EOEJOURNAL 2015 SEP

eoe journal Careers in Banking and Money Management Tips for Getting A Job in Law Enforcement Careers in Education Working for the Federal Government: Frequently Asked Questions

Volume 25 Number 112 September 2015

eoejournal Editorial Comment

M

y father once told me that it didn’t really matter what degree I pursued in college, because, he believed that college isn’t about what you learn, but rather about learning how to learn.

I remember the specific day during my junior year in college that his sentiment first rang true for me.

I had procrastinated for a week, putting off writing a paper on Milton’s Paradise Lost, (I was an English major), and of course, before I knew it, the paper was due. I had no choice but to “pull an all-nighter” and force myself to sit at my desk and finish writing a thoughtful, 10-page paper before my 8 o’clock class the next morning.

It was a brutal night. I drank coffee until it felt like my blood had been replaced by caffeine. I struggled and cursed, beating myself up for waiting until the last minute. But I learned that night that the only way the paper would get done was if I actually kept writing it. “If I just keep going,” I said to myself, “it will get done. If I stop, it won’t.” Pretty simple, right?

And though I learned much more than that while getting my degree, and I believe choosing the right major is important, I still feel like it’s one of the top five things I learned in college—maybe because I have to tell myself to “just keep going and it will get done,” pretty often.

So whether you’re trying to get that degree, or are looking for a new job, or just working on a small project at home, just keep going. It is my experience that everything gets done that way.

Lisa Petty, Editor Equal Opportunity Employment Journal

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Table of Contents Winning with Diversity

Page 3

Careers in Money Management 8 Keys To Make You More Desirable to Employers Top Five Habits for Career Success at Entry Level

Page 5 Page 6 Page 8

Getting A Job with The Federal Government

Page 9

Career Portfolio Planning

Page 10

Ask These Questions on Your Next Interview

Page 12

Helping Veterans with PTSD Find a Career Fit

Page 13

Give Yourself An Edge at Work

Page 14

Careers for Creative People

Page 15

Quality Medical Coders

Page 23

Registered Nurse Salary Outlook

Page 24

Understanding Emotional Intelligence

Page 26

Commitment as Medical Assistant Page 28 Healthy Work Habits

Page 30

Nursing Career Best for You?

Page 31

Build A Career in Social Media

Page 32

Careers in Education

Page 33

Keeping It Clean on Facebook

Page 37

Small Steps to A Better Future

Page 38

Interview with A Firefighter

Page 39

Careers in Moving & Storage Preparing for A Job in Law Enforcement

Page 41 Page 49

September 2015

equal opportunity employment journal

Winning with Diversity­— The Next Phase

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by Jim Rodgers

Engage with new experiences.

D

iversity refers to the broad mix of people currently or soon to be a part of your organization. It exists whenever you encounter anyone who has a view of the world, or “paradigm”, different from your own.

Managing diversity is a deliberate effort to create a work environment that allows these differences to contribute equally to the common goals of the organization.

Managing diversity emerged as a key strategic issue in the 1990s. It has also emerged as the latest new management fad. As such, there has been a lot a talk recently about the value of diversity training. After all, several companies took a pioneering approach to diversity and were among the first to “do something” to address the issue. Typically, the “something” they tended to latch onto was diversity awareness training. In fact, these companies are now in their second or third year of awareness training on diversity.

Diversity training is certainly a necessary part of any diversity initiative, but it is not the only part. How often have you attended a really outstanding training session and have been really turned on by the experience, only to return to the workplace and face the same mess you left. What usually happens is the glow of the training experience quickly fades as you face the reality of your work environment. There has to be more.

Recently, many organizations have begun to recognize the value of implementing diversity as a business strategy. Many large corporations (The Prudential Insurance Company, Hewlett-Packard, Alabama Gas Corporation), governmental agencies (Department of Transportation, U.S. Postal Service) and professional associations (bankers, insurance industry, utility executives) are beginning to understand how diversity affects their mission. In fact, many large non-profit service organizations (United Way, Girl Scouts, Habitat for Humanity) have also adopted a diversity strategy as part of their plan for success.

Why is diversity on the agenda of so many organizations? Because things have changed. The people served by these organizations have changed. The people working for them have changed. The emerging leadership of these organizations has changed. Not only are they more diverse physically, mentally, and by background, but their values differ greatly.

The challenge of the 90s and beyond has now become how to manage

At Synchrony Financial, we actually like working together. We see the future as interesting, exciting, and filled with opportunity. GE has always been a training ground for great leaders, and as Synchrony Financial, we’re continuing that legacy by investing more than ever to develop our team.

We support you. You support us. We all succeed. Join us at Synchrony Financial, and get all the pay and incredible benefits of a global leader, plus something you won’t find anywhere else: people who want to succeed, and want to help you do it too.

Engage with us.

To apply go to SynchronyFinancial.com

Page 4 When offered an opportunity, people genuinely want to know more about “treating others like they want to be treated.” People in all types of jobs have proven capable and willing to deal with diversity as a business asset.

diversity so that we continue to get world class results from a team of people with different paradigms and different expectations. The opportunity is simple: if we learn to do it well, we not only survive, we succeed.

A strategic approach to issues of diversity involves such things as executive attention; assessing the attitude, culture, success criteria, and expectations of the organization; establishing a Diversity Action Council to help the organization through the change process, reviewing and changing the policies, practices, rules, and rewards; and, training for awareness, management skills, and career development.

Thinking of diversity as a strategic asset allows you to approach it boldly and systematically. A strategic approach means we can safely challenge the existing paradigm of the organization and introduce new thinking about people. Understanding diversity as a strategy means recognizing the “intent” as well as the “content” of the process.

Managing diversity as a discipline has only been around for five or so years. We have just begun to learn how to overcome the fear and reluctance to address the issue. In the process, a few things have become clear:

The Federal Reserve, the central bank of the United States, provides the nation with a safe, and stable monetary and financial system.

The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System values the diverse backgrounds of its employees and relies on strong teamwork to shape independent viewpoints into effective practices and policies.

We provide equal opportunity for all individuals in an inclusive and respectful environment that allows our employees to fully use their individual talents to advance the mission of the Board most effectively.

There are many job opportunities available at the Federal Reserve. Visit us online for a complete listing of positions and application procedures.

The Federal Reserve Board 20th Street & Constitution Avenue NW | Washington, DC 20551

www.federalreserve.gov

WE VALUE THE INDIVIDUAL. Different perspectives generate fresh ideas. That’s why at Bank of the West, we value diversity and equal opportunity for all our employees. We’ve grown stronger thanks to our unique blend of people. After all, in today’s competitive banking environment, it is our employees that keep us a step ahead of the rest. For career opportunities, visit us online at bankofthewest.com.

Bank of the West and its subsidiaries are equal opportunity/affirmative action employers-minority/female/disabled/veteran.

Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

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equal opportunity employment journal

© 2015 Bank of the West.

September 2015

It is important that diversity is defined to include all differences. If you limit the definition to visible difference, for instance, you could overlook opportunities to benefit from a diversity strategy. For example, some organizations, who serve and are comprised of mostly women, people of color, or the differently-abled, may begin to think that their “majority minority” makeup means that effective management of diversity is achieved.

As long as there are two or more people of any type working together, the principles of managing diversity represent an opportunity for increased productivity, improved relationships, and more fun.

When training is the first and only thing done, people have no context for wanting to appreciate difference. They naturally wonder, why are we doing this? Why was I invited? Have I done something wrong? Even after the training, you may hear things like, “more white-male bashing”, “I already know this stuff, nothing is going to change”, or “sounds like the same old stuff (preferential programs) with a new label.”

These concerns can be overcome by introducing diversity as a strategic initiative, explaining why it makes sense and demonstrating how it supports business goals.

Integrating diversity into all human resource strategies, such as mentoring or succession planning programs, can send a loud signal that the company “means business.”

An organization must be in a state of “readiness” to effectively implement a diversity strategy.

Readiness includes having a top leader, either the CEO or executive director, who is both committed and vocal. Other key players (both formal and informal leaders) must be well-educated about the strategic significance of diversity as a business issue. Otherwise conscious or even unconscious sabotage is almost predictable. When people raise questions about the process or refuse to allow themselves or their associates to participate, the leaders must be prepared to answer concerns and objections appropriately and quickly.

When offered an opportunity, people genuinely want to know more about “treating others like they want to be treated.” People in all types of jobs have proven capable and willing to deal with diversity as a business asset. Most desire to narrow their “trust gap” with others, especially with the leadership of the organization.

More than anything though, people are looking for signs that this is not just a passing fad.

The three biggest barriers to effectively managing diversity are: #3) stereotypes (beliefs about a group applied to an individual), #2) ethnocentrism (belief that my way is the only right way), and #1) poor management skills (inability to recognize, appreciate, and capitalize on individual differences).

Organizations who choose to work with a consultant often have a difficult time determining who to hire. It is important to choose wisely. The choice is made with more confidence when an organization is clear that managing diversity is a part of their strategic mix and not just a quick-fix program. Then they look for compatibility, approach, philosophy, experience in their industry, style, and chemistry.

Managing diversity is a journey of continuous discovery about people and the value they bring to organizations and to society.

Diversity is a reality, not a problem. The success of any organization will depend on how well you manage that reality. Those organizations that make managing diversity a part of their business strategy will WIN.

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Jim Rodgers, CMC has been working as a management consultant for the past ten years. He is the author of many articles on strategy implementation including Implementing a Diversity Strategy and How to Get the Best From Your Diversity Action Council. Rodgers can be reached at J.O. Rodgers and Associates, Inc., 4319 Covington Highway, Suite 201, Decatur, Georgia 30035. Phone (404) 289-1300, Fax (404) 289-4050. For more information, visit http://www.thediversitycoach.com

September 2015

equal opportunity employment journal

Careers in Money Management Article provided by www.careers-in-finance.com

Do

you like to look behind the numbers? Do you like to analyze market trends? Do you get an adrenaline rush when a stock takes off? If so, then money management may be the career for you. Money managers hold stocks and bonds for institutional clients and are on the buy side of Wall Street. Some money managers use the latest sophisticated quantitative techniques while others do very well using simple intuition.

Each investment manager has their own unique style. The key to being successful is to have discipline, be broad-minded and be willing to admit defeat if an investment goes against you. Many money managers buy and hold fixed income securities including mortgaged-backs, corporate bonds, munis, agency securities and asset-backed securities. Others focus on equities, including small stocks, large caps and emerging market stocks.

Because of its explosive growth in the last decade, we treat the opportunity to take a career in a hedge fund separately.

Unfortunately, it is hard to get started in investment management. It is particularly hard to start working for the best money managers or a top mutual fund. Good places to start are in bank trust departments, state and local pension funds and in insurance companies. Many people cross over into money management after getting years of experience on the sell side of the business in investment banks. Perhaps one of the best ways to break in is on the marketing side.

If you have the social skills and intelligence required to market money management services, there will be many companies interested in hiring you. To get started today, be sure to study portfolio theory, learn fixed income investments, take the CFA exam and, above all, learn the industry.

And then, with a little luck, you will enjoy one of the most personally rewarding careers in the world of business: Money Management.

Portfolio Manager

Portfolio managers will usually work for a money management firm or pension fund to select and manage investments which meet the goals of a group of investors. Many managers now work in specialized commodity funds or hedge funds. Portfolio managers have different styles ranging from a bargain-hunting approach (value investing) to a growth stock selection approach. This work requires patience, discipline and a strong understanding of financial markets and companies.

Portfolio Management Marketing

If you are outgoing and knowledgeable, then you might consider a sales position in portfolio management. This means that you will spend a lot of time putting together presentations for clients (working with the portfolio

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equal opportunity employment journal

September 2015

Tips to Make You More Desirable to Employers

manager). Each presentation needs to be put together very well and calls for hours of work and strong knowledge of the firm. Firms often are looking for seasoned professionals in this position. People who command respect and trust when making recommendations about ways to invest large sums of money.

Expect heavy travel and good pay.

Investment Advisory

There is a large industry of firms which provide investment advice, performance evaluation and quantitative analysis to the money management sector. This business consists of firms such as Wilshire Associates in Los Angeles, CA which provide customized reports to pension funds and the like. This work requires strong quantitative skills and deep appreciation of finance.

by Christopher Lawrence

Mutual Fund Analyst

Many mutual funds and large pension funds require analysts to do the analytical work required before an investment is made. Is a particular municipal bond safe? What is its interest rate risk as measured by duration and convexity? What other features of the security are important to understand before purchase? This work is analytical and requires a working knowledge of computers, perhaps in the programming dimension. Most mutual fund analysts truly enjoy their jobs because of the sleuthing involved and the fact that the work is different every day.

Hedge Fund Principal/Trader

Hedge funds are opportunistic, private funds which invest in stocks, bonds, currencies and derivatives often using significant amounts of leverage. These funds hire analysts and traders and have exhibited rapid growth in recent years.

T

he job market is becoming more specific and waves of college graduates join the competition each year. It’s becoming increasingly difficult to get a company to notice you, let alone hire you. No longer can you throw a generic resume out into the field and expect to get a call. You will need an aggressive and intelligent approach. Think of yourself as a business and your potential employers as your customers. You need to get their attention and convince them that you have what they want. To do that you must put together an impressive marketing campaign.

Target Your Audience

Every day thousands of hopeful job seekers are disappointed when they are turned down before having the opportunity to interview. After spending hours or days honing their resume to perfection, to completely describe their strengths, the prospective business didn’t For more information on careers in finance, even look twice. A common mistake people make with their resume is that they only have visit www.careers-in-finance.com/ one. To give yourself a competitive advantage over your fellow job seekers, you should develop a separate resume Apply Online for each job you apply to. This doesn’t mean that a comA World of Difference in One Company. plete overhaul is necessary every time you find a differstatestreet.com/ At State Street, we’re firmly committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive ent position to apply for. It should, however, be slightly reachhigher workplace wherever we operate across the globe. As a leading financial modified to please each employer. These employers are Click Search Jobs services provider to some of the world’s most sophisticated institutions, we looking for certain buzz words within a resume to make and then select know that our strength comes from the variety of perspectives each employee a person stand out. By analyzing the job posting you can your location. brings. To learn more about State Street, please visit www.statestreet.com. identify these keywords and incorporate them into your resume. You won’t have to change much, just a few words or sentences strewn about your resume. This will increase the likelihood of getting to the next step in the job hunt.

REACHHIGHER

©2013 STATE STREET CORPORATION. 13-19177-0713

Networking

Think about how many people you know who got a job

Allied World Insurance Company is a world class insurance and reinsurance company.

We offer a broad range of career opportunities at every level within our organization and recruit professionals who are team-focused, creative and passionate about their work.

Allied World offers career opportunities in the following areas: * Actuarial * Administration * Claims * Finance * Human Resources

* Information Technology * Internal Audit * Legal * Marketing and Communications * Underwriting For details of current opportunities please visit: http://www.awac.com/career

Allied World Insurance Company Holdings, AG is an equal opportunity employer.

September 2015

equal opportunity employment journal

While on the job hunt, try to continue improving yourself. Look into getting certifications that will improve your chances of standing out in the field.

because they knew someone. A referral can go a really long way in finding a job. It’s comparable to noticing a red shirt amongst a sea of whites. You are instantly distinguishable before your resume is even read.

Talk to your friends and family. Someone is bound to know of a position that you are qualified for. If they can put in a good word for you, then your foot is in the door.

It may be that your friends and family have no contacts that will be valuable to you. The game is not lost, just changed.

You can attend events and gatherings set up for people in your profession to network.

This will allow you to meet people in person rather than forcing them to read about you first. Make a strong impression and be sure to hand out a business card and you may get a call. Name recognition is important in the hiring process. It might mean the difference between the interview pile and the trash can.

We are a Montana-born company, built on western values, focused on creating long-standing relationships through integrity, expertise and results.

To learn more and explore our career opportunities, visit us online at www.stockmanbank.com.

Quantity

You may have your dream job in mind and nothing else will do. Sometimes it’s necessary to lower your standards a little. In order to get your name out there, you may have to apply for jobs that aren’t exactly what you are looking for. These jobs will allow you to meet the individuals who do the hiring for those companies and other positions could open up that you would be a great fit for.

Just because you interview for a job doesn’t mean you have to take it. A best practice is to attend as many interviews as possible.

You will hone your craft and possibly have several positions to choose from. Try to open as many doors as possible.

Volunteer

Depending on the job market, the average time between jobs could be as high as seven months. During this time you can take the opportunity to volunteer. It can be hard to do something charitable when you aren’t earning any money to support yourself, but this could lead to a paying position.

Volunteering goes hand in hand with networking. It allows you to meet people that may have information on open positions.

You could even get hired for the activity that you are currently volunteering for.

Diversify

Looking for work is the worst time to put all of your eggs in one basket. Using one job site or the classifieds will not get you the results you are looking for. You should use every avenue available to enhance your visibility. Use a multitude of jobsites and submit your resume on all of them. Be sure to check your local classifieds and check the websites for businesses you are interested. Some of them may post the jobs directly on their site. Going straight to the source shows prior interest in the company.

Even if the job isn’t posted on their website, contacting a company directly can give a sizeable boost to your efforts. Make calls to local businesses or even show up in person to inquire about open positions. This may seem like a turn off to employers, but it shows interest in the job.

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EEO/AA Employer M/F Disabled and Vet © 2015 Stockman Bank | Member FDIC

WWW.STOCKMANBANK.COM

Expanding Your Search

Even though it can be difficult, you should consider expanding your job search to outside your immediate living area. No one wants to leave their family and friends, but it can be for the best. Looking for work in different states or countries can lead to many more opportunities. Your talents may not be in a high demand in the area where you currently reside while other areas may have a great need. This will not only provide you with a greater chance being hired, but you may receive more pay due to the higher demand.

Self Improvement

While on the job hunt, try to continue improving yourself. Look into getting certifications that will improve your chances of standing out in the field. Learning another language or going back to school and further your education will not only be immediate resume builders, but will help you later in your career. Employers want to see that you haven’t been idle while between jobs. An active schedule of bettering yourself, networking, and volunteering will look fantastic in an interview.

Before you can hope to get a job, you have to make yourself visible to employers.

Once a higher level of visibility is established, focus on separating yourself from the competition. Following these tips will give you a competitive advantage when applying for open positions. While getting an interview is a great feeling, it doesn’t mean the war is one. The interview process is another battle altogether.

Article provided by Constant-Content.com

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Whether you have several years of experience in the financial sector or are new to the credit union industry, we are always on the lookout for bright, energetic people to join our team. USE Credit Union is an Equal Opportunity Employer, We encourage Minorities, Females, Disabled and Veterans to apply.

View current openings online at: www.usecu.org If you are interested in any of our open positions, please send your resume, indicating the job title and location, to:

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Mail: USE Credit Union

Attn: Human Resources

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San Diego, CA 92121

Page 8

equal opportunity employment journal

Top Five Habits for Career Success at Entry Level I

by Long Yun Siang

Always remember that one of the important habits for career success is to under promise and over deliver.

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First National Bank Texas and its affiliates are dedicated to being a preferred employer, providing opportunities to maximize employee potential.

We offer an excellent work environment, competitive salary and benefits package.

We are an equal opportunity employer.

Our employment practices are in accordance with the laws that prohibit discrimination due to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability or other protected status. All affiliates support a drug free workplace.

For more information please visit our website: www.1stnb.com/careers 703 SWANNER LOOP • KILLEEN, TX 76543 FAX: 254-554-4385 EOE Minority/Female/Individuals with Disabilities/Protected Veterans

September 2015

am blessed to have some of the best bosses coach me when I first entered the working world. They passed to me what seemed like, at that time—pretty obvious things one would do when in the working world.

What seemed pretty obvious as habits for career success isn’t always so. As you start on your career path you begin to forget some of these basic habits. Therefore, it is essential to drill these habits deep enough to remember them.

As I progressed in the corporate world, I noticed that these are good habits that should be passed down to my own people just as I have benefited from internalizing them. Here are the 5 basic yet important habits for career success:

risk of destroying what little reputation you are starting to build. This is especially so when you fail to deliver on your promises regardless of how small. It could be a simple report your bosses asked but if you fail to deliver it on time, the size of the report doesn’t matter. Fact remains that you did not deliver.

Always remember that one of the important habits for career success is to under promise and over deliver. It is about managing expectations and it is about measuring your own strengths and weaknesses.

It is also about knowing how to manage your own time. So, while volunteering for additional tasks is a good initiative, you may want to gauge if you can live up to that promise.

1. Get Organized Under promise and over deliver means to Regardless of your work, you need to get organized. If yours is office work, you say “yes” when opportunities present themwill surely have filing to do. What about selves and learning to say “no” when you your emails, your electronic documents and know you cannot deliver. folder system? Ever had colleagues who 4. There Are Always Next Steps ask you to resend them the email you sent There are always next steps after meetings. last week? No matter how many times you Never let any meetings end without a clear sent, they seem to have deleted it or lost action plan that include who to do what by it? And it is the same thing with electronic when. We attend far too many meetings in documents? order to let them slip by without clear next When you organize your clutter, work steps to follow through. Having clear next space and computer, you become more steps ensures you become more productive productive. You become efficient and and time is well spent in meetings. effective. This adds to your good name as Meetings are important to assign, brief you progress in the organization. It is also and clarify. You should not let them slip by a good habit to cultivate as you move up without clear next steps. If you are chairing the corporate ladder. Imagine having more one, makes sure this happens. If you aren’t work to organize as you progress? then ask for your set of next steps. This is one of the basic habits for career success 2. Manage Your Time This is another simple and obvious habit you would bring with you for a very long amongst the habits for career success list. time.

But I assure you; this habit is some of the 5. Feed Your Mind biggest weaknesses people have in the corRead motivating books; listen to tapes porate world. I urge you as a career newbie and watch inspiring movies. We are someto start cultivating this habit of managing times so inundated with negative vibes your time early. at work that you should feed your mind Managing your time isn’t rocket science. with positive energy. One way is through Start with a simple to do list and a daily, books, tapes and movies. They need not weekly, monthly and year scheduler. All be self-improvement and self-help oriented you have to do is to pen in all the meetings, although I find them extremely useful. appointments and tasks in the scheduler.

Of course, a healthy body is important As you get better you can start to use more too. Eat healthily and exercise. This ensures sophisticated techniques. Managing your you have the energy to take the work-week time is all about planning what you do and with a healthy body, mind and soul. doing what you plan.

Start cultivating these 5 important habits 3. Under Promise, Over Deliver for career success and make a difference in As a career newbie, you would have a your work life. tendency to try to impress your bosses, colLong Yun Siang or Long, as he is popularly known runs leagues or even clients. This can be driven http://career-success-for-newbies.com with his wife Dorena as their way of paying it forward. Their website – based on by your raw enthusiasm. However, remember their real life experiences - provides tips, tools and advise for that in your quest to impress, you run the newbies pursuing career success.

September 2015

equal opportunity employment journal

Getting A Job with The Federal Government

Page 9

What is the federal government?

The U.S. federal government is composed of the legislative, executive and judicial branches. For the purposes of this site, we will focus primarily on federal employment within the executive branch at federal agencies, offices and subcomponents.

Is the federal government hiring? How do I find a job?

Yes! With more than two million employees, the federal government is the nation’s largest employer and is always hiring. USAJOBS.gov lists the most recent job postings to date. However, not all positions are listed on USAJOBS.gov, so be sure to visit agency websites for the most current information.

How do I apply for federal employment?

There must be a job announcement posted in order to apply for a federal job. A federal application generally consists of submitting a federal resume and other application materials as listed in the job announcement.

What does the federal job application process entail?

A typical application process in the federal government includes submitting your federal resume and application materials, completing assessments, interviewing with agency representatives and receiving a security clearance. However, every agency will adjust this process to best meet their needs.

Do I have to work in D.C. if I want to work for the federal government?

Absolutely not! Only 9 percent of federal jobs are located in the Washington, D.C. metro area. Most federal agencies have regional offices located throughout the country. There are also 50,000 federal jobs overseas. Search by location in USAJOBS.gov to see positions open in your area.

Where do I find internship postings?

Internships that are part of the Pathways Programs will be posted in USAJOBS.gov. Other internship positions—volunteer or third-party internships—will be posted on individual agency websites. There is no comprehensive database of internship postings.

What is a federal resume? Is it different than a traditional resume?

Federal resumes are a bit different from private sector. Federal resumes require more detail and are therefore a bit longer than a traditional resume. On a federal resume you need to include items such as number of hours worked per week and supervisor contact information.

You can build your federal resume on USAJOBS.gov and tailor for individual applications.

How long does the hiring process take?

Obtaining a federal job can take between two and six months, sometimes even longer. While every agency has different hiring practices, there are additional hiring steps to ensure an equal and fair assessment for all candidates. High numbers of applications per position can lengthen out the hiring process. Be patient—the process is getting better and while it may be longer than you are used to, it will be worth the wait.

Article provided by gogovernment.gov

TIPS FOR GETTING STARTED

Whether you’re new to the federal job search or an experienced jobseeker, we want to make it easy for you to get going. Here’s our best advice:

Expand your horizons

The federal government is larger than you think, with opportunities you may not have considered. Our agency overview pages will help you think outside the box to consider additional employers and positions. Visit this site with an open mind and you may be surprised at what you discover.

Focus your search

Since there are so many opportunities out there, it is critical to narrow your search as you discover specific positions, organizations or offices that might be right for you. As you learn more about the government, this site will help you identify what is most important to you in a government position, so you don’t waste time in your job search.

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equal opportunity employment journal

Career Portfolio Planning:

A

Today’s careers don’t follow a standard linear progression—we cycle through multiple career shifts—sometimes dramatically.

Bell and Howell is the recognized leader in the development of superior production mail and messaging solutions.

At Bell and Howell, recruiting and retaining talented individuals with diverse backgrounds is a key strategic initiative. Bell and Howell can provide you with great opportunities to contribute to and share in our success. Visit www.bellhowell.net to explore career opportunities at Bell and Howell, search job openings and apply online, and learn more about our pay and benefits, work-life programs, commitment to diversity and much more.

We have a long-standing commitment to ensuring a diverse workforce through affirmative action and equal employment opportunities. Bell and Howell does not discriminate in decisions regarding employment based on race, gender, ethnic background, marital status, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, religion, physical disability, or other classification protected by law.

Bell and Howell 3791 South Alston Avenue Durham, NC 27713

www.bellhowell.net

September 2015

Your Key to Long-Term Success

by Shawn Driscoll

career portfolio opens up many paths for you instead of staying on a one-track career course. Managing your career as a portfolio allows you to take risks, remain flexible and most importantly— thrive in any economic situation.

A “Career Path “is a thing of the past—a relic from a time when professionals had jobs that started at entry level and provided a clear path of promotions up until retirement. Today’s careers don’t follow a standard linear progression—we cycle through multiple career shifts—sometimes dramatically.

The good news is that your career no longer belongs to the company. It belongs to you.

The challenge is there are very few milestones to tell you if you’re on track. Instead you are left to chart your own course. This can be fulfilling, exciting, and engaging if you are able to navigate the waters; however, it can also be confusing, stressful, and challenging.

So, what has replaced the good old fashioned career path?

Career portfolios.

I recommend managing your career as a portfolio of experiences and competencies that diversify you. Based on your strengths, interests, and level of risk tolerance you make career moves that fit your long and short term goals. You choose opportunities that stretch and expand your skills instead of focusing only on grabbing the next title on the rung. You find security in being in control of each move, rather than feeling at the mercy of your boss, your company or the economy to decide your fate.

A career portfolio opens up many paths for you instead of staying on a one-track career course. Having more options keeps you viable and having a diverse portfolio of skills increases your value in the market. Managing your career as a portfolio allows you to take risks, remain flexible and most importantly…thrive in any economic situation.

So, how do you do this? Here are my top 5 strategies for career portfolio management:

1. Take a long term view instead of making short term moves

As you would with a financial portfolio, you take a long term view. Think about your career in 5 year windows rather than just focusing on the next move.

What other career options interest you? Where would you like to be in 5 years? What are the competencies (knowledge, skills, abilities and experience) needed to be there? What moves could you start making now to get you equipped?

2. Diversify in several areas

As you begin to look at your career portfolio, you want to consider the following key areas People connections. Who is in your network? How might they support your long term goals? Who else might you need in your corner? How can you begin to establish those important relationships?

Credentials. Do you have the credentials you need for the future roles you’re interested in?

Results. Have you gotten results in your current and past positions? Do you know how to communicate them in a way that is meaningful to others, outside your company?

Leadership. In what ways are you a leader. This isn’t a position-specific competency.

You can lead without the power of the position. Are you a leader in planning? Are you a leader in relating to diverse audiences? Where do you stand out?

Competencies. Do you have a diverse set of knowledge, skills and abilities? What opportunities do you have right now to add to your competencies?

3. S ay YES to things that expand your portfolio and NO to single track career moves

Everything you say “yes” to means you are saying “no” to something else. So if you take on assignments, projects, education, training or even a new role you have to be sure that

September 2015

equal opportunity employment journal

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you are saying YES because it expands your portfolio. Oftentimes people say yes to career moves they think they should say yes to -- even if it doesn’t serve their long term goals.

This is guaranteed to keep you in a rut.

4. B uild “crossover” competencies not just skills and experience ‘in your field’

Map out at least 3 roles you’d like as options in your future. Start looking at job descriptions for these roles and identify the knowledge, skills and abilities required. Make a list and rate yourself on them. Once you know where you have ‘crossover’ competencies and where you have gaps, you can start making career moves that match up to this list.

Your goal, with any move you make, is to be able to check off at least one of the competencies on the list. Whether it’s a project you take on in your current role, a training program you sign up for, or volunteer work you do…everything has the purpose of growing your portfolio and expanding your capability.

Many people make moves that keep them in their ‘field’. But that can be a dead end track.

If you get too much depth in one area, even if you love it, and the opportunities start to dry up—you’re going to be at risk. If you’ve thoughtfully complemented your core strengths with other crossover competencies you will have options if you need them. It’s effectively building your career safety net.

5. Know your “most profitable competencies”

You can recession-proof your career by knowing exactly what your strongest competencies are and communicating them clearly. Instead of feeling stuck in your field or industry, look at what you do well that adds value. These are your most profitable competencies… the things other employers and departments want to bring in to their groups. By knowing and being able to communicate your best competencies you are able to stay flexible and fill a wider number of roles in wider variety of industries.

It helps to stay current on the trends in the economy and your field or industry. Look ahead a few years and make sure you’re moving toward opportunities that align with the trends (instead of leaving you on the chopping block). Social shifts, economic shifts and even legal/regulation shifts all create career opportunities for someone—see how it can benefit you to move with the times.

Have fun building up your portfolio and experimenting with new assignments and possibilities. This can be an exciting process because you pursue things that interest you and allow you to grow. It pulls you out of the rut of worrying about what will happen and puts you in the driver’s seat so you’re ready for anything.

For more, visit www.shawndriscoll.com – The Cutting Edge Coaching for Trailblazing Entrepreneurs site.

You can recession-proof your career by knowing exactly what your strongest competencies are and communicating them clearly.

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equal opportunity employment journal

September 2015

Stand Out! Ask these Questions on Your Next Job Interview

by Michelle Riklan

I

nterviewing for a job, for most people, feels like a onesided conversation. A question and answer, where you’re expected to behave and put your best foot forward. Yes, definitely do that if you want to be as memorable as every other candidate on the planet. If you want to stand out, you have to do what majority of candidates don’t do…ASK QUESTIONS. It might seem wrong, impolite even. But asking thoughtful, relevant questions help interviewers remember you more.

Plus, the right questions can help you evaluate whether the job is really right for you.

Before you start firing these questions, however, you should first research the culture of the company and the interviewer’s personality. Phrase your questions in a positive way. You don’t want to come off as an aggressive negotiator.

6 QUESTIONS TO ASK IN JOB INTERVIEWS

“Do you have opportunities for personal training, or other career advancement certifications?”

What it means: You’re eager to improve yourself by learning more.

You’re highly trainable and possibly willing to explore other parts of the business. You have a “can-do” attitude.

“What’s the #1 challenge in this job?”

What it means: Asking this question means you’re a problem solver, especially if you can present a feasible solution to their problem. If nothing else, you’ll at least come off as someone genuinely interested in helping.

“Can you describe a typical working day for (job title)?”

ERC is an engineering and scientific services firm providing independent assessment support, IT support, and operations & maintenance support to US Department of Defense, NASA, and commercial clients.

ERC is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Candidates will be considered for employment regardless of his or her sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status under applicable federal, state, or local law.

ERC offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package.

To learn more about us and apply online visit us at www.erc-incorporated.com.

308 Voyager Way, Suite 200 Huntsville, AL 35806

www.erc-incorporated.com

What it means: This question isn’t meant to impress, it’s meant to give you a better overview of the company’s culture and work process. It’s also a great way to gauge political red tape, chain of command, and the possibility of overtime.

“What’s the next step in the application process?”

What it means: This question shows you’re eager to work with them.

Depending on the interviewer’s answer, sometimes you can gauge if you’re going to be endorsed for the next step.

“ What sets your company apart from (name of competitor)?”

What it means: Naming their competitors shows you did your research before waltzing into the interview. Don’t ask this question if you don’t know the answer yourself, because it could backfire on you.

“If I get hired, what do I need to accomplish in my first three months to confirm you hired the right person?”

What it means: This question has two benefits: First, to confirm the job description and management’s expectations. If it’s too far off from their ads, you might want to rethink your application or consider negotiating a higher pay. Second, it sets you up as someone who delivers results, not just an employee doing the bare minimum to earn their paycheck.

This list is anything but complete. There are so many other questions you can ask during an interview, especially if you consider long-term career growth.

Try coming up with questions yourself. Asking the right question makes you a more engaging, memorable, and interesting applicant for the interviewer. The only litmus test to worry about is if your question is out of self-interest or the company’s interest.

Michelle A. Riklan, ACRW, CPRW, CEIC, CJSS , is a professional resumé writer at http://riklanresources.com/.

September 2015

equal opportunity employment journal

Helping Veterans with PTSD Find a Good Civilian Career Fit

By: Goodwill Industries International Veterans and Military Families Program Manager, James Lander and Tacoma, Goodwill Industries Veterans Career Navigator/Program Manager, Mike Tassin

We

know that veterans bring incredible skills to any workplace. But, if you’re a veteran who has recently separated from the military, you may be have concerns about re-entering civilian life. You may wonder if you’ve made the right decision to separate, yet you are likely excited to start a new chapter in your life.

Transitioning into the civilian workforce can feel even more overwhelming if you’re one of the approximately 20 percent of veterans returning from recent war theatres with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

It’s important to note that most veterans—more than 4 Reporting to an employer that you have a in 5—do not return with PTSD. diagnosis of PTSD is a personal choice.

Yet, for those that do, you are not alone. Along with almost portive to you and your situation. These may be 300,000 Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, close different from the field you worked in during to six million Americans deal with PTSD each your military service, but should still be a good year. PTSD occurs with various levels of severfit for your personality and abilities. ity and—in almost all cases—can be dealt with For example, veterans who experience repeatin a way that allows you to be a productive and ed flashbacks or other intense symptoms may efficient member of your workplace. wish initially to avoid jobs in high-stress setAt Goodwill®, we understand veterans’ comtings or in an environment in which safety plex employment needs, and we offer some tips issues could be a concern. to veterans dealing with PTSD to make your Talking to Your Employer transition more manageable and successful.

Reporting to an employer that you have a Understanding Your Triggers Learning as much as you can about your PTSD triggers and diagnosis of PTSD is a personal choice, and one reactions is an important first step to your reem- that each veteran must answer independently. ployment process. Ask yourself: PTSD is a disability, and is covered under Title • What types of environments cause your I of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). symptoms to flare up? Consider elements This means employers are prohibited from such as noise, light, workspace configurations treating you unfavorably because of your conand stress levels. • How do you react when you dition, and that you are entitled to reasonable are experiencing symptoms? For example, do accommodations in order to perform your job. you find it hard to concentrate or remember Despite these protections, there are still better tasks, get angry at those around you, become times in the job search process to reveal your physically ill, etc.? • When you’re experienc- diagnosis. Demonstrate to a potential employer ing PTSD symptoms, are there effective coping that you have the skills to be successful in the strategies such as deep breathing, taking a walk position and, once it looks like they are movor calling a supportive person that you can ing toward offering you the job or you have the implement? employment offer in hand, concisely explain Understanding your triggers, reactions and coping mechanisms will put you in a better your condition and the accommodations you place to identify appropriate work environ- need to be successful.

Working with community organizations like ments as you transition into your civilian career.

Goodwill that have experience placing veterans Choosing a Civilian Career Path in jobs can also help you make connections to Looking for work with PTSD requires not just employers who recognize your contributions determining which positions are a good fit for and who are sensitive to your needs. your work history, but also evaluating which For more information, visit http://www.gotyour6.org/ career fields and industries will be the most sup-

Page 13

careers.slb.com

85 years of

innovation

Who are we?

We are the world’s largest oilfield services company1.

Working globally—often in remote and challenging locations—we invent, design, engineer, and apply technology to help our customers find and produce oil and gas safely.

Who are we looking for?

We need more than 5,000 graduates to begin dynamic careers in the following domains: n

Engineering, Research and Operations

n

Geoscience and Petrotechnical

n

Commercial and Business

What will you be?

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equal opportunity employment journal

September 2015

Giving Yourself an Edge at Work

D

oing your job well is the most important contribution you can make to your organization and to your chances for advancement. But most enterprises in today’s competitive world need to constantly improve to remain profitable or effective. The experience and insights of the workforce are a valuable source for those improvements. Here are some things to keep an eye out for as potential opportunities to contribute to needed solutions: Failing equipment Bottlenecks in processes Complaints from customers Frequent or inconclusive meetings Grumbling among coworkers Unequal distribution of work or rewards None of these is a guaranteed opportunity to shine. There may be good reasons why they exist; they may have been studied before and the solutions may be beyond the control of management. But some will be ripe for action, and even noting them and suggesting solutions will be a mark of alertness, insight, and motivation.

by David Hart

How can one best prepare for identifying and taking advantage of these opportunities?

The most basic method is continuous learning. Learn all you can about your organization, its missions, ideals, goals, and major activities.

Keep up with technological developments in your field or industry so that you’ll be able to recommend new or different equipment, processes, or management techniques. For this it may be necessary to take courses offered by your organization or by outside educational or training institutions.

You need to be a team player. You should offer to help an overburdened coworker and volunteer for extra assignments if you can

handle them without detriment to your regular work. You should look for things that waste your group’s time or harm morale and think of ways to alleviate them. You should learn as much as you can about the jobs of colleagues in other organizations so that you can work more effectively with them.

As important as what you do is what you don’t do. Don’t create the impression that you’re an overly eager beaver bent only on getting ahead.

If suggestions are requested at meetings, offer them freely, crediting others for ideas you may have picked up from them. If you are volunteering unsolicited recommendations, meet with the boss privately so that you won’t be seen as upstaging him. Be generous with your praise and appreciation of your coworkers and don’t join the critical whispers about any of them or the boss. Criticism should be expressed one-toone or in open meetings and always focused on positive solutions. Which brings us full circle to the most important thing you can do to get that edge: do your job well.

Article provided by Constant-Content.com

Meeting Environmental Challenges Worldwide

• Worldwide Emergency Spill Response • Remediation & Site Services • Industrial Cleaning • Hazardous Waste Management • Emergency & Crisis Management • Contingency Planning • Customized Drill & Training Programs • Logistical Support • Security Services

A thriving environment for learning, innovation and growth

smart people. smart ideas. smart choice.

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We proudly recognize the importance of diversity in our workforce & believe our employees to be our most valuable asset.

We offer competitive compensation & benefit packages along with a drug free work environment.

Why do so many people join MTS Systems Corporation and stay for a career? Because this is a place where you get to apply your creativity, work with smart people on fascinating projects, and make a positive impact on people’s lives.

It is a place where you can learn, innovate and grow professionally.

To find the NRC job that is right for you, please visit us at www.nrcc.com NRC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer M/F/D/V.

Minorities, Women, Individuals with Disabilities and Veterans are encouraged to apply.

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Corporate Headquarters 530 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19106 V: 215.922.8080 F: 215.922.8082

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Our business is thriving.

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Founded 1960 - ISO 9001:2008 Registered - Employee Owned - Best Places to Work, PA, NY

Transportation Facility and Building Systems Construction Services Environmental Services Planning/GIS Program Management Sustainability Energy and Marcellus Shale Urban Training Institute www.urbanengineers.com

be certain.

September 2015

equal opportunity employment journal

Page 15

Careers for Creative People

If

by Dennis Vilorio

you think creativity is only for artists, think again. People use creativity every day in all kinds of ways, whether to tell a story about that time your car broke down or to develop a mobile app.

For some people, creativity is an essential part of their work. “To be creative is the most exciting thing you can do,” says Chris Triola, owner of a textile design studio in Lansing, Michigan. “It’s as necessary to me as eating and breathing.”

But making creativity your job typically requires practice, risk-taking, and trial and error. For workers who do it on their own, it also means learning how to market themselves and run a business.

This article covers selected careers in which creativity is key. It discusses the creative process, highlights selected occupations that require creativity, and offers employment and wage data for these occupations. The article also explains some of the rewards and challenges of creative work, describes how to get started in a creative career, and lists resources for more information.

The creative process

Creativity can be defined as the ability to produce something of value that did not exist before. You could harness creativity to design a product, make a blueprint, or write a script, for example. The outcomes of creative work may

Help make the world safer, greener, better.

Creativity can be defined as the ability to produce something of value that did not exist before.

Pall Corporation is a Fortune 1000 high technology company with the broadest filtration, separation and purification capabilities in the world.

We thrive on helping customers protect people, the environment and our natural resources. Often called the original clean technology company, Pall is implementing innovations that purify and conserve water, consume less energy, make alternative energy possible, advance medicine, and minimize emissions and waste. By doing so we’re helping to make our world a little bit safer, greener and better every day.

Pall offers competitive compensation and benefits, and the opportunity to work with a world-class global team.

To learn more about how you can help create a greener, safer, and more sustainable future, visit www.pall.com /careers.

EOE M/F/D/V

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equal opportunity employment journal

Since 1944, Parker O-Ring Division has excelled as a developer, manufacturer and worldwide supplier of precisionengineered o-rings.

Parker Hannifin Corporation is an affirmative action/equal employment opportunity employer. It is Parker Hannifin’s policy to recruit, hire, promote, and take other personnel actions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin,ancestry, age, marital status, genetic characteristic, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by law.

Engineer your future and find out about our company and the opportunities available at:

Parker O’Ring Division

www.parker.com

The creative process often starts with a spark of inspiration: An idea.

It can come at any time and from anywhere, such as from nature or people.

2360 Palumbo Drive Lexington, KY 40509

We have positions suitable for ambitious, highly qualified people-experienced professionals as well as recent graduates.

A Multidiscipline Consulting Engineering Firm with offices located across the US and abroad Since POWER Engineers began in 1976, we have grown into a flexible and progressive consulting engineering firm. We are a company of innovators. We encourage new ideas and fresh approaches and, most importantly, we strive to be our clients’ first choice. These traits and deep technical skill account for the mutual success of POWER and our clients.

POWER Engineers, Inc. shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR §§ 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a).

These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veteran status or disability.

For Career Opportunities visit

www.powereng.com

September 2015

be wildly different among individual people or disciplines, but there are often similarities in the process.

The creative process often starts with a spark of inspiration: An idea. It can come at any time and from anywhere, such as from nature or people. When thinking of ideas for a fabric pattern, for example, Triola looks in unexpected places, including cracks in ice or the lines on a cabbage leaf.

But inspiration alone is not enough for creating. Creativity requires hard work and patience to turn ideas into viable output.

Workers increase their chances of success through planning, assessing, revising, and reflecting on their work.

Planning is important because it helps creative workers find focus and use their time wisely. By setting aside time for practice and research, for example, workers can improve their craft and connect ideas.

Planning can also make a project seem less daunting. For example, workers may break up a project into several small tasks and schedule time to create every day.

Steady effort often leads to noticeable results. “When I look back, I realize that my art is constantly evolving,” says freelance illustrator Daniel Dufford of Cincinnati, Ohio. “As long as you keep working, you’ll keep getting better.”

Throughout the creative process, workers should assess and revise their work. For example, a writer proofreads an article draft to ensure that its message is clear with no gaps in logic. Making a timeline and requesting feedback from clients, collaborators, and others may help workers stay on track.

After completing creative tasks, successful workers reflect on what they’ve learned during the process. They may review, for example, how often they practiced and what helped them do so more consistently.

By applying these lessons to future creative endeavors, workers can improve their

efficiency in finishing tasks.

Occupations for Creative Workers

Most occupations involve some form of creativity. A retail salesperson, for example, might design a more engaging product pitch, and a physicist might devise some new way of understanding nature.

In some occupations, creativity is an integral part of the job. Among these occupations are those for artists and related workers, designers, and media and communication workers. (For a list of other occupations that may involve creative skills, including some that you might not expect, see the box.

Artists and Related Workers

Artists and related workers create aesthetic pieces that try to capture certain beliefs, feelings, or ideas. For example, a painter may try to express happiness through a watercolor landscape of a summer day. These workers typically develop a unique style.

The occupations described in this category include art directors, craft artists, fine artists, and multimedia artists.

Art directors. Art directors design the vision for a product or work of art. They decide which artistic styles and elements to use, and they supervise artists. Art directors work primarily in visual communications media, including advertising, publications, video games, theater, and film.

Craft artists. These artists create handmade arts and goods using a variety of raw materials, such as wood, metal, and fabric. Craft artists may sell their work at craft fairs, in art studios, or to customers directly on commission. Examples of these artists are quilters, woodworkers, potters, and jewelers.

Fine artists. Fine artists use visual techniques to as a form of creative expression. These artists study traditional art disciplines, such as painting and sketching. Fine artists showcase and sell their works at galleries and studios, through a

September 2015 broker, or to customers directly.

Occupations include illustrators, painters, cartoonists, and sculptors.

Multimedia artists. These artists combine visual art with a variety of forms, such as sound, storytelling, or animation. With the help of film, cameras, computers, and other tools, multimedia artists create video games, commercials, music videos, and more. Examples of occupations are special effects artists, 3-D animators, and game designers.

Designers

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Page 17

Using words, images, and symbols, these designers tweak style elements—such as color and typography—to create posters, logos, packaging, and other products.

Designers make original creations that have practical or aesthetic purpose.

Businesses in nearly all industries rely on designers to develop and implement ideas for products or services. Designers may start a project by sketching ideas on paper or creating a computer prototype.

Graphic designers usually work for an art Feedback from clients and staff members helps refine the ideas into a final product. director or for a client directly. They also The following design occupations may work closely with people in advertisdescribed are commercial and industrial, ing, communications, and marketing.

Interior designers. These designers fashion, floral, graphic, interior, and set plan and furnish the insides of residential, and exhibit designers. commercial, and industrial spaces. They Commercial & industrial designers.

These designers focus on how customers consider the aesthetics, safety, and funcinteract with technical products and servic- tion of each space, as well as the client’s es, such as cell phones and online market- needs and budget. places. By researching and collecting data Interior designers create a plan to specify on customer behavior and market needs, design elements, such as lighting fixtures, these workers improve artistic design and furniture, and flooring. The plan also estiease of use, and ensure integration with mates the project’s cost and timeline. existing products or services.

Interior designers often work with archiCommercial and industrial designers tects, engineers, and builders. They may =usually work on teams with engineers, specialize in a particular style or field, such as managers, and other designers. sustainability, renovation, or kitchen design.

Fashion designers. Fashion designers Set and exhibit designers. Set and create clothing, accessories, and footwear. exhibit designers develop and prepare disFor each product, they choose fabrics, plays and spaces for theater, film, museum, colors, and patterns that are practical and and industry events. They coordinate with have aesthetic appeal. They may develop clients and consider the design’s budget, original designs or adapt fashion trends. timeline, and purpose.

Some products have a recurring theme, Designers collaborate with workers in such as a similar color palette or style, and charge of lighting, special effects, props, are designed as part of a collection.

Fashion designers may oversee pro- and construction. They also consult with duction of the garments, ensuring that experts to understand elements from a style workers such as seamstresses follow the or period, and they inspect the finished set designs. Often, they market their products or exhibit to ensure that it matches their to retailers and customers at fashion and design.

Media and communication workers. trade shows.

Media and communication workers use Floral designers. These designers create words or images to convey information arrangements with live and dried flowers and foliage. For each arrangement, they and ideas. Some write fictional stories, and must consider the occasion—such as a others capture information or actual events, wedding or birthday—and the customer’s such as breaking news. needs, budget, and preferences.

Among these creative occupations are Floral designers may order flowers from editors, photographers, technical writers, wholesalers or grow their own. They must and writers and authors. learn each flower’s properties, including Editors. Editors plan, review, and revise its season and colors, the sentiment it written material for publication. They coorconveys, and how to care for it. dinate with writers to explore ideas, establish Graphic designers. Graphic design- a schedule, and maintain style standards. ers visually communicate ideas and mes- When reviewing and revising drafts, edisages for commercial or promotional pur- tors try to preserve the author’s voice poses. Using words, images, and symbols, while verifying facts, correcting grammar, these designers tweak style elements—such and reorganizing content to improve readas color and typography—to create posters, ability. Examples include technical and logos, packaging, and other products. managing editors.

Holy Redeemer’s holistic approach to healing is unique among healthcare providers.

Caring for the total person goes beyond the act of delivering excellent medical care. It involves meeting the emotional, spiritual and social services needs of those we serve.

From maternity and neonatal services, to end-of-life care and every stage of life in between, Holy Redeemer’s services focus on your total well-being.

821 Huntingdon Pike Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006 For more information or for current employment opportunities visit us at www.holyredeemer.com and apply online.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Where compassion is as

critical as the care…

You care about people. You always have. Wouldn’t it be great to serve with a team that believes everyone deserves compassion and exceptional service? Welcome to Mercy. We invite you to join us as we create a better health care experience. attract the best people and those who are leaders in their fields.

Learn more about our current openings at

www.mercy.net

.

You may apply for a job or join our Talent Network!

EEO/AA/Minorities/Females/Disabled/Veterans

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equal opportunity employment journal

Benefis Health System is Montana’s premier health system and the largest health care community in the state. Please visit www.benefis.org for more information.

Benefis Health System 1101 26th Street South Great Falls, MT 59405

Benefis Health System is an Equal Opportunity Employer

“Growing with Our Community” “Growing with Our Community”

San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital is fully committed to Equal Employment San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital fully committed toretaining, Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action andisto attracting, developing and Opportunity/Affirmative Action and to attracting, retaining, developing and promoting the most qualified employees regard their race, gender, promoting the most qualified employeeswithout without regard to theirto race, color, religion, sexualnational orientation, origin, national origin, physical or or mental color, religion,gender, sexual orientation, age,age, physical mental disability, citizenship status, veteran or status, or other any othercharacteristic disability, citizenship status, veteran status, any characteristic protected by Federal, State, or local law. protected by Federal, State, or local law.

Become a part of our team as we grow to meet the needs of our ever Become a part of our team as we grow to meet the needs growing community. of our ever growing community. To see a list of our open positions, go to: www.sgmh.org To see a list of our open positions go to:

www.sgmh.org M/F/D/V/EOE

7400 BARLITE BOULEVARD SAN ANTONIO, TX 78224

Southwest General Hospital is a physician-owned hospital that brings world-class medical expertise and compassion to the care of every patient. We have been providing safe, effective high quality healthcare for the residents of southwest San Antonio for over 30 years.

We offer outstanding career opportunities for qualified people who share our commitment to providing expert healthcare and excellent customer service.

If you are interested in joining our team, please apply online.

September 2015

Many photographers are freelancers, but others work for an employer, such as a newspaper or magazine.

Photographers are often grouped by the type of images they create.

Photographers. Photographers use cameras, lenses, computers, and other equipment to produce images. They photograph people, landscapes, architecture, food, merchandise, or other subjects, depending on their specialty or the type of project for which they are hired.

Many photographers are freelancers, but others work for an employer, such as a newspaper or magazine. Photographers are often grouped by the type of images they create.

Examples are news, medical, and portrait photographers.

Technical writers. These writers communicate complex information to a general audience. They write instruction manuals, supporting documents, and other types of explanatory text. Increasingly, they incorporate graphics and, in electronic resources, sound and video to improve readers’ comprehension.

Technical writers often collaborate with other workers, such as product designers, engineers, and customer support specialists. These other workers help writers understand the product and obtain data for diagrams and charts; they also offer feedback on drafts and the final product.

Writers and authors. Writers and authors compose materials for print and online publications, films and television shows, advertisements, and more. They may write fiction or nonfiction pieces, and their work might include scripts, novels, or articles.

To get started, writers often research their subject matter. They also brainstorm ideas to create an outline that gives their draft structure. With the help of editors, writers and authors revise a draft until it is ready to be published.

www.swgeneralhospital.com We are an equal opportunity employer.

Brooke Grove Foundation’s mission is to “Touch People’s Lives”® by providing excellent service, showing respect and radiating kindness. If you are interested in a rewarding job experience that will make a positive difference in the lives of others, we have a position for you! Our employment opportunities are listed on our website at: www.bgrv.org Brooke Grove Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in admissions, employment, contracting with consultants or acceptance of volunteers on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, sexual orientation, or national origin.

18100 SLADE SCHOOL ROAD • SANDY SPRING, MARYLAND 20860

VA Long Beach Healthcare System 5901 East 7th Street • Long Beach, CA 90822

Washington Regional Medical Center is the only not-for-profit, community-owned and locally governed healthcare system in Northwest Arkansas.

The VA Long Beach Healthcare System is one of the most diversified tertiary health care providers in the VA. It is a teaching hospital, providing a full range of patient care services, with state-of-the-art technology as well as education and research.

For personal fulfillment, professional growth and a quality way of life, join us in healthcare careers at Washington Regional Medical Center.

Whatever the job title, every position in VA will give you a chance to make a meaningful and personal contribution to the lives of truly special and deserving people - our Veterans. VA offers generous paid time off and a variety of predictable and flexible scheduling opportunities.

Apply online at:

www.wregional.com

For more information about us and our current vacancies, please visit: www.longbeach.va.gov EOE

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

3215 N. North Hills Boulevard Fayetteville, AR 72703

September 2015

equal opportunity employment journal

Examples of writers and authors are related industries such as publishing media. screenwriters, biographers, playwrights, Employment for technical writers is novelists, copy writers, and bloggers. expected to be faster than the average for all occupations. But even in occupations Wages, employment, that have limited growth, job openings are and outlook Wages, employment, and outlook vary projected because of the need to replace among creative occupations. In most of the workers who retire or leave for some other occupations described in this article, data reason. from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Rewards and Challenges show that wage and salary workers earned of Creative Work more than the $35,540 median annual wage As with any career, working in a creative for all workers in May 2014. job has pros and cons. This section outlines But those data do not include wages for some of them. the many self-employed workers in nearly Rewards all of these occupations. And, although There are some rewards that are common employment growth is projected to be slow to most creative work. These include the for most of them, the need to replace work- outlet for being creative, the flexibility of ers who leave the occupations is expected the work, and the opportunity to collaboto result in opportunities. rate with others.

Wages Being creative. Engaging in a creative According to the BLS Occupational activity is, for many workers, its own Employment Statistics survey, wages were reward. Workers do interesting or unique higher than the overall median in nearly projects while adding their own style. all of these occupations in May 2014.

Producing something that didn’t exist However, these estimates do not include before leads to a sense of accomplishwages for self-employed workers, whose ment. “Being creative is really fulfilling,” incomes may vary more widely than those says wedding photographer Kyle Carnes of wage and salary workers overall. of Portland, Oregon. “You can express Wages varied by geographic location, yourself and take pride in what you create.” with workers in some metropolitan areas News editor Gerri Berendzen of Columbia, typically earning more than those in other Missouri, agrees, adding that she enjoys cities. For example, graphic designers in the adrenaline rush that comes with trying the San Francisco metropolitan area earned to break a big story—and getting the facts a median annual wage of $74,930, com- right. pared with the median annual wage of Flexibility. Compared with workers in $49,110 earned by graphic designers in the some other career fields, creative workChicago metropolitan area. ers may have more flexibility in choosing Wages also varied by industry. For exam- tasks or setting schedules—especially if ple, technical writers in the specialized they are self-employed. design services industry earned a median Often, workers have the creative freedom annual wage of $86,990, compared with to explore a project or topic as they like. technical writers in the newspaper publish- For example, a cartoonist sketching a new ers industry who earned a median annual superhero character might decide to comwage of $54,600 per year. bine existing ideas, such as a cape, with his or her own elements, such as the idea Employment and Outlook According to data from the of a child superhero. For many workers, BLS Employment Projections (EP) pro- exploring and remixing interesting ideas is gram, employment size was relatively part of the fun. small in 2012—the base year for the most Collaboration. Creativity often benefits recent projections data—in many of the from collaboration, and many people enjoy creative occupations discussed in this arti- working with others toward a common goal. cle. Employment projections data include “I find it really satisfying to help an author’s self-employment, which was common in writing get better,” says Berendzen. these occupations. Job openings are proEven when working alone, people in jected to vary between 2012 and 2022. creative occupations often learn from This may be because many creative occu- others. Freelance illustrator Dufford, for pations lend themselves to self-employment, example, browses online art communities which includes freelance workers and busi- and blogs, taking elements of others’ art ness owners. For example, writers and ideas and reinterpreting them in unique authors, photographers, and craft artists— ways. “If you surround yourself with good occupations listed in the table with the art,” he says, “you’ll be inspired to create highest rates of self-employment—may be good artwork.” able to generate enough income working for themselves if they can successfully sell Challenges As with almost any career, creative worktheir creative product.

Employment growth is projected to be ers may face challenges in their jobs that slow for most of these occupations over the they need to overcome. To succeed, they 2012–22 decade. Reasons for slow growth must be able to handle stress and frustramay vary among occupations but include tion, accept criticism and failure, and learn foreign competition and the decline of to persevere.

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The City of Normandy is a municipal governmental entity that exists to provide public service. Those services must be delivered by an organization that is reflective of the community it serves.

Learn more about us at: www.cityofnormandy.gov 7700 Natural Bridge Road • Normandy, MO 63121 • EOE

Clark County is located in Las Vegas, Nevada and is one of the area’s largest employers. We recognize the value of a qualified and diverse workforce.

County employment offers outstanding benefits, retirement, and career enhancement opportunities.

Clark County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

CLARK COUNTY, NEVADA 500 South Grand Central Parkway, 3rd Floor Las Vegas, NV 89155-1791

(702) 455-4565 • www.clarkcountynv.gov

We’re always looking for hard-working, dedicated people to join the Sargent Aerospace & Defense team. As a member of our team, you will find compelling and challenging projects, an expanding list of well-known, respected customers, opportunities for advancement, and our commitment to your personal and professional growth. Visit www.sargentaerospace.com to view current open positions and application procedures. For more information call 520-744-1000.

5675 WEST BURLINGAME ROAD • TUCSON, AZ 85743 EOE/W/M/Vets/Disability

Provident Bank • 3756 Central Avenue • Riverside, CA 92506

Join a winning team…The Provident Team!!!

We continually seek qualified candidates to enhance our business growth in our retail banking and mortgage lending divisions. Visit us at www.myprovident.com for more information and to apply online. You may email or fax your resume to providenthires@myprovident.com or (951) 786-4725.

Provident Bank is an equal opportunity employer. It is the bank’s policy to grant equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all qualified persons without regard to race, sex, religion, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, or veteran’s status.

1400 Key Boulevard, Suite 1100 • Arlington, VA 22209 Crown Consulting Inc. is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer!

Crown Consulting, Inc. is a leading information technology and aviation company serving the Federal Government.

We encourage women, minorities, people with disabilities and protected veterans to apply.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic protected by law.

We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

Visit www.crownci.com for more information.

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equal opportunity employment journal

Tosoh Bioscience, Inc. (TBI) provides highly sophisticated diagnostic systems to doctor’s offices, hospitals and reference laboratories.

Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V

The employee work environment is fast-paced, challenging and offers opportunities for personal growth and career advancement. TBI employees are focused on the collective vision of providing quality products and services through innovation.

For information regarding job openings at TBI, or to submit an application, please visit the Tosoh Jobs Portal online at: www.tosoh.iapplicants.com Learn more about us at: www.tosohbioscience.com 6000 Shoreline Court • Suite 101 • South San Francisco, CA 94080

If you are looking for a career opportunity, BNB is your answer.

We offer competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and a chance to further your career with a dedicated, customer-oriented team.

Fill out an employment application online at: www.bridgenb.com ************************************************* PO Box 3005 • Bridgehampton, NY 11932 • Fax: 631-237-4351 We are an Equal Opportunity Employer

September 2015

Stress and frustration. Creative workers may feel pressure to constantly produce new or better ideas, sometimes immediately. But inspiration doesn’t arrive on demand—and the added stress may inhibit creativity even more.

It also may be common to work on tight deadlines for long stretches of time or to work at odd hours. And because competition for these jobs is often intense, workers may have a hard time finding enough creative work to earn an adequate income.

In some jobs or on certain projects, artistic freedom may be limited. “You have to remember that you’re creating for other people, not yourself,” says Dufford of working for a client. And restricted autonomy may be even more frustrating when a client changes project requirements without sufficient notice or compensation.

Self-employed workers usually face additional frustrations, including managing staff problems, assessing financial risks, and balancing work–life demands. Deciphering complex laws related to business ownership is also difficult. “I have to pay business, art, and local taxes on top of commercial photography and business licensing fees,” Carnes says. “It can be hard to figure out what you’re supposed to pay.”

Criticism and failure. Creative workers imbue a little of themselves in their creations.

Some workers may have difficulty separating from their work, which may make them more sensitive to criticism and prone to self-doubt.

But in many creative careers, criticism is necessary. Feedback from clients, friends, and peers is often part of the creative process. Among that feedback may be negative comments that could lead to a different approach.

And creativity takes a lot of trying—and failing—before an idea comes to fruition. “You have to risk failure and rejection to find success,” says Triola.

Workers should be prepared to put hours of thought or effort into an idea, only to have nothing come of it. “Out of 10 ideas, only 1 might make it,” says industrial design firm owner Austen Angell. “You can’t get attached to an idea. Keep an open mind.”

Perseverance. Often, the polished end product of creativity belies the struggle that went into achieving it. Turning an idea into a finished product doesn’t happen overnight: creativity takes a lot of work and perseverance.

By focusing on the end result, workers can learn to push themselves. “Creative people are all about ideas, but that’s the problem: it can be hard to finish one,” says Carnes. “I really enjoy the feeling of accomplishment I get when I complete a project.”

Getting Started

Genesis HealthCare System is an integrated health care delivery system recognized throughout the country for its steadfast commitment to delivering high quality, compassionate patient care.

View and apply for current career opportunities online at: www.genesishcs.org

Genesis HealthCare System ... where you are treated well.

This organization is committed to creating a diverse environment and proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

You’ll need some combination of skills, education and training, and experience to get started in a creative career. Networking and promoting your work are also important.

Skills

Creative workers need technical skill relevant to their occupation, which may involve use of certain equipment. For example, a craft artist who specializes in woodworking needs to be able to make bevel and groove cuts with a saw and a chisel, among other tools.

Communication skills are also important for creative workers. Having ideas is not enough; workers must be able to share those ideas through writing or speaking. “The single most important skill in a creative field is to learn how to use words to describe what you’re doing so others can understand your vision,” says Triola.

2951 Maple Avenue | Zanesville, OH 43701

Milestone is a great place to work!

We have caring and compassionate employees who are dedicated to helping extraordinary people live ordinary lives. If you are looking for a career in the behavioral health or intellectual & developmental disabilities field, you’ve come to the right place.

View and apply online at:

www.MilestonePA.org We are an equal opportunity employer.

712 South Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15221 412-243-3400

2005 Technology Way • San Marcos, TX 78666 United Technologies Corporation is An Equal Opportunity/ Affirmative Action Employer

UTC Aerospace Systems is one of the world’s largest suppliers of technologically advanced aerospace and defense products. We design, manufacture and service systems and components and provide integrated solutions for commercial, regional, business and military aircraft, helicopters and other platforms.

To learn more about us and for current employment opportunities, please visit us online:

www.utcaerospacesystems.com

ECCO III ENTERPRISES 201 Saw Mill River Road

Yonkers, New York 10701 We stand in support of equality for and advancement of all people based on their qualifications and actions alone without regard to color, gender, age, religion, national origin or disability.

September 2015

equal opportunity employment journal

Page 21

And for many people in creative occupations, business skills are pivotal to success—especially for those who are self-employed. “A lot of artists struggle because they’re more concerned with their art than their accounts,” Carnes says.

The Small Business Administration and the nonprofit SCORE offer information for small business owners through free or low-cost resources and services, including workshops, networking events, and one-on-one mentorships.

Education and Training

According to BLS, most creative workers typically need a bachelor’s degree to qualify for entry-level jobs. And workers in about half of these occupations receive on-the-job training to help them hone their craft.

Getting an education helps workers build a solid technical and artistic foundation—and may improve employment prospects, even in occupations that don’t typically require a formal program. “My college education really helped me,” says Dufford. “It taught me how to have the discipline to sit down and work on something continuously.”

The more technical the occupation, the more important a college degree may be. For example, beginning art directors,multimedia artists, and industrial designers typically need a bachelor’s degree in a field related to their specialty. Additional coursework in math, the sciences, information technology, and other disciplines—such as psychology and sociology—may help jobseekers stand out from other candidates.

Creative occupations that usually require a high school diploma at the entry level, such as craft and fine artists and floral designers, also typically require on-the-job training. For example, a fine artist might work under the supervision of a master painter for several years to learn a variety of styles and techniques.

Creative workers in a few of these occupations, such as illustrators and photographers, may gain experience by starting out as assistants or apprentices. “Journeying with different people is really useful because you get to see how they work,” says Carnes.

Still other creative workers learn from library or Internet resources or by studying others’ work.

But whatever path creative workers take to their career, a common bond is the need for lifelong learning. As with workers in many fields, workers in creative jobs need to keep up with changes in technology and styles, such as by acquiring new skills, taking classes, or following blogs.

“You have to constantly work on improving your skills,” Dufford says.

“Keep learning until the day you die.”

Experience and Networking

As table 3 also shows, most creative occupations don’t require work experience in a related occupation to qualify for entry-level positions.

Among the few who do need experience are editors, who typically gain experience by working in a related occupation, such as editorial assistant, writer, or reporter.

Even if experience is not required, however, creative workers usually benefit from hands-on learning, whether paid or unpaid. For example, some workers start out as hobbyists, then turn their passion into a career after discovering a market for their work.

More importantly, gaining experience helps workers gain professional connections. Creative workers must often take the initiative to network with peers and employers. This process is often difficult in the beginning, when these workers don’t have a large portfolio or many professional connections. But networking gets easier as they build a reputation.

And networking should include potential clients as well as employers.

“You must constantly market yourself,” says Dufford. “I mail out promotional posters to studios and then try to make appointments to meet people at those studios. Ninety-nine percent of the time I won’t hear back, but I live off the work that I get from the 1 percent of people who do respond.”

Having an online portfolio and a social media presence may help potential clients find your work. Keep in mind that developing a solid career might take years, so be proactive—and patient. “Each year builds on the one before,” Triola says. “It doesn’t happen overnight.”

For more information

To learn more about the creative occupations in this article—and hundreds of others—see the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH).

Each OOH profile includes information about job duties, employment, wages, job outlook, and more.

A job that matters at Spartanburg Medical Center You entered health care to make a difference. Spartanburg Medical Center, located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, offers a cutting-edge, team environment where you can do just that. Having achieved top honors—including the Magnet designation for nursing excellence—we make it a priority to remain on the forefront of health care. Recognizing that top honors are a result of top professionals, we offer competitive salary and benefit packages, a nationally recognized child development program and more.

Areas of availability: • Women’s & Children’s Care • Gibbs Cancer Center & Research Institute • Heart Center • Surgical Care • Emergency Center • Spartanburg Regional Hospice • Home Health For more information or to apply, please call a hospital recruiter at 800-288-7762 or visit SpartanburgRegional.com.

SpartanburgRegional.com.

0514_BL

EOE

Page 22

equal opportunity employment journal The National Endowment for the Arts promotes and funds creativity and art through grants for people and organizations in artistic fields. The endowment also offers a variety of resources, including podcasts, webinars, and events.

Professional associations offer additional career information and resources.

Some occupations may have related associations that cater to a specific industry or group, such as minorities or residents of a particular state. The main professional associations for the occupations discussed in detail in this article are listed below.

Artists and related workers

Explore exciting career opportunities in clinical, ancillary, and administrative support services in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Join Regional Hospital of Scranton, a nationally recognized, award winning healthcare organization that provides quality care for our community.

Apply Online

www.CommonwealthHealth.net Regional Hospital of Scranton does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, or age in admission, treatment, or publication in its programs, services and activities, or in employment

www.eoejournal.com

The National Endowment for the Arts promotes and funds creativity and art through grants for people and organizations in artistic fields.

For information about art directors, visit: Art Directors Guild Art Directors Club For information about craft artists, visit the American Craft Council.

There is no single association that caters to fine artists as a whole. Instead, look for associations that cater to a specific type of artist. For example, illustrators may visit the Society of Illustrators and sculptors may visit the International Sculpture Center.

As with fine artists, no single association represents multimedia artists, but there are associations for specific types of artists. For example, graphic designers may visit the American Institute of Graphic Arts. And workers in interactive entertainment, such as computer animators and game designers, may visit the Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences.

September 2015 Designers

For information about commercial and industrial designers, visit the Industrial Designers Society of America.

For information about floral designers, visit the American Institute of Floral Designers.

For information about graphic designers: American Institute of Graphic Arts Graphic Artists Guild For information about fashion designers, visit the Council of Fashion Designers of America.

For information about interior designers: American Society of Interior Designers Council for Interior Design Accreditation For more information on set and exhibit designers, visit: United Scenic Artists Local USA 829 Exhibit Designers and Producers Association Media and communication workers For information about editors, visit the American Copy Editors Society.

For information about photographers, visit the American Society of Media Photographers.

For information about technical writers: Society for Technical Communication.

And for information about writers and authors, visit: Writers Guild of America American Society of Journalists and Authors Article by The Bureau of Labor www.bls.gov

It starts with great people.

At UCLA Health, our success is measured by the quality of the patient experience.

Step inside our doors and you’ll find a team who share their best ideas — and the best in themselves — with all of us. We celebrate the many abilities, backgrounds, and perspectives our employes bring to the team, and we believe that as we move patient care forward, our differences will only make us better.

You’re invited to join us and share your talents here.

We have a variety of positions available in the following areas: • Allied Health • Nursing • Support Services • IT/Electronic Health Records

• Administrative • Finance • Managerial/Executive

To learn more, please contact UCLA Health Recruitment at (866) 895-6690, or apply directly at: uclacareers.com/EOEJournal EOE The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.

Visit our website at: uclacareers.com/EOEJournal

Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center

September 2015

equal opportunity employment journal

Page 23

Attributes of a Quality Medical Coder

M

by Kate Newton

edical coders provide an important function in hospitals, doctors’ offices, and clinics, helping to maintain patient record-keeping and ensuring that providers are properly paid by insurance companies. The following attributes are essential to quality medical coding.

Academic Understanding Combined with Good Logic Skills

Medical coding is a highly specialized skill that takes time to master. Those who work in this field must have a basic understanding of anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology. They must also be able to analyze information logically to arrive at the correct diagnosis and procedure codes. The work is especially challenging when patients have symptoms that are equivocal in nature, diagnoses are undetermined, or where a physician orders a range of treatment protocols.

Coding to the Highest Level with Specificity

An experienced medical coder knows the importance of coding to the highest level of specificity within the ICD-9-CM (The International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification). Vague coding often leads to insurance companies rejecting claims. These claims must then be resubmitted while providers wait for payment, impacting

ICD-9-CM system is updated to ICD-10.

This new system will encompass more than 68,000 diagnosis codes--more than five times the current number of codes in use.

Ability to Decipher Information Without Direct Access to the Provider

Skilled coders move quickly and efficiently through medical reports. They are able to rely solely on the physician’s or nurse’s record to determine the appropriate codes, without having to speak to the provider.

Assuming the notes in the file are accurate and legible, a good coder has enough knowledge to determine the correct codes without their bottom line. Therefore, to ensure claims are paid expeditiously, coders must have more having to stall the process to get more informathan a general knowledge of relevant codes in a tion. given area, and be able to pinpoint correct sub- Technologically Savvy sections of the ICD-9-CM. New software programs are continually being developed to make the work of medical coders Staying Up-to-Date on Changes more efficient and more accurate. Those who to Code Procedures The codes that are currently in use are not stat- adapt easily to improved technology are a big ic, but are continually being modified through asset to providers who rely on their skills for new legislation and industry mandates. Quality accurate coding.

Advances in medicine and an aging baby medical coders are always learning long after they have completed their initial training. The boomer population have expanded most medical American Health Information Management practices, making it even more important that Association requires members keep up to date coding is done accurately and efficiently. Coders with continuing education in order to remain with the above qualities are greatly sought after certified. This will become even more impor- by all medical facilities, large and small. tant after October 1, 2015, when the current Article provided by Constant-Content.com

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital is a 965-bed hospital with campuses in New Brunswick and Somerville, offering Central New Jersey residents expanded access to highest quality medical services.

Learn more about us and our current job openings:

Providing World Class Care and Service to America’s Heroes

Join a patient centered interdisciplinary care team that values healthy home/work life balance, has one of the most advanced electronic medical records reporting systems in the country and offers great benefits, including liability protection. Reno is minutes away from beautiful Lake Tahoe, is a short drive or flight to San Francisco, and abounds with year round recreation, entertainment, arts, and culture – about 260 days of sunshine per year. Nevada has no state income tax! For employment opportunities, including complete job announcements, and online application instructions, please visit our website:

www.reno.va.gov/careers

VA Sierra Nevada Health Care System

975 Kirman Avenue • Reno, NV 89502 • 775-829-5630 • EOE

www.rwjuh.edu

EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disability

New Brunswick • Somerset RWJ University Hospital Somerset 110 Rehill Avenue Somerville, NJ 08876

RWJ University Hospital New Brunswick One Robert Wood Johnson Place New Brunswick, NJ 08901

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equal opportunity employment journal

September 2015

Registered Nurse Salary Outlook

Renowned for the quality of our services by being recognized with various industry, association, and national awards, Christiana Care Health System (CCHS) is committed to being a premier health provider by advancing medical treatment in the Mid-Atlantic region.

We recognize that, in addition to state-of-the-art technology, cutting edge services, and treatment modalities, our team members are the ultimate foundation of our success. As such, we are committed to providing best in class workplaces in addition to offering competitive salaries and benefits, work/life balance and opportunities for both personal and professional growth.

Christiana Care is a great place to work in part because of the uniqueness of our employees, volunteers, and affiliated health professionals. Each one of us brings our own history, characteristics, and skills to our jobs every day. To create an inclusive culture that respects and leverages the diversity of our colleagues to enhance innovation, quality of care, teamwork, and value so that we can deliver the best care for our patients as individuals.

Christiana Care Health System is proud to be an equal opportunity employer whose staff is representative of its community, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status.

To learn more about the current openings available at our hospitals in Wilmington, Newark and our other entities located throughout the state of Delaware, please visit our website: http://careers.christianacare.org/

Experience a career where you can shine.

Centura Health is a faith-based, non-profit, fully-integrated health system spanning Colorado and into western Kansas.

Sponsored by Catholic Health Initiatives and the Adventist Health System, our talented associates represent all faiths, backgrounds and experiences, while sharing the belief that we care for our patients, their families and one another as we would want our own loved ones to be treated.

careers.centura.org

Centura Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer, M/F/D/V.

W

ith 2.6 million individuals now working in the profession, registered nurses account for 60 percent of the health care industry according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Working closely with doctors and other health care workers in treating illnesses and injuries, registered nurses act as the primary care givers for most patients.

Registered nurses are detail-oriented people who are caring and sympathetic toward the needs of others, and enjoy working closely with patients and their families. Entering this profession requires a bachelor’s or an associate degree and the passing of a national certification test for licensing, but the employment out and registered nurse salary forecast make it a career with a bright forecast for future employment opportunities.

Job Description

Most nurses begin their careers working as staff nurses in a hospital, but registered nurses work wherever people are in need of medical care. Correctional facilities, doctors’ offices, clinics, schools, public health centers, or patient homes are common work settings for registered nurses. Regardless of the setting in which they are employed, registered nurses work in collaboration with doctors and other health care professionals as a team to diagnose and treat illnesses and injuries.

Once the health care team prepares a treatment and care plan for a patient, it is the responsibility of registered nurses to oversee it on a daily basis. Registered nurses will administer and monitor patient reaction to medications and treatments called for under the plan. They are also responsible for starting intravenous lines for fluids, medications, and blood given to the patient. A nurse attending to a patient with an intravenous line will routinely check the line to verify that it is functioning properly. These and other observations of the patient, such as vital signs and medication reactions, are noted by the nurse in the patient’s chart.

Nursing Specializations

As nurses acquire experience, many of them seek assignments in specialized areas of medicine such as oncology, pediatrics, maternity, obstetrics, critical care, surgery and emergency care. Registered nurse salary scales will vary depending upon the specialization chosen.

There are other specialized areas in nursing where patient care occurs outside of a hospital setting. Hospice nurses care for patients suffering from terminal illnesses. Hospices set up as part of a hospital, or in a separate facility. The focus of care for the hospice nurse is alleviating or minimizing patient pain and discomfort.

Oncology nurses specialize in the treatment of patients who have been diagnosed with cancer. These nurses are found in hospitals, clinics or doctors’ offices assisting doctors in conducting specialized tests to diagnose and plan courses of treatment.

Geriatric nurses usually work in nursing homes or nursing care facilities where they care for elderly patients. In addition to the tasks performed by other nurses, geriatric nurses spend a significant amount of time supervising the patient’s diet, nutrition and exercise. Educating patients and their families on the care being administered is an important role played by the geriatric registered nurse.

Ambulatory care is the treatment of patients who do not require hospitalization. These patients are usually seen in a doctor’s office or clinic. Ambulatory care nurses take patient histories, monitor and record blood pressure and other vital signs, and work with a

September 2015

equal opportunity employment journal

Page 25

physician to furnish care and treatment to treat patient illnesses and injuries. Unlike nurses who must sometimes work shifts or be on call in a hospital where patient care is provided 24 hours a day, ambulatory care nurses can look forward to work schedules similar to office workers.

Education and Licensing

The road to becoming a registered nurse begins with a bachelor’s or associate degree in nursing involving classroom instruction and supervised clinical training in a hospital.

While a bachelor’s degree is preferred for future advancement within the profession, the associate degree can be obtained in just 2-3 years. If an employer offers tuition reimbursement benefits, the graduate can take advantage of this benefit to complete the bachelor’s degree. An alternative to obtaining a college degree is the nursing diploma offered by a few hospital-based programs, but the number of such programs has diminished in recent years.

Each state has its own standards for the licensing of registered nurses seeking employment within their jurisdiction; however, they all require that nursing graduates take and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to qualify for a license

OAK VALLEY HOSPITAL

350 South Oak Avenue • Oakdale, CA 95361 • EOE Oak Valley Hospital District is looking for full time Med/Surg and ED nurses. If you’re interested in learning more about these opportunities, our culture, and what we have to offer, please email your resume to: Brian Beck, Vice President of Human Resources, bbeck@ovhd.com.

For more information visit:

www.oakvalleycares.org

COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE, OUR PEOPLE MAKE THE DIFFERENCE. Serving more than a half million patients each year, Mount Carmel is the second-largest healthcare system in central Ohio. Our more than 8,000 employees and 1,500 physicians utilize state-of-theart facilities, advanced technologies and the latest procedures to accomplish our mission of healing patients’ minds, bodies and spirits, and improving the health of the communities we serve.

Mount Carmel offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including tuition assistance, medical/dental coverage, childcare discounts and more. Mount Carmel is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Registered Nurse Salary

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median registered nurse salary as $67,720 according to the latest survey in May 2010. A registered nurse salary will vary from the national median depending upon the specialty practiced and the geographical location of employment.

Nurses who obtain advanced degrees and become nurse practitioners, clinical specialists, and midwives can expect to earn substantially more than the median registered nurse salary because of the higher level of responsibility in those positions.

Job Outlook

Registered nurses currently represent the largest segment of the health care industry, and the projected outlook for future employment is excellent according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Job openings for registered nurses are expected to grow by 22 percent through 2018.

Article provided by The Bureau of Labor Statistics

Visit the Jobs and Volunteering page on our website to view full position descriptions and apply.

www.mountcarmelhealth.com © 2010 NAS (Media: delete copyright notice)

EOE Journal 3.8 x 5.25 4 color CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Kaiser Permanente, the nation’s leading integrated health care provider, offers rewarding career opportunities for both health care and business and management professionals.

When you join our Northwest Region team, the work you do saves lives.

From our nurses and physicians on the front line of care to our business professionals supporting the bottom line. From our customer service team working one on one to deliver service to our IT professionals who literally turn data cables into lifelines.

To see a complete listing of career opportunities in our Northwest Region, we invite you to visit jobs.kp.org

Job openings for registered nurses are expected to grow by 22 percent through 2018.

jobs.kp.org

Visit jobs.kp.org for a complete listing of current opportunities.

KAISER PERMANENTE IS AN AA/EEO EMPLOYER

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September 2015

Preparing for a Caree Wh

Then You Need to U

at could be more important than intelligence? It helps us get good grades in school, admissions into the colleges we most want to attend and, hopefully, a successful and rewarding career. But there is more to consider for a successful career in health care than intelligence.

According to a study that tracked graduate students over 40 years, what we now call “emotional intelligence” was four times more important than IQ in determining professional success.

What Is Emotional Intelligence?

Social psychologist Peter Salovey (now president of Yale University) and psychologist John D. Mayer coined the term “emotional intelligence” in 1990. They described emotional intelligence as “a form of social intelligence that involves the ability to monitor one’s own and others’ feelings and emotions, to discriminate among them and to use this information to guide one’s thinking and action.”

Put simply, it is the ability to recognize, understand and deal with one’s own and others’ emotions constructively.

Why Do I Need It? An article on the Becker’s Hospital Review website described this scenario: “Imagine a patient with a bad reaction to anesthesia. It’s fairly routine but still uncomfortable and unnerving for the patient and the family. One nurse may be highly conscientious and clinically competent and taking all the right steps to address the situation. She’ll provide the right treatment and the patient’s symptoms will resolve, but she doesn’t attempt to calm the patient or instill a sense of confidence and even fails to pick up on the anxiety. Another nurse may not be quite as conscientious or experienced. She may even take a bit longer to figure out exactly what to do, but she is more comforting. She knows to put a hand on the patient’s shoulder and to assure the family that this is normal. The symptoms may resolve in the same amount of time, but the two patient and family experiences were very different.”

In the health professions, emotional intelligence enables health care practitioners to work as members of a team and provide compassionate, empathic care to their patients. In fact, beginning in April 2015, pre-med students will take a revised MCAT, the test for entry into medical school, which will place more emphasis on topics like sociology, psychology and the humanities.

Even if you aren’t dealing with patients in your job, emotional intelligence is still important because you will be dealing with colleagues, supervisors and people you provide services to, among others.

Can I Learn Emotional Intelligence?

Anyone can nurture and improve their emotional intelligence. Like other kinds of learning, it takes work and attention.

Keep in mind that the idea is not to erase all negative emotions. They are part of the workplace and every other sphere of our lives. Rather, the goal is to learn how to deal with all of the emotions that we experience, negative and positive, and not let them get in the way.

c

September 2015

equal opportunity employment journal

er in Health Care?

Understand Emotional Intelligence

Page 27

Pelham Medical Center Exciting Opportunities

Use These Core Skills To Build Your Emotional Intelligence: • Increase self-awareness.

• Keep a journal.

• Find people you trust to give you feedback.

• Be responsible.

• When problems arise, contribute to creating solutions.

• Be persistent in the face of obstacles.

• Take responsibility for your actions. If you make a mistake or hurt someone, apologize and make amends.

• Regulate your emotions.

• Talk to yourself kindly. When you criticize yourself constantly, you are more likely to criticize others.

• Take time for reflection and meditation.

• Figure out the best ways to decrease anger and irritation when they occur so you can respond to those situations calmly. You may need to count to 10 (or 100), ask for time alone (go for a walk or into a quiet space) or do something else to calm down.

• Learn to empathize.

Talk to yourself kindly. When you criticize yourself constantly, you are more likely to criticize others.

DO YOU WANT TO BE PART OF SOMETHING THAT COULD REDEFINE YOUR CAREER? Join Pelham Medical Center and be part of a unique facility devoted to quality patient care.

• Be interested in those around you.

• Cooperate and collaborate.

It’s this patient-centered focus that led to a national award in

• Take the time to understand those you deal with daily, such as your parents, siblings, teachers and friends.

Try to figure out why they behave they way they do.

What motivates them? Why might they respond to you in unexpected ways? How can you work with them to understand each other better?

patient room layout from the Center for Health Design. Pelham

• Give people speaking to you your complete attention.

Don’t drift into thinking about your response or your to-do list. Consider what may be “between the lines” of what they are saying.

requires quality professionals, we offer competitive salary

Medical Center, conveniently located in Greer, South Carolina, includes an emergency department, medical/surgical units, intensive care and more. Recognizing that quality patient care

and benefit packages. Be a part of our innovative approach to health care at Pelham Medical Center.

• Look for opportunities to work with others collaboratively.

For more information or to apply, please call a hospital recruiter

• Volunteer in your community.

at 800-288-7762 or visit PelhamMedicalCenter.com.

• Show appreciation.

• Express gratitude to those who help you.

• Write thank-you notes.

• Praise people spontaneously (and honestly. Flattery is not a sign of emotional intelligence.)

• Write down what you are grateful for daily or every couple of days.

Article provided by www.explorehealthcareers.org

PelhamMedicalCenter.com

0514_BL

EOE

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www.eoejournal.com 6339 Mill Street Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Fax Resumes to: 845-876-2020

www.astorservices.org

Astor Services for Children & Families is a voluntary, nonprofit agency sponsored by Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York, providing a range of services for children and their families regardless of race, creed or national origin, serving Dutchess, Orange, Ulster, & Bronx counties. For employment consideration including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and nurses please submit your resume/cv along with copies of certification and licensure to hr@astorservices.org.

Astor Services for Children & Families is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate against employees and applicants for employment on the basis of race, color, creed, natural origin, gender, actual or perceived age, citizenship, alienage, disability, marital status or sexual orientation, or as further provided by governing law applicable to the employee’s work location.

Lower Keys Medical Center is a comprehensive regional healthcare resource committed to the delivery of consistent quality services in a safe and fiscally responsible manner that meet the needs of patients, physicians, employees and our community; and to the maintenance of an environment that encourages individual development, teamwork and pride with compassion and respect for each person.

Our commitment to diversity is demonstrated through strategic initiatives aimed at providing training and awareness to our employees, hiring people of diverse backgrounds at all levels in our hospital.

For career opportunities at LKMC, visit our website at www.lkmc.com. Lower Keys Medical Center is An Equal Opportunity Employer.

LOWER KEYS MEDICAL CENTER 5900 College Road • Key West, FL 33040

changing lives... every day.

Any job can provide you with a paycheck and benefits, but a job with Hillcrest HealthCare System will give you so much more. Your expertise, skills and knowledge will play an active and important role in providing high quality healthcare to an extensive patient base. And in doing so, you will gain the satisfaction that comes with helping people improve their health and their lives.

At Hillcrest, we are changing lives, and we’d like you to join us.

Hillcrest.jobs

September 2015

How To Show Your Professional Commitments As A Medical Assistant

W

by Jon Mark

hether it is in the medical industry or any other, people expect a certain level of professionalism. Those who are learning to become medical assistants must represent their hospital or clinic in a respectful manner. Not doing so will have patients question whether they should trust the doctor and/or the medical facility.

The position of a medical assistant provides vast learning opportunities for any field of study and the pay can be very rewarding. However, for the student in training you should always remember that there will be constant interaction with patients. Sure, the position is designed to aid the physician in every way, but the whole industry is designed to help the patient.

Appearance

When someone approaches a professional, a good appearance gives off a good psychological effect. This is especially true for a patient who is at their most vulnerable when they are sick. This appearance is one of good grooming, dress and health. Here are some basic expectations that will help guide the soon-to-be medical assistant.

Dress – For the most part, a medical facility and/or clinic uses standardized uniforms. In large hospital waiting rooms, medical assistants are recognized by a type of uniform called ‘scrubs’. These are manufactured by a uniform clothing company and sold in stores that specialize in medical supplies. They are most commonly seen in a shade of blue which determines the role of the professional among others in the area. This kind of attire may not always be mandatory if the position is within a private practice. In this case a lab coat is sometimes worn on top of other formal business wear. This is left to the decision of the main physician for that site and just to be clear, ‘business wear’ is anything that would be worn in a professional office environment such as pressed-slacks or long skirt, and dress shirt. There will also be a lot of standing and walking so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Well-groomed – Shower or bathe daily, practice good oral hygiene, keep nails and hair trimmed or make sure it is out of the way. Patients know that they are entering an area where there are other sick people and the signs of cleanliness helps set them at ease. Make sure a mild deodorant is used and keep away from colognes or perfumes. For one, it gives the impression that you are drawing too much attention to yourself and it comes across as unprofessional and second, you never know if the patient is allergic or has could have a reaction to the scent which creates a bigger problem. If make-up must be worn than its presence should be subtle. A clean image will keep everything on track.

September 2015

equal opportunity employment journal

Health – There is a term used to describe how actors get into their roles which is ‘method acting’. In a similar sense it applies to a medical assistant. Many who enter this field are usually committed to a healthier lifestyle. This may be because of the focus on the subject being taught and in this case, the practice of exercise and the adoption of healthy habits promotes the purpose of the profession. This is not mandatory but it is something to consider, especially when it puts the person in a better mood throughout the day. The patient will have more confidence in the care provided.

Taking Initiative and Responsibility

Once you receive your assigned schedule it is the responsibility of the medical assistant to stay on it. As the saying goes, “If you’re early you’re on time, and if you’re on-time you’re late.” This is easy to remember and should be followed as with any other profession. The privilege of playing a part in the medical industry is recognized and respected and should be treated responsibly. There will be plenty of times when the waiting room will be full of patients and being ‘present’ and on time helps the team build confidence in your abilities and help the patients get the attention they need. Patients are people with jobs too and know what tardiness might be like, however seeing a late and rushed medical assistant will not ‘sit’ well with them.

If time permits, volunteering to help others as long as it is within the scope of training and education, is welcomed and shows initiative. The medical environment always provides a atmosphere of learning and showing a willingness to do so lets others see your determination.

Attitude

Human relations is a significant part of this profession. The ability to work well with others will open up more opportunities. This refers to both co-workers and patients, who put their health in the trusted hands of their physicians. Many patients are also intimidated in a medical environment so when they are treated with respect and politeness they will be more accepting of treatment.

Team Work

As a new employee entering the field – allowing supervision and guidance is highly recommended. It is hardly necessary and sometimes not a good idea to let others know that you are new to the team. The expectation is to act as an active team member and be appreciative of others and their instruction. You should be willing to help others out too when you can and put your training and education to work. The desire to learn new things is always a great way to embrace the role and to learn faster.

Everyone has a task to do and if there is time to help another; it will help build a good working relationship.

Welcome To Your Team

The level achieved from training to being an active medical assistant are very rewarding indeed. A great environment is provided with the excitement of learning new things which is shared by all members of the medical community. Having this position shows a level of advancement that establishes a new identity in your career. The door to success is wide open.

Article provided by Constant-Content.com

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September 2015

Finding Success Through Healthy and Effective Work Habits

A

fter spending years getting an education and searching for the perfect job, you’ve done it!

You’ve landed the job of your dreams and launched an exciting new career. Once you’ve been accepted at your new company, however, your real work is only beginning. Simply getting a job won’t necessarily make you successful. For true success, you’ll have to work hard.

For many new employees, learning how to develop the skills necessary to experience a successful career can be tricky. Fortunately, it’s possible to foster and develop healthy and effective work habits that will make you a more valuable, successful employee.

by Marie Jones

Listen more than you speak

Learning to communicate with your colleagues and supervisor can be difficult. You might feel like everyone has an opinion about everything.

Unfortunately, this is common in many workplaces. While you might feel like no one listens to you, try to become a good listener. Don’t jump into conversations and share your opinions in order to be heard. Instead, pay attention to what other people say and how they say it. In doing so, you’ll learn a lot about how your company works.

Show up when you’re supposed to

Never arrive late to work. Unless you have a life-threatening emergency, you need to be on time. While many employees struggle to show up to work on time, this is very unprofessional behavior. Understand that all of your colleagues have personal lives, too. You aren’t the only one who has to work hard to arrive promptly. When you make an effort to actually arrive when you’re supposed to, you demonstrate to your coworkers that

you respect both them and your job.

If you find that there’s a specific reason you struggle to arrive on time, try to eliminate that specific issue. For example, if your child tends to move slowly in the morning, have them dress in their school clothes the night before. This will save you time getting ready in the morning. If your car doesn’t always start right away, attempt to leave 10 or 15 minutes earlier than usual to allow yourself more time to get your car going.

Leave personal problems at home

Everyone has personal issues. Some of your colleagues might be going through divorces. Others could be dealing with deaths in their families.

Still others might be learning to balance parenting with having a career.

When you choose to pursue a career, understand that you can’t allow your personal problems to affect your work performance. If you want to be successful, you need to leave your issues at home. Don’t share personal issues or struggles with your coworkers during business hours. Don’t whine or complain about problems you’re having at home. Most of all, don’t blame poor work performance on a problem you’re having outside of the office. Instead, be accountable for your actions and accept responsibility when you make a mistake.

No matter what your career field is, it’s possible to become a better, more valued employee. With a bit of careful effort and a lot of work, you’ll find that you’re soon on your way to success in your career and improved relationships with your colleagues.

Article provided by Constant-Content.com

OU MEDICAL CENTER | OU MEDICAL CENTER EDMOND | THE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

The William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital is a highly affiliated acute care facility providing comprehensive tertiary care in medicine, surgery, neurology, and psychiatry.

At William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, we strive to hire only the best!

As a VA professional, your opportunities are endless. With many openings in the multiple functions of VA, you will have a wide range of opportunities at your fingertips.

Not only is it the largest, most technologically advanced integrated health care system in the nation, but we also provide many other services to Veterans through the Benefits Administration and National Cemeteries.

If you have what it takes, apply online for one of our available positions:

www.usajobs.gov For more information visit us online at: www.madison.va.gov WILLIAM S. MIDDLETON MEMORIAL VETERANS HOSPITAL 2500 OVERLOOK TERRACE | MADISON, WI 53705

The United States Government does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.

As Oklahoma’s largest and most diverse hospital, OU Medical Center features a winning team of world-class academic and private physicians, nurses and health care specialists; a team that is earning an international reputation for excellence, innovation and positive outcomes; a team of medical professionals capable of treating a full range of patients, from the tiniest premature baby to the most critically ill senior; a team that supports Oklahoma with quality patient care, medical education and research.

We offer a variety of opportunities in various fields.

For more information about us or application procedure visit:

www.oumedicine.com

or contact our recruitment team at 405-271-6035 or 1-866-473-8229 An EEO Employer

September 2015

O

equal opportunity employment journal

Page 31

Which Nursing Career is the Best Choice for You?

by Beconrad

ne of the great things about the field of nursing is that there are so many career options available to experienced nurses.

When you think of a nursing career, you probably picture busy professionals running around a hospital ward or helping patients in a medical clinic, but there is much more to nursing than that.

Nurses work for insurance companies reviewing claims. They work in nursing homes helping patients maintain their independence while enhancing their safety. Nurses work in healthcare administration, making decisions that help hospitals and medical facilities be more effective and more cost-efficient. Nurses even work in education, giving the next generation of medical professionals the tools they need to succeed in an ever-changing world.

No matter where you end up in your nursing career, chances are you will start in one of three places. There are three main ways to enter the field of nursing, including: . Aides - including nursing aides, attendants and orderlies .

Licensed nurses - including licensed practical nurse (LPN) and licensed vocational nurse (LVN) . Registered nurse (RN) The wide variety of options available, and the equally wide variety of educational requirements and monetary commitments, makes nursing a particularly good field for the adult learner. While many people enter nursing school right out of high school, others take a more nuanced path.

Some people start out as nursing aides at a local hospital or nursing

People come from all over the world

to study here, to practice here, and to be treated here.

Thomas Jefferson University and Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals are committed to excellence in the delivery of patient care, educating the health professionals of tomorrow and discovering new knowledge.

As one of the most distinguished medical institutions in the country, our history is filled with outstanding people and accomplishments.

Diversity, inclusion and cultural competence are critical components of our mission and we celebrate the uniqueness of each of our employees every day.

To learn more about Jefferson visit www.jeffersonhr.org To apply online visit Recruit.jefferson.edu

THOMAS JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY AND HOSPITALS

home, working their way up and attending school in the evening. Others work jobs in other fields and attend nursing school in the evenings and on weekends. Still others save up money until they can go to nursing school full time. No matter which path you choose, a career in nursing can be very rewarding.

While there is no one right path to a nursing career, many adults like to try the field out before they commit the time and money required to get that coveted RN credential. They might work as an orderly at the local hospital or a nursing aide at a medical clinic. Once they have decided that a career in health care is a good fit, they may go back to college and pursue an LPN or RN degree.

They may work toward those goals on a part-time basis, even attending some classes online. In fact, the nursing field is amenable to distance learning, and many nursing aides and other medical professionals take advantage of this option. When hands-on labs are required, students can use the facilities of local hospitals and clinics to get the experience they need.

Others may prefer the interaction of a live classroom. For those adult learners, a local nursing school is an excellent choice. Many communities with large hospitals offer nursing programs, and most universities have some sort of nursing curriculum available. If you are unsure how to get started, just talk to the nurses at your doctor’s office or the staff at the local hospital. You will get a lot of opinions, and some excellent advice on how to pursue your own nursing career.

Article provided by Constant-Content.com

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September 2015

How to Build a Career in Social Media

S

by Kaizen Marketing

ocial media engagement is high on the list of priorities for modern businesses, and there are a wide variety of opportunities for jobs. If you have a background in sales or marketing and are looking for a fresh challenge, a career in social media marketing is a great option.

The power of social media makes companies willing to pay generous salaries to people with relevant experience and expertise. There’s a lot of competition for the best jobs, so you must be prepared to develop your skills and brand and promote yourself if you want to stand out from the crowd. In addition to employed positions, there are opportunities to work as a consultant if you build a reputation in social media. The following tips will help you build a career in social media.

2) Develop core skills.

You may be familiar with sending Twitter messages and updating your Facebook status, but you’ll need to know the key social media platforms in depth if you’re going to use them for marketing. Study the menus and options for each platform, and pay attention to privacy settings. Each platform has its own policies on business use, and you need to be clear on these.

Use of social media platforms varies by industry sector, so get to know LinkedIn, Instagram and Pinterest as well as the services you use to keep in touch with friends.

3) Build a following and reputation.

The best way to prove to potential employers that you have strong social media skills is to establish your own presence online. Having an outstanding LinkedIn profile will give you 1) Develop a deep understanda head start in any job application. Posting and ing of social media and sharing news and information about the world how businesses can use it.

One of the attractions of a career in social media of social media will help you to build a followis the rapid pace of change. Although that makes ing and a reputation as an authority. it an exciting field to work in, it requires you to 4) Investigate formal constantly update your knowledge. You must qualifications. develop an understanding of how social media Employers look for practical experience when can be used to interact with customers, build employing digital marketing experts, but it also brands, manage reputations and monitor markets. helps if you have recognized qualifications.

Investigate the value of any course before committing. Studying for certification could involve hundreds of hours of study and a considerable financial investment. The National Institute for Social Media (NISM) offers a number of options for certification, and is accepted as one of the leading providers of education in its field.

5) Build a convincing resume.

Although positions in social media are often gained through reputation and evidence of success, employers still require a resume. A resume for careers in social media should include examples of the type of work you’ve completed.

The nature of the industry demands that your work be creative and innovative. For example, you could include links to projects you’ve worked on, infographics detailing your experience and a video introduction outlining your expertise.

Building a career in social media can lead you to an exciting and rewarding future. It can take time to learn the skills and gain the required experience, but if you invest the time and effort, you’ll be in demand.

HEAL

Article provided by Constant-Content.com

Fostering a Diverse Workforce Creating a Better Workplace

EXPERTLY

Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a flexible, diverse, and family-friendly employer. We offer competitive pay & a truly superior array of benefits for you and your family.

Your goals will be our goals, and your family will become part of our family.

We're the best at what we do, because our people make us the best.

TREAT

PERSONALLY

For opportunities visit: www.usajobs.gov Led by Mercy Health - Ministry System Support Services (formerly Catholic Health Partners), we are joined in our Mission to give selflessly, listen patiently, care purposefully and heal expertly. Together, we bring state-of-the-art technology, and experts in over 100 specialties to 23 hospitals, and more than 450 locations across Ohio and Kentucky.

Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center 5000 W. National Avenue Milwaukee, WI 53295 www.milwaukee.va.gov

Located on 125 acres on the western edge of Milwaukee, the Medical Center delivers primary, secondary and tertiary medical care in 168 care acute operating beds and provides over 500,000 visits annually through an extensive outpatient program.

The nursing home care unit of 113 beds offers geriatric programming and the 356 domiciliary beds are the locus of programs in Substance Abuse Rehab., Psychiatric Rehab. and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder care.

We are looking for skilled, compassionate, dedicated people LIKE YOU to join us on our mission to help our communities be well. Career opportunities are available throughout our system for physicians, nurses, pharmacists and technicians, as well as support staff, administrators and managers. We welcome the different ideas, experiences, perspectives and talents of a diverse workforce. Visit our website at:

www.mercy.com An Equal Opportunity Employer

LIKE us on Facebook: Proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Many positions require random drug screening.

Milwaukee VA Medical Center

September 2015

equal opportunity employment journal

Page 33

CAREERS IN EDUCATION

Spoon River College is a two-year, public community college in West Central Illinois dedicated to providing students a quality education.

View and apply for current openings:

www.src.edu

23235 NORTH COUNTY 22 • CANTON, IL 61520 SRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Educator

Powering brighter careers.

Concurrent’s diverse and multicultural work environment promotes creativity and innovation. We’re looking for people who share our passion for technology, our obsession over quality, and our fanaticism for delivering the highest performance solutions.

E

ducation careers are not for everyone. There are certain qualities that an education professional needs to have in order to be successful. A good educator needs to be committed to helping his or her students succeed. The same is true for counselors and members of the administration. It works better when the professional has a desire to help other people. Those who choose to work in education should also love the idea of teaching.

A critical quality that education professionals need to have at every level is patience.

Working with students and parents can be frustrating. This can be particularly true when teachers are dealing with children who have behavioral problems or when talking to “helicopter parents.” Teachers need to be patient with their students and parents in order to achieve the best results. Each student needs to be taught at his or her individual level.

This requires teachers to assess their students, work with parents, and make adjustments in the classroom that allow each student to realize his or her full potential.

Those in administration must be patient with teachers, parents, and members of the school board. The inevitable personality clashes and disputes over education require administrators to execute their tasks diplomatically. Effective communication skills will help administrators and other education professionals explain information thoroughly and prevent conflicts due to miscommunication.

Good communication skills are key. Teachers need to be able communicate different concepts to their students.

Well-educated professionals who do not communicate well cannot share knowledge, so it is important that those with education careers adjust their communication styles and tone for each student so that the information is understood. It is also important to monitor nonverGraphic Packaging is a premier consumer packaging company with a leading position in paperboard packaging for the food, beverage and consumer products markets.

5853 EAST PONCE DELEON AVENUE • STONE MOUNTAIN, GA 30083

We offer compensation and benefit programs that are among the best in the industry. With competitive base salaries, 401(k) plans and benefit offerings, we strive to reward talented people who make our company successful.

We are looking for experienced machine operators, forklift operators, and packers. Visit us online to view and apply for current openings. http://careers.graphicpkg.com Email resumes: DLIST_STM_HR@graphicpkg.com Graphic Packaging is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to workplace diversity.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status or marital status.

EOE M/F/D/V

Please visit our careers page to view our current openings: www.ccur.com

5355 West Taft Road • North Syracuse, NY 13212 Please submit applications online at:

www.nscsd.org

We stand in support of equality for and advancement of all people based on their qualifications and actions alone without regard to color, gender, age, religion, national origin or disability.

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equal opportunity employment journal

Cecil College is a comprehensive, open admission, learner-centered institution providing career, transfer and continuing education coursework and programs.

For employment opportunities or to learn more about us, visit www.cecil.edu.

One Seahawk Drive • North East, MD 21901 Cecil College is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer and educational institution committed to diversity.

Crawford Central School District is an equal opportunity education institution and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex and handicap. Visit www.craw.org to view current openings and application procedures.

bal methods of communication. Some children who are diagnosed with behavioral or cognitive disabilities have problems understanding nonverbal cues, and anyone who works with these students should find alternative ways to communicate.

Education careers require people to think and act creatively. Students have distractions in their lives, and teachers need to find fresh and exciting ways to present information. Some people are naturally creative while others need to work at it. Fortunately, there are online and community resources available that allow teachers to share their creative ideas with each other.

Being creative is not the same as being spontaneous. Implementing creative teaching methods in the classroom demands extensive preparation. Simply changing the way that an education professional delivers a concept does not guarantee success.

Creativity should be included in the standard methodologies that address important learning objectives.

Anyone who works in the education field needs to radiate self-confidence. The personal insecurity of education professionals will reduce the ability of students to accept their teachers as authorities in the classroom. Timid teachers are more likely to have trouble handling behavioral problems in class and stay on schedule. Educators need to be confident in their abilities as well as the abilities of their students. Students, even young

11280 Mercer Pike Meadville, PA 16335

Working with young children can be rewarding.

Preschool teachers are responsible for the physical, social, and intellectual development of the children in their care.

Job Line: 814.337.4501 Fax: 814.333.9795 We are looking for high energy, dedicated employees to serve the students of Houston County Schools. For employment information or to apply online visit our website: www.hcbe.net 1100 Main Street — Perry, GA 31069 Houston County Schools stands in support of equality for and advancement of all people based on their qualifications and actions alone without regard to color, gender, age, religion, genetics, national origin or disability.

We are seeking faculty and staff who are committed to the community college mission, actively engaged in promoting diversity, and prepared to use their unique strengths to experiment and innovate in the name of student success.

For more information visit:

www.necc.mass.edu NECC is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer.

Women and Minorities are encouraged to apply

100 Elliott Street — Haverhill, MA 01830

Your Career is Our Business!

children, are able to pick up on the confidence “or lack of” of their instructors. If a teacher does not believe that he or she is capable of helping students succeed, there is no reason for the students to trust the teacher. Similarly, students are not motivated to take direction from educational professionals who do not believe in them.

Before considering an educational career, candidates should consider whether or not they have the qualities necessary to work in the education profession. Certain skills can be improved. For example, people can enhance their communication skills and learn creative techniques from colleagues. It is also possible to work on personal characteristics and skills such as patience and confidence. The personal desire to teach others, however, is innate and cannot be taught.

Areas of Education

A variety of education careers are available to anyone interested. Teachers can work with preschool- and kindergarten-age children or choose to work in elementary education. Middle school and high school students usually have teachers who concentrate on specific subjects. Community colleges, traditional universities, and graduate programs need instructors; however, teaching at the college level usually requires the completion of graduate school and a PhD. At every level, educational institutions and programs need effective administrators.

Working with young children can be rewarding. Preschool teachers are responsible for the physical, social, and intellectual development of the children in their care. Children at Keystone Job Corps Center

Johnston Community College provides accessible, high-quality educational and community enrichment opportunities for the successful development of learners.

245 College Road • Smithfield, NC 27577 For more information visit our website at:

www.johnstoncc.edu

Johnston Community College is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employer

September 2015

Job Corps is a national residential training and employment program administered by the Department of Labor to address the multiple barriers to employment faced by disadvantaged youth throughout the United States. Job Corps program’s mission is to assist young people become more responsible, employable and productive citizens.

The Keystone Job Corps Center was one of the first and oldest centers in the United States, opening its doors in 1967. It trains over 900 students annually in construction and health care fields providing a valuable resource to employers throughout Pennsylvania and the east coast.

MTC offers a competitive wage and comprehensive employee benefits package.

For more information please visit www.mtctrains.com Equal Opportunity Employer Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran

Fontana Unified School District • 9680 Citrus Avenue • Fontana, CA 92335 ontana Unified is a community united to ensure every student is prepared for success in college, career and life.

F

Learn more about us and our current openings online: www.fusd.net The Board prohibits, at any district school or school activity, unlawful discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying of any student based on the student’s actual race, color, ancestry, national origin, ethnic group identification, age, religion, marital or parental status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or gender expression; the perception of one or more of such characteristics; or association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics.

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*********************************************** Our aim is to get people better, keep them well, and to understand more about the causes of mental health problems and how to prevent them. Our unique program fosters an interaction between scientists researching how the brain works and clinicians caring for patients with a wide spectrum of mental health issues.

By design, the University of Wisconsin Department of Psychiatry has developed an environment where people who do very different things work next to each other and with each other at the clinical level, training level, and research level. We believe that putting folks together who all have the same goal, to reduce suffering from mental illness, but who approach the goal from very different perspectives, will lead to bold new discoveries related to the causes and potential treatments for mental health problems.

We are always looking for dedicated, passionate professionals who share our interests in quality care and innovative science. If that sounds like you then send a letter of interest along with your curriculum vitae to: Jeff Charlson, UW Department of Psychiatry, 6001 Research Park Blvd., Madison, WI 53719

http://www.psychiatry.wisc.edu/ The University of Wisconsin is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

Unless confidentiality is requested in writing, information regarding the applicants must be released upon request.

Finalists cannot be guaranteed confidentiality. Wisconsin Caregiver Law applies.

W W W. E O E J O U R N A L . C O M

this age learn from play and other activities. Teachers of young children There are many personal and professional need to have the energy necessary to monitor their students and guide them through these different activities. Besides basic educational requirements, advantages associated with education careers. preschool teachers may need to acquire state certification.

Individuals who have a passion for teaching will Elementary school classes are more structured than preschool classes.

Elementary teachers are often required to teach a mixture of different never find another job quite as fulfilling as sharing subjects; they are also responsible for evaluating the curriculum and knowledge and understanding with their students. communicating their observations to students, parents, and administrators. Elementary school teachers also need to manage behavior and maintain state standards of education. Teaching elementary school typically requires a bachelor’s degree and state certification.

Teachers at secondary schools specialize in a given subject, such as English, math, or history, and some focus on skills like woodworking.

Secondary schools are split in two ways: middle schools can include fifth through ninth grade; junior high covers seventh through ninth grade. High school is considered tenth through twelfth grade.

The requirements for teachers at public secondary schools vary by state.

Most states require teachers to have a bachelor’s degree and certification.

Several states, however, are beginning to demand that certified teachers University of Wisconsin — Department of Psychiatry work toward obtaining master’s degrees.

6001 Research Park Boulevard • Madison, WI 53719

calu_EEO ad 2015:Layout 1 7/13/15 3:52 PM Page 1

Individuals who have a passion for teaching will never find another job quite as fulfilling as sharing knowledge and understanding with their students.

C A L I F O R N I A U N I V E R S I T Y O F P E N N S Y LVA N I A

An education career at the college level demands much more than teaching responsibilities. A teacher on any college campus needs at least a master’s degree, and most require a doctorate. Education professionals at this level need to be experts on the subjects in their departments. For example, English professors focus on different time periods and authors. In college, a teacher will not teach classes all day, but he or she is expected to keep office hours, advise students, and remain familiar with changing views on the subject matter in which he specializes. Most colleges also require their professors to research and publish a number of books and articles throughout their academic careers.

CALU

Advantages of Education Careers

There are many personal and professional advantages associated with education careers. Individuals who have a passion for teaching will never find another job quite as fulfilling as sharing knowledge and understanding with their students. It can be personally satisfying when an educator realizes that his or her teaching and influence in the classroom has helped to improve the lives of students as well as the lives of the people around them.

Besides the personal fulfillment that comes from helping others succeed, teachers have the unique opportunity of meeting new and interesting people.

Teachers have new students every year, who come from different backgrounds, and teachers can continue their educational experiences by learning from students and their families. Teachers also learn from each other.

Mentoring is common in most educational settings. Many veteran teachers volunteer to serve as mentors so that newer teachers can learn from their experience. New teachers, on the other hand, offer their mentors fresh points of view and teach them the new theories and skills they acquired at school. Teachers and administrators work together to bring quality education to their students. People united toward a common goal will often build strong working relationships and friendships. The personal relationships that develop in the educational field can be long and rewarding.

CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA, a comprehensive regional institution of higher education and a member of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education, is a diverse, caring and scholarly learning community dedicated to excellence in teacher preparation, liberal arts, science and technology, and professional studies.

The University enrolls nearly 8,000 students in graduate and undergraduate programs taught by about 400 full-time and adjunct faculty.

For more than 160 years Cal U has been known for its educational excellence and for its commitment to the core values of INTEGRITY, CIVILITY AND RESPONSIBILITY. A proud member of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education.

Integrity, Civility and Responsibility are the official core values of California University of Pennsylvania, an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.

Women, minorities, veterans and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

California University of Pennsylvania is M/F/V/D/AA/EOE.

To learn more about us visit: www.calu.edu To search positions or apply for a job visit: careers.calu.edu

CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY

OF PENNSYLVANIA CAL U

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Teachers who are passionate about their work admit there are difficulties, but real educators are only truly fulfilled when they are teaching.

Diversity is of paramount importance to Columbia Basin College. CBC prides itself on building a campus that is welcoming and accessible to ALL persons. We exist in an environment of diversity, fairness and equity to ensure that the people of Benton and Franklin counties have access to educational programs. The College, located in the Tri-Cities, Washington, was rated among the top 10 places to raise a family and was named one of the leading cities for growth and development in the country.

Columbia Basin College reaffirms its policy of equal opportunity regardless of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation and/or gender identity, age, marital status, disability (including the use of a specially trained guide dog or other service animal), honorably discharged veteran or military status, status as a disabled veteran, Vietnam era veteran, or the right of a mother to breastfeed her child.

Please visit www.columbiabasin.edu/jobs to view job openings and application procedures.

2600 North 20th Avenue • Pasco, WA 99301 (509) 542-4567 ext. 2567 (HR)

We actively seek those candidates for employment who are competent in their subject area and who are open to continual personal, professional, and spiritual growth.

For more information about employment opportunities, visit www.brothermartin.com or fax your resume to 504-286-8462.

Brother Martin High School 4401 Elysian Fields Avenue New Orleans, LA 70122

We pledge equal access to a teaching environment that supports diversity and equality regardless of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, or disability.

Some people automatically think of elementary school teachers when they picture education careers. The versatility of education careers, however, draws many people to them. Educators can choose to work with different age groups and teach a number of different subjects. Additionally, starting in one educational career can lead to advancements in another; there is always room to maneuver. For example, teachers may choose to pursue careers in special education or move into administration. Each job in the educational field has different requirements, and people trading positions may need to further their educations because the necessary degrees, classes, experience, and certification will change with each job.

Job security is another advantage that comes with most education careers. Our culture values education, and qualified teachers are seen as essential to our future.

Education is constantly changing, and specializations are developed to meet the needs of individual students. Given the changing needs of students, it is likely that more job openings will develop. Education professional can easily transition into careers outside of the classroom. Those who have a strong background in education will have job opportunities in the future, even outside the education field.

Disadvantages of Education Careers NECC is comprised of dedicated individuals who serve in a number of different capacities. We offer competitive salaries, outstanding benefits and a career development program second to none.

NECC employs more than 800 professionals, and we believe that workplace diversity is a valuable asset. Our firm commitment to diversity stems from our belief in the benefits of incorporating different backgrounds, perspectives, cultures, and life situations within our organization.

View our latest job postings on our website at:

www.necc.org We stand in support of equality for and advancement of all people based on their qualifications and actions alone without regard to color, gender, age, religion, national origin or disability.

THE NEW ENGLAND CENTER FOR CHILDREN 33 Turnpike Road Southborough, MA 01772

MINORITY RECRUITMENT

While there are many good reasons for people to join the education profession, there are also several disadvantages to education careers “ just ask anyone in the profession. For example, teachers often feel unappreciated for the work they do.

A career in education requires a great deal of personal sacrifice. Teachers put in long hours outside the classroom; they often find themselves teaching overcrowded classes, and some use their own money to pay for a portion of their supplies. As teachers are responsible for handling student issues, they often shoulder the blame for student failure.

September 2015 Teaching is more than imparting knowledge to the next generation. Teachers have expectations placed on them by federal and state standards, administrators, and parents. They are required to adjust each class in order to meet the needs of individual students; and all of them work at different skill levels and hail from different backgrounds. Trying to juggle the expectations placed on them and still teach effectively can be stressful. The additional anxiety that comes from using standardized tests to determine school funding can lead teachers to question their job choice.

The high stress and often unappreciated education career comes with another disadvantage that dissuades many people from joining the field: teachers are typically not paid very well. While some college professors and private school teachers make decent salaries, most education professionals are considerably underpaid for their time and effort. Salary is dependent on location and specialty, but the starting salary in some states is roughly $35,000. College professors are paid more; however, many lecturers, who teach most of the classes, make below $40,000 a year while successful tenured professors make closer to six figures.

Besides being underpaid, education professionals are required to have a great deal of education themselves. There are different requirements that vary by state and job description. It is safe to say, however, that educators typically need more than a degree.

Most teachers need to pass standardized tests in order to be certified, and additional certification is required for educators who focus on a specific field. College-level teachers typically need master’s or doctorate degrees as well.

Despite the obvious drawbacks of education careers, most in the profession believe the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Teachers who are passionate about their work admit there are difficulties, but real educators are only truly fulfilled when they are teaching.

Article provided by Constant-Content.com www.bls.gov

6300 IRVINGTON BOULEVARD • HOUSTON, TX 77022

The Kentucky Educational Development Corporation (KEDC), a cooperative of school districts is actively seeking certified minority teachers and administrators for elementary, middle, and secondary positions.

KEDC’s Districts are located across Kentucky.

Visit www.kedc.org for a list of participating school districts.

Individuals interested in obtaining an application should send a letter or postcard to: KEDC • 904 ROSE ROAD • ASHLAND, KY 41102-7104 An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

www.kedc.org

Harris County Department of Education

is a fast-growing tax-assisted organization serving school districts and the public in locations throughout the Houston, Texas area. We offer an array of benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, Teacher Retirement System and Social Security.

For job opportunities visit us at: www.hcde-texas.org AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

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Keeping it Clean on Facebook

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2 out of 5 companies (including several big name organizations) check social media accounts before hiring an applicant.

by Michelle Riklan

ummer is almost over. Did you have a good time at the beach, partying with friends ‘til kingdom come? Great! It’s always good to relax and have fun during summer.

Now to serious matters; how many of those party-like-a-rock star pictures did you post on Facebook? Those pictures might be a good way to boost your online popularity among friends, but it can also tarnish your reputation amongst potential employers.

Career Builder, with the help of Harris Interactive, surveyed about 2140 hiring managers and recruiters this year, and found out that 2 out of 5 companies (including several big name organizations) check social media accounts before hiring an applicant.

Forty-three percent of recruiters and hiring managers surveyed confirmed that they found something which led them to NOT hire an applicant.

What are Employers Looking for on Your Social Media Accounts?

They’re usually checking if a candidate is a professional (65%), wellrounded (35%), good fit for the company culture (51%) and honest about the qualifications cited in their resume (51%).

Here’s a quick list of things to delete, hide or set as “private” on your social media accounts: Racy photos – Pictures of yourself wearing swimsuits and posing provocatively won’t help your chances of getting hired.

Bad English or text-speak – 30% of recruiters turn down applicants who often post status updates with poor grammar.

Bad mouthing previous employers and racist remarks – 30% of survey respondents confirmed they don’t like applicants that bad mouth

Ohio Valley Educational Cooperative Minority Recruitment

The Ohio Valley Educational Cooperative (OVEC) with a membership of 13 public school districts is actively seeking certified minority teachers and administrators for elementary, middle and secondary positions. OVEC is located in north central Kentucky and serves the following school districts: • Anchorage Independent Schools • Bullitt County Schools • Carroll County Schools • Eminence Independent Schools • Franklin County Schools • Gallatin County Schools • Grant County Schools

• Henry County Schools • Oldham County Schools • Owen County Schools • Shelby County Schools • Spencer County Schools • Trimble County Schools

To obtain an application, send a post card to:

OVEC

P.O. Box 1249 • Shelbyville, KY 40066

www.ovec.org

An Equal Opportunity Employer

We pledge equal access to a teaching environment that supports diversity and equality regardless of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin or disability.

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their previous employers online, while 28% said profiles with scathing remarks against other religions, races and gender are immediately removed from the list of qualified candidates.

Lying about qualifications – This is obvious enough, but I guess some candidates don’t know how recruiters are able to trace their qualifications through social media. Think of it this way, if you say you’re from MIT, yet have no friend or follower from that school, then something is definitely wrong.

Drugs, alcohol and wild parties – I know these pictures remind you of the good times, but let it be just that, a reminder of the good times. If you posted pictures like this on your account, set the album to “private” or “friends only,” that way potential employers won’t see your half-drunk picture and think twice about your professional merits.

Quick Assignment

Go through your Facebook timeline, then search for comments or status updates that may fall under one of the categories above. Delete or hide them. After that, check your album and tagged photos, and set each album with inappropriate pictures to private.

Michelle A. Riklan, ACRW, CPRW, CEIC, CJSS , is a professional resumé writer at http://riklanresources.com/.

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September 2015

Take Small Steps To A Better Future

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Call Center A career of unlimited growth potential, matching your individual talents and passions

Success, Opportunity, Join US! Sears Call Center is now hiring for hourly representative and salaried management positions. Please review our current job listings and apply online at: http://searstucson.recruiting.com 4755 S. Butterfield Drive • Tucson, AZ 85714 EOE Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Disabled

North Florida Shipyards is a full service shipyard specializing in ship repairs, conversions, and dry dockings.

North Florida Shipyards offers competitive wages and comprehensive benefits.

Learn more about us and our employment opportunities online.

NFSY does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.

North Florida Shipyards, Inc. Jacksonville, FL 32202 Apply in person: 2060 East Adams Street Jacksonville, FL 32202 or call #904-354-3278 x250

www.northfloridashipyard.com

by Long Yun Siang

mall steps are often overlooked in this speed crazy world where everything must be fast, needed now and the faster you achieve your goal the better. And you cannot really say slow is better and that some things take time in this age of speed.

If you do, you are at risk being looked upon with scornful eyes. How you dare even suggest that, they say.

time to reveal themselves to you. Especially good things that appear bad initially.

4. Keep Walking

So long as you keep walking, there is no stopping you from where you want to go.

The image of Forest Gump running comes to mind. Of course that is an exaggerated example but do imagine, if you take small steps and do not stop, how far can you go in the span of time you have? People who think about sprinting do not know that you can run out of stamina before the finish line reveals itself. Worst of all, the finish line 1. Small Steps, Not Giant Leaps they imagine for themselves is actually a Well, I am here to tell you to take small, mirage. Then what? steady steps. I am sure you want success fast. The faster the better, right? As I get 5. It’s Ok To Detour When you take little steps, it is ok to take older, I am not really sure if there is a finish line. Because if there is a finish line, what a detour. Such is life and such is work too then? I tend to see career or life as a series since work is a big part of life. So, it’s OK of marathons now. So, take little steps to explore a little. Make wrong decisions instead of one giant leap. There is no such and learn from it. Most times, what we like, thing as a giant leap to career success. what we are good at, and our talent does not reveal itself when we do the safe thing. It 2. Distance Is A Series rears it’s head when we least expect it.

Of Small Steps You must remember that distance can be 6. Potholes, Humps and covered by a series of small steps. It can also Uneven Surfaces be covered by a flutter of fast paced sprints.

It is also easier to navigate the road when But the difference is, if your finish line is you take little steps. Especially one that finite - then well, you know the type of stam- is filled with potholes, humps and uneven ina you need in order to cover that distance. surface, which appears to never end. But Do you? That is an important question. it’s OK, because when you take small steps When I first started working, I did not you begin to understand the character of know where I will be 17 years later. You these roads. may have a general idea but life takes you on many surprises. Do not be shocked this 7. Who Knows What’s Ahead You don’t. At best you have an inkling of race you are participating in takes many what you want and you pursue it. The secret forms and detours.

I am in favor of small steps as it allows is so long as you take small steps, conserve you to cover a greater distance while your energy and be patient, eventually the conserving energy and being able to enjoy finish line will be worthwhile.

That is how it is; you make a decision the view at the same time! and take a risk. Who knows where all your 3. Patience effort to plan, to act upon the plan will take Sure, easier said than done. Patience some you? But with small steps you know you say is an over rated virtue. I am not sure I will get there. agree. You need lots of patience on your Long Yun Siang or Long, as he is popularly known runs journey to career success. And if you buy http://career-success-for-newbies.com with his wife Dorena into the small steps philosophy then you as their way of paying it forward. Their website – based on their real life experiences - provides tips, tools and advise for will need even more patience. Things take newbies pursuing career success.

Stantec’s goal is to recruit, motivate, and develop our employees with diverse ranges of talents and perspectives to ensure that we have the breadth of viewpoints, experiences, and intellectual skills needed to succeed across our global environment.

Diversity expresses itself in so many different ways.

Some examples include gender, race, culture, sexual orientation, religion, belief, education, physical ability, personality, experiences and even our diverse approaches to work.

Stantec strives to attract leaders for today and tomorrow. If you are seeking an opportunity with a dynamic, growing company, we invite you to review our career opportunities online at: www.stantec.com

The key to our success is our people.

Stantec has been recognized as a top People, passion, and progress have made our Company 50what global design and firm. it is today, and create the consulting foundation for what it will be tomorrow. We are a strong, dynamic, growing company with virtually infinite career opportunities.

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“Stantec is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.”

Powered by people.

Stantec is an Equal Opportunity Employer dedicated to Affirmative Action, Workforce Diversity, and the principles of Employment Equity.

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equal opportunity employment journal

Interview with a Firefighter

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Samuel Meade, Jr. from San Carlos, Arizona was interviewed

by Elka Torpey from the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Tell me a little bit about your job.

I’m part of an elite, all-Native American, wildland firefighting crew called the Geronimo Hotshots. We fight wildland fires across the United States, often in remote areas. Our season starts about March or April and ends in September. During that time, we’re on call.

How do you fight wildland fires?

We’ll hike for miles or jump in a helicopter that takes us to where the fire is. Then we cut brush and trees and scrape vegetation and debris. We’re the “ground pounders,” making a fire line to keep a fire from spreading.

Every fire is different. Sometimes we do a “backfiring,” burning fuel in front of the fire to create a buffer to stop the progression. This is usually done at night when the fire is low intensity. There are some places we can barely touch because we don’t want to damage the land. It all depends on the forest.

Why did you want to become a wildland firefighter?

The first time I saw the Hotshots crew, they were all lined up single file, military style. They all rode in same-colored vehicles and were unified and professional. They were there in the smoke, front and center. I told myself I wanted to get on that crew.

For people in San Carlos, it’s in their blood, in their veins. They love the job. My father was a wildland firefighter. He was one of my inspirations.

Describe your first experiences as a firefighter.

My first firefighting job was as a brush truck engine operator, driving an off-road fire truck to areas that larger firefighting equipment couldn’t reach. Then I was on a training crew in Nevada for a few seasons. After that, I applied to the Geronimo Hotshots. I was hired as a crew member, and I’ve been with them ever since.

I remember fighting my first fire. After my shift, I thought, “Wow, is this what’s going to happen every day?” It was so exhausting. I remember thinking, “I don’t know if this is for me.” But I have two daughters, and I thought, “I’m not doing this only for myself, I’m doing it for my family.”

And that kept me going every day.

I received Firefighter of the Year that first year. That helped me to know a really good part of me belonged there, fighting fires.

What are your biggest challenges?

When you’re out there, experiencing the fire firsthand, 50 or 100 feet away, there’s an adrenaline rush. It’s coming toward you, and you think, “What am I doing here?” You think, “Am I being safe?” That’s when you count on your squad leaders, the people on the crew who have more experience. You must trust their judgment.

You have to be able to endure the outdoors and being away from family for long periods of time during the summer. Physically, it’s a challenge.

But mentally, it’s a challenge, too.

What do you like best about your job?

Being out there in the forest, being out in nature. Travelling, seeing different areas of the country, and being on the road. And just doing the work and having that feeling at the end of a day when you pat each other on the back, saying, “It’s a good job.”

How does someone become part of a wildland firefighting crew?

It’s not easy. There are a lot of people who apply, but all crews are different in terms of the hiring process. The first thing is that you must be in top shape physically.

Here, crew members have to have their basic wildland fire training and undergo a physical fitness test. In the morning, we run 7 or 8 miles, and then in the afternoon they might say, “Okay, let’s hit the mountain and climb up it.” And that can be a real drain, especially carrying heavy packs with all our gear and tools.

You have to be able to endure the outdoors and being away from family for long periods of time during the summer. Physically, it’s a challenge. But mentally, it’s a challenge, too.

Simpson Gumpertz & Heger Inc. (SGH) is a national engineering firm that designs, investigates, and rehabilitates structures and building enclosures. We are always looking for talented engineering candidates for all of our offices.

To learn more about SGH and current job opportunities, visit our web site at www.sgh.com.

SGH is an Equal Opportunity Employer and we value diversity in our workforce.

We are committed to providing equal opportunities to all job applicants and employees. We consider all qualified applicants, and encourage individuals with disabilities and protected veterans to apply. We offer an excellent compensation and benefits package in a corporate culture based on learning and growth.

Boston | Chicago | New York | San Francisco | Southern California | Washington, DC Recent award-winning projects (starting clockwise from top left): Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Sports and Recreation Center, Worcester, MA; New York State Capitol, Albany, NY; Baha’i Temple, Santiago, Chile; St. Brigid’s Church, New York, NY.

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September 2015

BLS Fast Facts: Firefighters • May 2014 employment: 308,790 (excludes self-employed) • 2012–22 projected growth: 7 percent (slower than average) • May 2014 median annual wage: $45,970 (excludes self-employed) • Education and training typically required: Postsecondary non-degree award, plus long-term on-the-job training. Gaining experience as a volunteer firefighter may help in getting a job as a career firefighter.

• May 2014 top-employing industries: Local government, other support services, federal executive branch, state government, and scientific research and development services

AE Business Solutions is a Midwest based privately held IT consulting and Systems Integration Company that has been providing information technology and business solutions to organizations throughout Wisconsin and the Midwest for over 50 years.

AE Business Solutions hires only the best and the brightest people - people who are hard-working and dedicated to excellence.

To explore any of our current opportunities online, please email our recruiting department at recruiter@aebs.com, or send your resume and salary history to: Technical Recruiting - AE Business Solutions 2310 Crossroads Drive, Suite 2800, Madison, WI 53718

Seasonal crew members work for 6 months. During the rest of the year, some go to school. Others work in jobs like construction or cutting timber. They work things out with their employer so that they can go back during our off season.

You can be eligible to work in our program with at least 6 months of training or wildland experience. But you’ll also want to go out and meet people on the crew, talk to them. And even after you get your foot in the door, that’s only part of getting on a crew. It’s not just about being physically fit but also mentally fit.

www.aebs.com • EOE

What do wildland firefighters do during the off season?

Sysco’s vision is to be our customer’s most valued and trusted business partner.

At Sysco, our mission is to market and deliver great products to our customers with exceptional service.

At Sysco, we promote diversity at every level within our organization and believe that employing the very best talent from all groups within the communities in which we live and do business enables us to better serve our customers. Sysco is a place of unlimited opportunity where all associates can make a difference.

Visit www.syscocentralpa.com for more information about us or www.sysco.com/careers. Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans and Disabled.

HIRING DRIVERS

:: Sysco Central Pennsylvania, LLC • 3905 Corey Road • Harrisburg, PA 17109 ::

How do firefighters advance?

There’s a career ladder here. Each year that passes, you gain experience that helps you move up to leadership positions, from crewmember to senior firefighter, then to squad leader, foreman, and superintendent.

You take various training to advance. But after squad leader, the only way to get a higher position, like foreman or superintendent, is if someone retires or resigns.

What’s your best advice for someone who wants to be a wildland firefighter?

Aqua Is Hiring!

Aqua America is one of the nation’s leading public water utilities providing water and wastewater services to approximately three million customers across eight states. The corporate headquarters is located in Bryn Mawr, PA with additional locations in PA, OH, IL, TX, NJ, IN, VA, NC. For current employment opportunities please visit: AquaAmerica.com and click on Careers.

The groundwork for a better tomorrow.

Aqua America, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected Veteran status.

5085_HR_Ad_6x3.25.indd 1

Some of us work year round, organizing things like background checks, clearance with the human resources department, or budgeting.

Seasonal crewmembers work for 6 months. During the rest of the year, some go to school. Others work in jobs like construction or cutting timber. They work things out with their employer so that they can go back during our off season.

6/20/14 9:47 AM

The best thing to do is look online, find out what the qualifications are with different agencies, and apply early. By the time fire season is over, most crews are looking for people to apply. And for these jobs, specifically, be physically active and take the basic wildland fire training and physical fitness test.

What are your future career plans?

I’m really where I need to be right now. Especially being on a Native American Hotshot crew in San Carlos, there are a lot of people here in the community who look up to us. I would like to help the program continue to thrive. I want this program to be around for a long time.

Elka Torpey is an economist in the Office of Occupational Statistics and Employment Projections, BLS. For more information, visit www.bls.gov.

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equal opportunity employment journal

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MOVING & STORAGE:

Careers in Transportation and Warehousing

by Elka Torpey

126 WEST STREET • ANNAPOLIS, MD 21401

We Have Immediate Opportunities for service minded individuals!

Our many departments include: • Administrative • Banquets • Culinary • Engineering • Front Office • Restaurant

www.loewshotels.com

We encourage you to explore the benefits and opportunities associated with our hotel. Most benefits are effective 1st of the month following 90 days. We offer medical dental, sick, personal & vac pay, 401K, Direct Deposit, credit union, free Life Insurance, free parking, free meals, free bus passes, tuition reimbursement, discounts on hotel & restaurants, & fun work environment!

Please send your resume and salary requirements to: www.loewshotels.com/careers We are an equal opportunity / drug free employer who is committed to a diverse workforce

www. eoejournal. com

D

avid May has been a truck driver for more than 30 years. And in all that time, he’s never worried about finding a job. “If you’re a good driver, everybody wants you,” he says.

Truck drivers account for about 1 of every 5 jobs in the transportation and warehousing industry, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). But this industry employs workers in many other occupations, too, such as ship captains, cargo and freight agents, and avionics technicians.

And as these workers know, there are lots of reasons to consider a career in this industry.

“I’m not sure people realize the opportunity that is here,” says Gary Statler, managing director of safety, regulatory compliance, and human resources for a marine transportation company in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. “These jobs are not something that can be outsourced overseas. This is a good industry to be in.”

This article describes careers in transportation and warehousing. There’s an overview of the industry and some of the occupations in it. It also includes some pros and cons associated with the work, along with tips for starting a career.

About the industry

Every day, people and goods move throughout the United States. Workers in the transportation and warehousing industry help to get them where they need to go. “Think about where your toothpaste came from, or your shoes,” says Elaine Puri of the American Society of Transportation and Logistics in Chicago, Illinois. “The transportation and warehousing industry helped to get them to you from across the country or from around the world.”

The North American Industry Classification System identifies 11 subsectors in transportation and warehousing. In May 2015, BLS counted about 4.8 million jobs in 10 of these subsectors, with an additional 595,200 jobs in the U.S. Postal Service (which some BLS programs classify under the federal government). As chart 1 shows, employment in transportation and warehousing, excluding the postal service, has climbed steadily over the past several decades; in recent years, employment in the U.S. Postal Service has declined.

What the industry does

The biggest segment of the transportation and warehousing industry involves moving goods. Each year, about 63 tons of freight per person are shipped in the United States, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Trucks carry most freight. Trains, pipelines, boats, and ships also transport large amounts of freight. Airplanes carry much smaller amounts.

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Wine is a blend of vision, character, and style.

So is a great place to work.

That’s why we made a commitment to an inclusive environment to help us continue to pioneer new ways in which to improve and expand our vision.

Valuing the differences of employees, suppliers, and consumers has made us a leader in the wine industry. It’s also like over 80 75 years of family winemaking something worth celebrating.

“Gallo sees diversity as an opportunity to become a company that better reflects the world we live in. It positions us to meet the needs of today’s increasingly diverse marketplace.”

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Gallo.

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At ConAgra Foods, we make great food — everyday food — in extraordinary ways, which is why we’re creating meaningful career opportunities for the best and the brightest. Whether you’re a recent graduate or an professional, ConAgra Foods provides extraordinary job opportunities for growth with competitive salaries and benefits in an exciting, fast-paced workplace.

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3100 East Main Street • Russellville, AR 72802

ConAgra Foods, Inc. is committed to equal employment opportunity for all qualified persons in all job classifications in recruitment, selection and promotion without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, veteran status, pregnancy status, genetic information, disability, and/or any other characteristics protected by local, state, or federal law.

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Another large segment of this industry involves moving people, which includes air transportation and related support activities, transit and ground transportation, and scenic and sightseeing transportation.

There’s some overlap in the work of transporting goods and transporting people. Trains and airplanes, for example, transport both.

Between production and sale, goods are kept in warehousing and storage facilities (also called distribution centers). These establishments also may provide logistics services, such as packaging, inventory control, and transportation arrangement.

Job outlook—and opportunity

BLS projects employment in transportation and warehousing, excluding the postal service, to grow by about 7 percent between 2012 and 2022, slower than the 10 percent overall growth rate projected for all industries during that time. This growth amounts to about 327,300 new jobs over the decade.

Projections vary by industry subsector. (See chart 2.) New jobs are projected in truck, water, scenic and sightseeing, and transit and ground transportation; support activities for transportation; and warehousing and storage.

Employment declines are projected in rail, air, and pipeline transportation and for couriers and messengers. The postal service also is projected to lose jobs.

But even in industry subsectors that are projected to have declines, job openings are expected to arise from the need to replace workers who retire or leave their occupation for other reasons. “Employers are having difficulty finding people who are qualified,” says Daniel Stanton of trade association Material Handling Industry in Charlotte, North Carolina. “We have workers retiring, and we’re competing with other industries for the same candidates.”

That combination—difficulty in recruiting and loss of workers through retirement—makes the industry ripe for opportunity. Lynne Stengel, for example, never imagined that she’d work in transportation until she found herself unemployed. Offered a job driving a delivery truck, Stengel says she had no idea what it involved. “But I had a son to raise, so I did not think twice about accepting,” she says. “I just said, ‘I’ll take it.’” And she’s happy she did. “I don’t just like my job,” says Stengel, “I love it!”

Occupations in transportation and warehousing

Transportation and warehousing is an industry with many career options. “There are opportunities from the dock to the boardroom,” says Puri. “You can find a fit that makes you happy, whether you’re using your people skills or you’re technologically gifted, whether you prefer to work at a desk or you’re interested in travel.”

This section describes selected transportation and warehousing occupations in which workers focus on: • operating vehicles • moving or tracking materials • helping customers • supporting operations • maintaining and repairing vehicles and equipment • managing or providing business or financial expertise • other work This section includes information about projected job openings across all industries. These data are for openings that are expected to arise between 2012 and 2022, both from new jobs and from the need to replace workers who leave the occupation. (Job openings data are for occupations in all industries because BLS does not project job openings for occupations by industry.)

Operating vehicles

If you’ve ever heard the call of the open road—or rail, water, or airway—consider a vehicle operator career.

Vehicle operators usually travel to one or more destinations, following a set route or making assigned stops as they transport goods or people. They may plan their routes using satellite tracking systems, handheld computers, or other technology. Depending on the job, workers may also load and unload vehicles, interact with customers, or perform minor repairs and maintenance.

Each type of operator has his or her own expertise. For example, harbor pilots must be familiar with the tides and conditions of the waterway in which they work, and driver sales workers must be knowledgeable about the products and services they provide.

Some of these workers, such as tractor-trailer truck drivers, may travel

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equal opportunity employment journal

long distances when operating vehicles; others, such as delivery services drivers, may have routes closer to home.

Some people in these occupations work for themselves, which usually requires that they buy and operate their own vehicles. For example, occupations such as taxi drivers and chauffeurs, ship and boat captains, and truck drivers had higher percentages of self-employed workers than some other occupations in the industry.

Wages and outlook. Median wages for vehicle operators in the transportation and warehousing industry ranged from $23,550 for taxi drivers and chauffeurs to $110,540 for aircraft pilots and flight engineers.

But wages vary within occupations. The median wage for light truck and delivery services drivers in the industry, for example, was $42,650, but the top-earning 10 percent of these workers had wages higher than $72,530.

Transportation and warehousing is the largest industry employer of vehicle operators. And the BLS projects more than a million job openings in all industries between 2012 and 2022. Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers are expected to have the most job openings—about 464,700.

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Vulcan Materials Company is the nation’s largest producer of construction aggregates—primarily crushed stone, sand and gravel—and a major producer of aggregates-based construction materials, including asphalt and ready-mixed concrete.

Moving or tracking materials

For an entry-level job in the transportation and warehousing industry, look at an occupation as a machine operator or material mover. For example, you might move or track boxes or other items on a loading dock, in a mail sorting facility, or in a warehouse.

Jobs in these occupations might involve lots of lifting or carrying: loading and unloading items or retrieving them from shelves or other places.

A worker in these occupations may identify and track item locations using handheld scanners or other technology. Workers may also inspect items for damage, compile reports, or do minor equipment repairs.

Some of these workers operate forklifts or other machinery to move pallets, boxes, or other containers. Others unload and move materials by hand.

Still others keep records of materials, working in, for example, a stockroom or shipping and receiving department.

Wages and outlook. Industry wages in these occupations ranged from a median of $25,470 for material recording clerks to a median of $54,520 for postal service mail sorters, processors, and processing machine operators.

Although wages in some of the largest material moving and tracking occupations are relatively low, supervisory positions may offer higher pay.

For example, first-line supervisors of helpers, hand laborers, and material movers had a median wage of $49,170 in transportation and warehousing, and the top-earning 10 percent of these workers had wages higher than $76,230. Even without supervisory duties, some workers might advance to higher wages: The top-earning 10 percent of crane and tower operators in the industry, for example, had wages higher than $89,760, compared with a median of $55,620 for all crane and tower operators.

Transportation and warehousing is among the largest industry employers of material moving and tracking occupations. BLS projects more than 2 million job openings across all industries between 2012 and 2022. Hand laborers and material movers—about 18 percent of whom are employed in transportation and warehousing—are projected to have about 1.2 million job openings.

Helping customers

Some positions like flight attendants and tour and travel guides require lots of tact, patience, and communication. Most of these workers interact with customers every day. Answering questions and resolving problems related to travel or transportation is a big part of the job for many of these

With over 7,000 diverse employees company wide, Vulcan is continually looking for skilled and motivated men and women to join our team. Our employment opportunities are broad, ranging from engineering to human resources.

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workers. They might also assist with purchases, such as for postage, tickets for travel, or onboard beverages. Some ensure the comfort and safety of passengers.

In some of these occupations, workers travel frequently. For example,flight attendants, railroad conductors, and tour and travel guides usually accompany passengers on their trips. But workers are likely to remain in a single location in other occupations, including reservation ticket agents,customer service representatives, and postal service clerks.

Wages and outlook. Industry wages for workers in these occupations ranged from a median of $24,900 for transportation attendants, except flight attendants, to a median of $55,590 for postal service clerks.

However, wages vary. The top-earning 10 percent of flight attendants in the industry, for example, had a wage of more than $72,490, compared with a median wage of $42,270.

For many of these customer helpers, transportation and warehousing is the largest industry of employment. BLS projects about 1 million job openings in all industries between 2012 and 2022 for the “customer helping”. Customer service representatives, about 3 percent of whom were employed in transportation and warehousing, had the largest number of projected openings.

Supporting operations

Efficient movement of people and goods requires lots of workers who provide assistance.

These workers make sure that transportation systems and equipment are safe and running smoothly. Operations support workers may provide vehicle operators with critical information,

September 2015

Wages and outlook. Dispatchers in the transportation industry have the lowest median wage ($36,900), and pumping station operators had the highest median wage ($58,780). (Air traffic controllers, the highest paid operations support workers, are employed mostly in the federal government.)

Even though the median wage for dispatchers is the lowest, some dispatchers earn more than that amount, depending in part on the mode of transportation in which they work. For example, the top-earning 10 percent of dispatchers in rail transportation had a wage of more than $86,080, and the median wage for these workers in rail transportation was $52,990.

Some of these support occupations have most of their employment in transportation and warehousing, but others have large numbers of jobs in government—or, in the case of pumping Air traffic controllers communicate station operators, in mining and oil and gas extraction. Across all industries, BLS projects about with pilots so that planes can safely 200,000 job openings in transportation occupations between 2012 and 2022. Dispatchers— take off, f ly, and land. who also work in industries such as local such as schedules or routes. And they inspect government—account for more than half of people, vehicles, and goods for potential hazards. these projected openings.

Particulars of the work vary. For example, Maintaining and repairing an air traffic controller might communicate with vehicles and equipment pilots so that planes can safely take off, fly, and Maybe you have a curiosity for understanding land. A sailor might keep watch for boats or how things work—or a knack for fixing them debris in the water that could obstruct a vessel. when they break. If so, a career in maintenance The equipment differs by occupation, and repair might be a good fit. too. Pumping station operators use pumps or Workers in these occupations keep vehicles compressors to direct the flow of oil, gas, or and equipment running properly. In addition other fluids; railroad switch operators use track to doing regular maintenance, these workers switches to reroute train cars. diagnose problems, replace defective parts, and

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keep records of their work. They might also update systems or equipment, such as by installing new technology in trucks or planes.

Some of these workers specialize. For example, avionics technicians repair electronic instruments in airplanes. Other workers, such as general maintenance and repair workers, have a broader focus.

Wages and outlook. Median wages for maintenance and repair workers in transportation and warehousing ranged from $42,360 for bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists to $58,420 for signal and track switch repairers.

Advancing to a supervisory job often means a boost in pay. For example,firstline supervisors of mechanics, installers, and repairers in this industry had a median wage of $69,390, and the top-earning 10 percent of these workers made more than $96,790. Even without supervisory duties, some workers had high wages.

For example, the top-earning 10 percent of industrial machinery mechanics in transportation and warehousing had wages higher than $90,430, compared with a median of $56,780.

Transportation and warehousing is the largest industry of employment for many of these maintenance and repair occupations. For industrial machinery mechanics and general maintenance and repair workers, however, manufacturing and other industries account for greater shares of employment. Between 2012 and 2022,

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BLS projects more than 650,000 job openings in all industries for maintenance occupations. Over half of those openings are projected to be for general maintenance and repair workers.

Baldwin Filters provides many opportunities for you to further your career. We offer a variety of established career paths in engineering, accounting, marketing, sales, business analysis, human resources, information technology and production.

Managing or providing business or financial expertise Every business needs workers who can lead its employees and oversee its funds.

Workers in these occupations plan and guide both day-to-day and long-term business functions. They make sure that resources are being used efficiently and that finances are in order. As in most industries, transportation and warehousing also employs workers to sell industry services, clean buildings, and do bookkeeping or other administrative tasks.

Wages and outlook.

Median industry wages for general office workers and other administrative workers range from $29,100 for general office clerks to $85,610 for engineers.

Wages vary by occupation. Applications software developers in transportation and warehousing, for example, had a median wage of $92,000; the top-earning 10 percent of these workers had a wage of more than $125,800. And petroleum engineers in the industry had a median wage of $124,070, with the top-earning 10 percent of these workers making more than $187,199, the top wage reported by BLS. Office workers have jobs in many industries, in addition to transportation and warehousing. BLS projects nearly 6

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Trane, a wholly owned subsidiary of Ingersoll Rand, manufactures, manages and services HVAC equipment systems or controls for nearly half the commercial buildings in the United States, as well as buildings all over the world.

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Precision Castparts Corp.

is the world leader in structural investment castings, forged components, and airfoil castings for aircraft engines and industrial gas turbines.

ALCON Research, Ltd. Alcon Research produces a broad spectrum of ophthalmic medical devices and instruments. We seek dedicated individuals who share our vision of diversified specialization in the field of ophthalmology.

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A global healthcare company...

The leader in eyecare products 714 COLUMBIA AVENUE • SINKING SPRING, PA 19608 We stand in support of equality for and advancement of all people based on their qualifications and actions alone without regard to color, gender, age, religion, national origin or disability.

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million job openings in all industries for these occupations. Computer occupations, about 1 percent of which were in transportation and warehousing, are projected to have the most job openings.

arlton Forge Works, is a global market leader in manufacturing of forged components used in jet aircraft engines.

If you would enjoy working in a dynamic environment and are looking for an opportunity to become a part of a winning team, we invite you to apply online today.

Pros and cons

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other status protected by applicable law.

Whether on land, at sea, or in the air, workers in transportation and warehousing don’t always have a smooth ride. But there’s still a lot that they like about their jobs.

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Variety and challenges

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People are our strength and most valuable asset. We attract highly capable, diverse, innovative people and recognize their efforts and contributions to the company. We ensure a pleasant and safe work environment with trust and respect.

Even as workers focus on safety, however, timeliness still matters. “There’s definitely pressure to perform,” says Skender.

A stressful reality for many of these workers is that material goods—or people’s lives—may depend on the safety of transportation vehicles, equipment, and routes.

“The level of responsibility is tremendous,” says Smith.

Whether delivering the mail, driving children to school, or coordinating distribution, transportation and warehousing workers develop relationships with regular customers and meet new people all the time. And that’s something a lot of workers enjoy. “People learn to rely on each other and really care about each other,” says Statler.

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Transportation jobs keep some workers on the go, and the constant motion has its benefits. “I pass gorgeous lakes, see wild animals, listen to music,” says Jeff Skender, a package delivery driver in Springfield, Illinois, “and I often think, ‘Wow, I can’t believe they’re paying me to do this!’”

Many workers like the fact that each day on the job is different. “It’s an ever-changing environment,” says Tim Richards, an operations manager for warehousing and transportation services in Phoenix, Arizona. “You don’t get bored.”

Workers who travel get to see the sights, but being away from home for long periods can be difficult. And their jobs may require night, weekend, or holiday work.

Workers also must endure all types of weather conditions, from heat waves to blizzards.

In addition, the work can be physically difficult—or dangerous. Safety is a top priority, say workers, but injuries do occur. BLS data show that the transportation and warehousing industry had a higher incidence of injury or illness than the average for all industries in 2013.

Stress and support

Reeves is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Reeves Construction is a drug-free workplace employer. All women and minorities are encouraged to apply.

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Reeves Construction Company policies, programs and benefits are administered in a non-discriminatory manner without regard to race, age, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, pregnancy or veteran status.

AT GRANITE OUR PEOPLE ARE THE KEY TO OUR SUCCESS We promote a culture that represents many people with different backgrounds, ideas, and perspectives while remaining deeply committed to our Core Values.

We invite you to learn more about our workplace and our winning team.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Prospects, pay—and more

Job opportunities are often good for workers in this industry. And the median annual wage of occupations in transportation and warehousing was higher ($40,530) than that of occupations in all industries ($35,540) in May 2014. Benefits, such as health insurance or retirement plans, are often generous, too. For example, in March 2015, private industry employers spent an average of $14.02 on benefits per hour worked for employees in transportation and warehousing, compared with an average of $9.71 for all employees, according to BLS. But for many workers, compensation is not their motivation. “This is an enthusiasts’ industry, where a natural love of, say, boats or trains leads you to a career,” says Smith. “You can make pretty good money, but I’m here because I love it.”

Getting started

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You can usually qualify for many entry-level jobs in transportation and warehousing with a high school diploma or less education. Most of the occupations also involve on-the-job training.

Depending on the specific job you apply for, you may need to pass a background check and a drug test, have a valid driver’s license and minimal or no moving violations, or meet other criteria before you are hired. In some occupations, experience gained in the military is good

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preparation for the work and may be accepted in place of other entry requirements.

Skills

When they evaluate job applicants, employers in transportation and warehousing often look for people who are enthusiastic about the industry and willing to learn. “We’ll train the right person,” says Smith, “but it starts with the right attitude.”

The specific skills and abilities that are required vary by occupation.

Some workers, for example, must be able to stand for long periods of time or to lift heavy objects. Others need mechanical ability or good people skills.

Nearly all transportation and warehousing workers, however, should be dependable and have good judgment. “You need patience,” says May, “and you need to be the type of person who’s going to do the right thing.”

This might mean yielding to others in traffic or being polite to an angry customer.

Good communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills are also helpful, as is being able to adapt to new technologies and practices. “It helps to be able to roll with the changes,” says Stengel, “because the industry is constantly evolving.”

Education

Typical education requirements for entering occupations in this industry range from less than a high school diploma to a bachelor’s degree.

Sometimes, work experience may substitute for education. Other times, employers prefer to hire an applicant who has a higher level of education than what is typically required at the entry level.

“It helps to be able to roll with the changes,” says Stengel, “because the industry is constantly evolving.”

Less than a high school diploma. If you don’t have a high school diploma, you might qualify for some entry-level occupations. Among the occupations that typically require this level of education to enter are hand laborers and material movers, industrial truck and tractor operators, and stock clerks.

High school diploma or equivalent. Lots of occupations in this industry typically require a high school diploma for entry. These include delivery services drivers, transportation security screeners, and bus and truck mechanics.

Certificate or associate’s degree. Some occupations require a certificate or an associate’s degree for employment. For example, heavy or tractor-trailer truck drivers need a certificate, which takes about 3 months to earn, from a professional truck driving school, to qualify for entry-level jobs. Aircraft mechanics also typically must earn a certificate, usually from an aviation maintenance technician school approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Avionics technicians and air traffic controllers usually need an associate’s degree from an FAA-approved school.

Bachelor’s degree. Some of the highest paying occupations in transportation and warehousing typically require a bachelor’s degree to enter. Ship pilots, for example, typically need a bachelor’s degree from a maritime academy. And many entry-level business and financial, computer, and engineering workers usually must have a bachelor’s degree in a subject related to their job.

Training and credentials

Employer-provided training is a key way for workers in this industry to learn the work. New entrants might learn from experienced employees or attend formal training programs. In many occupations, regular safety training is also provided.

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September 2015

Maintenance and repair workers have some of the longest training periods to become fully competent in their occupation. Other occupations that require on-the-job training include flight attendants and pumping station operators.

Some occupations require special credentials. Bus drivers and tractor-trailer truck drivers, for example, need a commercial driver’s license issued by their state and may need endorsements, such as for transporting school children. Locomotive engineers and conductors may need to be certified by the Federal Railroad Administration.

Experience and advancement

The more involved you are in transportation and warehousing, the better your chances of getting a job— or of moving into a higher paying one.

We stand in support of equality for and advancement of all people based on their qualifications and actions alone without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, ancestry, religious creed, disability or age.

“The mission of the Tioga County Department of Human Services is to protect, serve and improve the quality of life for Tioga County’s citizens by effectively managing the County’s human services programs and resources.”

1873 Shumway Hill Road • Wellsboro, PA 16901 Fax Resumes to: (570) 724-6757 For more information visit us at: www.tiogahsa.org d Must be at least 20 years of age d High School Diploma or GED d 20/40 corrected in one eye and 20/20 corrected in the other eye with uncorrected vision of 20/100; color blindness is acceptable if correctable with a corrective contact lens d Must have a valid license d Good physical and mental health d Good moral character d No felony convictions d No domestic violence convictions d Must be a U.S. citizen d Honorable Discharge if veteran

We are currently accepting applications for Police Officers. For on-line applications please go to the APPLY ON-LINE section of the website at www.dekalbpolice.com Feel free to contact us for any additional questions.

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DEKALB POLICE 1960 West Exchange Place, Tucker, GA 30084 An Equal Opportunity Employer

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We of the St. Louis County Police are unique in both our origin and mission.

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Internationally Accredited

Learn more about us and our current career opportunities/application procedures call 314-615-4273 or online at: www.stlouisco.com/police ST LOUIS COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT • 7900 FORSYTH BOULEVARD • ST LOUIS, MO 63105 • EOE

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Workers can enter many occupations in transportation and warehousing without having experience in a related occupation. But employers in this industry, as in many others, frequently promote from within. The more involved you are in transportation and warehousing, the better your chances of getting a job—or of moving into a higher paying one.

Before getting his job, for example, Skender worked on a loading dock, starting each morning at 4 a.m. “It took me 7 years to get to driving trucks,” he says.

Like Skender, Richards worked in a lower level job to develop skills and move up in the industry. He spent months driving a forklift in a warehouse, despite having a master’s degree in business administration.

But getting hands-on experience paid off: He now runs that warehouse and several others.

Richards is among the workers who advise prospective transportation and warehousing employees to embrace opportunities to learn from the ground up. “Go out and get your hands dirty,” he says. “Learn the business, and there will be more than enough opportunity to make a good living and have a lot of fun.”

For more information

Learn about hundreds of occupations, including more detail for the ones in this article, in the Occupational Outlook Handbook. Or visit your public library or American Job Center for more resources about careers.

This article uses data from several BLS sources. You can find the most recent transportation and warehousing data from BLS on the Industries at a Glance page.

The U.S. Department of Transportation and Transpor tation Security Administration have information about federal careers and some of the agencies that issue credentials to industry workers.

The U.S. Postal Service has information about careers for postal service workers.

Many associations offer information about the transportation and warehousing industry, such as: American Society of Transportation and Logistics Intermodal Association of North America Material Handling Industry Women in Transportation For information by mode of transportation, visit: Truck transportation American Trucking Associations Women in Trucking Transit and ground passenger transportation Transit Virtual Career Network Air transportation National Air Transportation Association Rail transportation Association of American Railroads Water transportation American Association of Port Authorities Pipeline transportation Association of Oil Pipelines Interstate Natural Gas Association of America Elka Torpey is an economist in the Office of Occupational Statistics and Employment Projections, For more information, visit www.bls.gov

September 2015

equal opportunity employment journal

Preparing for a Job in Law Enforcement

Page 49

by Jeffrey Church

Preparing for the job.

Score five points for a graduate degree, four points for a bachelor’s degree, two points for an associate’s degree or 60 college credits. Score one extra point if your degree is in accounting or computer science (not criminal justice). Add one point if you graduated with honors, one point if you are a veteran (active, guard, reserve), one more point if you were in some form of military police or intelligence. Add three points if you are fluent in a needed foreign language (Spanish, but also Russian, Arabic, Vietnamese, Chinese, or other as needed in your community). Yes, you get more points for a language than for two years of college. You get four points if you graduated from any approved (POST) law enforcement academy, as they will save thousands on a candidate who successfully completed an academy. Security experience gets you one point. If you currently work in the system as a dispatcher, records clerk, community service officer, or in corrections, you get two points. You also need to consider your work ethic and history. If you have a history of termination, discipline, poor work habits, or unexplainable unemployment, deduct up to ten points and re-evaluate your future. If you have a strong work history, especially in sales or public contact but not law enforcement, give yourself up to two points. A maximum total of 8 points for this section.

“If you have a strong work history, especially in sales or public contact but not law enforcement, give yourself points.”

Understand and prepare for the testing process, including the oral interview.

If you really are practiced and prepared for the testing process, score one to five points. Some departments have mentoring programs and help with testing. Have you researched what help might be available, and taken advantage of it? Have you read books on police oral exams?? Have you talked to others that have taken orals? Have you actually practiced with friends and family?

A maximum total of 8 points for this section.

ake sure you meet the M minimum requirements, especially with regard to the background history.

A significant percentage of applicants waste their time and the department’s time when they apply, knowing they are not eligible for hire. This can be due ­to a physical or health issue, but more often it involves a red flag in the applicant’s background, such as drug use. Each agency’s standards and requirements are different, but you need to talk to a recruiter or background investigator if you have doubts. Save everyone time and money.

It does not matter if you were not convicted or never arrested. If you used drugs or did some other crime, it will likely come out in your polygraph or background investigation. Score 5 points if you are eligible, and subtract 100 if not.

Go on ride-alongs.

You get one point per ride-along, and an extra point if it was with the agency you are applying to.

A maximum total of 3 points for this section.

BE A

DIFFERENCE

MAKER

BECOME A CINCINNATI POLICE OFFICER MAKING A DIFFERENCE BY:

• SOLVING PROBLEMS WITH COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT • USING TECHNOLOGY TO GUIDE ENFORCEMENT • IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR ALL WE SERVE

For more information about becoming a Cincinnati Police Officer, go to www.cincinnati-oh.gov/police or call 1-877-852-7641 and ask to speak with a Recruiter.

Cincinnati Police Department

Recruitment and Background Squad 800 Evans Street (Spinney Field Complex) Cincinnati, Ohio 45204 P 513 352 2971 F 513 357 7575 The City of Cincinnati is dedicated to providing equal employment without regard to race, gender, age, color, religion, disability status, marital status, sexual orientation or transgendered status, or ethnic, national or Appalachian origin, or on the basis of any other category protected under federal, state and local laws.

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The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality is dedicated to protecting Virginia’s environment and promoting the health and well-being of the citizens of the Commonwealth.

For more information visit our website at: www.deq.virginia.gov PO Box 1105 Richmond, VA 23219 Email: stacey.westfall@deq.virginia.gov We stand in support of equality for and advancement of all people based on their qualifications and actions alone without regard to color, gender, age, religion, national origin or disability.

Become A Trooper The Missouri State Highway Patrol is accepting applications for the 103rd Recruit Class, which begins training on July 6, 2016. The application deadline is October 6, 2015.

For more information visit:

motrooper.com mshp.dps.mo.gov or call

1-800-796-7000 to speak with a recruiter.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.

See Yourself with Us...

The Vermont State Police

EXPLORE LAW ENFORCEMENT

Vermont’s primary police force is hiring. We welcome you to See Yourself with Us, as we strengthen our team, diversity, and image. Our 327 troopers and 90 civilian employees and dispatchers hail from locations far and wide, and we’re looking for folks who want a challenge, while serving their communities. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, and offer a competitive salary, pension, and benefits package.

We invite you to explore what you could be, with us, The Vermont State Police.

Visit us at vsp.vermont.gov/employment for more info and contacts

Understand that there are many types of jobs in law enforcement.

Don’t forget tribal (Indian) police, school police, college/university police, corrections, dispatch, transit police, various state and federal agencies, etc.

Know about the agency where you are applying.

Have basic computer skills.

and Explorer posts.

SCORING

Know how to read and write well, and have basic computer skills. If you cannot read, write, and use a computer effectively, you will not make it. Even if you pass the entry tests you will fail in the academy or FTO process. A maximum total of five points for this section if you possess the listed skills. Subtract 50 points if not.

You need to know specifics about the agency you are applying to: mission, size of agency, population served, form of government, chief/sheriff’s name, names of those on the oral board, etc. Law enforcement agencies like the highway patrol, state police, sheriff’s departments, police departments, Border Patrol, and other local, Be physically fit. Practice state and federal agencies all have distinct the physical agility test. missions and functions. A maximum total Even if you pass the agility test, if you of 3 points for this section. are not in shape you will fail in the acadUnderstand the variemy or FTO process. Worse, you may fail ous law enforcement jobs in a real confrontation and get yourself or in your area—don’t just fellow officers killed. The purpose of the concentrate on the big academy is not to get you in shape. It is to police departments. take people who are already fit and make Know that there are lots of cop jobs. them effective law enforcement officers.

Don’t forget tribal (Indian) police, school Fitness also does not stop the day you compolice, college/university police, correc- plete probation. You also need to practice tions, dispatch, transit police, various state the agility test. There are techniques to getand federal agencies, etc. Almost every ting over a wall or dragging a dummy. A federal department has some form of police maximum total of 5 points for this section. or investigators such a Capitol Police, Don’t give up Secret Service, DEA, Homeland Security, If you get hired on your first try, you are etc. A maximum total of 3 points for this the exception to the rule. It took me three section.. agencies to get my first job offer. Keep Do volunteer work, trying. serve internships, and If you meet the above requirements and join police reserve units are willing to keep trying; 5 points.

You will often be asked about community volunteer work, but even better is experience with a law enforcement agency as an Explorer, reserve, volunteer or intern.

That way you will know what you are getting into. A term with the agency you are applying is preferred.

A maximum total of three points for this section—two if you have completed some work in one of the categories mentioned above, plus one more if the work was with the agency where you are applying.

48 and above: You can likely pick and choose where you want to work, assuming you meet their minimum requirements. Do your homework and choose wisely.

40 or above: You look real good.

35-39: Looks promising, but you might take a while to get a job offer. You might have to start with an agency that wasn’t your first choice. Keep trying.

30-34: Maybe. You should give an extra effort to get your score higher.

September 2015

equal opportunity employment journal

Below 30:Â Before you start applying, take a hard look and plot out a strategy based on your work and time constraints. Read books and magazines on law enforcement, and research the Internet. Go on ride-alongs.

While having a good background of education, military service, or experience is the number one point-getter, based on my scoring and experience in oral boards, a person with no applicable experience whatsoever can get hired.

You should consider taking a few college classes in criminal justice or in any other subject area that requires a lot of reading, critical thinking, and writing reports and papers.

This test is subjective, as a person with three years of dispatch experience. With that said, this test should give you a good basis for self-examination and reflection on where you are, and where you need to go. While having a good background of education, military service, or experience is the number one point-getter, based on my scoring and experience in oral boards, a person with no applicable experience whatsoever can get hired. The oral exam is often the key. I once helped hire a butcher with no relevant experience who did well on the oral and made an excellent cop.

I failed many cops seeking a lateral transfer from another agency. On my first oral I would have scored 15 points on background, but I failed the oral. However, based on rule #10, I was hired 3 agencies and testing processes later.

Article provided by http://www.officer.com/

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