Musical Instrument Repairers and Tuners
49-9063.00
Updated 2025

Repair percussion, stringed, reed, or wind instruments. May specialize in one area, such as piano tuning.

Sample of reported job titles: Brass Instrument Repair Technician (Brass Instrument Repair Tech), Fretted String Instrument Repairer, Guitar Repairer, Instrument Repair Technician (Instrument Repair Tech), Luthier, Musical Instrument Repair Technician (Musical Instrument Repair Tech), Piano Technician (Piano Tech), Piano Tuner, Stringed Instrument Repairer, Woodwind Instrument Technician (Woodwind Instrument Tech)

Occupation-Specific Information

Tasks Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceCategoryTask
97
 
Core
Adjust string tensions to tune instruments, using hand tools and electronic tuning devices.
93
 
Core
Compare instrument pitches with tuning tool pitches to tune instruments.
92
 
Core
Play instruments to evaluate their sound quality and to locate any defects.
91
 
Core
Disassemble instruments and parts for repair and adjustment.
91
 
Core
Repair or replace musical instrument parts and components, such as strings, bridges, felts, and keys, using hand and power tools.
88
 
Core
Reassemble instruments following repair, using hand tools and power tools and glue, hair, yarn, resin, or clamps, and lubricate instruments as necessary.
82
 
Core
Inspect instruments to locate defects, and to determine their value or the level of restoration required.
79
 
Core
Shape old parts and replacement parts to improve tone or intonation, using hand tools, lathes, or soldering irons.
75
 
Core
String instruments, and adjust trusses and bridges of instruments to obtain specified string tensions and heights.
74
 
Core
Repair cracks in wood or metal instruments, using pinning wire, lathes, fillers, clamps, or soldering irons.
69
 
Core
Polish instruments, using rags and polishing compounds, buffing wheels, or burnishing tools.
68
 
Core
Mix and measure glue that will be used for instrument repair.
98
 
Supplemental
Align pads and keys on reed or wind instruments.
96
 
Supplemental
Solder posts and parts to hold them in their proper places.
83
 
Supplemental
Remove dents and burrs from metal instruments, using mallets and burnishing tools.
82
 
Supplemental
Adjust felt hammers on pianos to increase tonal mellowness or brilliance, using sanding paddles, lacquer, or needles.
79
 
Supplemental
Remove irregularities from tuning pins, strings, and hammers of pianos, using wood blocks or filing tools.
75
 
Supplemental
Strike wood, fiberglass, or metal bars of instruments, and use tuned blocks, stroboscopes, or electronic tuners to evaluate tones made by instruments.
61
 
Supplemental
Make wood replacement parts, using woodworking machines and hand tools.
52
 
Supplemental
Refinish instruments to protect and decorate them, using hand tools, buffing tools, and varnish.
45
 
Supplemental
Assemble and install new pipe organs and pianos in buildings.
39
 
Supplemental
Deliver pianos to purchasers or to locations of their use.
36
 
Supplemental
Wash metal instruments in lacquer-stripping and cyanide solutions to remove lacquer and tarnish.
32
 
Supplemental
Refinish and polish piano cabinets or cases to prepare them for sale.
Not availableNew
Adjust the neck angle on fretted instruments.
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Technology Skills Save Table: XLSX CSV

  • Analytical or scientific software — Katsura Shareware KS Strobe Tuner; Katsura Shareware ProLevel; Tunic OnlyPure; Veritune Verituner; 6 more

Occupational Requirements

Work Activities Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceWork Activity
81
 
Making Decisions and Solving Problems — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
74
 
Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
68
 
Handling and Moving Objects — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
68
 
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
68
 
Thinking Creatively — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
66
 
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
64
 
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
64
 
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
63
 
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
63
 
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.
61
 
Scheduling Work and Activities — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
58
 
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.
58
 
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
56
 
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.
55
 
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.
55
 
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
51
 
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.
50
 
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.
49
 
Monitoring and Controlling Resources — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
48
 
Processing Information — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
47
 
Documenting/Recording Information — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
44
 
Performing Administrative Activities — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
44
 
Selling or Influencing Others — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
44
 
Training and Teaching Others — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
43
 
Controlling Machines and Processes — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
43
 
Working with Computers — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
41
 
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
38
 
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
38
 
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
36
 
Coaching and Developing Others — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
34
 
Developing Objectives and Strategies — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
34
 
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
33
 
Analyzing Data or Information — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
33
 
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.
32
 
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
26
 
Assisting and Caring for Others — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
25
 
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.
24
 
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
23
 
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
18
 
Developing and Building Teams — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
11
 
Staffing Organizational Units — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.

Detailed Work Activities Save Table: XLSX CSV

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Work Context Save Table: XLSX CSV

  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?
    • 90%
      90%
       
      Extremely important
  • 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?
    • 86%
      86%
       
      Continually or almost continually
    • 14%
      14%
       
      More than half the time
  • Telephone Conversations — How often do you have telephone conversations in this job?
    • 80%
      80%
       
      Every day
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
  • E-Mail — How frequently does your job require you to use E-mail?
    • 81%
      81%
       
      Every day
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in an environmentally controlled environment (like a warehouse with air conditioning)?
    • 90%
      90%
       
      Every day
  • Freedom to Make Decisions — How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer?
    • 77%
      77%
       
      A lot of freedom
    • 18%
      18%
       
      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?
    • 70%
      70%
       
      Every day
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
  • Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals — How much freedom does the worker have in determining the tasks, priorities, or goals of the job?
    • 55%
      55%
       
      A lot of freedom
    • 36%
      36%
       
      Some freedom
  • Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions — How much does this job require making repetitive motions?
    • 41%
      41%
       
      Continually or almost continually
    • 27%
      27%
       
      More than half the time
    • 27%
      27%
       
      About half the time
  • 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?
    • 48%
      48%
       
      Every day
    • 29%
      29%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
  • Time Pressure — How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines?
    • 23%
      23%
       
      Every day
    • 55%
      55%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
  • 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?
    • 43%
      43%
       
      Extremely important
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Very important
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Important
  • Duration of Typical Work Week — Number of hours typically worked in one week.
    • 38%
      38%
       
      More than 40 hours
    • 62%
      62%
       
      40 hours
  • 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?
    • 50%
      50%
       
      Every day
    • 18%
      18%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
  • 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?
    • 48%
      48%
       
      Every day
    • 19%
      19%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 19%
      19%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
  • 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?
    • 30%
      30%
       
      Extremely important
    • 25%
      25%
       
      Very important
    • 25%
      25%
       
      Important
    • 15%
      15%
       
      Fairly important
  • Spend Time Sitting — How much does this job require sitting?
    • 41%
      41%
       
      More than half the time
    • 41%
      41%
       
      About half the time
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Less than half the time
  • 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?
    • 19%
      19%
       
      Very important results
    • 38%
      38%
       
      Important results
    • 33%
      33%
       
      Minor results
  • Written Letters and Memos — How frequently does your job require written letters and memos?
    • 15%
      15%
       
      Every day
    • 30%
      30%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 25%
      25%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 25%
      25%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
  • 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?
    • 19%
      19%
       
      Constant contact with others
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Contact with others most of the time
    • 33%
      33%
       
      Contact with others about half the time
    • 33%
      33%
       
      Occasional contact with others
  • Exposed to Contaminants — How often does this job require working exposed to contaminants (such as pollutants, gases, dust or odors)?
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Every day
    • 15%
      15%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 40%
      40%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 15%
      15%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous equipment?
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Every day
    • 27%
      27%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 27%
      27%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 18%
      18%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings — How often does this job require exposure to minor burns, cuts, bites, or stings?
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Every day
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 43%
      43%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
  • Spend Time Standing — How much does this job require standing?
    • 43%
      43%
       
      About half the time
    • 43%
      43%
       
      Less than half the time
  • Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body — How much does this job require bending or twisting your body?
    • 29%
      29%
       
      More than half the time
    • 14%
      14%
       
      About half the time
    • 33%
      33%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 19%
      19%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions — How often does this job require working in cramped work spaces that requires getting into awkward positions?
    • 33%
      33%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 19%
      19%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 38%
      38%
       
      Never
  • Consequence of Error — How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not easily correctable?
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Extremely serious
    • 29%
      29%
       
      Serious
    • 29%
      29%
       
      Fairly serious
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Not serious at all
  • Level of Competition — To what extent does this job require the worker to compete or to be aware of competitive pressures?
    • 43%
      43%
       
      Moderately competitive
    • 43%
      43%
       
      Slightly competitive
  • Health and Safety of Other Workers — How much responsibility is there for the health and safety of others in this job?
    • 27%
      27%
       
      Moderate responsibility
    • 45%
      45%
       
      Limited responsibility
    • 14%
      14%
       
      No responsibility
  • Exposed to Hazardous Conditions — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous conditions?
    • 19%
      19%
       
      Every day
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 52%
      52%
       
      Never
  • Physical Proximity — To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks physically close to other people?
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Moderately close (at arm's length)
    • 19%
      19%
       
      Slightly close (e.g., shared office)
    • 19%
      19%
       
      I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)
    • 38%
      38%
       
      I don't work near other people (beyond 100 ft.)
  • 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?
    • 19%
      19%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 71%
      71%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
  • 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)?
    • 23%
      23%
       
      Every day
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 59%
      59%
       
      Never
  • 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?
    • 15%
      15%
       
      Very important
    • 30%
      30%
       
      Fairly important
    • 40%
      40%
       
      Not important at all
  • Work Schedules — How regular are the work schedules for this job?
    • 45%
      45%
       
      Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration)
    • 50%
      50%
       
      Regular (established routine, set schedule)
  • Conflict Situations — How frequently are there conflict situations the employee has to face in this job?
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 73%
      73%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 14%
      14%
       
      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)?
    • 23%
      23%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 36%
      36%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 36%
      36%
       
      Never
  • Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers — How responsible is the worker for work outcomes and results of other workers?
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Moderate responsibility
    • 38%
      38%
       
      Limited responsibility
    • 43%
      43%
       
      No responsibility
  • Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling — How much does this job require kneeling, crouching, stooping or crawling?
    • 67%
      67%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 29%
      29%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions — How often does this job require working in extremely bright or inadequate lighting conditions?
    • 32%
      32%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 55%
      55%
       
      Never
  • Spend Time Walking or Running — How much does this job require walking or running?
    • 70%
      70%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 30%
      30%
       
      Never
  • 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?
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Important
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Fairly important
    • 57%
      57%
       
      Not important at all
  • Outdoors, Under Cover — How often does this job require working outdoors, under cover (like in an open shed)?
    • 55%
      55%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 45%
      45%
       
      Never
  • Public Speaking — How frequently does your job require public speaking (one speaker with an audience)?
    • 48%
      48%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 52%
      52%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Disease or Infections — How often does this job require exposure to disease/infections?
    • 29%
      29%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 67%
      67%
       
      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?
    • 33%
      33%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 62%
      62%
       
      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?
    • 82%
      82%
       
      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)?
    • 19%
      19%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 76%
      76%
       
      Never
  • Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance — How much does this job require keeping or regaining your balance?
    • 33%
      33%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 67%
      67%
       
      Never
  • Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions — How often does this job require working outdoors, exposed to all weather conditions?
    • 29%
      29%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 71%
      71%
       
      Never
  • Degree of Automation — How automated is the job?
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Slightly automated
    • 86%
      86%
       
      Not at all automated
  • In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment — How often does this job require working in an open vehicle or operating equipment (like a tractor)?
    • 90%
      90%
       
      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.)
    • 11%
      11%
       
      Fairly important
    • 89%
      89%
       
      Not important at all
  • Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People — How frequently does this job require the worker to deal with physical aggression of violent individuals?
    • 91%
      91%
       
      Never
  • Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles — How much does this job require climbing ladders, scaffolds, poles, etc.?
    • 91%
      91%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Radiation — How often does this job require exposure to radiation?
    • 95%
      95%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to High Places — How often does this job require exposure to high places?
    • 100%
      100%
       
      Never

Experience Requirements

Job Zone Save Table: XLSX CSV

Title
Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed
Education
Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Related Experience
Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
Job Training
Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Job Zone Examples
These occupations usually involve using communication and organizational skills to coordinate, supervise, manage, or train others to accomplish goals. Examples include hydroelectric production managers, desktop publishers, electricians, agricultural technicians, barbers, court reporters and simultaneous captioners, and medical assistants.
SVP Range
(6.0 to < 7.0)

Training & Credentials

State training
Local training
Certifications
Find certifications nationwide

Apprenticeship Opportunities

Example apprenticeship titles for this occupation:

  • Fretted Instrument Repairer
  • Piano Technician
  • Piano Tuner
  • Pipe Organ Tuner & Repair
  • Wind Instrument Repairer

Specific title(s) listed above are vetted by industry and approved by the U.S. Department of Labor for use in a Registered Apprenticeship Program.

Start your career and build your skillset. Visit Apprenticeship.gov to learn about opportunities related to this occupation.

Worker Requirements

Skills Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceSkill
72
 
Quality Control Analysis — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
69
 
Repairing — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
69
 
Troubleshooting — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
66
 
Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
53
 
Complex Problem Solving — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
53
 
Judgment and Decision Making — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
53
 
Service Orientation — Actively looking for ways to help people.
50
 
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.
50
 
Equipment Maintenance — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
50
 
Equipment Selection — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
50
 
Reading Comprehension — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
50
 
Speaking — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
50
 
Time Management — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
47
 
Monitoring — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
47
 
Operation and Control — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
47
 
Operations Monitoring — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
47
 
Social Perceptiveness — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
47
 
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.
44
 
Active Learning — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
44
 
Systems Analysis — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
44
 
Writing — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
35
 
Coordination — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
35
 
Instructing — Teaching others how to do something.
35
 
Learning Strategies — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
35
 
Persuasion — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
31
 
Management of Material Resources — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
28
 
Negotiation — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
25
 
Management of Financial Resources — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
25
 
Mathematics — Using mathematics to solve problems.
22
 
Management of Personnel Resources — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
22
 
Operations Analysis — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
22
 
Technology Design — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
16
 
Science — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
13
 
Installation — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
6
 
Programming — Writing computer programs for various purposes.

Knowledge Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceKnowledge
83
 
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.
71
 
Mechanical — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
63
 
Fine Arts — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
60
 
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.
48
 
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.
48
 
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.
46
 
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.
43
 
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.
43
 
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.
40
 
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.
40
 
Economics and Accounting — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
39
 
Transportation — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
38
 
Computers and Electronics — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
38
 
Telecommunications — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
36
 
Design — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
36
 
Mathematics — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
35
 
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.
34
 
Production and Processing — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
33
 
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.
31
 
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.
30
 
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
 
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.
18
 
Law and Government — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
15
 
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.
14
 
History and Archeology — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
13
 
Sociology and Anthropology — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
11
 
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.
10
 
Biology — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
9
 
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.
7
 
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.
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
 
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.
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:

  • 55%
     
    Post-secondary certificate required
  • 18%
     
    Less than high school diploma required
  • 9%
     
    High school diploma or equivalent required

Worker Characteristics

Abilities Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceAbility
85
 
Hearing Sensitivity — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
75
 
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.
75
 
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.
75
 
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.
75
 
Near Vision — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
69
 
Auditory Attention — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
69
 
Control Precision — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
66
 
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.
66
 
Visualization — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
63
 
Deductive Reasoning — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
60
 
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.
60
 
Inductive Reasoning — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
56
 
Selective Attention — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
53
 
Category Flexibility — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
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
 
Far Vision — The ability to see details at a distance.
50
 
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.
50
 
Oral Comprehension — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
50
 
Oral Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
50
 
Speed of Closure — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
50
 
Written Comprehension — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
47
 
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.
47
 
Speech Recognition — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
47
 
Visual Color Discrimination — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
44
 
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).
44
 
Speech Clarity — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
41
 
Memorization — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
41
 
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
 
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).
41
 
Written Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
38
 
Static Strength — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
35
 
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.
35
 
Wrist-Finger Speed — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
31
 
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.
31
 
Dynamic Strength — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
31
 
Reaction Time — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
28
 
Explosive Strength — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
28
 
Extent Flexibility — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
28
 
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.
28
 
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.
25
 
Gross Body Coordination — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
25
 
Gross Body Equilibrium — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
25
 
Mathematical Reasoning — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
25
 
Number Facility — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
25
 
Sound Localization — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
22
 
Stamina — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
16
 
Speed of Limb Movement — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
13
 
Glare Sensitivity — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
13
 
Spatial Orientation — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
10
 
Night Vision — The ability to see under low-light conditions.
10
 
Peripheral Vision — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
6
 
Dynamic Flexibility — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.

Interests Save Table: XLSX CSV

Occupational InterestInterest
90
 
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.
43
 
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.
40
 
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.
27
 
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.
11
 
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.
0
 
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.

Work Styles Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImpactWork Style
88
 
Attention to Detail — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
71
 
Dependability — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
59
 
Cautiousness — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
50
 
Perseverance — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
44
 
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.
38
 
Innovation — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.
37
 
Intellectual Curiosity — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
34
 
Integrity — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
32
 
Self-Confidence — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
24
 
Adaptability — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
24
 
Initiative — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.
22
 
Self-Control — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
22
 
Sincerity — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
21
 
Stress Tolerance — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
18
 
Cooperation — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
8
 
Optimism — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even under difficult circumstances.
8
 
Tolerance for Ambiguity — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
4
 
Empathy — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feelings at work.
1
 
Humility — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.

Workforce Characteristics

Wages & Employment Trends

Median wages (2024)
$21.79 hourly, $45,320 annual
State wages
Local wages
Employment (2024)
6,200 employees
Projected growth (2024-2034)
Slower than average (1% to 2%)
Projected job openings (2024-2034)
600
State trends
Top industries (2024)
Retail Trade (57% 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

Disclaimer: Sources are listed to provide additional information on related jobs, specialties, and/or industries. Links to non-DOL Internet sites are provided for your convenience and do not constitute an endorsement.

National Associations