Online Merchants
13-1199.06
Bright Outlook Updated 2025

Conduct retail activities of businesses operating exclusively online. May perform duties such as preparing business strategies, buying merchandise, managing inventory, implementing marketing activities, fulfilling and shipping online orders, and balancing financial records.

Sample of reported job titles: Online Services Manager

Occupation-Specific Information

Tasks Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceCategoryTask
89
 
Core
Fill customer orders by packaging sold items and documentation for direct shipping or by transferring orders to manufacturers or third-party distributors.
87
 
Core
Receive and process payments from customers, using electronic transaction services.
87
 
Core
Create, manage, or automate orders or invoices, using order management or invoicing software.
86
 
Core
Deliver e-mail confirmation of completed transactions and shipment.
85
 
Core
Correspond with online customers via electronic mail, telephone, or other electronic messaging to address questions or complaints about products, policies, or shipping methods.
84
 
Core
Purchase new or used items from online or physical sources for resale via retail or auction Web site.
83
 
Core
Determine and set product prices.
83
 
Core
Calculate purchase subtotals, taxes, and shipping costs for submission to customers.
81
 
Core
Compose descriptions of merchandise for posting to online storefront, auction sites, or other shopping Web sites.
80
 
Core
Compose images of products, using video or still cameras, lighting equipment, props, or photo or video editing software.
80
 
Core
Upload digital media, such as photos, video, or scanned images to online storefront, auction sites, or other shopping Web sites.
79
 
Core
Calculate revenue, sales, and expenses, using financial accounting or spreadsheet software.
78
 
Core
Cancel orders based on customer requests or inventory or delivery problems.
77
 
Core
Prepare or organize online storefront marketing material, including product descriptions or subject lines, optimizing content to search engine criteria.
77
 
Core
Order or purchase merchandise to maintain optimal inventory levels.
72
 
Core
Determine location for product listings to maximize exposure to online traffic.
71
 
Core
Create or maintain database of customer accounts.
71
 
Core
Promote products in online communities through weblog or discussion-forum postings, e-mail marketing programs, or online advertising.
71
 
Core
Collaborate with search engine shopping specialists to place marketing content in desired online locations.
70
 
Core
Investigate products or markets to determine areas for opportunity or viability for merchandising specific products, using online or offline sources.
68
 
Core
Maintain inventory of shipping supplies, such as boxes, labels, tape, bubble wrap, loose packing materials, or tape guns.
65
 
Core
Measure and analyze Web site usage data to maximize search engine returns or refine customer interfaces.
65
 
Core
Develop or revise business plans for online business, emphasizing factors such as product line, pricing, inventory, or marketing strategy.
58
 
Core
Disclose merchant information and terms and policies of transactions in online or offline materials.
84
 
Supplemental
Design customer interface of online storefront, using web programming or e-commerce software.
75
 
Supplemental
Select and purchase technical web services, such as web hosting services, online merchant accounts, shopping cart software, payment gateway software, or spyware.
73
 
Supplemental
Transfer digital media, such as music, video, or software, to customers via the Internet.
70
 
Supplemental
Devise, select, or purchase domain name and web address.
69
 
Supplemental
Initiate online auctions through auction hosting sites or auction management software.
62
 
Supplemental
Implement security practices to preserve assets, minimize liabilities, or ensure customer privacy, using parallel servers, hardware redundancy, fail-safe technology, information encryption, or firewalls.
62
 
Supplemental
Investigate sources, such as auctions, estate sales, liquidators, wholesalers, or trade shows for new items, used items, or collectibles.
60
 
Supplemental
Participate in online forums or conferences to stay abreast of online retailing trends, techniques, or security threats.
59
 
Supplemental
Integrate online retailing strategy with physical or catalogue retailing operations.
53
 
Supplemental
Create or distribute offline promotional material, such as brochures, pamphlets, business cards, stationary, or signage.
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Technology Skills Save Table: XLSX CSV

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Hot Technologies are requirements most frequently included across all employer job postings.
In demand
In Demand skills are frequently included in employer job postings for this occupation.

Occupational Requirements

Work Activities Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceWork Activity
92
 
Working with Computers — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
80
 
Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
76
 
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
75
 
Processing Information — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
72
 
Selling or Influencing Others — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
71
 
Making Decisions and Solving Problems — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
70
 
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
69
 
Documenting/Recording Information — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
69
 
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
65
 
Communicating with People Outside the Organization — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
61
 
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
61
 
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
60
 
Analyzing Data or Information — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
59
 
Thinking Creatively — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
58
 
Performing Administrative Activities — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
57
 
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
54
 
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
53
 
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
52
 
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
50
 
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
50
 
Developing Objectives and Strategies — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
48
 
Monitoring and Controlling Resources — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
48
 
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
47
 
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
44
 
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
44
 
Scheduling Work and Activities — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
42
 
Training and Teaching Others — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
38
 
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
34
 
Assisting and Caring for Others — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
34
 
Coaching and Developing Others — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
34
 
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
33
 
Developing and Building Teams — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
33
 
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
31
 
Handling and Moving Objects — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
26
 
Staffing Organizational Units — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
24
 
Controlling Machines and Processes — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
16
 
Performing General Physical Activities — Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
14
 
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
13
 
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
9
 
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
4
 
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.

Detailed Work Activities Save Table: XLSX CSV

Find occupations related to multiple detailed work activities

Work Context Save Table: XLSX CSV

  • E-Mail — How frequently does your job require you to use E-mail?
    • 100%
      100%
       
      Every day
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in an environmentally controlled environment (like a warehouse with air conditioning)?
    • 83%
      83%
       
      Every day
    • 17%
      17%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
  • Telephone Conversations — How often do you have telephone conversations in this job?
    • 81%
      81%
       
      Every day
    • 11%
      11%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
  • Freedom to Make Decisions — How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer?
    • 62%
      62%
       
      A lot of freedom
    • 36%
      36%
       
      Some freedom
  • Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams — How frequently does your job require face-to-face discussions with individuals and within teams?
    • 67%
      67%
       
      Every day
    • 21%
      21%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
  • Contact With Others — How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it?
    • 64%
      64%
       
      Constant contact with others
    • 18%
      18%
       
      Contact with others most of the time
    • 18%
      18%
       
      Contact with others about half the time
  • Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals — How much freedom does the worker have in determining the tasks, priorities, or goals of the job?
    • 52%
      52%
       
      A lot of freedom
    • 30%
      30%
       
      Some freedom
    • 18%
      18%
       
      Limited freedom
  • Frequency of Decision Making — How often is the worker required to make decisions that affect other people, the financial resources, and/or the image and reputation of the organization?
    • 60%
      60%
       
      Every day
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
  • Spend Time Sitting — How much does this job require sitting?
    • 38%
      38%
       
      Continually or almost continually
    • 49%
      49%
       
      More than half the time
  • Deal With External Customers or the Public in General — How important is it to deal with external customers (as in retail sales) or the public in general (as in police work) in this job?
    • 54%
      54%
       
      Extremely important
    • 21%
      21%
       
      Very important
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Important
    • 13%
      13%
       
      Fairly important
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?
    • 27%
      27%
       
      Extremely important
    • 59%
      59%
       
      Very important
    • 13%
      13%
       
      Important
  • Time Pressure — How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines?
    • 36%
      36%
       
      Every day
    • 47%
      47%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 13%
      13%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
  • Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results — What results do your decisions usually have on other people or the image or reputation or financial resources of your employer?
    • 50%
      50%
       
      Very important results
    • 26%
      26%
       
      Important results
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Minor results
  • Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team — How important is it to work with or contribute to a work group or team in this job?
    • 50%
      50%
       
      Extremely important
    • 32%
      32%
       
      Important
  • Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities — How important is it to coordinate or lead others (not as a supervisor or team leader) in accomplishing work activities in this job?
    • 33%
      33%
       
      Extremely important
    • 28%
      28%
       
      Very important
    • 22%
      22%
       
      Important
    • 13%
      13%
       
      Fairly important
  • Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers — How responsible is the worker for work outcomes and results of other workers?
    • 37%
      37%
       
      Very high responsibility
    • 18%
      18%
       
      High responsibility
    • 29%
      29%
       
      Moderate responsibility
  • Duration of Typical Work Week — Number of hours typically worked in one week.
    • 44%
      44%
       
      More than 40 hours
    • 42%
      42%
       
      40 hours
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Less than 40 hours
  • Written Letters and Memos — How frequently does your job require written letters and memos?
    • 31%
      31%
       
      Every day
    • 23%
      23%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 27%
      27%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
  • Importance of Repeating Same Tasks — How important are continuous, repetitive, physical activities (like key entry) or mental activities (like checking entries in a ledger) to performing this job?
    • 25%
      25%
       
      Extremely important
    • 31%
      31%
       
      Very important
    • 17%
      17%
       
      Important
    • 18%
      18%
       
      Fairly important
  • Level of Competition — To what extent does this job require the worker to compete or to be aware of competitive pressures?
    • 15%
      15%
       
      Extremely competitive
    • 28%
      28%
       
      Highly competitive
    • 38%
      38%
       
      Moderately competitive
    • 13%
      13%
       
      Slightly competitive
  • Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People — How frequently does the worker have to deal with unpleasant, angry, or discourteous individuals as part of the job requirements?
    • 30%
      30%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 48%
      48%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 16%
      16%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
  • Physical Proximity — To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks physically close to other people?
    • 29%
      29%
       
      Moderately close (at arm's length)
    • 41%
      41%
       
      Slightly close (e.g., shared office)
    • 24%
      24%
       
      I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)
  • Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions — How much does this job require making repetitive motions?
    • 35%
      35%
       
      More than half the time
    • 19%
      19%
       
      About half the time
    • 11%
      11%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Never
  • Conflict Situations — How frequently are there conflict situations the employee has to face in this job?
    • 55%
      55%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
  • Degree of Automation — How automated is the job?
    • 39%
      39%
       
      Highly automated
    • 19%
      19%
       
      Moderately automated
    • 11%
      11%
       
      Slightly automated
    • 31%
      31%
       
      Not at all automated
  • Health and Safety of Other Workers — How much responsibility is there for the health and safety of others in this job?
    • 15%
      15%
       
      Very high responsibility
    • 30%
      30%
       
      Moderate responsibility
    • 25%
      25%
       
      Limited responsibility
    • 22%
      22%
       
      No responsibility
  • In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment — How often does this job require working in a closed vehicle or operate enclosed equipment (like a car)?
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Every day
    • 23%
      23%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 16%
      16%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 45%
      45%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable — How often does this job require working exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable?
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Every day
    • 11%
      11%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 16%
      16%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 51%
      51%
       
      Never
  • Consequence of Error — How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not easily correctable?
    • 29%
      29%
       
      Serious
    • 28%
      28%
       
      Fairly serious
    • 35%
      35%
       
      Not serious at all
  • Spend Time Standing — How much does this job require standing?
    • 13%
      13%
       
      About half the time
    • 75%
      75%
       
      Less than half the time
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls — How much does this job require using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls?
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Continually or almost continually
    • 42%
      42%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 39%
      39%
       
      Never
  • Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working in an environment that is not environmentally controlled (like a warehouse without air conditioning)?
    • 27%
      27%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 62%
      62%
       
      Never
  • Spend Time Walking or Running — How much does this job require walking or running?
    • 67%
      67%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 33%
      33%
       
      Never
  • Public Speaking — How frequently does your job require public speaking (one speaker with an audience)?
    • 16%
      16%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 62%
      62%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Contaminants — How often does this job require working exposed to contaminants (such as pollutants, gases, dust or odors)?
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 27%
      27%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 59%
      59%
       
      Never
  • Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions — How often does this job require working outdoors, exposed to all weather conditions?
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 22%
      22%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 64%
      64%
       
      Never
  • Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body — How much does this job require bending or twisting your body?
    • 47%
      47%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 51%
      51%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures — How often does this job require working in very hot (above 90 F degrees) or very cold (below 32 F degrees) temperatures?
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 79%
      79%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous equipment?
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 16%
      16%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 72%
      72%
       
      Never
  • Outdoors, Under Cover — How often does this job require working outdoors, under cover (like in an open shed)?
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 81%
      81%
       
      Never
  • In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment — How often does this job require working in an open vehicle or operating equipment (like a tractor)?
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 84%
      84%
       
      Never
  • Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling — How much does this job require kneeling, crouching, stooping or crawling?
    • 28%
      28%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 72%
      72%
       
      Never
  • Work Schedules — How regular are the work schedules for this job?
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration)
    • 86%
      86%
       
      Regular (established routine, set schedule)
  • Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions — How often does this job require working in cramped work spaces that requires getting into awkward positions?
    • 87%
      87%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings — How often does this job require exposure to minor burns, cuts, bites, or stings?
    • 23%
      23%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 77%
      77%
       
      Never
  • Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles — How much does this job require climbing ladders, scaffolds, poles, etc.?
    • 22%
      22%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 78%
      78%
       
      Never
  • Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People — How frequently does this job require the worker to deal with physical aggression of violent individuals?
    • 89%
      89%
       
      Never
  • Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment — How important is it to this job that the pace is determined by the speed of equipment or machinery? (This does not refer to keeping busy at all times on this job.)
    • 96%
      96%
       
      Not important at all
  • Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions — How often does this job require working in extremely bright or inadequate lighting conditions?
    • 95%
      95%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Hazardous Conditions — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous conditions?
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 88%
      88%
       
      Never
  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets — How often does this job require wearing common protective or safety equipment such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hearing protection, hard hats or life-jackets?
    • 94%
      94%
       
      Never
  • Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection — How often does this job require wearing specialized protective or safety equipment such as breathing apparatus, safety harness, full protection suits, or radiation protection?
    • 98%
      98%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Disease or Infections — How often does this job require exposure to disease/infections?
    • 100%
      100%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to High Places — How often does this job require exposure to high places?
    • 100%
      100%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Radiation — How often does this job require exposure to radiation?
    • 100%
      100%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Whole Body Vibration — How often does this job require exposure to whole body vibration (like operating a jackhammer or earth moving equipment)?
    • 100%
      100%
       
      Never
  • Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance — How much does this job require keeping or regaining your balance?
    • 100%
      100%
       
      Never

Experience Requirements

Job Zone Save Table: XLSX CSV

Title
Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed
Education
Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
Related Experience
A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
Job Training
Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
Job Zone Examples
Many of these occupations involve coordinating, supervising, managing, or training others. Examples include real estate brokers, sales managers, database administrators, graphic designers, conservation scientists, art directors, and cost estimators.
SVP Range
(7.0 to < 8.0)

Training & Credentials

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Apprenticeship Opportunities

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Worker Requirements

Skills Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceSkill
66
 
Reading Comprehension — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
63
 
Active Listening — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
63
 
Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
63
 
Speaking — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
60
 
Persuasion — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
60
 
Service Orientation — Actively looking for ways to help people.
60
 
Writing — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
56
 
Judgment and Decision Making — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
53
 
Monitoring — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
53
 
Negotiation — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
53
 
Social Perceptiveness — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
50
 
Complex Problem Solving — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
50
 
Coordination — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
50
 
Mathematics — Using mathematics to solve problems.
47
 
Active Learning — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
47
 
Management of Financial Resources — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
47
 
Time Management — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
44
 
Management of Material Resources — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
41
 
Management of Personnel Resources — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
41
 
Systems Analysis — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
41
 
Systems Evaluation — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
35
 
Learning Strategies — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
35
 
Programming — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
31
 
Instructing — Teaching others how to do something.
25
 
Operations Analysis — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
22
 
Operations Monitoring — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
19
 
Technology Design — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
16
 
Quality Control Analysis — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
6
 
Equipment Selection — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
6
 
Operation and Control — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
6
 
Repairing — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
6
 
Science — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
3
 
Installation — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
3
 
Troubleshooting — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
0
 
Equipment Maintenance — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.

Knowledge Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceKnowledge
80
 
English Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
75
 
Sales and Marketing — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
73
 
Customer and Personal Service — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
65
 
Administration and Management — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
65
 
Communications and Media — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
64
 
Computers and Electronics — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
59
 
Administrative — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
55
 
Mathematics — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
54
 
Economics and Accounting — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
52
 
Production and Processing — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
45
 
Personnel and Human Resources — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
41
 
Design — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
40
 
Telecommunications — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
33
 
Education and Training — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
29
 
Engineering and Technology — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
25
 
Mechanical — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
23
 
Psychology — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
22
 
Public Safety and Security — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
20
 
Fine Arts — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
20
 
Transportation — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
19
 
Building and Construction — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
19
 
Foreign Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
19
 
Physics — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
18
 
Geography — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
16
 
Law and Government — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
13
 
Sociology and Anthropology — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
5
 
Chemistry — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
5
 
Therapy and Counseling — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
4
 
History and Archeology — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
3
 
Biology — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
3
 
Philosophy and Theology — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
2
 
Medicine and Dentistry — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
0
 
Food Production — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.

Education

How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation? Respondents said:

  • 41%
     
    Bachelor’s degree required
  • 33%
     
    High school diploma or equivalent required
  • 12%
     
    Post-secondary certificate required

Worker Characteristics

Abilities Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceAbility
69
 
Written Comprehension — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
63
 
Oral Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
63
 
Problem Sensitivity — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
63
 
Written Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
60
 
Deductive Reasoning — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
60
 
Near Vision — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
60
 
Oral Comprehension — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
60
 
Speech Clarity — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
60
 
Speech Recognition — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
56
 
Inductive Reasoning — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
53
 
Information Ordering — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
50
 
Category Flexibility — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
50
 
Fluency of Ideas — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
50
 
Mathematical Reasoning — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
50
 
Number Facility — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
44
 
Originality — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
41
 
Selective Attention — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
38
 
Visualization — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
35
 
Finger Dexterity — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
31
 
Far Vision — The ability to see details at a distance.
31
 
Flexibility of Closure — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
31
 
Memorization — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
31
 
Perceptual Speed — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
28
 
Speed of Closure — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
28
 
Time Sharing — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
28
 
Visual Color Discrimination — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
22
 
Hearing Sensitivity — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
16
 
Auditory Attention — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
16
 
Depth Perception — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
10
 
Manual Dexterity — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
10
 
Trunk Strength — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
6
 
Static Strength — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
6
 
Wrist-Finger Speed — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
3
 
Arm-Hand Steadiness — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
3
 
Dynamic Flexibility — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
3
 
Extent Flexibility — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
3
 
Multilimb Coordination — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
3
 
Spatial Orientation — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
0
 
Control Precision — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
0
 
Dynamic Strength — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
0
 
Explosive Strength — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
0
 
Glare Sensitivity — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
0
 
Gross Body Coordination — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
0
 
Gross Body Equilibrium — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
0
 
Night Vision — The ability to see under low-light conditions.
0
 
Peripheral Vision — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
0
 
Rate Control — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
0
 
Reaction Time — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
0
 
Response Orientation — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
0
 
Sound Localization — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
0
 
Speed of Limb Movement — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
0
 
Stamina — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.

Interests Save Table: XLSX CSV

Occupational InterestInterest
88
 
Conventional — Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
81
 
Enterprising — Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
23
 
Social — Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.
22
 
Realistic — Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
10
 
Artistic — Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.
8
 
Investigative — Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.

Work Styles Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImpactWork Style
90
 
Dependability Distinctive — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
87
 
Attention to Detail Distinctive — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
83
 
Achievement Orientation — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.
83
 
Integrity — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
80
 
Adaptability — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
80
 
Initiative — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.
80
 
Perseverance — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
76
 
Self-Confidence — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
73
 
Innovation — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.
70
 
Self-Control — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
69
 
Stress Tolerance — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
69
 
Tolerance for Ambiguity — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
67
 
Intellectual Curiosity — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
67
 
Optimism — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even under difficult circumstances.
66
 
Cooperation — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
65
 
Leadership Orientation — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
65
 
Sincerity — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
65
 
Social Orientation — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
64
 
Empathy — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feelings at work.
63
 
Cautiousness — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
47
 
Humility — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.

Workforce Characteristics

Wages & Employment Trends

Median wage data for Business Operations Specialists, All Other.
Employment data for Business Operations Specialists, All Other.
Industry data for Business Operations Specialists, All Other.
Median wages (2024)
$39.07 hourly, $81,270 annual
State wages
Local wages
Employment (2024)
1,205,700 employees
Projected growth (2024-2034)
Average (3% to 4%)
Projected job openings (2024-2034)
108,200
State trends
Top industries (2024)
Government (26% employed in this sector)

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2024 wage data and 2024-2034 employment projections . “Projected growth” represents the estimated change in total employment over the projections period (2024-2034). “Projected job openings” represent openings due to growth and replacement.

Job Openings on the Web

State job openings
Local job openings

More Information

Professional Associations

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National Associations