inspectors and Investigators / (95.76%) / ($74,160)
Writers and Authors / (53.05%) / ($73,690)
Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers / (50.00%) / ($73,690)
Non-Destructive Testing Specialists / (90.91%) / ($73,500)
Photonics Technicians / (81.82%) / ($73,500)
Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling / (40.54%) / ($73,460)
Radiologic Technologists and Technicians / (89.37%) / ($73,410)
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers / (93.45%) / ($72,280)
Customs and Border Protection Officers / (70.66%) / ($72,280)
Transit and Railroad Police / (65.67%) / ($72,250)
Wellhead Pumpers / (100.00%) / ($71,830)
Computer Network Support Specialists / (49.70%) / ($71,530)
Boilermakers / (100.01%) / ($71,140)
Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters / (100.00%) / ($71,130)
First-Line Supervisors of Correctional Officers / (89.30%) / ($70,530)
Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants / (80.15%) / ($70,310)
Athletes and Sports Competitors / (75.54%) / ($70,280)
Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door / (98.56%) / ($70,100)
Loan Officers / (30.14%) / ($69,990)
Electrical and Electronics Drafters / (57.47%) / ($69,260)
Park Naturalists / (40.02%) / ($68,750)
Surveyors / (52.63%) / ($68,540)
Flight Attendants / (87.65%) / ($68,370)
Construction and Building Inspectors / (80.00%) / ($67,700)
Energy Auditors / (75.86%) / ($67,700)
Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators / (100.00%) / ($67,640)
Occupational Therapy Assistants / (96.81%) / ($67,010)
Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment Operators / (100.00%) / ($67,000)
Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment / (100.00%) / ($66,680)
Roof Bolters, Mining / (100.00%) / ($66,660)
Film and Video Editors / (34.31%) / ($66,600)
Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians / (93.42%) / ($66,170)
First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers / (87.18%) / ($65,930)
Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products / (66.12%) / ($65,630)
Career/Technical Education Teachers, Secondary School / (32.71%) / ($65,130)
Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians / (79.71%) / ($65,080)
Robotics Technicians / (77.27%) / ($65,080)
Rail Car Repairers / (99.99%) / ($65,030)
Forensic Science Technicians / (65.60%) / ($64,940)
Crane and Tower Operators / (100.00%) / ($64,690)
Telecommunications Line Installers and Repairers / (100.00%) / ($64,640)
Model Makers, Metal and Plastic / (99.17%) / ($64,190)
Physical Therapist Assistants / (84.16%) / ($64,080)
Loading and Moving Machine Operators, Underground Mining / (100.00%) / ($64,070)
Mechanical Drafters / (76.71%) / ($64,060)
Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians / (63.49%) / ($64,020)
Automotive Engineering Technicians / (59.25%) / ($64,020)
Court Reporters and Simultaneous Captioners / (97.15%) / ($63,940)
Midwives / (41.58%) / ($63,630)
Pile Driver Operators / (100.01%) / ($63,550)
First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers / (53.45%) / ($63,450)
Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers / (98.14%) / ($63,440)
Tapers / (100.00%) / ($63,350)
Food Service Managers / (90.26%) / ($63,060)
Real Estate Brokers / (46.07%) / ($63,060)
Millwrights / (100.00%) / ($62,980)
Health Education Specialists / (64.77%) / ($62,860)
Property, Real Estate, and Community Association Managers / (35.00%) / ($62,850)
Structural Iron and Steel Workers / (94.98%) / ($62,760)
Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians / (85.35%) / ($62,610)
Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers / (73.63%) / ($62,510)
Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic / (100.01%) / ($62,270)
Career/Technical Education Teachers, Postsecondary / (67.55%) / ($62,060)
Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines / (100.01%) / ($61,900)
Gas Compressor and Gas Pumping Station Operators / (100.00%) / ($61,870)
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film / (93.10%) / ($61,800)
Rotary Drill Operators, Oil and Gas / (91.08%) / ($61,770)
Wind Turbine Service Technicians / (100.01%) / ($61,770)
Electricians / (98.70%) / ($61,590)
Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters / (100.00%) / ($61,590)
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters / (100.01%) / ($61,550)
Solar Thermal Installers and Technicians / (77.54%) / ($61,550)
Tool and Die Makers / (100.00%) / ($61,490)
Continuous Mining Machine Operators / (100.00%) / ($61,420)
Industrial Machinery Mechanics / (100.01%) / ($61,420)
Radio, Cellular, and Tower Equipment Installers and Repairers / (90.24%) / ($61,310)
Commercial Divers / (94.97%) / ($61,300)
Advertising Sales Agents / (48.14%) / ($61,270)
Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Except Line Installers / (82.57%) / ($61,270)
Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers / (84.35%) / ($61,240)
First-Line Supervisors of Gambling Services Workers / (93.54%) / ($61,210)
Paralegals and Legal Assistants / (43.47%) / ($60,970)
Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians / (81.66%) / ($60,700)
Medical Equipment Repairers / (99.99%) / ($60,670)
Surgical Technologists / (100.00%) / ($60,610)
Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity / (99.99%) / ($60,170)
Brokerage Clerks / (61.77%) / ($60,150)
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses / (88.91%) / ($59,730)
Brickmasons and Blockmasons / (99.99%) / ($59,640)
Postal Service Clerks / (100.00%) / ($59,570)
Sound Engineering Technicians / (72.00%) / ($59,430)
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators / (64.62%) / ($59,300)
Computer User Support Specialists / (48.31%) / ($59,240)
Surgical Assistants / (64.12%) / ($59,160)
Insurance Sales Agents / (53.10%) / ($59,080)
Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists / (99.99%) / ($58,970)
Chefs and Head Cooks / (91.67%) / ($58,920)
Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors / (81.54%) / ($58,920)
Sheet Metal Workers / (100.01%) / ($58,780)
Hearing Aid Specialists / (43.26%) / ($58,670)
Tank Car, Truck, and Ship Loaders / (98.23%) / ($58,620)
Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents / (62.46%) / ($58,530)
Quality Control Analysts / (72.10%) / ($58,350)
Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas / (99.99%) / ($58,210)
Watch and Clock Repairers / (98.31%) / ($58,140)
Occupational Health and Safety Technicians / (42.85%) / ($57,920)
Broadcast Technicians / (97.61%) / ($57,690)
Spa Managers / (79.01%) / ($57,570)
Maintenance Workers, Machinery / (97.42%) / ($57,350)
First-Line Supervisors of Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Workers / (65.10%) / ($57,320)
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers / (100.00%) / ($57,300)
Firefighters / (96.50%) / ($57,120)
Rail Yard Engineers, Dinkey Operators, and Hostlers / (100.00%) / ($57,070)
Biofuels Processing Technicians / (100.00%) / ($56,940)
Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners / (59.20%) / ($56,920)
Chemical Technicians / (56.26%) / ($56,750)
Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas / (99.99%) / ($56,660)
Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers / (100.00%) / ($56,430)
Carpenters / (100.00%) / ($56,350)
Postal Service Mail Carriers / (100.00%) / ($56,330)
Riggers / (100.00%) / ($56,220)
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators / (100.00%) / ($56,160)
Hoist and Winch Operators / (100.00%) / ($55,950)
Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas / (100.00%) / ($55,750)
First-Line Supervisors of Landscaping, Lawn Service, and Groundskeeping Workers / (61.33%) / ($55,740)
Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers / (95.18%) / ($55,700)
Massage Therapists / (96.16%) / ($55,310)
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators / (100.00%) / ($54,890)
Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Workers / (100.00%) / ($54,850)
Pump Operators, Except Wellhead Pumpers / (82.35%) / ($54,690)
First-Line Supervisors of Security Workers / (88.58%) / ($54,580)
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers / (99.99%) / ($54,320)
Real Estate Sales Agents / (90.47%) / ($54,300)
Education and Childcare Administrators, Preschool and Daycare / (83.48%) / ($54,290)
Embalmers / (86.37%) / ($54,090)
Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists / (75.97%) / ($54,080)
Tire Builders / (99.47%) / ($54,080)
Insulation Workers, Mechanical / (100.01%) / ($53,920)
Production, Planning, and Expediting Clerks / (100.01%) / ($53,900)
Title Examiners, Abstractors, and Searchers / (86.60%) / ($53,550)
Postal Service Mail Sorters, Processors, and Processing Machine Operators / (100.01%) / ($53,440)
Correctional Officers and Jailers / (100.00%) / ($53,300)
Fallers / (100.00%) / ($53,170)
Bailiffs / (99.99%) / ($53,040)
Plasterers and Stucco Masons / (100.00%) / ($52,640)
Costume Attendants / (68.86%) / ($52,370)
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks / (68.16%) / ($52,240)
Traffic Technicians / (88.33%) / ($52,240)
Choreographers / (76.18%) / ($52,000)
Forest and Conservation Technicians / (85.19%) / ($51,880)
Stonemasons / (100.00%) / ($51,830)
Chemical Equipment Operators and Tenders / (98.23%) / ($51,720)
Audio and Video Technicians / (57.32%) / ($51,640)
Desktop Publishers / (61.30%) / ($51,290)
Airfield Operations Specialists / (49.14%) / ($51,140)
Glaziers / (100.01%) / ($51,100)
Morticians, Undertakers, and Funeral Arrangers / (88.76%) / ($51,030)
Machinists / (100.00%) / ($50,840)
Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers / (99.99%) / ($50,720)
Legal Secretaries and Administrative Assistants / (93.00%) / ($50,680)
Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health / (31.83%) / ($50,660)
Dredge Operators / (100.00%) / ($50,440)
Eligibility Interviewers, Government Programs / (68.62%) / ($50,270)
Engine and Other Machine Assemblers / (92.80%) / ($50,270)
Metal-Refining Furnace Operators and Tenders / (100.00%) / ($50,250)
Directors, Religious Activities and Education / (36.68%) / ($50,140)
Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining / (100.00%) / ($50,050)
Roofers / (93.40%) / ($50,030)
Transportation Security Screeners / (100.00%) / ($50,020)
Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians / (100.00%) / ($49,990)
Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic / (99.88%) / ($49,670)
Private Detectives and Investigators / (57.84%) / ($49,540)
Electric Motor, Power Tool, and Related Repairers / (100.01%) / ($49,230)
Farm Equipment Mechanics and Service Technicians / (100.00%) / ($49,210)
Bridge and Lock Tenders / (100.00%) / ($49,120)
Food Science Technicians / (52.50%) / ($49,090)
Tree Trimmers and Pruners / (100.00%) / ($49,070)
Tax Preparers / (76.20%) / ($49,010)
Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators / (100.00%) / ($48,980)
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers / (99.05%) / ($48,940)
Tile and Stone Setters / (100.00%) / ($48,910)
Terrazzo Workers and Finishers / (100.01%) / ($48,900)
Public Safety Telecommunicators / (95.26%) / ($48,890)
Floor Layers, Except Carpet, Wood, and Hard Tiles / (99.99%) / ($48,840)
Timing Device Assemblers and Adjusters / (95.84%) / ($48,840)
Solar Photovoltaic Installers / (84.97%) / ($48,800)
Proofreaders and Copy Markers / (52.69%) / ($48,790)
Automotive Body and Related Repairers / (99.99%) / ($48,740)
Pourers and Casters, Metal / (100.00%) / ($48,690)
Mechanical Door Repairers / (100.00%) / ($48,650)
Patternmakers, Wood / (100.00%) / ($48,630)
Credit Counselors / (60.00%) / ($48,570)
Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators / (96.78%) / ($48,550)
Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters / (100.00%) / ($48,480)
Paperhangers / (100.00%) / ($48,460)
Refractory Materials Repairers, Except Brickmasons / (100.00%) / ($48,410)
Sailors and Marine Oilers / (99.22%) / ($48,400)
Audiovisual Equipment Installers and Repairers / (94.78%) / ($48,380)
Locksmiths and Safe Repairers / (92.30%) / ($48,380)
Cargo and Freight Agents / (69.25%) / ($48,330)
Freight Forwarders / (41.92%) / ($48,330)
Logging Equipment Operators / (100.00%) / ($48,240)
Community Health Workers / (32.83%) / ($48,200)
Separating, Filtering, Clarifying, Precipitating, and Still Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders / (98.92%) / ($48,120)
Agricultural Inspectors / (87.88%) / ($48,010)
Recreational Vehicle Service Technicians / (100.00%) / ($47,950)
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics / (100.00%) / ($47,770)
Floor Sanders and Finishers / (100.00%) / ($47,760)
Meter Readers, Utilities / (97.61%) / ($47,720)
Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping / (65.40%) / ($47,710)
Painters, Construction and Maintenance / (98.15%) / ($47,700)
Dental Laboratory Technicians / (92.45%) / ($47,690)
Animal Breeders / (95.94%) / ($47,540)
Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall / (100.00%) / ($47,540)
Carpet Installers / (100.00%) / ($47,520)
Neurodiagnostic Technologists / (83.87%) / ($47,470)
Ophthalmic Medical Technologists / (75.00%) / ($47,470)
Patient Representatives / (61.52%) / ($47,470)
Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Workers / (84.34%) / ($47,450)
Gem and Diamond Workers / (80.99%) / ($47,450)
Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks / (81.29%) / ($47,440)
Models / (96.06%) / ($47,430)
Travel Agents / (85.65%) / ($47,410)
Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance / (85.70%) / ($47,390)
Loan Interviewers and Clerks / (61.75%) / ($47,380)
Highway Maintenance Workers / (100.00%) / ($47,360)
Pipelayers / (100.00%) / ($47,330)
Hazardous Materials Removal Workers / (86.23%) / ($47,280)
Paper Goods Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders / (100.01%) / ($47,250)
Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic / (81.16%) / ($47,200)
Home Appliance Repairers / (100.01%) / ($47,170)
Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic / (90.27%) / ($47,110)
Rolling Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic / (100.00%) / ($47,040)
Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic / (100.00%) / ($46,990)
Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe Cleaners / (99.99%) / ($46,910)
Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerks / (93.41%) / ($46,900)
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance / (92.98%) / ($46,860)
Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairers / (92.91%) / ($46,850)
Parking Enforcement Workers / (98.56%) / ($46,840)
First-Line Supervisors of Retail Sales Workers / (99.58%) / ($46,730)
Maintenance and Repair Workers, General / (98.46%) / ($46,700)
First-Line Supervisors of Personal Service Workers / (89.61%) / ($46,690)
Procurement Clerks / (67.27%) / ($46,670)
First-Line Supervisors of Housekeeping and Janitorial Workers / (87.75%) / ($46,650)
Dental Assistants / (100.00%) / ($46,540)
Rock Splitters, Quarry / (81.02%) / ($46,530)
Geothermal Technicians / (100.00%) / ($46,500)
Exercise Trainers and Group Fitness Instructors / (61.91%) / ($46,480)
Word Processors and Typists / (100.00%) / ($46,450)
Motorboat Operators / (85.14%) / ($46,420)
Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners / (100.01%) / ($46,410)
Roustabouts, Oil and Gas / (100.00%) / ($46,340)
Motorcycle Mechanics / (89.26%) / ($46,270)
Court, Municipal, and License Clerks / (85.74%) / ($46,110)
Mixing and Blending Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders / (100.00%) / ($46,100)
Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers / (100.00%) / ($45,850)
Semiconductor Processing Technicians / (99.68%) / ($45,850)
Computer, Automated Teller, and Office Machine Repairers / (99.63%) / ($45,760)
Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors / (100.00%) / ($45,760)
Farm Labor Contractors / (99.87%) / ($45,730)
Bus Drivers, School / (100.00%) / ($45,660)
Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders / (98.16%) / ($45,640)
Log Graders and Scalers / (100.00%) / ($45,600)
Billing and Posting Clerks / (98.04%) / ($45,590)
Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles / (100.00%) / ($45,570)
Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders / (100.00%) / ($45,560)
Helpers--Extraction Workers / (100.01%) / ($45,520)
Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders / (100.00%) / ($45,350)
Self-Enrichment Teachers / (45.76%) / ($45,330)
Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers / (99.99%) / ($45,320)
Construction Laborers / (100.00%) / ($45,300)
Medical Equipment Preparers / (82.92%) / ($45,280)
Prepress Technicians and Workers / (94.79%) / ($45,070)
Model Makers, Wood / (85.67%) / ($45,040)
Coin, Vending, and Amusement Machine Servicers and Repairers / (100.00%) / ($44,980)
Medical Appliance Technicians / (72.03%) / ($44,960)
Broadcast Announcers and Radio Disc Jockeys / (59.63%) / ($44,890)
Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers / (99.99%) / ($44,890)
New Accounts Clerks / (100.00%) / ($44,630)
Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic / (92.88%) / ($44,620)
Crushing, Grinding, and Polishing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders / (100.00%) / ($44,510)
Speech-Language Pathology Assistants / (57.73%) / ($44,490)
Endoscopy Technicians / (100.01%) / ($44,490)
Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators / (100.00%) / ($44,470)
Fence Erectors / (99.99%) / ($44,410)
Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic / (99.55%) / ($44,390)
Cutting and Slicing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders / (99.70%) / ($44,310)
Foundry Mold and Coremakers / (100.00%) / ($44,300)
Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical, and Executive / (89.01%) / ($44,280)
Bill and Account Collectors / (78.88%) / ($44,250)
Heat Treating Equipment Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic / (100.00%) / ($44,240)
Opticians, Dispensing / (100.00%) / ($44,170)
Outdoor Power Equipment and Other Small Engine Mechanics / (100.00%) / ($44,140)
Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, and Applicators, Vegetation / (87.18%) / ($44,070)
Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers / (100.00%) / ($44,030)
Veterinary Technologists and Technicians / (89.60%) / ($43,740)
Adhesive Bonding Machine Operators and Tenders / (99.99%) / ($43,540)
Pest Control Workers / (100.00%) / ($43,470)
Stone Cutters and Carvers, Manufacturing / (99.03%) / ($43,310)
Glass Blowers, Molders, Benders, and Finishers / (100.01%) / ($43,310)
Potters, Manufacturing / (77.39%) / ($43,310)
Weighers, Measurers, Checkers, and Samplers, Recordkeeping / (99.49%) / ($43,270)
Cabinetmakers and Bench Carpenters / (100.00%) / ($43,260)
Skincare Specialists / (78.15%) / ($43,200)
Agricultural Technicians / (63.19%) / ($43,180)
Precision Agriculture Technicians / (60.87%) / ($43,180)
Animal Control Workers / (96.15%) / ($43,170)
Musical Instrument Repairers and Tuners / (90.92%) / ($42,800)
Upholsterers / (100.00%) / ($42,730)
Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders / (96.10%) / ($42,670)
Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic / (100.01%) / ($42,610)
Cooks, Private Household / (100.00%) / ($42,590)
Helpers--Brickmasons, Blockmasons, Stonemasons, and Tile and Marble Setters / (93.77%) / ($42,470)
Light Truck Drivers / (100.00%) / ($42,470)
Cooling and Freezing Equipment Operators and Tenders / (100.00%) / ($42,420)
Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic / (100.00%) / ($42,400)
Correspondence Clerks / (88.39%) / ($42,120)
Medical Assistants / (82.53%) / ($42,000)
Printing Press Operators / (100.00%) / ($41,860)
Phlebotomists / (95.46%) / ($41,810)
Ophthalmic Medical Technicians / (100.00%) / ($41,780)
Order Clerks / (87.93%) / ($41,600)
Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic / (100.00%) / ($41,600)
Social and Human Service Assistants / (44.61%) / ($41,410)
Photographers / (81.82%) / ($40,760)
Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants / (99.99%) / ($40,640)
Reservation and Transportation Ticket Agents and Travel Clerks / (99.42%) / ($40,610)
Office Clerks, General / (99.76%) / ($40,480)
Pharmacy Technicians / (96.16%) / ($40,300)
Interviewers, Except Eligibility and Loan / (98.84%) / ($40,300)
Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers / (100.00%) / ($40,230)
Fiberglass Laminators and Fabricators / (99.36%) / ($40,200)
Etchers and Engravers / (99.99%) / ($40,040)
Food and Tobacco Roasting, Baking, and Drying Machine Operators and Tenders / (100.00%) / ($39,850)
Furniture Finishers / (100.00%) / ($39,790)
Shipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks / (89.25%) / ($39,780)
Plating Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic / (96.57%) / ($39,740)
Psychiatric Technicians / (68.09%) / ($39,700)
Agricultural Equipment Operators / (99.99%) / ($39,690)
Customer Service Representatives / (85.79%) / ($39,680)
Tutors / (54.54%) / ($39,580)
Helpers--Carpenters / (100.00%) / ($39,380)
Retail Loss Prevention Specialists / (89.50%) / ($39,360)
Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operators and Tenders / (100.01%) / ($39,340)
Library Technicians / (68.58%) / ($39,310)
Conveyor Operators and Tenders / (100.00%) / ($39,260)
Machine Feeders and Offbearers / (100.00%) / ($39,250)
Gambling Surveillance Officers and Gambling Investigators / (100.00%) / ($39,210)
Psychiatric Aides / (95.92%) / ($39,160)
Manufactured Building and Mobile Home Installers / (100.00%) / ($38,980)
Grinding and Polishing Workers, Hand / (100.00%) / ($38,940)
Molding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic / (100.00%) / ($38,870)
Animal Trainers / (98.25%) / ($38,810)
Helpers--Roofers / (83.98%) / ($38,620)
Food Cooking Machine Operators and Tenders / (100.00%) / ($38,550)
First-Line Supervisors of Food Preparation and Serving Workers / (100.00%) / ($38,520)
Food Batchmakers / (99.99%) / ($38,460)
Helpers--Electricians / (98.70%) / ($38,340)
Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders / (100.00%) / ($38,330)
Bicycle Repairers / (100.00%) / ($38,320)
Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing / (98.28%) / ($38,260)
Nursing Assistants / (87.36%) / ($38,200)
Slaughterers and Meat Packers / (100.00%) / ($38,160)
File Clerks / (91.72%) / ($38,130)
Print Binding and Finishing Workers / (100.01%) / ($38,100)
Telephone Operators / (100.00%) / ($38,080)
Sawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Wood / (100.00%) / ($38,000)
Residential Advisors / (59.02%) / ($37,950)
Data Entry Keyers / (100.00%) / ($37,790)
Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians / (91.17%) / ($37,720)
Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand / (100.00%) / ($37,660)
Recycling and Reclamation Workers / (91.99%) / ($37,660)
Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters / (90.30%) / ($37,650)
Butchers and Meat Cutters / (100.00%) / ($37,650)
Tellers / (91.68%) / ($37,640)
Office Machine Operators, Except Computer / (82.57%) / ($37,450)
Counter and Rental Clerks / (79.75%) / ($37,400)
Substitute Teachers, Short-Term / (55.21%) / ($37,380)
Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers / (81.67%) / ($37,360)
Concierges / (90.91%) / ($37,150)
Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education / (62.81%) / ($37,130)
Textile Knitting and Weaving Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders / (100.00%) / ($37,130)
Security Guards / (98.04%) / ($37,070)
Medical Transcriptionists / (100.00%) / ($37,060)
Cutters and Trimmers, Hand / (100.00%) / ($37,040)
Helpers--Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons / (100.00%) / ($37,010)
Occupational Therapy Aides / (98.20%) / ($36,970)
Demonstrators and Product Promoters / (99.34%) / ($36,970)
Shoe Machine Operators and Tenders / (100.00%) / ($36,970)
Mail Clerks and Mail Machine Operators, Except Postal Service / (100.00%) / ($36,880)
Parts Salespersons / (86.38%) / ($36,860)
Orderlies / (100.00%) / ($36,830)
Switchboard Operators, Including Answering Service / (96.96%) / ($36,750)
Couriers and Messengers / (100.00%) / ($36,710)
Helpers--Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers / (99.97%) / ($36,710)
Helpers--Production Workers / (100.00%) / ($36,700)
Tailors, Dressmakers, and Custom Sewers / (90.54%) / ($36,650)
Textile Cutting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders / (100.00%) / ($36,620)
Craft Artists / (86.96%) / ($36,600)
Dietetic Technicians / (93.29%) / ($36,520)
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers / (99.54%) / ($36,440)
Stockers and Order Fillers / (99.71%) / ($36,390)
Crossing Guards and Flaggers / (100.00%) / ($36,370)
Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters and Trimmers / (98.70%) / ($36,300)
Merchandise Displayers and Window Trimmers / (82.36%) / ($36,230)
Pharmacy Aides / (100.00%) / ($36,200)
Barbers / (97.06%) / ($36,150)
Gambling Cage Workers / (100.00%) / ($36,110)
Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairers / (100.00%) / ($36,020)
Receptionists and Information Clerks / (100.00%) / ($35,840)
Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials / (80.95%) / ($35,820)
Tire Repairers and Changers / (97.60%) / ($35,790)
Cooks, Restaurant / (99.99%) / ($35,780)
Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators / (94.81%) / ($35,620)
Passenger Attendants / (100.01%) / ($35,620)
Textile Winding, Twisting, and Drawing Out Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders / (100.00%) / ($35,530)
Driver/Sales Workers / (100.00%) / ($35,420)
Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tenders / (100.01%) / ($35,340)
Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria / (93.22%) / ($35,320)
Shuttle Drivers and Chauffeurs / (99.83%) / ($35,240)
Motion Picture Projectionists / (89.90%) / ($35,160)
Farmworkers, Farm, Ranch, and Aquacultural Animals / (99.77%) / ($35,120)
Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners / (75.92%) / ($35,020)
Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists / (100.00%) / ($34,970)
Bakers / (100.00%) / ($34,950)
Door-to-Door Sales Workers, News and Street Vendors, and Related Workers / (100.00%) / ($34,910)
Baggage Porters and Bellhops / (100.01%) / ($34,840)
Packers and Packagers, Hand / (100.00%) / ($34,830)
Floral Designers / (92.09%) / ($34,690)
Telemarketers / (100.00%) / ($34,480)
Farmworkers and Laborers, Crop, Nursery, and Greenhouse / (75.14%) / ($34,470)
Sewing Machine Operators / (99.99%) / ($34,440)
Recreation Workers / (37.90%) / ($34,410)
Graders and Sorters, Agricultural Products / (100.00%) / ($34,360)
Manicurists and Pedicurists / (100.00%) / ($34,250)
Cleaners of Vehicles and Equipment / (99.99%) / ($34,150)
Cooks, Short Order / (100.01%) / ($34,130)
Library Assistants, Clerical / (95.43%) / ($34,020)
Forest and Conservation Workers / (57.20%) / ($33,940)
Funeral Attendants / (88.97%) / ($33,850)
Automotive and Watercraft Service Attendants / (100.00%) / ($33,820)
Retail Salespersons / (96.00%) / ($33,680)
Physical Therapist Aides / (81.30%) / ($33,520)
Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners / (89.15%) / ($33,450)
Locker Room, Coatroom, and Dressing Room Attendants / (100.01%) / ($33,450)
Gambling Change Persons and Booth Cashiers / (100.00%) / ($33,230)
Food Servers, Nonrestaurant / (87.18%) / ($33,110)
Parking Attendants / (99.04%) / ($32,840)
Ambulance Drivers and Attendants, Except Emergency Medical Technicians / (99.99%) / ($32,580)
Food Preparation Workers / (95.85%) / ($32,420)
Gambling Dealers / (100.00%) / ($32,240)
Pressers, Textile, Garment, and Related Materials / (85.85%) / ($32,240)
Sewers, Hand / (99.48%) / ($32,240)
Waiters and Waitresses / (100.00%) / ($31,940)
Bartenders / (98.88%) / ($31,510)
Dishwashers / (100.00%) / ($31,200)
Animal Caretakers / (86.63%) / ($31,200)
Dining Room and Cafeteria Attendants and Bartender Helpers / (100.00%) / ($31,180)
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers / (100.00%) / ($31,050)
Hotel, Motel, and Resort Desk Clerks / (95.41%) / ($30,790)
Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers / (98.78%) / ($30,380)
Childcare Workers / (91.29%) / ($30,370)
Nannies / (96.00%) / ($30,370)
Ushers, Lobby Attendants, and Ticket Takers / (98.34%) / ($29,780)
Cashiers / (100.00%) / ($29,720)
Fast Food and Counter Workers / (99.96%) / ($29,540)
Baristas / (94.53%) / ($29,540)
Shampooers / (100.00%) / ($29,530)
Amusement and Recreation Attendants / (98.57%) / ($29,390)
Cooks, Fast Food / (100.00%) / ($29,260)
Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop / (86.88%) / ($29,220)
Gambling and Sports Book Writers and Runners / (100.01%) / ($29,170)
Actors / (65.47%) / (Salary Not Available)
Dancers / (100.01%) / (Salary Not Available)
Musicians and Singers / (40.26%) / (Salary Not Available)

Step 2 of 4: Find a Job

Job Listings for: General and Operations Managers.

Search results will open in a new tab.

Note: Job search results work best for U.S.-based locations. For international searches, try searching for "[job title] in [city, country]" directly on the selected job board, or visit their country-specific website.

Step 3 of 4: Prepare For a Career

Prepare for the "General and Operations Managers" Career
The details below will provide a pathway to your specific job goal and help you to identify an appropriate career ladder.




General and Operations Managers

Description: Plan, direct, or coordinate the operations of public or private sector organizations, overseeing multiple departments or locations. Duties and responsibilities include formulating policies, managing daily operations, and planning the use of materials and human resources, but are too diverse and general in nature to be classified in any one functional area of management or administration, such as personnel, purchasing, or administrative services. Usually manage through subordinate supervisors. Excludes First-Line Supervisors.

U.S. Total Employment (2023):
2,411,900
U.S. Total Employment (2033 est.):
2,638,200
Employment Change (2023-2033 est.):
226,300 (9.4%)
Average Annual Job Openings (2023-2033 est.):
229,600
Please click on a section below to expand and see detailed occupational information related to "General and Operations Managers":

Core Duties

Important Core Job Duties (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 97 (%) Description: Review financial statements, sales or activity reports, or other performance data to measure productivity or goal achievement or to identify areas needing cost reduction or program improvement.
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Perform personnel functions, such as selection, training, or evaluation.
Importance: 89 (%) Description: Establish or implement departmental policies, goals, objectives, or procedures in conjunction with board members, organization officials, or staff members.
Importance: 86 (%) Description: Prepare staff work schedules and assign specific duties.
Importance: 86 (%) Description: Direct administrative activities directly related to making products or providing services.
Importance: 83 (%) Description: Direct or coordinate financial or budget activities to fund operations, maximize investments, or increase efficiency.
Importance: 80 (%) Description: Direct and coordinate activities of businesses or departments concerned with the production, pricing, sales, or distribution of products.
Importance: 76 (%) Description: Monitor suppliers to ensure that they efficiently and effectively provide needed goods or services within budgetary limits.
Importance: 72 (%) Description: Plan or direct activities, such as sales promotions, that require coordination with other department managers.
Supplemental Duties
Important Supplemental Job Duties (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 59 (%) Description: Perform sales floor work, such as greeting or assisting customers, stocking shelves, or taking inventory.
Importance: 57 (%) Description: Implement or oversee environmental management or sustainability programs addressing issues such as recycling, conservation, or waste management.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Develop or implement product-marketing strategies, including advertising campaigns or sales promotions.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Plan store layouts or design displays.
Importance: 51 (%) Description: Direct non-merchandising departments of businesses, such as advertising or purchasing.
Importance: 50 (%) Description: Recommend locations for new facilities, or oversee the remodeling or renovating of current facilities.
Importance: 49 (%) Description: Set prices or credit terms for goods or services, based on forecasts of customer demand.
Importance: 47 (%) Description: Manage the movement of goods into and out of production facilities to ensure efficiency, effectiveness, or sustainability of operations.
Work Activities

Important General Work Activities (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 89 (%) Description: Working with Computers: Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Importance: 88 (%) Description: Getting Information: Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Importance: 87 (%) Description: Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates: Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Importance: 87 (%) Description: Making Decisions and Solving Problems: Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Importance: 86 (%) Description: Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships: Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Importance: 84 (%) Description: Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events: Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Importance: 84 (%) Description: Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates: Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Importance: 84 (%) Description: Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work: Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Importance: 82 (%) Description: Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People: Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Importance: 82 (%) Description: Processing Information: Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Importance: 81 (%) Description: Analyzing Data or Information: Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Importance: 80 (%) Description: Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others: Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Importance: 79 (%) Description: Documenting/Recording Information: Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Importance: 78 (%) Description: Coaching and Developing Others: Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Importance: 78 (%) Description: Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings: Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Importance: 78 (%) Description: Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others: Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Importance: 77 (%) Description: Monitoring and Controlling Resources: Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Importance: 77 (%) Description: Developing Objectives and Strategies: Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Importance: 76 (%) Description: Scheduling Work and Activities: Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Importance: 76 (%) Description: Developing and Building Teams: Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Importance: 76 (%) Description: Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge: Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others: Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Thinking Creatively: Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Staffing Organizational Units: Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
Importance: 73 (%) Description: Providing Consultation and Advice to Others: Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Importance: 72 (%) Description: Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards: Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Importance: 72 (%) Description: Selling or Influencing Others: Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
Importance: 71 (%) Description: Communicating with People Outside the Organization: Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Importance: 68 (%) Description: Training and Teaching Others: Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Importance: 68 (%) Description: Performing Administrative Activities: Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
Importance: 65 (%) Description: Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information: Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Importance: 60 (%) Description: Assisting and Caring for Others: Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Specific Work Activities

Important Specific Work Activities
How can you begin to build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation. Specific Work Activities appear below:
Analyze data to inform operational decisions or activities.
Analyze financial records to improve efficiency.
Conduct employee training programs.
Determine pricing or monetary policies.
Determine resource needs.
Develop marketing plans or strategies.
Develop organizational goals or objectives.
Develop organizational policies or programs.
Direct financial operations.
Direct organizational operations, projects, or services.
Direct sales, marketing, or customer service activities.
Hire personnel.
Implement organizational process or policy changes.
Manage construction activities.
Manage environmental sustainability projects.
Monitor performance of organizational members or partners.
Plan facility layouts or designs.
Prepare staff schedules or work assignments.
Provide basic information to guests, visitors, or clients.
Recommend organizational process or policy changes.
Knowledge Required

Knowledge Required (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 83 (%) Description: Administration and Management: Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Importance: 81 (%) Description: Customer and Personal Service: Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Importance: 73 (%) Description: English Language: Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Importance: 70 (%) Description: Production and Processing: Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Importance: 69 (%) Description: Mathematics: Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Importance: 67 (%) Description: Personnel and Human Resources: Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Importance: 63 (%) Description: Administrative: Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Importance: 63 (%) Description: Economics and Accounting: Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
Essential Skills

Essential Skills (in order of importance)
These are the foundational skills most central to success in this occupation. For the Top 5 most important, how can you begin building experience and confidence using these skills now?
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 66 (%) Description: Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Importance: 66 (%) Description: Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Importance: 66 (%) Description: Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Importance: 66 (%) Description: Monitoring: Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Importance: 64 (%) Description: Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Importance: 60 (%) Description: Active Learning: Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Importance: 58 (%) Description: Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Transferable Skills

Transferable Skills (in order of importance)
These are skills that can transfer across occupations and industries. For the Top 5 most important, how can you strengthen these skills now so they support both this career and future career flexibility?
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 64 (%) Description: Coordination: Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Importance: 62 (%) Description: Social Perceptiveness: Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Importance: 62 (%) Description: Management of Personnel Resources: Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
Importance: 60 (%) Description: Persuasion: Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
Importance: 60 (%) Description: Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Importance: 60 (%) Description: Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Importance: 60 (%) Description: Time Management: Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Importance: 58 (%) Description: Negotiation: Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
Importance: 54 (%) Description: Service Orientation: Actively looking for ways to help people.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Systems Analysis: Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Systems Evaluation: Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Management of Material Resources: Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
Day-in-the-Life Summaries

Day-in-the-Life Summaries
These summaries show the main types of activities you are likely to perform on a regular basis in this occupation. How can you imagine your typical workday — using these examples to see if this type of work fits you?
Activity: Advise others on business or operational matters.
Activity: Analyze business or financial data.
Activity: Analyze data to improve operations.
Activity: Assign work to others.
Activity: Design structures or facilities.
Activity: Determine resource needs of projects or operations.
Activity: Develop business or marketing plans.
Activity: Develop organizational or program goals or objectives.
Activity: Develop organizational policies, systems, or processes.
Activity: Direct construction or extraction activities.
Activity: Direct organizational operations, activities, or procedures.
Activity: Implement procedures or processes.
Activity: Manage budgets or finances.
Activity: Monitor individual behavior or performance.
Activity: Perform recruiting or hiring activities.
Activity: Provide information to guests, clients, or customers.
Activity: Train others on operational or work procedures.
Software Skills

Software Skills
These are examples of software tools commonly used in this occupation, organized from most to least important for your career preparation. How can you start learning or practicing the highest-priority tools so that you feel confident using them on the job?
High-Priority Tech Skills
Office suite software:
Microsoft Office software
Presentation software:
Microsoft PowerPoint
Spreadsheet software:
Microsoft Excel
Emerging Tech Skills
Accounting software:
Intuit QuickBooks
Analytical or scientific software:
IBM SPSS Statistics
SAS
The MathWorks MATLAB
Business intelligence and data analysis software:
Tableau
Cloud-based data access and sharing software:
Slack
Cloud-based management software:
Splunk Enterprise
Computer aided design CAD software:
Autodesk AutoCAD
Configuration management software:
Puppet
Content workflow software:
Atlassian JIRA
Customer relationship management CRM software:
Salesforce software
Data base management system software:
Apache Hadoop
Teradata Database
Data base user interface and query software (scroll table below):
Amazon Web Services AWS software
Microsoft Access
Microsoft SQL Server
Oracle Database
Structured query language SQL
Yardi software
Data mining software:
Google Analytics
Development environment software:
Microsoft Visual Basic
Microsoft Visual Basic for Applications VBA
Document management software:
Adobe Acrobat
Microsoft SharePoint
Electronic mail software:
Microsoft Outlook
Enterprise application integration software:
Extensible markup language XML
Enterprise resource planning ERP software:
Oracle PeopleSoft
SAP software
Graphics or photo imaging software:
Adobe Creative Cloud software
Adobe Photoshop
Internet browser software:
Mozilla Firefox
Object or component oriented development software:
R
Object oriented data base management software:
PostgreSQL
Operating system software:
Apple macOS
Microsoft Windows
Shell script
Process mapping and design software:
Microsoft Visio
Project management software:
Atlassian Confluence
Microsoft Project
Oracle Primavera Enterprise Project Portfolio Management
Sales and marketing software:
HubSpot software
Marketo Marketing Automation
Time accounting software:
Kronos Workforce Timekeeper
Web page creation and editing software:
Facebook
Word processing software:
Google Docs
Microsoft Word
General Software Tools
Access software:
Citrix cloud computing software
Accounting software:
Fund accounting software
Sage 50 Accounting
Tax software
Analytical or scientific software:
Minitab
StataCorp Stata
Backup or archival software:
Veritas NetBackup
Business intelligence and data analysis software:
IBM Cognos Impromptu
MicroStrategy
Oracle Business Intelligence Enterprise Edition
Qlik Tech QlikView
Cloud-based data access and sharing software:
Dropbox
Google Drive
Communications server software:
IBM Domino
Computer aided manufacturing CAM software:
CNC Mastercam
Siemens NX
Customer relationship management CRM software (scroll table below):
Act!
ActionWare
AMG Teleran SalesInSync
Avidian Technologies Prophet
Blackbaud The Raiser's Edge
HEAT Software GoldMine
Maximizer Software Maximizer Enterprise
NetSuite NetCRM
Oracle Eloqua
Salesforce.com Salesforce CRM
Software on Sailboats Desktop Sales Manager
Sugar CRM
Vanguard Software Vanguard Sales Manager
vtiger CRM
Data base reporting software:
SAP Crystal Reports
Data base user interface and query software (scroll table below):
Airtable
Blackboard software
Database software
FileMaker Pro
Savant MobileRanger
Data mining software:
Datawatch Monarch
Desktop communications software:
Eko
Desktop publishing software:
Microsoft Publisher
Electronic mail software:
IBM Notes
Microsoft Exchange
Mozilla Thunderbird
Enterprise application integration software:
IBM InfoSphere DataStage
Enterprise resource planning ERP software (scroll table below):
Deacom ERP
Microsoft Dynamics
Microsoft Dynamics GP
NetSuite ERP
Oracle Fusion Applications
Oracle Hyperion
Oracle JD Edwards EnterpriseOne
Oracle PeopleSoft Financials
SAP Business Objects
Enterprise system management software:
IBM Power Systems software
Facilities management software:
InnQuest Software roomMaster
Financial analysis software:
Delphi Technology
Oracle E-Business Suite Financials
Sage MAS 500
Geographic information system:
Geographic information system GIS software
Human resources software:
ADP Workforce Now
Human resource management software HRMS
Oracle Taleo
Personnel scheduling software
Industrial control software:
Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software
Information retrieval or search software:
LexisNexis
Instant messaging software:
GroupMe
Internet browser software:
Microsoft Internet Explorer
SeaMonkey
Materials requirements planning logistics and supply chain software:
LSA Visual Easy Lean
Medical software:
Dynamic Energy Systems MedAct
Medical condition coding software
Metadata management software:
Quest Erwin Data Modeler
Network monitoring software:
Nagios
Operating system software:
Job control language JCL
Oracle Solaris
Presentation software:
Apple Keynote
Google Slides
Project management software:
Realization Streamliner
Sales and marketing software:
Google Ads
Time accounting software:
Kronos Workforce Payroll
Payroll software
Transaction security and virus protection software:
McAfee
NortonLifeLock cybersecurity software
Transaction server software:
Customer information control system CICS
Video creation and editing software:
Apple Final Cut Pro
Flipgrid
Screencastify
YouTube
Web page creation and editing software:
LinkedIn
Microsoft FrontPage
Social media sites
Word processing software:
Evernote
Microsoft OneNote
Preparation Required
Preparation Required - How much preparation is needed to obtain this type of job?
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.
Education Required

Education Required - by frequency of educational attainment
This shows you details about the level of education most commonly held by workers in this occupation. How can you begin planning the educational pathway that will prepare you best for this type of work?
Frequency of Attainment (%) Level of Education
Frequency of Attainment: 28.8 (%) Level of Education: High School Diploma - or the equivalent (for example, GED)
Frequency of Attainment: 27.3 (%) Level of Education: Bachelor's Degree
Frequency of Attainment: 21.6 (%) Level of Education: Some College Courses
Frequency of Attainment: 10.4 (%) Level of Education: Less than a High School Diploma
Frequency of Attainment: 6.0 (%) Level of Education: Associate's Degree (or other 2-year degree)
Frequency of Attainment: 5.7 (%) Level of Education: Post-Secondary Certificate - awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in agriculture or natural resources, computer services, personal or culinary services, engineering technologies, healthcare, construction trades, mechanic and repair technologies, or precision production)
Frequency of Attainment: 0.2 (%) Level of Education: Master's Degree
Frequency of Attainment: 0.1 (%) Level of Education: Post-Baccalaureate Certificate - awarded for completion of an organized program of study; designed for people who have completed a Baccalaureate degree but do not meet the requirements of academic degrees carrying the title of Master.
Training and Experience Required

Training and Experience Required - by frequency of training and work experience attainment
This section shows you how often different types of training and work experience are required for this occupation. How can you start gaining the kinds of experience and training that are most common for this type of work?
Frequency of Attainment (%) Level of Training and Work Experience
Frequency of Attainment: 24.2 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 4 years, up to and including 6 years
Frequency of Attainment: 19.0 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years
Frequency of Attainment: 17.9 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 10 years
Frequency of Attainment: 15.3 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year
Frequency of Attainment: 10.4 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: None
Frequency of Attainment: 5.7 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 6 years, up to and including 8 years
Frequency of Attainment: 3.7 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years
Frequency of Attainment: 2.0 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months
Frequency of Attainment: 1.5 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Up to and including 1 month
Frequency of Attainment: 0.2 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months
Frequency of Attainment: 0.1 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 8 years, up to and including 10 years
Certifications
Certifications
These are examples of certifications that may be important for this occupation. How can you begin exploring which certifications fit your goals and what steps you would need to take to earn them?
Accredited Cruise Manager External Link
Associate Commissioning Professional External Link
Building Operators Certification - Level I External Link
Building Operators Certification - Level II External Link
Certification for Contracting Officer's Representatives Level I External Link
Certification for Contracting Officer's Representatives Level II External Link
Certification for Contracting Officer's Representatives Level III External Link
Certified Association Executive External Link
Certified Business Professional External Link
Certified Club Manager External Link
Certified Commercial Contracts Manager External Link
Certified Commissioning Firm External Link
Certified Commissioning Professional External Link
Certified Cost Technician External Link
Certified Design Firm Administrator External Link
Certified E-Commerce Consultant External Link
Certified Emergency Power Systems Specialist External Link
Certified Facility Manager External Link
Certified Franchise Executive External Link
Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) External Link
Certified Golf Course Superintendent External Link
Certified Hazard Recognition Specialist External Link
Certified Hospitality Facilities Executive External Link
Certified Hospitality Trainer External Link
Certified Human Resources Analyst External Link
Certified Innovation Leader External Link
Certified International Project Manager External Link
Certified Irrigation Contractor External Link
Certified Jail Manager External Link
Certified Leadership Consultant External Link
Certified Lodging Security Director External Link
Certified Mail and Distribution Systems Manager External Link
Certified Manager Certification External Link
Certified Manager of Community Associations External Link
Certified Park and Recreation Executive External Link
Certified Parking Professional External Link
Certified Professional in Industrial Stormwater Management External Link
Certified Professional in Municipal Stormwater Management External Link
Certified Professional Property Administrator External Link
Certified Professional Property Manager External Link
Certified Project Risk Manager External Link
Certified Project Risk Manager External Link
Certified Revenue Cycle Executive External Link
Certified Revenue Cycle Professional External Link
Certified Service Manager External Link
Certified Service Manager External Link
Certified Supervisor Certification External Link
Certified Turnaround Analyst External Link
Convenience Store Manager Certification External Link
Credit Union Business Development Professional External Link
CUNA Certified Credit Union Executive External Link
Energy Efficiency Management Certificate Program External Link
Executive Certification External Link
IBM Certified Infrastructure Deployment Professional - Maximo Asset Management V7.6 External Link
ITIL® 4 Foundation - Accredited External Link
KCS Foundation External Link
KCS Principles External Link
Key Account Certificate Program External Link
Manager of Landfill Operations External Link
Master Project Manager External Link
Master Project Manager External Link
Master Quality Manager External Link
Microsoft Certified: Dynamics 365 Finance Functional Consultant Associate External Link
Operations and Performance Management Professional External Link
Oracle Cost Management Cloud 2021 Certified Implementation Specialist Certification External Link
Oracle CPQ 2022 Implementation Professional External Link
Oracle Intelligent Advisor 2021 Certified Implementation Specialist Certification External Link
Project Manager Ebusiness External Link
Public Power Customer Service Manager External Link
Public Power Manager External Link
Registered Safety Director External Link
Resilience-Building Leadership Professional Coach External Link
Resilience-Building Leadership Professional Trainer External Link
SAP Certified Application Associate - SAP BusinessObjects Business Intelligence Platform 4.3 External Link
SAP Certified Development Specialist - ABAP for SAP HANA 2.0 External Link
Strategy Management Professional External Link
Strategy Planning Professional External Link
Job Listings
Job Listings and Similar Occupational Titles - scroll and click to identify common requirements, keywords, and skills in current job listings
General and Operations Managers
Area Manager
Boards and Commissions Director
Business Coordinator
Business Manager
Center Manager
Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)
Corporate Manager
Department Manager
Department Store General Manager (Dept Store GM)
Department Store Manager (Dept Store Manager)
District Commercial Superintendent
District Manager
District Plant Superintendent
District Traffic Chief
District Wire Chief
Division Toll Wire Chief
Division Traffic Superintendent
Drilling and Production Superintendent
Electrical Superintendent
Equipment Maintenance Superintendent
Field Party Manager
Fish and Game Club Manager
General Manager (GM)
General Superintendent
Golf and Operations Manager
Golf Course Manager
Gym Manager
Installation Superintendent
IO Manager (Industrial Organization Manager)
Laundry Superintendent
Line Construction Superintendent
Manufacturing Operations Manager
Mine Superintendent
Movie Theater Manager
Newspaper Manager
Nonprofit Manager
Office Manager
Offshoring Manager
Operational Risk Manager
Operations Director
Operations General Manager (Operations GM)
Operations Manager
Operations Supervisor
Park Superintendent
Parks and Recreation Manager
Plant Superintendent
Print Production Manager
Printing Manager
Prison Warden
Program Director
Program Manager
Public Works Director
Publication Director
Refinery Superintendent
Revenue Director
Revenue Manager
Roads Superintendent
Shelter Director
Shift Supervisor
Shop Superintendent
Site Operations Manager
Solid Waste Manager
Sports Team Manager
Store Director
Store Manager
Street Commissioner
Street Superintendent
Substation Superintendent
Theatre Manager
Training Manager
Venue Manager
Water and Sewer Systems Supervisor
Water Superintendent
Zoo Director

Step 4 of 4: Career-Specific Resources (detailed and constantly updated)

This section contains detailed resources appropriate to "General and Operations Managers". Explore these resources to start learning more. Links are constantly updated, so bookmark this page.

Videos

Here is a listing of videos related to this career. A great way to get a quick overview of the occupation.


Resumes

Here are resources that allow you to see example resumes for this occupation. It may be helpful to see examples from others who have this type of experience.


Job Description

Here are resources that provide job descriptions, which are vital for resume and interview preparation.


Interviews

There are many great resources that can help guide you through the interview process. These links provide help in preparing and performing an effective interview, specific to this occupation.


Salary Data

Here are links to help you identify salary ranges for this occupation. These data are necessary prior to effective salary negotiations.


Raises

Here are resources that help you to prepare to ask for a raise. These links will help you to prepare for the salary negotiation process.


Jobs

Here are resources that lead to links for actual jobs related to "General and Operations Managers". Use these links to find a job.


Jobs

Here are resources that lead to links for actual jobs related to "General and Operations Managers". Use these links to find a job.


Classifieds

There are various sources for job classified ads. These links should help get you started to find a job for this occupation.


Step-by-Step

Here are links to help guide you, step-by-step, to become a(n): General and Operations Managers


Career Change

Here are resources to help you prepare for a career change. It is helpful to look carefully at the information provided in Section 3: Career Change (detailed previously on this page) prior to using these links. There is much to learn ...


LinkedIn®

Here are links to various posts and groups from LinkedIn ® that relate to this occupation. Great way to start building professional contacts in the field that might be most appropriate for you.


Career Path

Here are links to various resources to help you explore the career path related to the "General and Operations Managers" occupation.






Developed by Dr. Ralph Jagodka, Ed.D., Professor Emeritus of Business Management at Mt. San Antonio College and author of the Harvard Business Impact article "What to Do When Students Ask You for Career Advice." - Full bio. © 2026 About This Page