Civilian workers

This profile provides an overview of job requirements for civilian 

workers in the U.S. economy. Civilian workers include private 

industry as well as state and local government workers.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make 

decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, verbal interactions were required constantly (every few 

minutes) for 27.3 percent of civilian workers, and were required not 

constantly, but more than once per hour for 51.2 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of civilian workers with cognitive and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 56.2 43.8

Interaction with general public 79.2 20.8

Working around crowds 3.1 96.9

Telework 11.4 88.6

Work review: Supervising others 16.7 83.3

Work review: Presence of supervisor 62.4 37.6

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, 

and experience 

requirements

The minimum level of 

formal education required, 

credentials necessary, onthe-job training, and prior 

work experience necessary 

for average performance 

in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 45.3 percent 

of civilian workers. Prior 

work experience was 

required for 47.5 percent 

and on-the-job training 

was required for 78.9 

percent.

No minimum education 

was required for 30.0 percent of civilian workers and a high school diploma was required for 40.1 percent.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards 

or difficulties that are in the vicinity of 

where jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, 94.5 percent of civilian workers 

were not exposed to extreme cold, and 

95.6 percent were not exposed to 

extreme heat. Wetness was not present 

for 66.8 percent, 97.9 percent were not 

exposed to heavy vibrations, and 67.0 

percent were not exposed to the 

outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities 

required to perform tasks in jobs. 

The presence and, in some cases, 

duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the 

shoulder was required for 75.9 

percent of civilian workers and was 

not required for 24.1 percent.

Performing work in low postures 

was required for 56.8 percent of 

civilian workers and was not 

required for 43.2 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when 

performing critical tasks was 

available to 42.3 percent of civilian 

workers. On average, workers spent 43.7 percent of the workday sitting and 56.3 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of civilian workers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 42.3 57.7

Driving 25.8 74.2

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 20.3 79.7

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Architecture and engineering workers

This occupational group includes architects, surveyors, 

cartographers, photogrammetrists, engineers, drafters, 

engineering technicians, electro-mechanical technicians, and 

mapping technicians.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make 

decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 92.4 

percent of architecture and engineering workers, and basic people 

skills were required for 7.6 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of architecture and engineering workers with cognitive and mental 

requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 95.1 4.9

Interaction with general public 62.1 37.9

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework 33.7 66.3

Work review: Supervising others 16.1 83.9

Work review: Presence of supervisor 66.4 33.6

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 40.1 percent of 

architecture and engineering 

workers. Prior work experience 

was required for 68.0 percent 

and on-the-job training was 

required for 71.4 percent.

A bachelor's degree was 

required for 69.5 percent of 

architecture and engineering 

workers.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete 

hazards or difficulties that are in the 

vicinity of where jobs’ critical tasks are 

performed.

In 2023, 99.2 percent of architecture 

and engineering workers were not 

exposed to extreme cold, and 97.8 

percent were not exposed to extreme 

heat. Wetness was not present for 94.5 

percent, 97.6 percent were not 

exposed to heavy vibrations, and 68.2 

percent were not exposed to the 

outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in 

some cases, duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 

greater than 99.5 percent of architecture 

and engineering workers and was not 

required for less than 0.5 percent. For less 

than 5 percent of workers, keyboarding 

was seldom performed, for 27.2 percent 

keyboarding occurred occasionally, 64.5 

percent frequently, and for 5.4 percent 

keyboarding occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 29.0 percent of architecture 

and engineering workers and was not 

required for 71.0 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 83.7 percent of architecture and engineering 

workers. On average, workers spent 73.6 percent of the workday sitting and 26.4 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of architecture and engineering workers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 83.7 16.3

Driving 31.6 68.4

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 22.8 77.2

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Civil engineers

Perform engineering duties in planning, designing, and overseeing 

construction and maintenance of building structures and facilities, such 

as roads, railroads, airports, bridges, harbors, channels, dams, irrigation 

projects, pipelines, power plants, and water and sewage systems. 

Includes architectural, structural, traffic, and geotechnical engineers.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, work was controlled by people for 37.7 percent of civil 

engineers, and work was self-paced for 55.8 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of civil engineers with cognitive and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control >95 <5

Interaction with general public 84.0 16.0

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework 36.2 63.8

Work review: Supervising others 32.5 67.5

Work review: Presence of supervisor 63.7 36.3

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience 

requirements

The minimum level of 

formal education required, 

credentials necessary, onthe-job training, and prior 

work experience necessary 

for average performance in 

jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 78.9 percent of 

civil engineers. Prior work 

experience was required for 

66.4 percent and on-the-job 

training was required for 

60.8 percent.

A bachelor's degree was 

required for greater than 99.5 percent of civil engineers.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where 

jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of civil 

engineers were not exposed to extreme cold, 

and greater than 90 percent were not exposed 

to extreme heat. Wetness was not present for 

91.5 percent, greater than 99.5 percent were 

not exposed to heavy vibrations, and 21.8 

percent were not exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required 

to perform tasks in jobs. The presence 

and, in some cases, duration of these 

activities are published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 

greater than 99.5 percent of civil 

engineers and was not required for less 

than 0.5 percent. For less than 0.5 

percent of workers, keyboarding was 

seldom performed, for 39.3 percent 

keyboarding occurred occasionally, 58.4 

percent frequently, and for less than 10 

percent keyboarding occurred 

constantly.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 34.1 percent of civil engineers and was not required for 65.9 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 82.5 percent of civil engineers. On average, 

workers spent 78.9 percent of the workday sitting and 21.1 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of civil engineers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 82.5 17.5

Driving 64.2 35.8

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 31.3 68.7

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Industrial engineers

Design, develop, test, and evaluate integrated systems for managing 

industrial production processes, including human work factors, quality 

control, inventory control, logistics and material flow, cost analysis, and 

production coordination.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 99.1 percent of 

industrial engineers, and basic people skills were required for 0.9 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of industrial engineers with cognitive and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control >85 <15

Interaction with general public 59.3 40.7

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework 11.9 88.1

Work review: Supervising others 12.0 88.0

Work review: Presence of supervisor 67.9 32.1

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, onthe-job training, and prior 

work experience necessary 

for average performance in 

jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 10.1 percent of 

industrial engineers. Prior 

work experience was 

required for 66.3 percent 

and on-the-job training was 

required for 77.4 percent.

A bachelor's degree was 

required for 94.9 percent of 

industrial engineers.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards 

or difficulties that are in the vicinity of 

where jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, 95.9 percent of industrial 

engineers were not exposed to extreme 

cold, and 98.3 percent were not exposed 

to extreme heat. Wetness was not 

present for 91.9 percent, greater than 

99.5 percent were not exposed to heavy 

vibrations, and 97.2 percent were not 

exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities 

required to perform tasks in jobs. 

The presence and, in some cases, 

duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required 

for greater than 99.5 percent of 

industrial engineers and was not 

required for less than 0.5 percent. 

For less than 0.5 percent of workers, 

keyboarding was seldom performed, 

for 32.3 percent keyboarding 

occurred occasionally, 63.7 percent 

frequently, and for 3.8 percent 

keyboarding occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures 

was required for 32.5 percent of industrial engineers and was not required for 67.5 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 84.0 percent of industrial engineers. On 

average, workers spent 68.5 percent of the workday sitting and 31.5 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of industrial engineers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 84.0 16.0

Driving 7.2 92.8

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 19.9 80.1

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Mechanical engineers

Perform engineering duties in planning and designing tools, engines, 

machines, and other mechanically functioning equipment. Oversee 

installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of equipment such as 

centralized heat, gas, water, and steam systems.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, work was controlled by people for 21.7 percent of mechanical 

engineers, and work was self-paced for 74.7 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of mechanical engineers with cognitive and mental requirements, 

2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 98.9 1.1

Interaction with general public 68.1 31.9

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework 26.0 74.0

Work review: Supervising others 8.8 91.2

Work review: Presence of supervisor 75.7 24.3

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 19.6 percent of 

mechanical engineers. Prior 

work experience was 

required for 54.7 percent and 

on-the-job training was 

required for 78.3 percent.

A bachelor's degree was 

required for 96.3 percent of 

mechanical engineers.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards 

or difficulties that are in the vicinity of 

where jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 95 percent of 

mechanical engineers were not exposed 

to extreme cold, and 99.4 percent were 

not exposed to extreme heat. Wetness 

was not present for 98.2 percent, greater 

than 75 percent were not exposed to 

heavy vibrations, and 91.4 percent were 

not exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in some 

cases, duration of these activities are published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for greater 

than 99.5 percent of mechanical engineers and 

was not required for less than 0.5 percent. For 

less than 0.5 percent of workers, keyboarding 

was seldom performed, for 23.7 percent 

keyboarding occurred occasionally, 75.9 percent 

frequently, and for less than 0.5 percent 

keyboarding occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was required for 

14.6 percent of mechanical engineers and was 

not required for 85.4 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 96.4 percent of mechanical engineers. On 

average, workers spent 80.5 percent of the workday sitting and 19.5 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of mechanical engineers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 96.4 3.6

Driving 18.9 81.1

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 33.8 66.2

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Arts, design, entertainment, sports, and media workers

This occupational group includes art directors, artists, fashion 

designers, actors, producers, directors, coaches, dancers, 

choreographers, musicians, singers, radio announcers, writers, editors, 

interpreters, sound engineering technicians, photographers, and film 

editors.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 85.2 percent of 

arts, design, entertainment, sports, and media workers, and basic people skills were required for 14.8 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of arts, design, entertainment, sports, and media workers with cognitive 

and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 74.3 25.7

Interaction with general public 81.7 18.3

Working around crowds 8.9 91.1

Telework 26.3 73.7

Work review: Supervising others 11.4 88.6

Work review: Presence of supervisor 56.9 43.1

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, onthe-job training, and prior 

work experience necessary 

for average performance in 

jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 35.8 percent of 

arts, design, entertainment, 

sports, and media workers. 

Prior work experience was 

required for 65.6 percent and 

on-the-job training was 

required for 68.7 percent.

A bachelor's degree was 

required for 42.9 percent of arts, design, entertainment, sports, and media workers.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where 

jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 95 percent of arts, 

design, entertainment, sports, and media 

workers were not exposed to extreme cold, 

and greater than 99.5 percent were not 

exposed to extreme heat. Wetness was not 

present for 91.2 percent, greater than 99.5 

percent were not exposed to heavy 

vibrations, and 72.3 percent were not 

exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in 

some cases, duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 88.5 

percent of arts, design, entertainment, 

sports, and media workers and was not 

required for 11.5 percent. For 5.2 percent of 

workers, keyboarding was seldom 

performed, for 34.9 percent keyboarding 

occurred occasionally, 44.9 percent 

frequently, and for 3.6 percent keyboarding 

occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 39.1 percent of arts, design, entertainment, sports, and media workers and was not required for 60.9 

percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 70.2 percent of arts, design, entertainment, 

sports, and media workers. On average, workers spent 67.3 percent of the workday sitting and 32.7 percent of the 

workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of arts, design, entertainment, sports, and media workers with physical 

demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 70.2 29.8

Driving 27.6 72.4

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 19.0 81.0

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Editors

Plan, coordinate, revise, or edit written material. May review proposals and 

drafts for possible publication.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, interact 

with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, work was controlled by people for 28.0 percent of editors, and work 

was self-paced for 63.1 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of editors with cognitive and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 97.5 2.5

Working around crowds 3.2 96.8

Telework 49.3 50.7

Work review: Supervising others 36.2 63.8

Work review: Presence of supervisor 61.1 38.9

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, 

training, and 

experience 

requirements

The minimum level 

of formal education 

required, 

credentials 

necessary, on-thejob training, and 

prior work 

experience 

necessary for 

average 

performance in 

jobs.

In 2023, credentials 

were required for 

10.3 percent of 

editors. Prior work 

experience was required for 84.1 percent and on-the-job training was required for 46.2 percent.

A bachelor's degree was required for 83.2 percent of editors.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards 

or difficulties that are in the vicinity of 

where jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

editors were not exposed to extreme cold, 

and greater than 99.5 percent were not 

exposed to extreme heat. Wetness was 

not present for greater than 99.5 percent, 

greater than 99.5 percent were not 

exposed to heavy vibrations, and 95.1 

percent were not exposed to the 

outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required 

to perform tasks in jobs. The presence 

and, in some cases, duration of these 

activities are published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 

greater than 99.5 percent of editors and 

was not required for less than 0.5 

percent. For less than 0.5 percent of 

workers, keyboarding was seldom 

performed, for 11.7 percent 

keyboarding occurred occasionally, 76.7 

percent frequently, and for 11.6 percent 

keyboarding occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 2.6 percent of editors and 

was not required for 97.4 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 98.2 percent of editors. On average, workers 

spent 91.5 percent of the workday sitting and 8.5 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of editors with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 98.2 1.8

Driving 10.3 89.7

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 5.9 94.1

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Building and grounds cleaning and maintenance 

workers

This occupational group includes janitors, maids and 

housekeeping cleaners, pest control, landscaping, pesticide 

handlers, tree trimmers, and grounds maintenance workers.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make 

decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 12.8 

percent of building and grounds cleaning and maintenance 

workers, and basic people skills were required for 87.2 

percent.

Table 1. Percentage of building and grounds cleaning and maintenance workers with cognitive 

and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 73.7 26.3

Interaction with general public 55.3 44.7

Working around crowds 2.3 97.7

Telework <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Supervising others 8.9 91.1

Work review: Presence of supervisor 44.7 55.3

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, credentials 

necessary, on-the-job training, 

and prior work experience 

necessary for average 

performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 28.3 percent of 

building and grounds cleaning 

and maintenance workers. Prior 

work experience was required 

for 20.7 percent and on-the-job 

training was required for 90.6 

percent.

No minimum education was 

required for 68.7 percent of 

building and grounds cleaning and maintenance workers and a high school diploma was required for 30.0 percent.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards 

or difficulties that are in the vicinity of 

where jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

building and grounds cleaning and 

maintenance workers were not exposed 

to extreme cold, and 98.8 percent were 

not exposed to extreme heat. Wetness 

was not present for 22.6 percent, 92.8 

percent were not exposed to heavy 

vibrations, and 26.2 percent were not 

exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in 

some cases, duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the shoulder 

was required for 98.0 percent of building and 

grounds cleaning and maintenance workers 

and was not required for 2.0 percent. For 7.4 

percent of workers, reaching at or below the 

shoulder was seldom performed, for 54.3 

percent reaching at or below the shoulder 

occurred occasionally, 33.1 percent 

frequently, and for 3.2 percent reaching at or 

below the shoulder occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was required for 97.8 percent of building and grounds cleaning and maintenance 

workers and was not required for 2.2 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 7.7 percent of building and grounds cleaning 

and maintenance workers. On average, workers spent 11.8 percent of the workday sitting and 88.2 percent of the 

workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of building and grounds cleaning and maintenance workers with physical 

demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 7.7 92.3

Driving 37.4 62.6

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 38.1 61.9

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Maids and housekeeping cleaners

Perform any combination of light cleaning duties to maintain private households or 

commercial establishments, such as hotels and hospitals, in a clean and orderly manner. 

Duties may include making beds, replenishing linens, cleaning rooms and halls, and 

vacuuming.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, interact with others, 

and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 2.3 percent of maids and 

housekeeping cleaners, and basic people skills were required for 97.7 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of maids and housekeeping cleaners with cognitive and mental 

requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 75.2 24.8

Interaction with general public 73.7 26.3

Working around crowds <5 >95

Telework <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Supervising others 1.7 98.3

Work review: Presence of supervisor 41.9 58.1

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 7.1 percent of 

maids and housekeeping 

cleaners. Prior work 

experience was required for 

7.2 percent and on-the-job 

training was required for 98.0 

percent.

No minimum education was 

required for 69.6 percent of 

maids and housekeeping 

cleaners and a high school 

diploma was required for 30.4 percent.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where 

jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of maids 

and housekeeping cleaners were not 

exposed to extreme cold, and greater than 

99.5 percent were not exposed to extreme 

heat. Wetness was not present for 17.7 

percent, greater than 99.5 percent were 

not exposed to heavy vibrations, and 63.8 

percent were not exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in some 

cases, duration of these activities are published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the shoulder was 

required for 98.8 percent of maids and 

housekeeping cleaners and was not required for 

1.2 percent. For 6.4 percent of workers, reaching 

at or below the shoulder was seldom performed, 

for 52.7 percent reaching at or below the 

shoulder occurred occasionally, 35.5 percent 

frequently, and for 4.2 percent reaching at or 

below the shoulder occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was required 

for greater than 99.5 percent of maids and 

housekeeping cleaners and was not required for less than 0.5 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 2.4 percent of maids and housekeeping 

cleaners. On average, workers spent 4.3 percent of the workday sitting and 95.7 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of maids and housekeeping cleaners with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 2.4 97.6

Driving 7.2 92.8

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 32.7 67.3

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Business and financial operations workers

This occupational group includes purchasing agents, compliance 

officers, human resource workers, logisticians, fundraisers, market 

research analysts, accountants, auditors, credit counselors, and tax 

examiners.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make 

decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 98.1 

percent of business and financial operations workers, and basic 

people skills were required for 1.9 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of business and financial operations workers with cognitive and mental 

requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 97.0 3.0

Interaction with general public 83.0 17.0

Working around crowds 1.4 98.6

Telework 45.9 54.1

Work review: Supervising others 18.2 81.8

Work review: Presence of supervisor 58.8 41.2

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 29.9 percent of 

business and financial 

operations workers. Prior 

work experience was 

required for 82.7 percent and 

on-the-job training was 

required for 69.4 percent.

A bachelor's degree was 

required for 69.9 percent of 

business and financial operations workers.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards 

or difficulties that are in the vicinity of 

where jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

business and financial operations 

workers were not exposed to extreme 

cold, and greater than 99.5 percent were 

not exposed to extreme heat. Wetness 

was not present for 98.9 percent, greater 

than 99.5 percent were not exposed to 

heavy vibrations, and 90.9 percent were 

not exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required 

to perform tasks in jobs. The presence 

and, in some cases, duration of these 

activities are published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 

greater than 99.5 percent of business 

and financial operations workers and 

was not required for less than 0.5 

percent. For less than 0.5 percent of 

workers, keyboarding was seldom 

performed, for 23.5 percent 

keyboarding occurred occasionally, 

73.2 percent frequently, and for 3.2 

percent keyboarding occurred 

constantly.

Performing work in low postures was required for 10.0 percent of business and financial operations workers and was not 

required for 90.0 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 95.3 percent of business and financial 

operations workers. On average, workers spent 86.8 percent of the workday sitting and 13.2 percent of the workday 

standing.

Table 2. Percentage of business and financial operations workers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 95.3 4.7

Driving 20.0 80.0

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 10.8 89.2

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Accountants and auditors

Examine, analyze, and interpret accounting records to prepare 

financial statements, give advice, or audit and evaluate 

statements prepared by others. Install or advise on systems of 

recording costs or other financial and budgetary data.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make 

decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 95.2 

percent of accountants and auditors, and basic people skills 

were required for 4.8 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of accountants and auditors with cognitive and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control >99.5 <0.5

Interaction with general public 79.2 20.8

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework 51.1 48.9

Work review: Supervising others 17.5 82.5

Work review: Presence of supervisor 71.1 28.9

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, onthe-job training, and prior 

work experience necessary 

for average performance in 

jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 29.4 percent of 

accountants and auditors. 

Prior work experience was 

required for 75.9 percent and 

on-the-job training was 

required for 70.4 percent.

A bachelor's degree was 

required for 93.1 percent of 

accountants and auditors.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where 

jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

accountants and auditors were not exposed 

to extreme cold, and greater than 99.5 

percent were not exposed to extreme heat. 

Wetness was not present for greater than 

99.5 percent, greater than 99.5 percent 

were not exposed to heavy vibrations, and 

99.2 percent were not exposed to the 

outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, 

in some cases, duration of these activities 

are published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 

greater than 99.5 percent of accountants 

and auditors and was not required for less 

than 0.5 percent. For less than 0.5 

percent of workers, keyboarding was 

seldom performed, for 13.4 percent 

keyboarding occurred occasionally, 80.2 

percent frequently, and for 6.4 percent 

keyboarding occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 11.0 percent of accountants 

and auditors and was not required for 89.0 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to greater than 99.5 percent of accountants and 

auditors. On average, workers spent 91.8 percent of the workday sitting and 8.2 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of accountants and auditors with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing >99.5 <0.5

Driving 14.7 85.3

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 8.4 91.6

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Human resources specialists

Recruit, screen, interview, or place individuals within an organization. 

May perform other activities in multiple human resources areas.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, verbal interactions were required constantly (every few minutes) 

for less than 15 percent of human resources specialists, and were required not constantly, but more than once per hour 

for 78.9 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of human resources specialists with cognitive and mental requirements, 

2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 95.7 4.3

Interaction with general public 90.7 9.3

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework 36.9 63.1

Work review: Supervising others 15.8 84.2

Work review: Presence of supervisor 59.1 40.9

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, 

and experience 

requirements

The minimum level of 

formal education required, 

credentials necessary, onthe-job training, and prior 

work experience necessary 

for average performance 

in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 16.1 percent 

of human resources 

specialists. Prior work 

experience was required 

for 88.6 percent and onthe-job training was 

required for 77.3 percent.

A high school diploma was 

required for 34.3 percent of human resources specialists and a bachelor's degree was required for 56.9 percent.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where 

jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of human 

resources specialists were not exposed to 

extreme cold, and greater than 99.5 percent 

were not exposed to extreme heat. Wetness 

was not present for 99.1 percent, greater than 

99.5 percent were not exposed to heavy 

vibrations, and 98.4 percent were not exposed 

to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities 

required to perform tasks in jobs. The 

presence and, in some cases, duration 

of these activities are published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 

greater than 99.5 percent of human 

resources specialists and was not 

required for less than 0.5 percent. For 

less than 0.5 percent of workers, 

keyboarding was seldom performed, 

for 19.3 percent keyboarding occurred 

occasionally, 78.6 percent frequently, 

and for 1.7 percent keyboarding 

occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 5.3 percent of human resources specialists and was not required for 94.7 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 98.9 percent of human resources specialists. 

On average, workers spent 89.5 percent of the workday sitting and 10.5 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of human resources specialists with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 98.9 1.1

Driving 11.0 89.0

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 9.9 90.1

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Meeting, convention, and event planners

Coordinate activities of staff, convention personnel, or clients to make 

arrangements for group meetings, events, or conventions.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, verbal interactions were required constantly (every few minutes) 

for 14.6 percent of meeting, convention, and event planners, and were 

required not constantly, but more than once per hour for 71.1 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of meeting, convention, and event planners with cognitive and 

mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 95.3 4.7

Interaction with general public >99.5 <0.5

Working around crowds 32.7 67.3

Telework 33.7 66.3

Work review: Supervising others 29.1 70.9

Work review: Presence of supervisor 59.9 40.1

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 44.0 percent of 

meeting, convention, and 

event planners. Prior work 

experience was required for 

84.3 percent and on-the-job 

training was required for 70.7 

percent.

A high school diploma was 

required for 34.5 percent of 

meeting, convention, and 

event planners and a 

bachelor's degree was required for 56.9 percent.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete 

hazards or difficulties that are in the 

vicinity of where jobs’ critical tasks are 

performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

meeting, convention, and event 

planners were not exposed to extreme 

cold, and greater than 99.5 percent 

were not exposed to extreme heat. 

Wetness was not present for 99.3 

percent, greater than 99.5 percent were 

not exposed to heavy vibrations, and 

48.9 percent were not exposed to the 

outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in 

some cases, duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for greater 

than 99.5 percent of meeting, convention, and 

event planners and was not required for less 

than 0.5 percent.

Performing work in low postures was required 

for 37.5 percent of meeting, convention, and 

event planners and was not required for 62.5 

percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing 

critical tasks was available to 64.0 percent of 

meeting, convention, and event planners. On average, workers spent 68.1 percent of the workday sitting and 31.9 

percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of meeting, convention, and event planners with physical demands, 

2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 64.0 36.0

Driving 39.2 60.8

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 17.2 82.8

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Community and social service workers

This occupational group includes counselors, social workers, health 

educators, probation officers, correctional treatment specialists, 

community health workers, clergy, and directors of religious 

activities.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make 

decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 98.4 

percent of community and social service workers, and basic people 

skills were required for 1.6 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of community and social service workers with cognitive and mental 

requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 80.3 19.7

Interaction with general public >99.5 <0.5

Working around crowds 2.9 97.1

Telework 18.0 82.0

Work review: Supervising others 12.0 88.0

Work review: Presence of supervisor 40.1 59.9

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 74.6 percent of 

community and social service 

workers. Prior work 

experience was required for 

63.1 percent and on-the-job 

training was required for 68.0 

percent.

A bachelor's degree was 

required for 40.9 percent of 

community and social service workers and a master's degree was required for 34.6 percent.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete 

hazards or difficulties that are in the 

vicinity of where jobs’ critical tasks are 

performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

community and social service workers 

were not exposed to extreme cold, and 

greater than 99.5 percent were not 

exposed to extreme heat. Wetness was 

not present for 86.6 percent, greater 

than 99.5 percent were not exposed to 

heavy vibrations, and 75.8 percent 

were not exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities 

required to perform tasks in jobs. The 

presence and, in some cases, duration 

of these activities are published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 

98.2 percent of community and social 

service workers and was not required 

for 1.8 percent. For 1.6 percent of 

workers, keyboarding was seldom 

performed, for 56.2 percent 

keyboarding occurred occasionally, 

39.9 percent frequently, and for 0.6 

percent keyboarding occurred 

constantly.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 26.2 percent of 

community and social service workers and was not required for 73.8 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 82.3 percent of community and social service 

workers. On average, workers spent 70.4 percent of the workday sitting and 29.6 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of community and social service workers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 82.3 17.7

Driving 48.0 52.0

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 32.3 67.7

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Community health workers

Promote health within a community by assisting individuals to adopt 

healthy behaviors. Serve as an advocate for the health needs of individuals 

by assisting community residents in effectively communicating with 

healthcare providers or social service agencies. Act as liaison or advocate 

and implement programs that promote, maintain, and improve individual 

and overall community health. May deliver health-related preventive 

services such as blood pressure, glaucoma, and hearing screenings. May 

collect data to help identify community health needs.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in 

jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for greater than 90 percent of community health workers, and basic 

people skills were required for less than 10 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of community health workers with cognitive and mental requirements, 

2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 88.1 11.9

Interaction with general public >99.5 <0.5

Working around crowds 3.6 96.4

Telework 26.9 73.1

Work review: Supervising others 4.6 95.4

Work review: Presence of supervisor 18.0 82.0

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 83.2 percent of 

community health workers. 

Prior work experience was 

required for 71.9 percent and 

on-the-job training was 

required for 69.2 percent.

A high school diploma was 

required for 52.3 percent of 

community health workers.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete 

hazards or difficulties that are in the 

vicinity of where jobs’ critical tasks 

are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

community health workers were not 

exposed to extreme cold, and greater 

than 99.5 percent were not exposed 

to extreme heat. Wetness was not 

present for 88.7 percent, greater than 

99.5 percent were not exposed to 

heavy vibrations, and 64.2 percent 

were not exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities 

required to perform tasks in 

jobs. The presence and, in 

some cases, duration of these 

activities are published.

In 2023, keyboarding was 

required for greater than 99.5 

percent of community health 

workers and was not required 

for less than 0.5 percent.

Performing work in low 

postures was required for 34.4 

percent of community health 

workers and was not required 

for 65.6 percent.

The choice to sit or stand 

when performing critical tasks 

was available to 91.0 percent of community health workers.

Table 2. Percentage of community health workers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 91.0 9.0

Driving 71.7 28.3

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 21.4 78.6

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Mental health and substance abuse social workers

Assess and treat individuals with mental, emotional, or substance abuse 

problems, including abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and/or other drugs. 

Activities may include individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, 

case management, client advocacy, prevention, and education.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, verbal interactions were required constantly (every few minutes) 

for 43.5 percent of mental health and substance abuse social workers, and were required not constantly, but more than 

once per hour for 55.6 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of mental health and substance abuse social workers with 

cognitive and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 60.7 39.3

Interaction with general public >99.5 <0.5

Working around crowds <5 >95

Telework 14.8 85.2

Work review: Supervising others 12.8 87.2

Work review: Presence of supervisor 33.6 66.4

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 94.3 percent of 

mental health and substance 

abuse social workers. Prior 

work experience was 

required for 76.5 percent and 

on-the-job training was 

required for 69.2 percent.

A master's degree was 

required for 62.8 percent of 

mental health and substance 

abuse social workers.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards 

or difficulties that are in the vicinity of 

where jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

mental health and substance abuse 

social workers were not exposed to 

extreme cold, and greater than 99.5 

percent were not exposed to extreme 

heat. Wetness was not present for 70.8 

percent, greater than 99.5 percent were 

not exposed to heavy vibrations, and 

87.9 percent were not exposed to the 

outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in 

some cases, duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for greater 

than 99.5 percent of mental health and 

substance abuse social workers and was not 

required for less than 0.5 percent. For less than 

0.5 percent of workers, keyboarding was 

seldom performed, for 64.9 percent 

keyboarding occurred occasionally, 35.1 

percent frequently, and for less than 0.5 

percent keyboarding occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was required 

for 17.5 percent of mental health and 

substance abuse social workers and was not 

required for 82.5 percent.

On average, mental health and substance abuse social workers spent 66.8 percent of the workday sitting and 33.2 

percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of mental health and substance abuse social workers with physical 

demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 41.7 58.3

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Mental health counselors

Counsel and advise individuals and groups to promote optimum mental and 

emotional health, with an emphasis on prevention. May help individuals 

deal with a broad range of mental health issues, such as those associated 

with addictions and substance abuse; family, parenting, and marital 

problems; stress management; self-esteem; or aging.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, verbal interactions were required constantly (every few minutes) for 31.6 percent of mental health counselors, 

and were required not constantly, but more than once per hour for 44.5 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of mental health counselors with cognitive and mental 

requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 72.4 27.6

Interaction with general public >99.5 <0.5

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework 23.6 76.4

Work review: Supervising others 10.1 89.9

Work review: Presence of supervisor 20.5 79.5

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 84.2 percent of 

mental health counselors. 

Prior work experience was 

required for 34.4 percent and 

on-the-job training was 

required for 77.6 percent.

A master's degree was 

required for 85.0 percent of 

mental health counselors.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where jobs’ 

critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of mental health 

counselors were not exposed to extreme cold, and 

greater than 99.5 percent were not exposed to 

extreme heat. Wetness was not present for greater 

than 90 percent, greater than 99.5 percent were not 

exposed to heavy vibrations, and 89.7 percent were 

not exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in 

some cases, duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for greater 

than 99.5 percent of mental health counselors 

and was not required for less than 0.5 percent. 

For less than 0.5 percent of workers, 

keyboarding was seldom performed, for 76.0 

percent keyboarding occurred occasionally, 

24.0 percent frequently, and for less than 0.5 

percent keyboarding occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was required 

for 12.2 percent of mental health counselors 

and was not required for 87.8 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 88.7 percent of mental health counselors. On 

average, workers spent 85.3 percent of the workday sitting and 14.7 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of mental health counselors with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 88.7 11.3

Driving 32.7 67.3

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 16.5 83.5

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Computer and mathematical workers

This occupational group includes computer and information 

analysts, software developers and programmers, database 

and systems administrators, computer support specialists, 

actuaries, mathematicians, statisticians, operations research 

analysts, and mathematical technicians.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make 

decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 96.1 

percent of computer and mathematical workers, and basic 

people skills were required for 3.9 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of computer and mathematical workers with cognitive and mental 

requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 96.0 4.0

Interaction with general public 52.7 47.3

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework 53.5 46.5

Work review: Supervising others 12.5 87.5

Work review: Presence of supervisor 52.5 47.5

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, credentials 

necessary, on-the-job training, 

and prior work experience 

necessary for average 

performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 15.2 percent of 

computer and mathematical 

workers. Prior work experience 

was required for 82.9 percent 

and on-the-job training was 

required for 62.1 percent.

A bachelor's degree was 

required for 65.5 percent of 

computer and mathematical 

workers.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where 

jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of computer 

and mathematical workers were not exposed 

to extreme cold, and greater than 99.5 percent 

were not exposed to extreme heat. Wetness 

was not present for greater than 99.5 percent, 

greater than 99.5 percent were not exposed to 

heavy vibrations, and 98.4 percent were not 

exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required 

to perform tasks in jobs. The presence 

and, in some cases, duration of these 

activities are published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 

greater than 99.5 percent of computer 

and mathematical workers and was not 

required for less than 0.5 percent. For 

less than 0.5 percent of workers, 

keyboarding was seldom performed, for 

8.1 percent keyboarding occurred 

occasionally, 71.7 percent frequently, 

and for 20.1 percent keyboarding 

occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 19.9 percent of computer and mathematical workers and was not required for 80.1 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 93.0 percent of computer and mathematical 

workers. On average, workers spent 88.9 percent of the workday sitting and 11.1 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of computer and mathematical workers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 93.0 7.0

Driving 8.5 91.5

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 5.3 94.7

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Computer user support specialists

Provide technical assistance to computer users. Answer questions or resolve 

computer problems for clients in person, via telephone, or electronically. May 

provide assistance concerning the use of computer hardware and software, 

including printing, installation, word processing, electronic mail, and operating 

systems.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in 

jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 94.8 percent of computer user support specialists, and basic 

people skills were required for 5.2 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of computer user support specialists with cognitive and mental 

requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 84.1 15.9

Interaction with general public 65.5 34.5

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework 36.9 63.1

Work review: Supervising others 2.6 97.4

Work review: Presence of supervisor 56.6 43.4

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, credentials 

necessary, on-the-job training, 

and prior work experience 

necessary for average 

performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were required 

for 29.7 percent of computer user 

support specialists. Prior work 

experience was required for 70.2 

percent and on-the-job training 

was required for 80.9 percent.

A high school diploma was 

required for 44.5 percent of 

computer user support specialists.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards 

or difficulties that are in the vicinity of 

where jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

computer user support specialists were 

not exposed to extreme cold, and greater 

than 99.5 percent were not exposed to 

extreme heat. Wetness was not present 

for greater than 99.5 percent, greater than 

99.5 percent were not exposed to heavy 

vibrations, and 97.3 percent were not 

exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities 

required to perform tasks in jobs. 

The presence and, in some cases, 

duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required 

for greater than 99.5 percent of 

computer user support specialists 

and was not required for less than 

0.5 percent. For less than 0.5 

percent of workers, keyboarding 

was seldom performed, for 15.6 

percent keyboarding occurred 

occasionally, 72.6 percent 

frequently, and for 11.8 percent 

keyboarding occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was required for 50.4 percent of computer user support specialists and was not 

required for 49.6 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 78.4 percent of computer user support 

specialists. On average, workers spent 81.8 percent of the workday sitting and 18.2 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of computer user support specialists with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 78.4 21.6

Driving 21.9 78.1

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 13.4 86.6

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Construction and extraction workers

This occupational group includes carpenters, laborers, equipment 

operators, electricians, roofers, elevator installers and repairers, 

earth drillers, mining machine operators, and carpet, floor, and tile 

installers and finishers.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make 

decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, work was reviewed by a supervisor more than once per day 

for 49.9 percent of construction and extraction workers, and once 

per day for 27.9 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of construction and extraction workers with cognitive and mental 

requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 61.5 38.5

Interaction with general public 47.8 52.2

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Supervising others 19.1 80.9

Work review: Presence of supervisor 65.3 34.7

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 61.3 percent of 

construction and extraction 

workers. Prior work 

experience was required for 

51.3 percent and on-the-job 

training was required for 64.4 

percent.

No minimum education was 

required for 49.6 percent of 

construction and extraction workers and a high school diploma was required for 47.1 percent.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where 

jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, 99.0 percent of construction and 

extraction workers were not exposed to 

extreme cold, and 93.8 percent were not 

exposed to extreme heat. Wetness was not 

present for 58.8 percent, 77.9 percent 

were not exposed to heavy vibrations, and 

7.6 percent were not exposed to the 

outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities 

required to perform tasks in jobs. 

The presence and, in some cases, 

duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the 

shoulder was required for 95.5 

percent of construction and 

extraction workers and was not 

required for 4.5 percent.

Performing work in low postures 

was required for 94.1 percent of 

construction and extraction 

workers and was not required for 

5.9 percent. For 30.5 percent of 

workers, crouching was required 

to perform low work, and 34.2 percent were required to stoop.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 11.9 percent of construction and extraction 

workers. On average, workers spent 18.5 percent of the workday sitting and 81.5 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of construction and extraction workers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 11.9 88.1

Driving 53.3 46.7

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 58.8 41.2

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Construction laborers

Perform tasks involving physical labor at construction sites. May 

operate hand and power tools of all types: air hammers, earth tampers, 

cement mixers, small mechanical hoists, surveying and measuring 

equipment, and a variety of other equipment and instruments. May 

clean and prepare sites, dig trenches, set braces to support the sides of 

excavations, erect scaffolding, and clean up rubble, debris, and other 

waste materials. May assist other craft workers. 

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 8.5 percent of construction laborers, and basic people skills 

were required for 91.5 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of construction laborers with cognitive and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 44.7 55.3

Interaction with general public 28.0 72.0

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Supervising others 2.2 97.8

Work review: Presence of supervisor 85.8 14.2

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 39.1 percent of 

construction laborers. Prior 

work experience was 

required for 29.4 percent and 

on-the-job training was 

required for 82.1 percent.

No minimum education was 

required for 70.0 percent of 

construction laborers and a 

high school diploma was required for 30.0 percent.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where 

jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

construction laborers were not exposed to 

extreme cold, and 94.4 percent were not 

exposed to extreme heat. Wetness was not 

present for 52.3 percent, 63.9 percent were 

not exposed to heavy vibrations, and less than 

0.5 percent were not exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required 

to perform tasks in jobs. The presence 

and, in some cases, duration of these 

activities are published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the 

shoulder was required for greater than 

99.5 percent of construction laborers 

and was not required for less than 0.5 

percent. For 2.5 percent of workers, 

reaching at or below the shoulder was 

seldom performed, for 57.9 percent 

reaching at or below the shoulder 

occurred occasionally, 38.1 percent 

frequently, and for less than 5 percent 

reaching at or below the shoulder 

occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was required for 98.5 percent of construction laborers and was not required for 1.5 

percent. For 35.1 percent of workers, crouching was required to perform low work, 35.1 percent were required to 

crouch, 32.6 percent required kneeling, and stooping was required for 39.9 percent.

On average, construction laborers spent 7.5 percent of the workday sitting and 92.5 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of construction laborers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing <0.5 >99.5

Driving 34.9 65.1

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 45.8 54.2

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Educational instruction and library workers

This occupational group includes postsecondary teachers, preschool 

teachers, primary school teachers, middle school teachers, selfenrichment education teachers, special education school teachers, 

librarians, curators, archivists, home management advisors, instructional 

coordinators, and teacher assistants.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 97.2 percent of 

educational instruction and library workers, and basic people skills were required for 2.8 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of educational instruction and library workers with cognitive and mental 

requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 38.9 61.1

Interaction with general public 98.7 1.3

Working around crowds 5.7 94.3

Telework 4.7 95.3

Work review: Supervising others 9.7 90.3

Work review: Presence of supervisor 38.2 61.8

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 71.6 percent of 

educational instruction and 

library workers. Prior work 

experience was required for 

26.7 percent and on-the-job 

training was required for 43.5 

percent.

A bachelor's degree was 

required for 59.4 percent of 

educational instruction and library workers.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where jobs’ 

critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

educational instruction and library workers were 

not exposed to extreme cold, and greater than 

99.5 percent were not exposed to extreme heat. 

Wetness was not present for 82.4 percent, 

greater than 99.5 percent were not exposed to 

heavy vibrations, and 57.1 percent were not 

exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, 

in some cases, duration of these activities 

are published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 

94.3 percent of educational instruction 

and library workers and was not required 

for 5.7 percent. For 9.7 percent of 

workers, keyboarding was seldom 

performed, for 72.1 percent keyboarding 

occurred occasionally, 12.4 percent 

frequently, and for less than 0.5 percent 

keyboarding occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 54.7 percent of educational 

instruction and library workers and was not required for 45.3 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 66.2 percent of educational instruction and 

library workers. On average, workers spent 39.8 percent of the workday sitting and 60.2 percent of the workday 

standing.

Table 2. Percentage of educational instruction and library workers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 66.2 33.8

Driving 3.6 96.4

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 18.1 81.9

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Librarians and media collections specialists

Administer and maintain libraries or collections of information, for public or 

private access through reference or borrowing. Work in a variety of settings, such 

as educational institutions, museums, and corporations, and with various types 

of informational materials, such as books, periodicals, recordings, films, and 

databases. Tasks may include acquiring, cataloging, and circulating library 

materials, and user services such as locating and organizing information, 

providing instruction on how to access information, and setting up and operating 

a library's media equipment.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in 

jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for greater than 95 percent of librarians and media collections 

specialists, and basic people skills were required for less than 5 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of librarians and media collections specialists with cognitive and 

mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 76.2 23.8

Interaction with general public >99.5 <0.5

Working around crowds 4.1 95.9

Telework 3.1 96.9

Work review: Supervising others 41.2 58.8

Work review: Presence of supervisor 51.4 48.6

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 29.2 percent of 

librarians and media 

collections specialists. Prior 

work experience was 

required for 66.8 percent and 

on-the-job training was 

required for 54.9 percent.

A master's degree was 

required for 67.0 percent of 

librarians and media 

collections specialists.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where 

jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of librarians 

and media collections specialists were not 

exposed to extreme cold, and greater than 

99.5 percent were not exposed to extreme 

heat. Wetness was not present for greater 

than 99.5 percent, greater than 99.5 percent 

were not exposed to heavy vibrations, and 

94.5 percent were not exposed to the 

outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in 

some cases, duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 

greater than 99.5 percent of librarians and 

media collections specialists and was not 

required for less than 0.5 percent. For less 

than 5 percent of workers, keyboarding was 

seldom performed, for 51.0 percent 

keyboarding occurred occasionally, 46.5 

percent frequently, and for 1.2 percent 

keyboarding occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 66.8 percent of librarians and 

media collections specialists and was not required for 33.2 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 76.2 percent of librarians and media collections 

specialists. On average, workers spent 58.7 percent of the workday sitting and 41.3 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of librarians and media collections specialists with physical 

demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 76.2 23.8

Driving 7.2 92.8

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 17.3 82.7

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Library technicians

Assist librarians by helping readers in the use of library catalogs, databases, and indexes to 

locate books and other materials; and by answering questions that require only brief 

consultation of standard reference. Compile records; sort and shelve books or other media; 

remove or repair damaged books or other media; register patrons; and check materials in 

and out of the circulation process. Replace materials in shelving area (stacks) or files. 

Includes bookmobile drivers who assist with providing services in mobile libraries.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, interact with others, 

and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 85.8 percent of library technicians, 

and basic people skills were required for 14.2 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of library technicians with cognitive and mental requirements, 

2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 74.9 25.1

Interaction with general public 96.3 3.7

Working around crowds 2.6 97.4

Telework <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Supervising others 12.1 87.9

Work review: Presence of supervisor 72.9 27.1

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 11.2 percent of 

library technicians. Prior work 

experience was required for 

78.5 percent and on-the-job 

training was required for 81.9 

percent.

A high school diploma was 

required for 66.7 percent of 

library technicians.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where jobs’ 

critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of library 

technicians were not exposed to extreme cold, 

and greater than 99.5 percent were not exposed 

to extreme heat. Wetness was not present for 

greater than 99.5 percent, greater than 99.5 

percent were not exposed to heavy vibrations, 

and 77.5 percent were not exposed to the 

outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in 

some cases, duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 

greater than 99.5 percent of library 

technicians and was not required for less 

than 0.5 percent. For less than 0.5 percent 

of workers, keyboarding was seldom 

performed, for 64.7 percent keyboarding 

occurred occasionally, 35.3 percent 

frequently, and for less than 0.5 percent 

keyboarding occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 68.4 percent of library 

technicians and was not required for 31.6 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 63.6 percent of library technicians. On average, 

workers spent 55.8 percent of the workday sitting and 44.2 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of library technicians with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 63.6 36.4

Driving 5.6 94.4

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 10.9 89.1

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Secondary school teachers, except special and career or technical 

education

Teach one or more subjects to students at the secondary school level.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, interact 

with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, verbal interactions were required constantly (every few minutes) for 

69.0 percent of secondary school teachers, except special and career or 

technical education, and were required not constantly, but more than once per hour for 31.0 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of secondary school teachers, except special and career or 

technical education with cognitive and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 44.2 55.8

Interaction with general public >99.5 <0.5

Working around crowds 8.9 91.1

Telework 0.5 99.5

Work review: Supervising others 6.9 93.1

Work review: Presence of supervisor 21.5 78.5

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 98.9 percent of 

secondary school teachers, 

except special and career or 

technical education. Prior 

work experience was 

required for 5.7 percent and 

on-the-job training was 

required for 36.1 percent.

A bachelor's degree was 

required for 98.0 percent of 

secondary school teachers, 

except special and career or technical education.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where jobs’ 

critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of secondary 

school teachers, except special and career or 

technical education were not exposed to 

extreme cold, and greater than 99.5 percent 

were not exposed to extreme heat. Wetness was 

not present for 93.9 percent, greater than 99.5 

percent were not exposed to heavy vibrations, 

and 75.7 percent were not exposed to the 

outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to perform 

tasks in jobs. The presence and, in some cases, 

duration of these activities are published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for greater than 

99.5 percent of secondary school teachers, except 

special and career or technical education and was 

not required for less than 0.5 percent. For 4.2 

percent of workers, keyboarding was seldom 

performed, for 83.6 percent keyboarding occurred 

occasionally, 12.2 percent frequently, and for less 

than 0.5 percent keyboarding occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was required for 

29.1 percent of secondary school teachers, except 

special and career or technical education and was 

not required for 70.9 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 73.4 percent of secondary school teachers, 

except special and career or technical education. On average, workers spent 34.9 percent of the workday sitting and 

65.1 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of secondary school teachers, except special and career or technical 

education with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 73.4 26.6

Driving 1.4 98.6

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 18.6 81.4

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Farming, fishing, and forestry workers

This occupational group includes agricultural inspectors, animal breeders, forest 

and conservation workers, fallers, and logging equipment operators.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, interact with 

others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 28.8 percent of farming, 

fishing, and forestry workers, and basic people skills were required for 71.2 

percent.

Table 1. Percentage of farming, fishing, and forestry workers with cognitive and mental 

requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 67.3 32.7

Interaction with general public 29.1 70.9

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework <5 >95

Work review: Supervising others 15.3 84.7

Work review: Presence of supervisor 67.6 32.4

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, 

and experience 

requirements

The minimum level of 

formal education required, 

credentials necessary, onthe-job training, and prior 

work experience necessary 

for average performance in 

jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 51.4 percent of 

farming, fishing, and 

forestry workers. Prior 

work experience was 

required for 31.5 percent 

and on-the-job training was 

required for 82.5 percent.

No minimum education 

was required for 49.4 

percent of farming, fishing, 

and forestry workers and a 

high school diploma was required for 42.6 percent.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where 

jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, 93.5 percent of farming, fishing, and 

forestry workers were not exposed to 

extreme cold, and greater than 99.5 percent 

were not exposed to extreme heat. Wetness 

was not present for 27.3 percent, 92.9 

percent were not exposed to heavy 

vibrations, and 17.5 percent were not 

exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required 

to perform tasks in jobs. The presence 

and, in some cases, duration of these 

activities are published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the 

shoulder was required for 94.2 percent 

of farming, fishing, and forestry workers 

and was not required for 5.8 percent. 

For 4.0 percent of workers, reaching at 

or below the shoulder was seldom 

performed, and for 2.2 percent reaching 

at or below the shoulder occurred 

constantly.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 80.1 percent of farming, 

fishing, and forestry workers and was 

not required for 19.9 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when 

performing critical tasks was available to 31.8 percent of farming, fishing, and forestry workers. On average, workers spent 22.5 

percent of the workday sitting and 77.5 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of farming, fishing, and forestry workers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 31.8 68.2

Driving 35.0 65.0

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 49.8 50.2

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Food preparation and serving related workers

This occupational group includes chefs, cooks, bartenders, 

dishwashers, waiters, waitresses, food servers, hosts, and 

hostesses.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make 

decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 25.8 

percent of food preparation and serving related workers, and basic 

people skills were required for 74.2 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of food preparation and serving related workers with cognitive and mental 

requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 22.6 77.4

Interaction with general public 85.0 15.0

Working around crowds 5.5 94.5

Telework <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Supervising others 9.0 91.0

Work review: Presence of supervisor 90.3 9.7

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience 

requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, onthe-job training, and prior 

work experience necessary 

for average performance in 

jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 37.5 percent of 

food preparation and 

serving related workers. 

Prior work experience was 

required for 24.0 percent 

and on-the-job training was 

required for 95.5 percent.

No minimum education was required for 78.3 percent of food preparation and serving related workers.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where 

jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, 65.2 percent of food preparation and 

serving related workers were not exposed to 

extreme cold, and 76.1 percent were not 

exposed to extreme heat. Wetness was not 

present for 9.0 percent, greater than 99.5 

percent were not exposed to heavy 

vibrations, and 66.5 percent were not 

exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, 

in some cases, duration of these activities 

are published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the shoulder 

was required for 96.1 percent of food 

preparation and serving related workers 

and was not required for 3.9 percent. For 

10.1 percent of workers, reaching at or 

below the shoulder was seldom 

performed, for 54.4 percent reaching at or 

below the shoulder occurred occasionally, 

29.1 percent frequently, and for 2.5 

percent reaching at or below the shoulder 

occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was required for 78.6 percent of food preparation and serving related workers and was 

not required for 21.4 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 1.4 percent of food preparation and serving 

related workers. On average, workers spent 2.8 percent of the workday sitting and 97.2 percent of the workday 

standing.

Table 2. Percentage of food preparation and serving related workers with physical demands, 

2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 1.4 98.6

Driving 1.2 98.8

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 8.1 91.9

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Bartenders

Mix and serve drinks to patrons, directly or through waitstaff.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, interact 

with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, work was reviewed by a supervisor more than once per day for 54.0 

percent of bartenders, and once per day for 37.9 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of bartenders with cognitive and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 26.9 73.1

Interaction with general public >99.5 <0.5

Working around crowds 5.0 95.0

Telework <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Supervising others <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Presence of supervisor 71.0 29.0

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, 

and experience 

requirements

The minimum level of 

formal education 

required, credentials 

necessary, on-the-job 

training, and prior 

work experience 

necessary for average 

performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials 

were required for 51.2 

percent of bartenders. 

Prior work experience 

was required for 44.1 

percent and on-thejob training was 

required for 96.4 

percent.

No minimum education was required for 71.7 percent of bartenders.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where 

jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, 81.9 percent of bartenders were 

not exposed to extreme cold, and greater 

than 95 percent were not exposed to 

extreme heat. Wetness was not present for 

5.0 percent, greater than 99.5 percent were 

not exposed to heavy vibrations, and 69.1 

percent were not exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required 

to perform tasks in jobs. The presence 

and, in some cases, duration of these 

activities are published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the 

shoulder was required for greater than 

85 percent of bartenders and was not 

required for less than 15 percent. For 5.4 

percent of workers, reaching at or below 

the shoulder was seldom performed, for 

54.7 percent reaching at or below the 

shoulder occurred occasionally, 33.9 

percent frequently, and for less than 5 

percent reaching at or below the 

shoulder occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was required for 85.8 percent of bartenders and was not required for 14.2 percent.

On average, bartenders spent 1.6 percent of the workday sitting and 98.4 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of bartenders with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing <0.5 >99.5

Driving 0.7 99.3

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 18.2 81.8

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Waiters and waitresses

Take orders and serve food and beverages to patrons at tables in dining 

establishment.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, interact 

with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, work was reviewed by a supervisor more than once per day for 73.3 

percent of waiters and waitresses, and once per day for 19.3 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of waiters and waitresses with cognitive and mental 

requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 24.9 75.1

Interaction with general public >99.5 <0.5

Working around crowds 18.1 81.9

Telework <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Supervising others 0.6 99.4

Work review: Presence of supervisor 96.2 3.8

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 34.6 percent of 

waiters and waitresses. Prior 

work experience was 

required for 22.5 percent and 

on-the-job training was 

required for 97.9 percent.

No minimum education was 

required for 78.0 percent of 

waiters and waitresses.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards 

or difficulties that are in the vicinity of 

where jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, 90.6 percent of waiters and 

waitresses were not exposed to extreme 

cold, and 98.5 percent were not exposed 

to extreme heat. Wetness was not 

present for 7.3 percent, greater than 99.5 

percent were not exposed to heavy 

vibrations, and 72.0 percent were not 

exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in 

some cases, duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the shoulder 

was required for 95.8 percent of waiters 

and waitresses and was not required for 

4.2 percent. For 6.6 percent of workers, 

reaching at or below the shoulder was 

seldom performed, for 55.5 percent 

reaching at or below the shoulder 

occurred occasionally, 30.7 percent 

frequently, and for 3.0 percent reaching at 

or below the shoulder occurred 

constantly.

Performing work in low postures was required for 62.9 percent of waiters and waitresses and was not required for 37.1 

percent.

On average, waiters and waitresses spent 2.6 percent of the workday sitting and 97.4 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of waiters and waitresses with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing <0.5 >99.5

Driving <0.5 >99.5

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 10.3 89.7

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Healthcare practitioners and technical workers

This occupational group includes chiropractors, dentists, 

pharmacists, physicians, surgeons, health diagnosing and 

treating practitioners, therapists, veterinarians, registered 

nurses, health technologists and technicians, and occupational 

health and safety specialists.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make 

decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 92.1 

percent of healthcare practitioners and technical workers, and 

basic people skills were required for 7.9 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of healthcare practitioners and technical workers with cognitive and mental 

requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 40.9 59.1

Interaction with general public 96.7 3.3

Working around crowds 1.0 99.0

Telework 1.9 98.1

Work review: Supervising others 21.5 78.5

Work review: Presence of supervisor 62.7 37.3

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience 

requirements

The minimum level of 

formal education required, 

credentials necessary, onthe-job training, and prior 

work experience necessary 

for average performance in 

jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 91.4 percent of 

healthcare practitioners 

and technical workers. Prior 

work experience was 

required for 39.1 percent 

and on-the-job training was 

required for 72.3 percent.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete 

hazards or difficulties that are in the 

vicinity of where jobs’ critical tasks are 

performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

healthcare practitioners and technical 

workers were not exposed to extreme 

cold, and greater than 99.5 percent 

were not exposed to extreme heat. 

Wetness was not present for 26.3 

percent, greater than 99.5 percent 

were not exposed to heavy vibrations, 

and 92.7 percent were not exposed to 

the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required 

to perform tasks in jobs. The presence 

and, in some cases, duration of these 

activities are published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 

96.5 percent of healthcare 

practitioners and technical workers 

and was not required for 3.5 percent.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 73.3 percent of healthcare 

practitioners and technical workers 

and was not required for 26.7 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when 

performing critical tasks was available 

to 30.8 percent of healthcare 

practitioners and technical workers. On average, workers spent 36.7 percent of the workday sitting and 63.3 percent of 

the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of healthcare practitioners and technical workers with physical demands, 

2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 30.8 69.2

Driving 11.1 88.9

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 13.9 86.1

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses

Care for ill, injured, or convalescing patients or persons with 

disabilities in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, private homes, 

group homes, and similar institutions. May work under the 

supervision of a registered nurse. Licensing required.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make 

decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 96.6 

percent of licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses, and 

basic people skills were required for 3.4 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses with cognitive 

and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 33.7 66.3

Interaction with general public >99.5 <0.5

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework 1.5 98.5

Work review: Supervising others 15.7 84.3

Work review: Presence of supervisor 62.9 37.1

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for greater than 99.5 

percent of licensed practical 

and licensed vocational 

nurses. Prior work experience 

was required for 31.8 percent 

and on-the-job training was 

required for 87.6 percent.

A high school diploma was 

required for 35.7 percent of 

licensed practical and 

licensed vocational nurses 

and an associate's degree was required for 45.1 percent.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where jobs’ 

critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of licensed 

practical and licensed vocational nurses were 

not exposed to extreme cold, and greater than 

99.5 percent were not exposed to extreme heat. 

Heavy vibrations were not present for greater 

than 99.5 percent, and 83.6 percent were not 

exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in 

some cases, duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 93.8 

percent of licensed practical and licensed 

vocational nurses and was not required for 6.2 

percent. For less than 15 percent of workers, 

keyboarding was seldom performed, for 61.1 

percent keyboarding occurred occasionally, 

22.8 percent frequently, and for less than 0.5 

percent keyboarding occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was required 

for 87.1 percent of licensed practical and 

licensed vocational nurses and was not required for 12.9 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 12.8 percent of licensed practical and licensed 

vocational nurses. On average, workers spent 30.1 percent of the workday sitting and 69.9 percent of the workday 

standing.

Table 2. Percentage of licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses with physical 

demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 12.8 87.2

Driving 19.0 81.0

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 22.0 78.0

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Registered nurses

Assess patient health problems and needs, develop and implement nursing 

care plans, and maintain medical records. Administer nursing care to ill, 

injured, convalescent, or disabled patients. May advise patients on health 

maintenance and disease prevention or provide case management. Licensing 

or registration required. Includes Clinical Nurse Specialists.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, verbal interactions were required constantly (every few minutes) for 34.7 percent of registered nurses, and 

were required not constantly, but more than once per hour for 63.0 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of registered nurses with cognitive and mental requirements, 

2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 29.4 70.6

Interaction with general public >99.5 <0.5

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework 2.8 97.2

Work review: Supervising others 31.0 69.0

Work review: Presence of supervisor 60.6 39.4

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for greater than 99.5 

percent of registered nurses. 

Prior work experience was 

required for 48.3 percent and 

on-the-job training was 

required for 72.8 percent.

A bachelor's degree was 

required for 49.7 percent of 

registered nurses.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete 

hazards or difficulties that are in the 

vicinity of where jobs’ critical tasks are 

performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

registered nurses were not exposed to 

extreme cold, and greater than 99.5 

percent were not exposed to extreme 

heat. Wetness was not present for 11.6 

percent, greater than 99.5 percent 

were not exposed to heavy vibrations, 

and 97.1 percent were not exposed to 

the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, 

in some cases, duration of these activities 

are published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 

96.8 percent of registered nurses and was 

not required for 3.2 percent.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 84.4 percent of registered 

nurses and was not required for 15.6 

percent.

The choice to sit or stand when 

performing critical tasks was available to 

19.4 percent of registered nurses. On 

average, workers spent 30.7 percent of 

the workday sitting and 69.3 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of registered nurses with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 19.4 80.6

Driving 11.9 88.1

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 19.7 80.3

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Healthcare support workers

This occupational group includes nursing, psychiatric, home 

health aides, occupational therapy and physical therapist 

assistants and aides, dental, medical, and veterinary assistants, 

phlebotomists, and medial transcriptionists.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make 

decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, verbal interactions were required constantly (every few 

minutes) for 30.7 percent of healthcare support workers, and 

were required not constantly, but more than once per hour for 

57.9 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of healthcare support workers with cognitive and mental requirements, 

2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 37.6 62.4

Interaction with general public 98.5 1.5

Working around crowds 2.3 97.7

Telework 0.7 99.3

Work review: Supervising others 0.7 99.3

Work review: Presence of supervisor 52.5 47.5

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 75.4 percent of 

healthcare support workers. 

Prior work experience was 

required for 20.4 percent and 

on-the-job training was 

required for 87.0 percent.

A high school diploma was 

required for 63.4 percent of 

healthcare support workers.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards 

or difficulties that are in the vicinity of 

where jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

healthcare support workers were not 

exposed to extreme cold, and 97.9 

percent were not exposed to extreme 

heat. Wetness was not present for 13.8 

percent, greater than 99.5 percent were 

not exposed to heavy vibrations, and 

66.9 percent were not exposed to the 

outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities 

required to perform tasks in 

jobs. The presence and, in some 

cases, duration of these 

activities are published.

In 2023, reaching at or below 

the shoulder was required for 

93.9 percent of healthcare 

support workers and was not 

required for 6.1 percent.

Performing work in low 

postures was required for 82.6 

percent of healthcare support 

workers and was not required 

for 17.4 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when 

performing critical tasks was available to 18.4 percent of healthcare support workers. On average, workers spent 30.6 

percent of the workday sitting and 69.4 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of healthcare support workers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 18.4 81.6

Driving 27.8 72.2

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 37.6 62.4

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Nursing assistants

Provide or assist with basic care or support under the direction of 

onsite licensed nursing staff. Perform duties such as monitoring of 

health status, feeding, bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, or 

ambulation of patients in a health or nursing facility. May include 

medication administration and other health-related tasks. Includes 

nursing care attendants, nursing aides, and nursing attendants.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, work was reviewed by a supervisor more than once per day for 72.3 percent of nursing assistants, and once per 

day for 18.6 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of nursing assistants with cognitive and mental requirements, 

2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 27.0 73.0

Interaction with general public >99.5 <0.5

Working around crowds 1.1 98.9

Telework <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Supervising others 0.7 99.3

Work review: Presence of supervisor 85.9 14.1

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 89.0 percent of 

nursing assistants. Prior work 

experience was required for 

14.1 percent and on-the-job 

training was required for 91.8 

percent.

A high school diploma was 

required for 68.1 percent of 

nursing assistants.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards 

or difficulties that are in the vicinity of 

where jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

nursing assistants were not exposed to 

extreme cold, and greater than 99.5 

percent were not exposed to extreme 

heat. Heavy vibrations were not present 

for greater than 99.5 percent, and 82.2 

percent were not exposed to the 

outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in 

some cases, duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the shoulder 

was required for 97.1 percent of nursing 

assistants and was not required for 2.9 

percent.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 98.2 percent of nursing 

assistants and was not required for 1.8 

percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing 

critical tasks was available to 11.0 percent 

of nursing assistants. On average, workers 

spent 15.9 percent of the workday sitting and 84.1 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of nursing assistants with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 11.0 89.0

Driving 8.5 91.5

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 10.8 89.2

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Installation, maintenance, and repair workers

This occupational group includes computer, automated teller and office 

machine repairers, avionics technicians, security and fire alarm systems 

installers, aircraft mechanics and technicians, bus and truck mechanics, 

diesel engine specialists, small engine mechanics, bicycle repairers, 

home appliance repairers, millwrights, watch repairers, wind turbine 

service technicians, and riggers.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

Table 1. Percentage of installation, maintenance, and repair workers with cognitive and 

mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 71.8 28.2

Interaction with general public 66.5 33.5

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework 0.5 99.5

Work review: Supervising others 14.1 85.9

Work review: Presence of supervisor 51.4 48.6

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 73.3 percent of 

installation, maintenance, and 

repair workers. Prior work 

experience was required for 

67.2 percent and on-the-job 

training was required for 75.6 

percent.

A high school diploma was 

required for 61.2 percent of 

installation, maintenance, and 

repair workers.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards 

or difficulties that are in the vicinity of 

where jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, a quiet noise exposure was 

present for 2.6 percent of installation, 

maintenance, and repair workers. 

Another 82.8 percent were exposed to 

moderate noise, 14.0 percent were 

exposed to loud noise, and 0.7 percent 

to very loud noise. Personal protective 

equipment (PPE) was used by 33.1 

percent of workers to mitigate noise 

exposure, and was not used by 66.9 

percent.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities 

required to perform tasks in jobs. 

The presence and, in some cases, 

duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the 

shoulder was required for 97.6 

percent of installation, 

maintenance, and repair workers 

and was not required for 2.4 

percent.

Performing work in low postures 

was required for 95.0 percent of 

installation, maintenance, and repair workers and was not required for 5.0 percent. For 33.4 percent of workers, 

stooping was required to perform low work.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 18.4 percent of installation, maintenance, and 

repair workers. On average, workers spent 20.4 percent of the workday sitting and 79.6 percent of the workday 

standing.

Table 2. Percentage of installation, maintenance, and repair workers with physical 

demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 18.4 81.6

Driving 74.0 26.0

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 42.9 57.1

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Aircraft mechanics and service technicians

Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul aircraft engines and 

assemblies, such as hydraulic and pneumatic systems.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make 

decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The minimum level of formal education required, credentials 

necessary, on-the-job training, and prior work experience 

necessary for average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were required for 95.9 percent of aircraft 

mechanics and service technicians.

A high school diploma was required for 77.6 percent of aircraft mechanics and service technicians.

Table 1. Percentage of aircraft mechanics and service technicians with cognitive and mental 

requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Interaction with general public 18.7 81.3

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Supervising others 3.1 96.9

Work review: Presence of supervisor 82.2 17.8

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, credentials 

necessary, on-the-job training, 

and prior work experience 

necessary for average 

performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 95.9 percent of 

aircraft mechanics and service 

technicians.

A high school diploma was 

required for 77.6 percent of 

aircraft mechanics and service 

technicians.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards 

or difficulties that are in the vicinity of 

where jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

aircraft mechanics and service 

technicians were not exposed to extreme 

cold, and 88.5 percent were not exposed 

to extreme heat. Wetness was not 

present for 64.7 percent, 76.7 percent 

were not exposed to heavy vibrations, 

and 29.9 percent were not exposed to 

the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities 

required to perform tasks in jobs. 

The presence and, in some cases, 

duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the 

shoulder was required for 99.3 

percent of aircraft mechanics and 

service technicians and was not 

required for 0.7 percent.

Performing work in low postures 

was required for 96.2 percent of 

aircraft mechanics and service 

technicians and was not required 

for 3.8 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 23.0 percent of aircraft mechanics and service 

technicians.

Table 2. Percentage of aircraft mechanics and service technicians with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 23.0 77.0

Driving 66.0 34.0

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Legal workers

This occupational group includes lawyers, judicial law clerks, judges, 

arbitrators, mediators, conciliators, paralegals, legal assistants, court 

reporters, title examiners, abstractors, and searchers.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs. In 2023, verbal 

interactions were required constantly (every few minutes) for 10.4 

percent of legal workers, and were required not constantly, but more 

than once per hour for 66.5 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of legal workers with cognitive and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 95.3 4.7

Interaction with general public 98.8 1.2

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework 53.8 46.2

Work review: Supervising others 27.7 72.3

Work review: Presence of supervisor 55.1 44.9

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, credentials 

necessary, on-the-job training, 

and prior work experience 

necessary for average 

performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 78.2 percent of 

legal workers. Prior work 

experience was required for 

53.5 percent and on-the-job 

training was required for 60.3 

percent.

A professional degree was 

required for 60.5 percent of 

legal workers.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete 

hazards or difficulties that are in the 

vicinity of where jobs’ critical tasks are 

performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

legal workers were not exposed to 

extreme cold, and greater than 99.5 

percent were not exposed to extreme 

heat. Wetness was not present for 

greater than 99.5 percent, greater 

than 99.5 percent were not exposed 

to heavy vibrations, and 98.4 percent 

were not exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required 

to perform tasks in jobs. The presence 

and, in some cases, duration of these 

activities are published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 

greater than 99.5 percent of legal 

workers and was not required for less 

than 0.5 percent. For less than 0.5 

percent of workers, keyboarding was 

seldom performed, for 27.8 percent 

keyboarding occurred occasionally, 68.2 

percent frequently, and for 3.7 percent 

keyboarding occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 6.6 percent of legal workers 

and was not required for 93.4 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 85.3 percent of legal workers. On average, 

workers spent 84.8 percent of the workday sitting and 15.2 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of legal workers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 85.3 14.7

Driving 39.1 60.9

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 12.4 87.6

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Lawyers

Represent clients in criminal and civil litigation and other legal 

proceedings, draw up legal documents, or manage or advise 

clients on legal transactions. May specialize in a single area or 

may practice broadly in many areas of law.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make 

decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, verbal interactions were required constantly (every few 

minutes) for 12.4 percent of lawyers, and were required not 

constantly, but more than once per hour for 65.2 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of lawyers with cognitive and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 94.8 5.2

Interaction with general public >99.5 <0.5

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework 67.1 32.9

Work review: Supervising others 40.9 59.1

Work review: Presence of supervisor 44.5 55.5

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for greater than 99.5 

percent of lawyers. Prior work 

experience was required for 

44.1 percent and on-the-job 

training was required for 47.6 

percent.

A professional degree was 

required for greater than 99.5 

percent of lawyers.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete 

hazards or difficulties that are in 

the vicinity of where jobs’ critical 

tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 

percent of lawyers were not 

exposed to extreme cold, and 

greater than 99.5 percent were 

not exposed to extreme heat. 

Wetness was not present for 

greater than 99.5 percent, greater 

than 99.5 percent were not 

exposed to heavy vibrations, and 

97.5 percent were not exposed to 

the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities 

required to perform tasks in jobs. The 

presence and, in some cases, duration 

of these activities are published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 

greater than 99.5 percent of lawyers 

and was not required for less than 0.5 

percent. For less than 0.5 percent of 

workers, keyboarding was seldom 

performed, for 30.1 percent 

keyboarding occurred occasionally, 

65.9 percent frequently, and for 3.8 

percent keyboarding occurred 

constantly.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 4.1 percent of lawyers and was not required for 95.9 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 86.1 percent of lawyers. On average, workers 

spent 82.4 percent of the workday sitting and 17.6 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of lawyers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 86.1 13.9

Driving 54.5 45.5

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 14.1 85.9

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Life, physical, and social science workers

This occupational group includes agricultural scientists, food scientists, 

biological scientists, medical scientists, astronomers, physicists, chemists, 

hydrologists, economists, survey researchers, psychologists, sociologists, 

urban planners, anthropologists, archeologists, geographers, historians, 

political scientists, and nuclear technicians.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 90.3 percent of life, physical, and social science workers, and 

basic people skills were required for 9.7 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of life, physical, and social science workers with cognitive and 

mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 82.6 17.4

Interaction with general public 69.7 30.3

Working around crowds 0.6 99.4

Telework 16.6 83.4

Work review: Supervising others 16.0 84.0

Work review: Presence of supervisor 49.5 50.5

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 51.2 percent of 

life, physical, and social 

science workers. Prior work 

experience was required for 

71.1 percent and on-the-job 

training was required for 71.3 

percent.

A bachelor's degree was 

required for 52.0 percent of 

life, physical, and social 

science workers.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete 

hazards or difficulties that are in the 

vicinity of where jobs’ critical tasks are 

performed.

In 2023, 95.1 percent of life, physical, 

and social science workers were not 

exposed to extreme cold, and 96.9 

percent were not exposed to extreme 

heat. Wetness was not present for 64.6 

percent, 98.6 percent were not 

exposed to heavy vibrations, and 63.7 

percent were not exposed to the 

outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in some 

cases, duration of these activities are published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 99.1 

percent of life, physical, and social science 

workers and was not required for 0.9 percent. 

For 1.1 percent of workers, keyboarding was 

seldom performed, for 63.1 percent keyboarding 

occurred occasionally, 34.0 percent frequently, 

and for 1.0 percent keyboarding occurred 

constantly.

Performing work in low postures was required 

for 46.6 percent of life, physical, and social 

science workers and was not required for 53.4 

percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 71.5 percent of life, physical, and social science

workers. On average, workers spent 62.7 percent of the workday sitting and 37.3 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of life, physical, and social science workers with physical demands, 

2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 71.5 28.5

Driving 38.7 61.3

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 23.5 76.5

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
School psychologists

Diagnose and implement individual or schoolwide interventions or strategies to 

address educational, behavioral, or developmental issues that adversely impact 

educational functioning in a school. May address student learning and behavioral 

problems and counsel students or families. May design and implement performance 

plans, and evaluate performance. May consult with other school-based personnel.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in 

jobs.

In 2023, verbal interactions were required constantly (every few minutes) for 16.9 percent of school psychologists, and 

were required not constantly, but more than once per hour for 79.1 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of school psychologists with cognitive and mental requirements, 

2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 69.1 30.9

Interaction with general public >99.5 <0.5

Working around crowds 2.7 97.3

Telework <5 >95

Work review: Supervising others 6.4 93.6

Work review: Presence of supervisor 29.6 70.4

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for greater than 85 

percent of school 

psychologists. Prior work 

experience was required for 

53.2 percent and on-the-job 

training was required for 36.3 

percent.

A master's degree was 

required for 70.7 percent of 

school psychologists.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where jobs’ 

critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of school 

psychologists were not exposed to extreme cold, 

and greater than 99.5 percent were not exposed to 

extreme heat. Wetness was not present for greater 

than 85 percent, greater than 99.5 percent were not 

exposed to heavy vibrations, and 81.6 percent were 

not exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, 

in some cases, duration of these activities 

are published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 

greater than 99.5 percent of school 

psychologists and was not required for 

less than 0.5 percent. For less than 0.5 

percent of workers, keyboarding was 

seldom performed, for 59.4 percent 

keyboarding occurred occasionally, 40.6 

percent frequently, and for less than 0.5 

percent keyboarding occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 27.5 percent of school 

psychologists and was not required for 

72.5 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 85.7 percent of school psychologists. On 

average, workers spent 73.1 percent of the workday sitting and 26.9 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of school psychologists with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 85.7 14.3

Driving 29.2 70.8

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 38.9 61.1

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Management workers

This occupational group includes chief executives, general and operations 

managers, advertising and promotions managers, construction, administrative 

services managers, financial managers, industrial production managers, 

transportation managers, storage managers, distribution managers, 

compensation and benefits managers, human resources managers, training 

managers, development managers, and education administrators.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in 

jobs.

In 2023, verbal interactions were required constantly (every few minutes) for 19.4 percent of management workers, and 

were required not constantly, but more than once per hour for 69.0 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of management workers with cognitive and mental requirements, 

2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 97.5 2.5

Interaction with general public 90.1 9.9

Working around crowds 2.3 97.7

Telework 33.0 67.0

Work review: Supervising others 92.0 8.0

Work review: Presence of supervisor 31.5 68.5

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 47.3 percent of 

management workers. Prior 

work experience was 

required for 95.6 percent and 

on-the-job training was 

required for 54.0 percent.

A bachelor's degree was 

required for 56.6 percent of 

management workers.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete 

hazards or difficulties that are in 

the vicinity of where jobs’ critical 

tasks are performed.

In 2023, 97.8 percent of 

management workers were not 

exposed to extreme cold, and 98.4 

percent were not exposed to 

extreme heat. Wetness was not 

present for 92.8 percent, greater 

than 99.5 percent were not 

exposed to heavy vibrations, and 

76.2 percent were not exposed to 

the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in some 

cases, duration of these activities are published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 98.9 

percent of management workers and was not 

required for 1.1 percent. For 1.2 percent of 

workers, keyboarding was seldom performed, 

for 41.0 percent keyboarding occurred 

occasionally, 54.9 percent frequently, and for 

1.6 percent keyboarding occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was required 

for 17.3 percent of management workers and 

was not required for 82.7 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 88.5 percent of management workers. On 

average, workers spent 72.6 percent of the workday sitting and 27.4 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of management workers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 88.5 11.5

Driving 36.0 64.0

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 17.3 82.7

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Architectural and engineering managers

Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as architecture and 

engineering or research and development in these fields.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, verbal interactions were required constantly (every few minutes) 

for 13.3 percent of architectural and engineering managers, and were 

required not constantly, but more than once per hour for 64.8 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of architectural and engineering managers with cognitive and mental 

requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control >99.5 <0.5

Interaction with general public 71.8 28.2

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework 42.2 57.8

Work review: Supervising others 98.0 2.0

Work review: Presence of supervisor 45.0 55.0

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 42.9 percent of 

architectural and engineering 

managers. Prior work 

experience was required for 

greater than 80 percent and 

on-the-job training was 

required for 43.7 percent.

A bachelor's degree was 

required for 88.7 percent of 

architectural and engineering managers.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where 

jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

architectural and engineering managers were 

not exposed to extreme cold, and 99.4 

percent were not exposed to extreme heat. 

Wetness was not present for 96.7 percent, 

greater than 90 percent were not exposed to 

heavy vibrations, and 75.4 percent were not 

exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required 

to perform tasks in jobs. The presence 

and, in some cases, duration of these 

activities are published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 

greater than 99.5 percent of 

architectural and engineering managers 

and was not required for less than 0.5 

percent. For less than 0.5 percent of 

workers, keyboarding was seldom 

performed, for 30.4 percent 

keyboarding occurred occasionally, 66.1 

percent frequently, and for less than 10 

percent keyboarding occurred 

constantly.

Performing work in low postures was required for 11.5 percent of architectural and engineering managers and was not 

required for 88.5 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 89.4 percent of architectural and engineering 

managers. On average, workers spent 84.3 percent of the workday sitting and 15.7 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of architectural and engineering managers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 89.4 10.6

Driving 20.9 79.1

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 19.8 80.2

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Office and administrative support workers

This occupational group includes communications equipment and 

computer operators, bill collectors, gaming cage workers, tellers, 

information and record clerks, customer service representatives, 

eligibility interviewers, secretaries and administrative assistants, 

couriers, dispatchers, data entry and information processing 

workers, and desktop publishers.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make 

decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, verbal interactions were required constantly (every few 

minutes) for 31.4 percent of office and administrative support workers, and were required not constantly, but more 

than once per hour for 55.2 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of office and administrative support workers with cognitive and 

mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 70.8 29.2

Interaction with general public 90.9 9.1

Working around crowds 0.8 99.2

Telework 12.5 87.5

Work review: Supervising others 8.6 91.4

Work review: Presence of supervisor 79.8 20.2

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 10.8 percent of 

office and administrative 

support workers. Prior work 

experience was required for 

59.4 percent and on-the-job 

training was required for 88.5 

percent.

A high school diploma was 

required for 75.6 percent of 

office and administrative 

support workers.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where jobs’ 

critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of office and 

administrative support workers were not exposed to 

extreme cold, and greater than 99.5 percent were 

not exposed to extreme heat. Wetness was not 

present for 97.5 percent, greater than 99.5 percent 

were not exposed to heavy vibrations, and 95.3 

percent were not exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in 

some cases, duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 98.1 

percent of office and administrative support 

workers and was not required for 1.9 percent. 

For 1.3 percent of workers, keyboarding was 

seldom performed, for 26.6 percent 

keyboarding occurred occasionally, 65.1 

percent frequently, and for 5.1 percent 

keyboarding occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was required 

for 21.1 percent of office and administrative 

support workers and was not required for 78.9 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 80.9 percent of office and administrative 

support workers. On average, workers spent 79.4 percent of the workday sitting and 20.6 percent of the workday 

standing.

Table 2. Percentage of office and administrative support workers with physical demands, 

2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 80.9 19.1

Driving 7.6 92.4

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 8.0 92.0

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Executive secretaries and executive administrative 

assistants

Provide high-level administrative support by conducting research, 

preparing statistical reports, and handling information requests, as 

well as performing routine administrative functions such as 

preparing correspondence, receiving visitors, arranging conference 

calls, and scheduling meetings. May also train and supervise lowerlevel clerical staff.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make 

decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 93.0 percent of executive secretaries and executive 

administrative assistants, and basic people skills were required for 7.0 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of executive secretaries and executive administrative assistants with 

cognitive and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 88.7 11.3

Interaction with general public 93.6 6.4

Working around crowds <5 >95

Telework 23.1 76.9

Work review: Supervising others 11.5 88.5

Work review: Presence of supervisor 82.9 17.1

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, credentials 

necessary, on-the-job training, 

and prior work experience 

necessary for average 

performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 9.1 percent of 

executive secretaries and 

executive administrative 

assistants. Prior work experience 

was required for 93.6 percent and 

on-the-job training was required 

for 71.1 percent.

A high school diploma was 

required for 64.0 percent of executive secretaries and executive administrative assistants.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where jobs’ 

critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of executive 

secretaries and executive administrative 

assistants were not exposed to extreme cold, 

and greater than 99.5 percent were not exposed 

to extreme heat. Wetness was not present for 

greater than 99.5 percent, greater than 99.5 

percent were not exposed to heavy vibrations, 

and 98.3 percent were not exposed to the 

outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required 

to perform tasks in jobs. The presence 

and, in some cases, duration of these 

activities are published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 

greater than 99.5 percent of executive 

secretaries and executive 

administrative assistants and was not 

required for less than 0.5 percent.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 12.0 percent of executive 

secretaries and executive 

administrative assistants and was not 

required for 88.0 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when 

performing critical tasks was available to 96.5 percent of executive secretaries and executive administrative assistants. 

On average, workers spent 86.9 percent of the workday sitting and 13.1 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of executive secretaries and executive administrative assistants with 

physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 96.5 3.5

Driving 8.4 91.6

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 5.4 94.6

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Library assistants, clerical

Compile records, and sort, shelve, issue, and receive library materials 

such as books, electronic media, pictures, cards, slides and microfilm. 

Locate library materials for loan and replace material in shelving area, 

stacks, or files according to identification number and title. Register 

patrons to permit them to borrow books, periodicals, and other library 

materials.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, verbal interactions were required constantly (every few minutes) for 40.6 percent of library assistants, clerical, 

and were required not constantly, but more than once per hour for 47.5 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of library assistants, clerical with cognitive and mental 

requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 64.6 35.4

Interaction with general public 96.0 4.0

Working around crowds <5 >95

Telework <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Supervising others 2.4 97.6

Work review: Presence of supervisor 80.2 19.8

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 12.0 percent of 

library assistants, clerical. 

Prior work experience was 

required for 27.5 percent and 

on-the-job training was 

required for 90.9 percent.

A high school diploma was 

required for 72.9 percent of 

library assistants, clerical.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where 

jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

library assistants, clerical were not exposed 

to extreme cold, and greater than 99.5 

percent were not exposed to extreme heat. 

Wetness was not present for greater than 

99.5 percent, greater than 99.5 percent 

were not exposed to heavy vibrations, and 

92.2 percent were not exposed to the 

outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in 

some cases, duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 96.5 

percent of library assistants, clerical and 

was not required for 3.5 percent. For 14.2 

percent of workers, keyboarding was 

seldom performed, for 46.4 percent 

keyboarding occurred occasionally, 35.9 

percent frequently, and for less than 0.5 

percent keyboarding occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 89.6 percent of library 

assistants, clerical and was not required for 

10.4 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 45.8 percent of library assistants, clerical. On 

average, workers spent 47.9 percent of the workday sitting and 52.1 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of library assistants, clerical with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 45.8 54.2

Driving 11.3 88.7

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 9.2 90.8

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Medical secretaries and administrative assistants

Perform secretarial duties using specific knowledge of medical terminology 

and hospital, clinic, or laboratory procedures. Duties may include scheduling 

appointments, billing patients, and compiling and recording medical charts, 

reports, and correspondence.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, verbal interactions were required constantly (every few minutes) for 

54.6 percent of medical secretaries and administrative assistants, and were required not constantly, but more than once 

per hour for 43.8 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of medical secretaries and administrative assistants with cognitive 

and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 52.5 47.5

Interaction with general public >99.5 <0.5

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework 2.3 97.7

Work review: Supervising others 3.8 96.2

Work review: Presence of supervisor 85.0 15.0

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 8.5 percent of 

medical secretaries and 

administrative assistants. 

Prior work experience was 

required for 53.8 percent and 

on-the-job training was 

required for 91.7 percent.

A high school diploma was 

required for 87.8 percent of 

medical secretaries and 

administrative assistants.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where jobs’ 

critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of medical 

secretaries and administrative assistants were not 

exposed to extreme cold, and greater than 99.5 

percent were not exposed to extreme heat. 

Wetness was not present for 90.7 percent, 

greater than 99.5 percent were not exposed to 

heavy vibrations, and greater than 95 percent 

were not exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in 

some cases, duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for greater 

than 99.5 percent of medical secretaries and 

administrative assistants and was not required 

for less than 0.5 percent. For less than 0.5 

percent of workers, keyboarding was seldom 

performed, for 23.7 percent keyboarding 

occurred occasionally, 71.9 percent frequently, 

and for 4.4 percent keyboarding occurred 

constantly.

Performing work in low postures was required 

for 16.9 percent of medical secretaries and 

administrative assistants and was not required 

for 83.1 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 79.8 percent of medical secretaries and 

administrative assistants. On average, workers spent 86.1 percent of the workday sitting and 13.9 percent of the 

workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of medical secretaries and administrative assistants with physical 

demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 79.8 20.2

Driving 2.5 97.5

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 4.6 95.4

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Secretaries and administrative assistants, except legal, medical, and 

executive

Perform routine administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, 

scheduling appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, 

or providing information to callers.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, interact 

with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, verbal interactions were required constantly (every few minutes) for 24.3 percent of secretaries and 

administrative assistants, except legal, medical, and executive, and were required not constantly, but more than once 

per hour for 68.1 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of secretaries and administrative assistants, except legal, medical, 

and executive with cognitive and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 84.5 15.5

Interaction with general public 96.0 4.0

Working around crowds 0.6 99.4

Telework 8.1 91.9

Work review: Supervising others 3.4 96.6

Work review: Presence of supervisor 79.3 20.7

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 11.6 percent of 

secretaries and 

administrative assistants, 

except legal, medical, and 

executive. Prior work 

experience was required for 

69.1 percent and on-the-job 

training was required for 84.3 

percent.

A high school diploma was 

required for 81.9 percent of 

secretaries and administrative assistants, except legal, medical, and executive.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where 

jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

secretaries and administrative assistants, 

except legal, medical, and executive were 

not exposed to extreme cold, and greater 

than 99.5 percent were not exposed to 

extreme heat. Wetness was not present for 

99.2 percent, greater than 99.5 percent 

were not exposed to heavy vibrations, and 

95.5 percent were not exposed to the 

outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in 

some cases, duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 

greater than 99.5 percent of secretaries and 

administrative assistants, except legal, 

medical, and executive and was not 

required for less than 0.5 percent. For less 

than 0.5 percent of workers, keyboarding 

was seldom performed, for 27.0 percent 

keyboarding occurred occasionally, 70.0 

percent frequently, and for 2.7 percent 

keyboarding occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was required for 19.4 percent of secretaries and administrative assistants, except legal, 

medical, and executive and was not required for 80.6 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 94.1 percent of secretaries and administrative 

assistants, except legal, medical, and executive. On average, workers spent 86.6 percent of the workday sitting and 13.4 

percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of secretaries and administrative assistants, except legal, medical, 

and executive with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 94.1 5.9

Driving 10.2 89.8

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 9.7 90.3

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Personal care and service workers

This occupational group includes animal care and service workers, 

entertainment attendants, funeral service workers, personal appearance 

workers, baggage portages, bellhops, and concierges, tour and travel guides, 

childcare workers, personal care aides, recreation and fitness workers, and 

residential advisors.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, interact 

with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, verbal interactions were required constantly (every few minutes) for 54.1 percent of personal care and service 

workers, and were required not constantly, but more than once per hour for 39.8 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of personal care and service workers with cognitive and mental 

requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 35.0 65.0

Interaction with general public 98.6 1.4

Working around crowds 9.5 90.5

Telework 0.6 99.4

Work review: Supervising others 11.4 88.6

Work review: Presence of supervisor 65.3 34.7

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 50.4 percent of 

personal care and service 

workers. Prior work 

experience was required for 

26.4 percent and on-the-job 

training was required for 87.4 

percent.

No minimum education was 

required for 32.0 percent of 

personal care and service 

workers and a high school 

diploma was required for 60.7 percent.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where 

jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

personal care and service workers were not 

exposed to extreme cold, and 98.9 percent 

were not exposed to extreme heat. Wetness 

was not present for 38.2 percent, greater 

than 99.5 percent were not exposed to 

heavy vibrations, and 48.5 percent were not 

exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in 

some cases, duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the shoulder 

was required for 90.2 percent of personal care 

and service workers and was not required for 

9.8 percent. For 11.1 percent of workers, 

reaching at or below the shoulder was seldom 

performed, for 60.9 percent reaching at or 

below the shoulder occurred occasionally, 

16.1 percent frequently, and for 2.1 percent 

reaching at or below the shoulder occurred 

constantly.

Performing work in low postures was required 

for 71.8 percent of personal care and service workers and was not required for 28.2 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 21.5 percent of personal care and service 

workers. On average, workers spent 24.3 percent of the workday sitting and 75.7 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of personal care and service workers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 21.5 78.5

Driving 13.4 86.6

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 19.8 80.2

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Animal caretakers

Feed, water, groom, bathe, exercise, or otherwise provide care to 

promote and maintain the well-being of pets and other animals that 

are not raised for consumption, such as dogs, cats, race horses, 

ornamental fish or birds, zoo animals, and mice. Work in settings 

such as kennels, animal shelters, zoos, circuses, and aquariums. May 

keep records of feedings, treatments, and animals received or 

discharged. May clean, disinfect, and repair cages, pens, or fish 

tanks.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in 

jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 20.5 percent of animal caretakers, and basic people skills were 

required for 79.5 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of animal caretakers with cognitive and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 42.8 57.2

Interaction with general public 89.3 10.7

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Supervising others 0.6 99.4

Work review: Presence of supervisor 91.4 8.6

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience 

requirements

The minimum level of formal education 

required, credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work experience 

necessary for average performance in 

jobs.

In 2023, credentials were required for 

13.9 percent of animal caretakers. Prior 

work experience was required for 20.9 

percent and on-the-job training was 

required for 96.2 percent.

No minimum education was required for 

45.7 percent of animal caretakers and a 

high school diploma was required for 51.2 

percent.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete 

hazards or difficulties that are in the 

vicinity of where jobs’ critical tasks are 

performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

animal caretakers were not exposed to 

extreme cold, and greater than 99.5 

percent were not exposed to extreme 

heat. Wetness was not present for less 

than 0.5 percent, greater than 99.5 

percent were not exposed to heavy

vibrations, and 61.3 percent were not 

exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities 

required to perform tasks in jobs. 

The presence and, in some cases, 

duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the 

shoulder was required for 99.0 

percent of animal caretakers and 

was not required for 1.0 percent.

Performing work in low postures 

was required for greater than 90 

percent of animal caretakers and 

was not required for less than 10 

percent.

The choice to sit or stand when 

performing critical tasks was available to 9.8 percent of animal caretakers. On average, workers spent 5.4 percent of the 

workday sitting and 94.6 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of animal caretakers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 9.8 90.2

Driving 10.4 89.6

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 6.4 93.6

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Production workers

This occupational group includes engine assemblers, structural metal 

fabricators and fitters, bakers, butchers and meat cutters, meat packers, 

computer-controlled machine tool operators, forging machine setters, 

machinists, pourers and casters, tool and die makers, printing press 

operators, upholsters, furniture finishers, model maters, gas plant 

operators, tire builders, etchers, and engravers.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 25.4 percent of production workers, and basic people skills were 

required for 74.6 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of production workers with cognitive and mental requirements, 

2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 42.5 57.5

Interaction with general public 16.8 83.2

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Supervising others 11.7 88.3

Work review: Presence of supervisor 84.9 15.1

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 18.4 percent of 

production workers. Prior 

work experience was 

required for 46.3 percent and 

on-the-job training was 

required for 89.1 percent.

No minimum education was 

required for 39.2 percent of 

production workers and a 

high school diploma was 

required for 55.5 percent.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where 

jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, 92.4 percent of production workers 

were not exposed to extreme cold, and 87.1 

percent were not exposed to extreme heat. 

Wetness was not present for 70.3 percent, 

97.0 percent were not exposed to heavy 

vibrations, and 88.6 percent were not 

exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in 

some cases, duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the shoulder was 

required for 86.2 percent of production 

workers and was not required for 13.8 

percent.

Performing work in low postures was required 

for 67.1 percent of production workers and 

was not required for 32.9 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing 

critical tasks was available to 16.6 percent of 

production workers. On average, workers 

spent 18.8 percent of the workday sitting and 81.2 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of production workers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 16.6 83.4

Driving 13.5 86.5

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 18.3 81.7

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Butchers and meat cutters

Cut, trim, or prepare consumer-sized portions of meat for use or sale in 

retail establishments.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 26.8 percent of 

butchers and meat cutters, and basic people skills were required for 

73.2 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of butchers and meat cutters with cognitive and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 16.8 83.2

Interaction with general public 96.4 3.6

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Supervising others 5.0 95.0

Work review: Presence of supervisor 84.1 15.9

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, 

and experience 

requirements

The minimum level of 

formal education 

required, credentials 

necessary, on-the-job 

training, and prior work 

experience necessary 

for average 

performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials 

were required for 35.8 

percent of butchers 

and meat cutters. Prior 

work experience was 

required for 61.3 

percent.

No minimum education 

was required for 52.8 percent of butchers and meat cutters and a high school diploma was required for 47.2 percent.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards 

or difficulties that are in the vicinity of 

where jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, 13.3 percent of butchers and 

meat cutters were not exposed to 

extreme cold, and 97.1 percent were not 

exposed to extreme heat. Wetness was 

not present for 9.3 percent, greater than 

95 percent were not exposed to heavy 

vibrations, and 95.3 percent were not 

exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities 

required to perform tasks in jobs. 

The presence and, in some cases, 

duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the 

shoulder was required for greater 

than 95 percent of butchers and 

meat cutters and was not required 

for less than 5 percent.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 91.1 percent of butchers 

and meat cutters and was not 

required for 8.9 percent.

On average, butchers and meat 

cutters spent 99.7 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of butchers and meat cutters with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing <10 >90

Driving <0.5 >99.5

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs <5 >95

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Cutting, punching, and press machine setters, 

operators, and tenders, metal and plastic

Set up, operate, or tend machines to saw, cut, shear, slit, punch, 

crimp, notch, bend, or straighten metal or plastic material.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make 

decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 14.6 

percent of cutting, punching, and press machine setters, 

operators, and tenders, metal and plastic, and basic people 

skills were required for 85.4 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of cutting, punching, and press machine setters, operators, and tenders, 

metal and plastic with cognitive and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 22.8 77.2

Interaction with general public <15 >85

Working around crowds <0.5 >99.5

Telework <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Supervising others 0.7 99.3

Work review: Presence of supervisor 96.1 3.9

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 14.1 percent of 

cutting, punching, and press 

machine setters, operators, 

and tenders, metal and 

plastic. Prior work experience 

was required for 33.7 percent 

and on-the-job training was 

required for 97.6 percent.

No minimum education was 

required for 44.5 percent of cutting, punching, and press machine setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic and 

a high school diploma was required for 55.5 percent.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where 

jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

cutting, punching, and press machine 

setters, operators, and tenders, metal and 

plastic were not exposed to extreme cold, 

and 90.4 percent were not exposed to 

extreme heat. Wetness was not present for 

81.1 percent, 97.4 percent were not 

exposed to heavy vibrations, and 94.6 

percent were not exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities 

required to perform tasks in jobs. 

The presence and, in some cases, 

duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the 

shoulder was required for 84.9 

percent of cutting, punching, and 

press machine setters, operators, 

and tenders, metal and plastic and 

was not required for 15.1 percent.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 68.8 percent of cutting, 

punching, and press machine setters, 

operators, and tenders, metal and 

plastic and was not required for 31.2 

percent.

On average, cutting, punching, and press machine setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic spent 11.7 percent 

of the workday sitting and 88.3 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of cutting, punching, and press machine setters, operators, and tenders, 

metal and plastic with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing <5 >95

Driving 25.9 74.1

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 9.0 91.0

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Protective service workers

This occupational group includes workers engaged in firefighting and fire 

prevention, law enforcement, and animal control, as well as private 

detectives and investigators, security guards, lifeguards, transportation 

security screeners, and crossing guards.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 79.0 percent of 

protective service workers, and basic people skills were required for 21.0 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of protective service workers with cognitive and mental 

requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 13.2 86.8

Interaction with general public 98.8 1.2

Working around crowds 40.6 59.4

Telework <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Supervising others 12.5 87.5

Work review: Presence of supervisor 34.9 65.1

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 89.4 percent of 

protective service workers. 

Prior work experience was 

required for 30.4 percent and 

on-the-job training was 

required for 75.9 percent.

A high school diploma was 

required for 82.3 percent of 

protective service workers.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete 

hazards or difficulties that are in the 

vicinity of where jobs’ critical tasks are 

performed.

In 2023, a quiet noise exposure was 

present for 3.6 percent of protective 

service workers. Another 82.2 percent 

were exposed to moderate noise, 13.2 

percent were exposed to loud noise, 

and 1.1 percent to very loud noise. 

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

was used by 9.3 percent of workers to 

mitigate noise exposure, and was not 

used by 90.7 percent.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in 

some cases, duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the shoulder 

was required for 85.5 percent of protective 

service workers and was not required for 

14.5 percent.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 73.4 percent of protective 

service workers and was not required for 

26.6 percent. For 33.7 percent of workers, 

stooping was required to perform low work.

The choice to sit or stand when performing 

critical tasks was available to 9.2 percent of 

protective service workers. On average, workers spent 43.2 percent of the workday sitting and 56.8 percent of the 

workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of protective service workers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 9.2 90.8

Driving 56.8 43.2

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 70.7 29.3

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Security guards

Guard, patrol, or monitor premises to prevent theft, violence, or infractions of 

rules. May operate x-ray and metal detector equipment.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, interact 

with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, work was reviewed by a supervisor more than once per day for 53.6 

percent of security guards, and once per day for 31.5 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of security guards with cognitive and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 10.2 89.8

Interaction with general public >99.5 <0.5

Working around crowds 30.3 69.7

Telework <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Supervising others 0.6 99.4

Work review: Presence of supervisor 28.0 72.0

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 85.5 percent of 

security guards. Prior work 

experience was required for 

22.1 percent and on-the-job 

training was required for 97.1 

percent.

A high school diploma was 

required for 94.9 percent of 

security guards.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where 

jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

security guards were not exposed to 

extreme cold, and greater than 99.5 

percent were not exposed to extreme heat. 

Wetness was not present for 99.4 percent, 

greater than 95 percent were not exposed 

to heavy vibrations, and 9.6 percent were 

not exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, 

in some cases, duration of these activities 

are published.

In 2023, keyboarding was required for 

77.8 percent of security guards and was 

not required for 22.2 percent. For 36.8 

percent of workers, keyboarding was 

seldom performed, for 38.7 percent 

keyboarding occurred occasionally, 2.3 

percent frequently, and for less than 0.5 

percent keyboarding occurred constantly.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 49.2 percent of security 

guards and was not required for 50.8 

percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 7.5 percent of security guards. On average, 

workers spent 41.7 percent of the workday sitting and 58.3 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of security guards with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 7.5 92.5

Driving 38.0 62.0

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 73.5 26.5

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Sales and related workers

This occupational group includes cashiers, rental clerks, retail salespersons, 

advertising sales agents, travel agents, wholesale and manufacturing sales 

representatives, models, demonstrators, product promoters, sales engineers, 

real estate brokers, street vendors, and telemarketers.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, interact 

with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, verbal interactions were required constantly (every few minutes) for 46.2 percent of sales and related workers, 

and were required not constantly, but more than once per hour for 51.1 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of sales and related workers with cognitive and mental 

requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 45.5 54.5

Interaction with general public >99.5 <0.5

Working around crowds 1.8 98.2

Telework 11.9 88.1

Work review: Supervising others 11.0 89.0

Work review: Presence of supervisor 70.6 29.4

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 27.8 percent of 

sales and related workers. 

Prior work experience was 

required for 33.2 percent and 

on-the-job training was 

required for 93.4 percent.

No minimum education was 

required for 50.7 percent of 

sales and related workers and 

a high school diploma was 

required for 39.6 percent.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where 

jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, 97.0 percent of sales and related 

workers were not exposed to extreme cold, 

and greater than 99.5 percent were not 

exposed to extreme heat. Wetness was not 

present for 79.4 percent, greater than 99.5 

percent were not exposed to heavy 

vibrations, and 71.9 percent were not 

exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, 

in some cases, duration of these activities 

are published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the 

shoulder was required for 78.3 percent of 

sales and related workers and was not 

required for 21.7 percent.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 59.3 percent of sales and 

related workers and was not required for 

40.7 percent.

The choice to sit or stand when 

performing critical tasks was available to 

32.3 percent of sales and related 

workers. On average, workers spent 31.4 

percent of the workday sitting and 68.6 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of sales and related workers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 32.3 67.7

Driving 21.9 78.1

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 10.6 89.4

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Cashiers

Receive and disburse money in establishments other than financial 

institutions. May use electronic scanners, cash registers, or related 

equipment. May process credit or debit card transactions and 

validate checks.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make 

decisions, interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 10.6 percent 

of cashiers, and basic people skills were required for 89.4 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of cashiers with cognitive and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 4.4 95.6

Interaction with general public >99.5 <0.5

Working around crowds 0.7 99.3

Telework <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Supervising others 2.6 97.4

Work review: Presence of supervisor 90.9 9.1

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and 

experience 

requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, onthe-job training, and prior 

work experience necessary 

for average performance in 

jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 5.7 percent of 

cashiers. Prior work 

experience was required for 

4.3 percent and on-the-job 

training was required for 

greater than 99.5 percent.

No minimum education was 

required for 84.6 percent of cashiers.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete 

hazards or difficulties that are in the 

vicinity of where jobs’ critical tasks 

are performed.

In 2023, 92.3 percent of cashiers 

were not exposed to extreme cold, 

and 99.2 percent were not exposed 

to extreme heat. Wetness was not 

present for 51.1 percent, greater 

than 99.5 percent were not exposed 

to heavy vibrations, and 76.9 percent 

were not exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities 

required to perform tasks in jobs. 

The presence and, in some cases, 

duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the 

shoulder was required for 97.7 

percent of cashiers and was not 

required for 2.3 percent.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 73.8 percent of cashiers 

and was not required for 26.2 

percent.

The choice to sit or stand when 

performing critical tasks was 

available to 4.4 percent of cashiers. On average, workers spent 5.8 percent of the workday sitting and 94.2 percent of 

the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of cashiers with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 4.4 95.6

Driving 0.7 99.3

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 1.8 98.2

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Retail salespersons

Sell merchandise, such as furniture, motor vehicles, appliances, or apparel 

to consumers.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, work was reviewed by a supervisor more than once per day for 

53.8 percent of retail salespersons, and once per day for 26.8 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of retail salespersons with cognitive and mental requirements, 

2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 35.9 64.1

Interaction with general public >99.5 <0.5

Working around crowds 3.1 96.9

Telework 0.5 99.5

Work review: Supervising others 1.8 98.2

Work review: Presence of supervisor 84.2 15.8

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 15.2 percent of 

retail salespersons. Prior work 

experience was required for 

16.0 percent and on-the-job 

training was required for 96.6 

percent.

No minimum education was 

required for 67.9 percent of 

retail salespersons and a high 

school diploma was required 

for 31.9 percent.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards or 

difficulties that are in the vicinity of where jobs’ 

critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, 99.3 percent of retail salespersons 

were not exposed to extreme cold, and greater 

than 99.5 percent were not exposed to extreme 

heat. Wetness was not present for 87.2 

percent, greater than 99.5 percent were not 

exposed to heavy vibrations, and 66.3 percent 

were not exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in 

some cases, duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the shoulder 

was required for 92.5 percent of retail 

salespersons and was not required for 7.5 

percent.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 83.1 percent of retail 

salespersons and was not required for 16.9 

percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing 

critical tasks was available to 10.1 percent 

of retail salespersons. On average, workers 

spent 12.8 percent of the workday sitting and 87.2 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of retail salespersons with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 10.1 89.9

Driving 11.7 88.3

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 7.5 92.5

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Transportation and material moving workers

This occupational group includes airline pilots, flight attendants, bus drivers, 

taxi drivers, chauffeurs, locomotive engineers, railroad conducts, ship 

engineers, parking lot attendants, crane operators, recyclable material 

collectors, mine shuttle car operators, and ship loaders.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, 

interact with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 18.4 percent of 

transportation and material moving workers, and basic people skills were required for 81.6 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of transportation and material moving workers with cognitive and 

mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control 31.4 68.6

Interaction with general public 62.6 37.4

Working around crowds 2.4 97.6

Telework <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Supervising others 5.2 94.8

Work review: Presence of supervisor 56.9 43.1

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, and experience requirements

The minimum level of formal 

education required, 

credentials necessary, on-thejob training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for 58.6 percent of 

transportation and material 

moving workers. Prior work 

experience was required for 

29.8 percent and on-the-job 

training was required for 89.2 

percent.

No minimum education was 

required for 60.2 percent of 

transportation and material 

moving workers and a high 

school diploma was required for 39.2 percent.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete hazards 

or difficulties that are in the vicinity of 

where jobs’ critical tasks are performed.

In 2023, 88.8 percent of transportation 

and material moving workers were not 

exposed to extreme cold, and 98.4 percent 

were not exposed to extreme heat. 

Wetness was not present for 79.5 percent, 

99.2 percent were not exposed to heavy 

vibrations, and 42.4 percent were not 

exposed to the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities required to 

perform tasks in jobs. The presence and, in 

some cases, duration of these activities 

are published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the shoulder 

was required for 93.2 percent of 

transportation and material moving 

workers and was not required for 6.8 

percent.

Performing work in low postures was 

required for 83.4 percent of 

transportation and material moving 

workers and was not required for 16.6 

percent.

The choice to sit or stand when performing critical tasks was available to 5.4 percent of transportation and material 

moving workers. On average, workers spent 34.8 percent of the workday sitting and 65.2 percent of the workday 

standing.

Table 2. Percentage of transportation and material moving workers with physical 

demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing 5.4 94.6

Driving 60.3 39.7

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 22.2 77.8

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Bus drivers, school

Drive a school bus to transport students. Ensure adherence to safety rules. May 

assist students in boarding or exiting.

Cognitive and mental requirements

The qualifications that workers need to use judgment, make decisions, interact 

with others, and adapt to changes in jobs.

In 2023, more than basic people skills were required for 19.1 percent of bus 

drivers, school, and basic people skills were required for 80.9 percent.

Table 1. Percentage of bus drivers, school with cognitive and mental requirements, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Pace: Pause control <0.5 >99.5

Interaction with general public 96.6 3.4

Working around crowds 2.8 97.2

Telework <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Supervising others <0.5 >99.5

Work review: Presence of supervisor <0.5 >99.5

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey

Education, training, 

and experience 

requirements

The minimum level of 

formal education 

required, credentials 

necessary, on-the-job 

training, and prior work 

experience necessary for 

average performance in 

jobs.

In 2023, credentials were 

required for greater than 

99.5 percent of bus 

drivers, school. Prior 

work experience was 

required for 6.2 percent 

and on-the-job training 

was required for 90.7 

percent.

No minimum education was required for 37.7 percent of bus drivers, school and a high school diploma was required for 

62.3 percent.
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

Environmental conditions

The various tangible or concrete 

hazards or difficulties that are in the 

vicinity of where jobs’ critical tasks are 

performed.

In 2023, greater than 99.5 percent of 

bus drivers, school were not exposed to 

extreme cold, and greater than 99.5 

percent were not exposed to extreme 

heat. Wetness was not present for 82.8 

percent, greater than 99.5 percent 

were not exposed to heavy vibrations, 

and 15.9 percent were not exposed to 

the outdoors.

Physical demands

Refer to the physical activities 

required to perform tasks in jobs. 

The presence and, in some cases, 

duration of these activities are 

published.

In 2023, reaching at or below the 

shoulder was required for 92.1 

percent of bus drivers, school 

and was not required for 7.9 

percent.

Performing work in low postures 

was required for 75.8 percent of 

bus drivers, school and was not 

required for 24.2 percent.

On average, bus drivers, school 

spent 88.2 percent of the 

workday sitting and 11.8 percent of the workday standing.

Table 2. Percentage of bus drivers, school with physical demands, 2023

Requirement Yes No

Choice of sitting or standing <0.5 >99.5

Driving >99.5 <0.5

Climbing structure-related ramps or stairs 16.9 83.1

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey
Technical note

The Occupational Requirements Survey (ORS) is conducted by the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). 

The ORS is an establishment-based survey and provides job-related information about the physical demands; environmental 

conditions; education, training, and experience; as well as cognitive and mental requirements of jobs in the U.S. economy. Job 

requirements do not include modifications or adjustments to a job or change in the work environment that enables a person 

with a disability to compete equally or carry out the occupational critical tasks in support of the critical job functions.

Additional estimates for detailed occupations and occupational groups are available at www.bls.gov/ors/data.htm. 

Sample size

For information regarding the sample size see the technical note in the current News Release. The ORS Handbook of Methods 

provides information on the sample design. 

Measures of reliability

To assist users in ascertaining the reliability of ORS estimates, standard errors are available for each estimate. For more 

information on standard errors see: www.bls.gov/ors/se.htm. 

Occupational classification

BLS uses the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system to code and publish occupations to the 6-digit level of detail. 

The occupational groups in this publication reflect the 2-digit aggregation of occupations as defined using the 2018 SOC. 

Military specific occupations (55-0000.00) are out of scope for the ORS.

Definitions of major terms

The complete list of terms is available within the ORS collection manuals and ORS Handbook of Methods. The glossary below 

contains some major terms used in these occupational group profiles.

General terms

• Civilian workers – includes private industry and state and local government workers. Excluded are the federal 

government, the military, agricultural workers, private household workers, and the self-employed.

• Critical job function - This is the main purpose and the primary pay factor for the job. It consists of critical tasks that 

are integral to the job.

• Critical tasks - Activities workers must perform to carry out their critical job function(s).

• Duration levels:

o Seldom – up to 2 percent of the workday

o Occasionally – from 2 percent up to 1/3 of the workday

o Frequently – from 1/3 up to 2/3 of the workday

o Constantly – from 2/3 or more of the workday
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

• Job – group of workers in an establishment that have the same position. The term job refers to a single position 

within an establishment, whereas occupation refers to a profession or trade. Example: “waiters at Smith’s 

Restaurant” is a job, whereas “waiters” is an occupation.

Cognitive and mental requirements

• Crowds - Working around crowds is present when the following five conditions are met:

1. many unfamiliar people are present considering the space available,

2. movement is restricted,

3. any given arrangement of the crowd is temporary,

4. a certain level of disorganization is present, and

5. workers are not separated from unfamiliar people by counters, dividers, or other objects.

• General public - Includes interacting with individuals other than coworkers to perform critical tasks.

Education, training, and experience requirements

• Preparation time – the amount of time required by a typical worker to learn the techniques, acquire the information, 

and develop the facility needed for average performance in a specific job/worker situation. This is also referred to as 

specific vocational preparation (SVP) and is measure in nine levels from a “short demonstration” to “over 10 years”. 

For more information see the Calculation section of the Handbook of Methods. 

• Minimum education – the lowest level of formal coursework required in a job and excludes general education, see 

the Minimum formal education factsheet for more information.

• Credentials – the amount of time needed to complete required training as a condition for hiring which may include 

certifications, licenses, and educational certificates.

• On-the-job training – the amount of training time that occurs after an employee has been hired.

• Prior work experience – the amount of prior relevant work activity. This excludes any non-vocationally specific 

requirements.

Environmental conditions

• Extreme cold – 40 degrees or below when exposed 2/3 or more of the workday or 32 degrees or below when exposed 

up to 2/3 of the workday.

• Extreme heat – above 90 degrees in a dry environment or above 85 degrees in a humid environment.

• Hazardous contaminants – exposure that negatively affects the respiratory system, eyes, skin, or other living tissue via 

inhalation, ingestion, or contact.

• Noise intensity level – amount of noise that a worker experiences while working. Examples of noise level:

o Quiet – settings such as a private office or art museum;

o Moderate – business office, department store, fast food restaurant;

o Loud – large earth moving equipment or can manufacturing department;

o Very loud – rock concert or jackhammer work.

• Outdoors – is considered present when two conditions exist, (1) a worker performs typical job duties outdoors or a 

worker moves between different work sites during the workday and (2) a worker is unprotected and exposed to the 

elements. 
Occupational Requirements Survey ●www.bls.gov/ors ●orsinfo@bls.gov ●202.691.6199

• Personal protective equipment (PPE) – gear used or worn to minimize exposure to serious workplace injuries and 

illnesses.

• Proximity to moving mechanical parts – refers to moving materials, mechanical parts, settings, or any moving objects 

that could cause bodily injury.

• High and exposed places – when a worker is at risk of falling five feet or more from the worker’s center of gravity.

Physical demands

• Fine manipulation – touching, picking, pinching, or otherwise working primarily with fingers rather than with the 

whole hand or arm.

• Gross manipulation – seizing, holding, grasping, turning, or otherwise working with the hands; and also often present 

when lifting involves the hands.

• Strength level – A job is classified into strength five levels: sedentary, light, medium, heavy, and very heavy. The 

strength level is determined by how much weight a worker is required to lift or carry, how often they have to lift or 

carry that weight, as well as standing and walking in some special cases. Pushing or pulling – Pushing or pulling can be 

done with the hands and arms, feet and legs, or feet only. Additional detail on the calculation of strength levels is 

available in the Handbook of Methods.