eoe journal Becoming A Medical Assistant Workplace Diversity: Four Benefits to Hiring Veterans Manufacturing Jobs on The Rise Federal Job Myths Dispelled Thriving in the Tech Industry
Volume 23 Number 102 January 2014
eoejournal Editorial Comment
I
’ve been using a phrase lately that bothers my best friend, Anne. It comes rolling out of my mouth probably 3-4 times a day when I am talking about a situation in which I have no control. “It is what it is,” I’ll say, and when I say it around her, she rolls her eyes and says, “Of course it is! Everything is what it is.” And obviously, she’s right. But by saying this phrase I’m reminded to consider the difference between whether or not I can do something about the situation or if “it is what it is” and I need to let it go. This, for me, is a good thing. Let me clarify. Saying the phrase does not let me off the hook when there’s something that I want or need to do. If I’m out of milk for example and can’t have a bowl of cereal “it is what it is” is not appropriate. That I can do something about. If I’m unhappy with my job or my boss or my coworker, the phrase doesn’t work either. If I can do something to change a situation that is not working for me, I must refrain from using that statement and start making moves to improve my happiness. If, on the other hand my friend, refuses to take my phone calls because she’d tired of my use of the English langauage, then “it is what it is.” I know I cannot make her answer the phone. Consider it a game: figure out which situations require action on your part and which ones “are what they are.” It might be a good thing for you, too. Happiest of holidays— Lisa Petty, Editor Equal Opportunity Employment Journal
The eoejournal is published bimonthly by EOEJournal, Inc. The ownership and management of EOEJ fully and actively supports equal opportunity for all people regardless of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin or disability.
EOEJ does accept freelance editorial contributions for publishing. Submissions must be on the subject of jobs, job searching, employment opportunities and/or related subjects.
Advertising and Editorial offices are located at: 1550 E. Missouri Phoenix, Arizona 85014 Phone: 1-800-396-3373 Fax: 1-800-293-3408
Electronic emails are accepted by email at: sales@eoejournaljobs.com Manuscripts and disc submissions may be sent to the office address. When mailing your submissions, please include SASE.
Table of Contents Get More Time in Your Day Page 3 Job Outlook for Graduates
Page 4
Direction at Work
Page 6
Federal Job Search Myths Page 7 Dispelled Ways To Thrive in Your Technical Career Page 8 You Got The Job. Now What? Page 9 Are You A Commodity in The Employment Marketplace? Page 10 4 Reasons to Hire Vetrans Page 11 Want To Be A Font Designer? Page 12 Want Jobs? Try Advanced Manufacturing Page 14 Healthcare Careers on The Rise Page 16 Attitude! Attitude! Attitude! Page 17 Getting Back To Work Page 18 Online Education for Healthcare Professionals Page 26 Staying Motivated at Work Page 28 Caring for Patients with Mental Disorders Page 29 Becoming a Medical Assist. Page 30 Rehabilitation Counselors Page 31 Sources of Career Information Page 34 Recruiting Candidates with Disabilities Page 39 EMTs and Paramedics
Page 40
Career Enhancement Tips Careers in Biofuels
Page 45 Page 47
January 2014
equal opportunity employment journal
Create Time: How To Get More Time in Your Day at the Office by Long Yun Siang
B
How do you create time? Sometimes, it is not so much about creating time but about not losing it.
ased on observations of myself and my productive colleagues, on many occasions, time is wasted on things that are not supposed to be done then. I am sure you have heard of “there is a time and place for everything.” Here are my suggestions on how to create time at the office.
1. Close the Browser
Those of you who read my articles know I am a huge fan of closing the browser when working. To me it is the number one way to create time in the office. Browsers are the number one reason time is wasted at work. Let’s face it, you use most of your time to check personal emails, update your Facebook, read the news and watch Youtube videos during office hours. One minute here and there can easily make up for an hour or two you could easily spend on other more productive things.
2. Focus on One
People think they can multitask. In my personal opinion, when you are focused on one task at a time, you are most productive and you get more done than if you are to spend doing two to three things in the short 30 minutes.You lie to yourself that you can multitask. You cannot. If you need to reply an important email, focus on that. Don’t pick up the phone. If it is important, they will ring back. Do one thing, finish it then move on to the next. That’s how you create time.
3. Manage Your Anxiety
In fact, I should say, manage your attachment to these gadgets and the attachment to the idea that you can multitask. Forgo these ideas. Because I know you will feel you NEED these things. Once you close the browser, you will feel you are cut off from the world. That’s how attached you are to them. You feel anxious when you turn off these things. So you leave them on thinking it’s only a few seconds here and there. So you end up on your mobile phone with sms, whatsapp, and whatever else on wasting precious time when people contact you. Once you cut these off and focus on one, you will create time.
4. Everything Can Be Shorter
I am not saying spend less time on your assignments. I am saying use your best judgement on what should be made shorter. Perhaps, you stay on the phone too long than you need to. Especially if it is a personal call, you can always call back. Gossip all you want once you have done your work. Make a note to call this person back. Excuse yourself if you have to. Or you take lunch longer than you should. Your justification is – “I need a break” even when you have things to rush in the office. If you make these ‘unnecessary’ events shorter, you create time you desperately need.
5. Boring Excuses
Actually I am referring to your excuses. You allow yourself to be distracted each time you need to start on a boring assignment. Like “Oh, I need to reply this email about lunch tomorrow first.” Then comes a multitude of excuses before you will start or work on the boring assignment of yours. In fact, if you can get it your way, you will even ask for an extension of the deadline. But the same vicious cycle will repeat itself. So, what do you do? Start. The faster you start, the better it is for you and everyone else. You create time when you stop creating excuses. I am confident, if you can just do this for one day these few suggestions, you can see how much you can achieve in a day. I have used these personally to create time in the office. Of course, I sometimes succumb to resistance. But I am aware enough to spring right back. You can too. Long Yun Siang or Long, as he is popularly known runs http://career-success-for-newbies.com with his wife Dorena as their way of paying it forward. Their website – based on their real life experience - provides tips, tools and advise for newbies pursuing career success.
Page 3
Page 4
equal opportunity employment journal
January 2014
The Job Outlook for Graduates: Not Great, But Getting Better by Veronica C.
W
ilson Philips might as well be the official band of the Millennial generation, because their hit song “Hold On” – even if it got most of its play in Baby Boomer station wagon cassette tape decks – is the essential message young people are hearing about the job market. Employment is improving, but very slowly. Still, we’re out of the recession, and the economy seems to be coming back. But it’s not the college graduates’ time in the sun just yet. So when?
How we got here
The U.S. National Bureau of Economic Research said that the recession officially began in the U.S. some time in December 2007. Most Americans didn’t become aware of the situation until later, however, when the recession’s effects began to create waves reaching outside the U.S. Where the recession started is a point of contention in some circles and was by all means a mix of numerous factors. For instance, some fingers point to mortgage-backed securities being traded on international markets, all of which were big gambles – so big, they earned the nickname “toxic assets.” A boom in real estate credit helped more and more of these securities pop up. And then everything fell apart. People foreclosed, unable to pay their mortgages, and the assets folded. Tied to this were interbank loans, which became a major problem with the fall of financial service firms such as Lehman Brothers, and the closure of major banks like Washington Mutual. What most sides agree on is that the most significant factor was lack of regulation on the availability of credit and the investment industry. And while there’s been a lot of posturing and debate on the best path to recovery, the one constant has been a lack of employment. Even though the NBER announced the end of the recession in 2010, things haven’t looked much brighter. Especially if you’re just coming out of school. So what’s the state of the job market today?
Where we are
As of August, The Wall Street Journal reported that it’s easier for unemployed people to find work, but those positions aren’t exactly premium entry level positions. According to the Journal, in June, there were 2.99 job seekers per open position, which is the first time the numbers been below three seekers since October 2008. At the worst of the recession, that number was more like six. But hiring isn’t necessarily up. Part of the perceived job growth is the drop in layoffs. And then there’s the fact that a full third of the private-sector hiring in June was for low-paying retail and restaurant jobs. Another fifth was in professional and business services, which does contain some high-paying
Mission Statement
To provide superior law enforcement through professional service displaying effective teamwork and courage, while fostering trust, confidence and respect for all we serve. Join the Gulfport Police Department Read about the process and our requirements on our website at:
www.gulfportpolice.net
GULFPORT POLICE DEPARTMENT 2220 15th Street | Gulfport, MS 39501 (228) 868-5940 We consider applicants for employment by the Gulfport Police Department without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status.
The City of Tempe is a diverse and exciting city to police. The Tempe Police Department protects an ever-growing community of over 160,000 residents and is home to Arizona State University, the Mill Avenue District, spring training baseball, Tempe Town Lake and hundreds of events annually. Our department is committed to fighting crime and providing the highest quality service to our residents. If you are ready to be part of the finest police department in Arizona, your future is with us.
It is fundamentally important to promote a true community police force; that starts with recruiting and hiring diverse, exceptional individuals dedicated to serving and protecting the people of our community.
Honor | Integrity | Loyalty | Dedication Tempe Police Department www.tempe.gov/policejobs • 1 877 TPD AND U
Currently hiring for the following position:
Office of Sheriff BJ Barnes
Challenging and fulfilling career opportunities to work as a non-sworn Detention Services Officer. A successful candidate must: • Be a US citizen and at least 21 years of age at time of application • High School Diploma or GED • Be able to pass a complete medical examination, drug testing and suitability screening • Not have been convicted of a felony or a serious misdemeanor by local, state, federal or military court • Live in Guilford County or any contiguous county
- DETENTION SERVICES OFFICER $33,962 - $43,150 DOQ
Employee Benefits include Paid Vacation, Paid Holidays, Paid Sick Leave, Insurance (Life, Medical and Dental), Opportunities for advancement and promotions, Retirement Programs (State and 401k). Rotating 12-hour shifts with as many as 15 off-duty days per month. Educational incentive for qualifying degrees, compensation consideration will be given for Spanish speaking candidates and experienced officers currently working in the detention field. Apply online at www.co.guilford.nc.us OR Contact the Guilford County Human Resources Department at 201 South Greene Street, Greensboro, NC 27401, phone #336-641-4134.
January 2014
equal opportunity employment journal
positions but is mostly temp workers. Part time jobs are also widespread, though not at mid-recession levels.
What this means for young folk
You’re a college graduate. You didn’t get your degree in restaurant waitressing – in fact you might have done that to pay for your degree! And temping is probably getting pretty old, too. It’s certainly no way to pay the bills while living in the city. When are things going to turn your way? Here’s some good news: The Journal cited Marisa Di Natale, an economist at Moody’s Analytics, who noted that hiring after past recessions shows a consistent pattern. You’ll always see hiring pick up in low-level jobs first. Then, once the recovery is going strong, better-paying positions start opening up. Worried those will fill up with qualified veterans? It’s an understandable concern, especially with student loans hanging over your head like black clouds. The Seattle Times took a look at jobs just this past June and found that unemployment rates are particularly high for young America. The March 2013 overall unemployment rate was 7.6 percent. But for folks between 20 and 24, it spiked to 13.3 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. While having a degree still means you’re better off, the Times cited the Pew Economic Mobility Project, which reported that only 42 percent of recent college grads are even working in jobs that require degrees. So where’s the good news?
Take advantage of the current moment—explore exciting new opportunities! Teach abroad, for example, or pursue an interest in grad school with the help of program funding and fellowships. The good news
Josh Bersin is the principal and founder of Bersin & Associates, a company that provides research and advisory services in the world of corporate learning. Writing for LinkedIn, he noted that times are tough for graduates, but they are looking better. For instance, the number of recent college grads who feel “underemployed” is dropping. Grads are also finding new and fascinating ways to apply for jobs or make their presence known in an industry, especially through social media. And as a result of the recession, many grads intend to job hop less and become more patient with their positions. So, bland as it may sound, “Hold On” might be the very best advice. The job market is growing slower than you want it to, of course, but everyone’s in that same boat. Just make sure you don’t sit around watching the paint dry. Take advantage of the current moment – explore exciting new opportunities! Teach abroad, for example, or pursue an interest in grad school with the help of program funding and fellowships. In a few years, those employment numbers are going to look even better – and so will your resume. At Experience.com, our mission is to provide the latest marketplace insights for students, recent college graduates and industry veterans. With expert guidance and breaking news about available premium entry level jobs and paidinternships, your career starts here.
Page 5
Page 6
equal opportunity employment journal
January 2014
Direction At Y Work: Tips To Conquer Feeling Lost At Work
ou feel you have lost your direction at work, and you do not know what to do anymore. You seem to have lost that kick that used to keep you going. What do you do? And what can you do? Are you going through a phase? Here is what you need to do to get back on track.
1. The Importance of Goals
To gain back your direction at work, recall your goals. That is assuming you have them written down whether for work or for personal goals. How can your work help you achieve your personal goals? Do you have your goals written down? What is it you wanted to achieve this year with the job? How was the job going to contribute to your career and personal life?
2. Lowest Hanging Fruit
by Long Yun Siang
If you have goals written, then go for the lowest hanging fruit. What is it you can achieve quickly that can boost your confidence? Is there a goal that is fairly achievable in the near future that can make you feel motivated to pursue? That will keep you going and give you some direction at work?
3. Clarity of Task at Hand
If you are feeling lost at work, chances are you may not be clear about the task at hand. Now, that’s not just talking about work alone. It includes your own personal life. Where is it going? Is your personal life making you feel like you feel lost? That can rub off on work as well. Be clear what you want to do. Not just at work, but your life as well. Spend some time writing how you feel. Talk to friends and explore new places. Our mind has a funny way to reveal answers to us.
4. Small Steps, not Giant Leaps
Do not underestimate the effectiveness of small steps. Most times, when someone has no direction at work, they tend to think about resigning. They think the work does not suit them anymore. That may not be true. Your current work can reveal to you the things you want to do in the future. Think of your work now as a small step
Our mission is the reduction of the incidence of crime and the improvement of the quality of life in Arlington County by making it a place where all people can live safely and without fear. Arlington County Police Department
1425 North Courthouse Road • Arlington, VA 22201
For more information and application:
www.arlingtonva.us/police
ORANGE COUNTY TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY 550 South Main Street • Orange, CA 92683
The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) is a multi-modal transportation agency serving Orange County. Searching for a challenging and rewarding career? Are you ready to work with a team of talented professionals? Then discover the many career opportunities OCTA has to offer. Visit www.octa.net for more information. We are an equal opportunity employer.
to your discovery. Take small steps and you will be surprised how productive small steps are in helping you find direction.
5. Business not Busyness
Take a good look at yourself. Analyze the time you spend at work. Take a long hard brutal look at how you work. Are you confusing busyness and business? One is just a sense of doing a lot of things. They aren’t exactly things that are productive and contribute to your work. So, most days you end up tired and not knowing what you are doing. Do you tick off your to do list well? Is what you are doing contributing in a rewarding way to your career or are you just BS-ing yourself into thinking you are being very effective?
6. The Art is in Doing
Finding your direction at work is very much about DOING. It is in the action. Not how you feel and what you think. It is what you do. You must take action upon next steps and be effective. Do follow-ups without being asked. Do not pretend to delegate, call for meetings, have endless discussions until your mind is numb. Then tell yourself you have done a lot. Think back on busy-ness.
7. It is OK to Fail
So you feel lost. You have no direction at work. Well, what can you do? Nothing but just do. And if you fail, it is OK. You never truly fail unless you give up. So long as you continue doing, how can you fail? Feel lost? Keep walking. If you want to find the direction at work, shed that feeling lost idea. And start doing. Have the courage to look into your goals, how you work and do not be afraid to fail. You will conquer the feeling of being lost at work, successfully. Long Yun Siang or Long, as he is popularly known runs http://career-success-fornewbies.com with his wife Dorena as their way of paying it forward. Their website, provides tips, tools and advise for newbies pursuing career success.
www.cityofsalem.net
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.
City of Salem City Manager’s Office 555 Liberty Street SE • Salem, OR 97301
************************ Salem, the capital city of Oregon and its third largest city, lies in the center of the lush Willamette River valley, 47 miles from Portland. Learn more at: www.cityofsalem.net Equal Opportunity Employer
Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled individuals are encouraged to apply. ADA accommodations will be provided upon request.
January 2014
equal opportunity employment journal
Page 7
Seven Federal Job Search Myths DISPELLED A by Dr. Daphne Houston
re you wondering how to land a federal job? Have you been discouraged by naysayers? Are you wondering if the federal government is really hiring thousands of people? Well that one I’ll answer now. YES! So if you are not incorporating federal jobs in your job search strategy it’s likely you have been misinformed about the process and about the reality of the federal job market. Here are seven more myths I’d like to dispel to help you conquer your federal job search.
Myth #1
All government jobs are in Washington, DC. Fact: Only 15% of federal jobs are actually in DC. That means 85% of the federal jobs are outside of DC throughout the US and the rest of the world.
Myth #2
Federal government salaries are low. Fact: Actually, government salaries have risen faster and higher than private sector salaries. In most cases you will find they are very competitive. In fact, it’s been reported from 2000 to 2008, the pay for federal civilian employees skyrocketed 57%, while the pay for workers in the private sector grew by only 31%. And the White House recently proposed a 1.4% pay increase for federal employees.
Myth #3
To get into the federal government you have to be connected; all the jobs are wired. Fact: If that was the case, then the government wouldn’t currently have over 60,000 job openings worldwide. Don’t you think the people that know the current government workforce would have networked their way in if that was the case? Networking always helps. But my federal resume writing team has helped hundreds of clients land federal jobs that were not networked.
Only 15% of federal jobs are actually in DC. That means 85% of the federal jobs are outside of DC throughout the US and the rest of the world. Dr. Daphne Houston is the founder & CEO of the National Association for Federal Career Advancement where federal leaders and those who aspire to be, empower their careers and their impact in the world, while serving America. Read more at http://www.careerealism.com
Myth #4
The government is not hiring for what I do. Fact: The OPM (Office of Personnel Management) uses a classification of 21 occupational groups and families for all GS (General Schedule) positions. That’s just for white collar jobs. There are so many ways to make a difference to America doing this work. Here is a very short list of federal job titles: Accountants, Business Operations, Police Officers, Fire Fighters, Administrative Assistants, Secretaries, Assistants, Civil Engineers, Airline Pilots, Computer Systems Analysts, Program Managers, Construction Managers, and Social Workers. This is a very short list. Believe me. There are literally hundreds of job titles. Enjoying this article? You could get the best career advice daily by subscribing to us via e-mail.
For over half a century, the Institute for Defense Analyses has been successfully pursuing its mission to bring analytic objectivity and understanding to complex issues of national security. IDA is a not-for-profit corporation that provides scientific, technical and analytical studies to the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the Unified Commands and Defense Agencies as well as to the President’s Office of Science and Technology Policy. To the right individual, IDA offers the opportunity to have a major impact on key national programs while working on fascinating technical issues.
broaden your perspective
Myth #5
The federal government is one huge bureaucracy. Fact: The Government is made up of several entities. Each of the over 300 departments and agencies operates as their own stand alone “corporation” within a network of agencies designed to serve the best interest of America. Some do operate more efficiently than others, and are more progressive than others. Based on your agency research, consider 3-5 agencies you would like to further explore.
Myth #6
All federal jobs are posted on USAJOBS.com. Fact: Only about 70% are on USA Jobs. Many jobs (permanent, temporary, special) are on each federal agency website. And some are not posted on the sites at all.
Myth #7
The federal hiring process is so long and complicated. Fact: The federal hiring process differs from private sector hiring, and federal resume writing is different. But the process does not have to be long. There are programs, tips, and opportunities that drastically speed up the process. I have clients that are getting hired at record time compared to their private sector counterparts. Dr. Daphne Houston is the founder & CEO of the National Association for Federal Career Advancement where federal leaders and those who aspire to be, empower their careers and their impact in the world, while serving America.
your career
•
•
your future
your nation
IDA is seeking highly qualified individuals with PhD or MS degrees
Sciences & Math
Engineering
Other
Astronomy Atmospheric Biology Chemistry Environmental Physics Pure & Applied Mathematics
Aeronautical Astronautical Biomedical Chemical Electrical Materials Mechanical Systems
Bioinformatics Computational Science Computer Science Economics Information Technology Operations Research Statistics Technology Policy
Along with competitive salaries, IDA provides excellent benefits including comprehensive health insurance, paid holidays, 3 week vacations and more – all in a professional and technically vibrant environment. Applicants will be subject to a security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. U.S. citizenship is required. IDA is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Please visit our website www.ida.org for more information on our opportunities.
Please submit applications to: www.ida.org/careers.php Institute for Defense Analyses 4850 Mark Center Drive Alexandria, VA 22311
Page 8
equal opportunity employment journal
Ways to Thrive in Your Technical Career
B
elow are tips mid-career technical women can use to advance their careers. Increasing retention and advancement also requires that managers and leaders simultaneously work to make the company environment more inclusive. See the resources below for tools managers and leaders can use.
January 2014
alternative that meets your needs.
Develop a strong network and continually look for ways to diversify it
Ask yourself what kinds of skills, knowledge, or opportunities are missing from your existing networks. Participate in crossfunctional, cross-organizational projects to diversify these networks in ways that close Work on projects with these gaps and accelerate your future oppordirect business impact Choose roles that are strategically impor- tunities. tant to the business and be clear about how Seek out mentors and your work fits in with company goals. Ask sponsors who have trusted advisors, mentors, and colleagues organizational clout to help you understand how your work fits Mentors help advise you on your career into the big picture. and on company culture. Sponsors advocate for you, making sure that your work is visSeek out challenging opporible to influential people in the company. tunities — stretch yourself Research shows women often are raised Technical capabilities can only take you so to be harsher critics of their work than far; you also need these key relationships to men; this can discourage women from help your career continue moving forward. taking on stretch assignments even when Know what you are highly qualified. Be on the lookout for these good at and promote opportunities as they often arise unexpect- that about yourself edly. Remember you are expected to grow Research shows that often women are into a new role; you needn’t have all of the raised to think that it is immodest to “sing answers before beginning. their own praises.” Consult with mentors, your manager, and other colleagues about Be realistic AND strategic different ways to “pitch” your talents. about your time — be willing Develop a succinct way to describe your to say “no” and offer alternative solutions that work for you strengths in a variety of situations. Consult with mentors about the best way Seek out feedback to conto say “no” to roles that do not further your tinue your professional growth career goals or that are not central to the Discuss your career goals with your manbusiness. It usually helps to explain your ager, mentors, sponsors, and other advisors rationale or, if possible, offer a creative and ask for specific feedback on how to
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.
obtain these goals. Also ask for specific feedback in performance reviews; when given constructive criticism, ask for specific examples of how you might improve.
Remember that you are not alone in your challenges
Use your network to find out how others have handled challenges you face. Be willing to talk with your manager or mentor about these challenges and different solutions that will advance your career goals.
Ask for flexible work arrangements as necessary
Talk with your manager, HR personnel, and other colleagues to find out what options are available, how others have used them, and how these arrangements are viewed in the company. With your manager, devise a flexible plan and make sure your performance evaluation criteria are written in ways that will reflect your accomplishments.
Serve as an internal advocate and mentor for others — both women and men
Junior women and men benefit from having male and female mentors. Mentoring also can be a rewarding way to grow professionally and to expand your leadership skills. Make mentoring a part of your performance goals so that you are recognized in evaluations for this contribution. Article provided by the National Center for Women & Information Center Vist www.ncwit.org for more information
The Federal Reserve Board 20th Street & Constitution Avenue NW | Washington, DC 20551 www.federalreserve.gov
TEN INDEPENDENCE MALL • PHILADELPHIA, PA 19106 The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia offers its employees competitive salaries, a comprehensive benefits package, and a work environment conducive to career advancement and personal development. We seek individuals who will support the Bank’s high standards for quality, integrity, and premier customer service. View and apply online for current opportunities: www.philadelphiafed.org The Bank values diversity among employees in terms of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, religious beliefs, political beliefs, and other attributes that differentiate individuals.
January 2014
equal opportunity employment journal
Page 9
Congrats! You Got The Job. Now What?
Y
by Ford R. Myers
www.eoejournal.com
ou’ve finally landed the job. Is this a good time to settle in and take it easy for a while, or is this the worst time to take your foot off the “career gas pedal?” A lot of people in this situation might think, “Whew – now I can relax, cruise a while and rest on my laurels.” Actually, your work is just beginning – but so is your “glory!” Once you’re “on the job,” there are many immediate career challenges to attend to, such as: Experts such as Michael Watkins believe that you have 90 days in a new job to make your impact and create the permanent impression that people in the organization will have of you and your leadership capabilities. Having worked with thousands of executives who have successfully secured new positions, in my opinion, there are six priorities that you should focus on during the first 90 days: Assimilating into your new position; which includes getting clear on the job’s roles and responsibilities Aligning with the company’s business priorities and culture; which includes getting acclimated to the new environment and new faces; asking a lot of questions and just generally “learning the ropes” Developing habits of “Perpetual Career Management,” which include: – Establishing professional credibility and developing productive relationships – Avoiding your old “blind spots,” leverag-
ing your assets, and planning steps toward advancement – Continuing to work with your Career Coach (if you have one) as your “partner in career success” 1. Establish positive relationships with your new colleagues and develop good communication habits to maintain those relationships. Be honest, open, friendly, reliable and clear. Be outgoing and introduce yourself to co-workers (don’t wait for them to approach you).
Establish positive relationships with your new colleagues. 2. Develop a reputation for producing tangible results, for keeping commitments and for meeting deadlines. Immediately start a “success file” and track your accomplishments and contributions. Make note of the positive feedback you get from others in conversation and in writing – from clients, managers, clients, colleagues, vendors, etc. 3. Communicate plans and progress to your superiors and to your team. Become known for setting challenging goals and completing projARIZONA REPUBLIC, PHOENI X ects on-time and on-budget – with measurable results. 4. Begin building your own in-house contact network. Cultivate good relationships with everyone – including the employees above and below your level. Get to know people’s names.
Reach out to the mail guy, the security guard, the IT guru, your manager’s executive assistant – everyone! You want business friends and supporters in a 360-degree arc around you. 5. Review and fine-tune your job description with your manager. Make sure to also sit down during those first 90 days and create an “individual development plan” for yourself and your role, which includes your short-, mid-, and longterm goals. This is critical to ensure that the job you landed becomes the job you love. 6. Maintain a healthy balance between your work life and your private life. Make sure that you don’t “go overboard” with your enthusiasm for your new job. Family time, hobbies and “recharging your batteries” are all part of your long-term professional effectiveness and success. In summary, you must focus on garnering respect, visibility and credibility during your first 90 days on the job. The precedents you establish during this period will tend to last for your entire tenure at that organization. So this “thumbprint period” is critically important to your long-term success!
Ford R. Myers is President of Career Potential, LLC. His firm helps NY000779B clients take charge of their careers, create the work they love, and earn10/1/2006 what they deserve! Ford has held senior consulting positions at three Jim Ferr eira 5 x 7” Adm of the nation’s largest career service firms. His articles and interviews txs appeared in many national magazines, newspapers 1 GELC260001 have and television interviews, and he has conducted presentations at numerous companies, associations and universities. In addition, Ford has been a frequent guest on television and radio programs across the country. He is author of two books: “Get The Job You Want, Even When No One’s Hiring” and “The Ultimate Career Guide.”
GE Retail Finance Imagination Applied 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 at www.1stnb.com/careers 703 SWANNER LOOP • KILLEEN, TX 76543 FAX: 254-554-4385 EOE, M/F/D/V
Take this job and love it.
ARIZONA REPUBLIC, PHOENIX Jim Ferreira
5
txs
Careers at GE Retail Finance
GE Money
You’re going to notice something unusual right away. People smile. They’re happy to Imagination Applied come in. They feel productive and well recognized. They go home satisfied. Join us at GE Retail Finance, and get all the pay and benefits of a global leader, plus something you won’t find anywhere else: a job you can smile about.
Take this job and love it.
GE Retail Finance is a global leader providing credit services to customers, retailers and auto dealers in more than 35 countries around the world. We reward hard work and brilliant ideas with recognition programs and incentive plans. We foster a You’re going creativity, to notice and something unusual right performance driven culture that puts customers first, sparks encourages away. People smile. They’re happy to come in. T all employees to come up with new ideas and one of a kind solutions. And when feel productive and well recognized. They go hom it comes to career advancement, the opportunities are yours for the taking. If you Join us at GE Money & Affiliates, and get all the pa are interested in enriching your career at a company valuesleader, your opinion, then benefits ofthat a global plus something you w come join our team. We have openings available from entry-level customer service a job you can smile about. representatives up to executive level management roles, please visit our careers GE Money, formerly known as GE Consumer Fina website at www.gecareers.com for additional information.
GE is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
$151 billion in assets and 32,000 employees. And opening. Which means there’s room here for you. There’s just one thing you need to do first. Join u www.gecallcentercareers.com
imagination at work
Attention Job Seekers! We are now offering incre to enjoy a competitive starting wage, plus an ou
Page 10
equal opportunity employment journal
January 2014
Are You A Commodity in The Employment Marketplace?
Competition Is Fierce, So It’s Essential To Distinguish Yourself by Ford R. Myers
In
a competitive and crowded marketplace, every product and service must differentiate itself. It is not enough to be simply “as good” as all the rest. In addition, with easy access to cheap (or even free) Internet marketing, there is a great deal of advertising that makes it difficult to differentiate services and make buying decisions. As an example, just think of all the “pop-up ads” you see online. In the employment marketplace, this is exemplified by the thousands of job web sites and hundreds of resumes submitted over the Internet in response to advertised jobs. To rise above the flood of advertising, successful companies establish powerful branding and distinct “value-adds.” You can adopt the same strategy to rise above the flood of your competition in the employment marketplace. “Value-add” refers to an extra feature or benefit that goes beyond the standard expectations and provides a more compelling reason to purchase. A value-add makes the service or product more desirable and positively influences the buying decision. However, a value-add has no impact if it is not provided in addition to good service. Always having on-time delivery, for instance, does not make a difference if the pizza tastes lousy.
A recognized strength of The Underwriters Group is its superior claims administration services for both employee benefits and workers’ compensation. Learn more about us at: www.uscky.com UDERWRITERS SAFETY & CLAIMS 1700 Eastpoint Parkway • Louisville, KY 40223 Equal Opportunity Employer
PO Box 2361 Harrisburg, PA 17105 Penn National Insurance is an Equal Employment Opportunity/ Affirmative Action employer
Penn National Insurance sells property-casualty insurance (business insurance, personal auto, homeowners, umbrella, etc.) and surety bonds through independent agents. We offer outstanding careers at Penn National Insurance. View current openings and apply online at: www.pennnationalinsurance.com
The worst characterization of a service is to be “a commodity.” A service is a commodity when it is equivalent to what all the competitors offer. A provider of a commodity service can easily be exchanged for another provider of the same service who offers a lower price. For example, many dry cleaners provide a commodity service. Customers will change to another dry cleaner if they can find one that costs even slightly less. In the employment marketplace, many employees (even mid- and senior-level employees) are commodities in that they provide a service that can be replaced easily. In bad economies, companies replace more expensive “commodity” employees with cheaper employees. So, the big question is: are YOU a commodity in the employment marketplace? If you are a commodity, it will be difficult to differentiate yourself in interviews. However, most of us are not commodities – we just haven’t defined our value-adds, or learned how to articulate them. Here are some tips to determine your value-adds:
Know Yourself
Take an inventory of your skills. Do not limit the inventory to skills applicable to the job for which you are interviewing; do a full inventory. This inventory should include skills connected to your job, interests, hobbies, and leisure activities. When you have a full inventory, you can choose
which skills serve as value-adds for the type of jobs you are seeking.
Know Your Profession
Every profession has areas of concentration and a large skill base. For example, within human resources, you might be applying to be a Compensation Manager. But the human resources field has a number of other specialty areas and required skills, such as diversity management, employee retention, benefits, training, and international employment. So, even though you’re applying to be a Compensation Manager, having international employment experience could be a differentiating value-add for a multinational company, or a company that is expanding internationally. Once you have determined your value-adds, be sure to clearly communicate them in your interviews. This could make all the difference, and ultimately lead to more job offers! To learn more about value-ads in interviews go to http://www. activeinterviewing.com. Ford R. Myers is President of Career Potential, LLC. His firm helps clients take charge of their careers, create the work they love, and earn what they deserve! Ford has held senior consulting positions at three of the nation’s largest career service firms. His articles and interviews have appeared in many national magazines, newspapers and television interviews, and he has conducted presentations at numerous companies, associations and universities. In addition, Ford has been a frequent guest on television and radio programs across the country. He is author of two books: “Get The Job You Want, Even When No One’s Hiring” and “The Ultimate Career Guide.”
A World of Difference in One Company.
Apply Online
At State Street, we’re firmly committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace wherever we operate across the globe. As a leading financial
statestreet.com/ reachhigher
services provider to some of the world’s most sophisticated institutions, we
Click Search Jobs
know that our strength comes from the variety of perspectives each employee
and then select
brings. To learn more about State Street, please visit www.statestreet.com.
your location.
REACHHIGHER ©2013 STATE STREET CORPORATION. 13-19177-0713
January 2014
equal opportunity employment journal
4 Key Reasons to Hire Veterans An
sonnel bring with them a high level of technical literacy which can serve to streamline communication efforts across the organization. Trained in effective writing and professional communications, military personnel know that being successful in today’s world means being able to 1. Loyalty to the Team Recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics con- communicate accurately and cludes that the costs incurred to a business owner for efficiently with constituents sustaining an employee hovers just under $30.00 per from all walks of life. hour per employee. This does not include the “soft” costs A Military-Trained of person-to-person mentoring while the employee is Candidate Can Be learning the job. With an investment this substantial, hir- the Best Choice ing executives are in search of loyal employees that will Whether you are a miliinvest in the company with hard work, motivation and tary veteran in the midst of a dedication. civilian job search, or a hirMilitary personnel bring with them an intrinsic under- ing professional looking to standing of how loyalty adds to team proficiency and add top candidates to your builds trust in a work environment. For business leaders team, military attributes are looking to make a thoughtful long-term investment in an desirable qualities to zero in employee, military personnel often outperform other can- on to reach your goals. In didates as proven team players. order to increase triple bottom line performance and 2. Reliable Work Ethic Knowing the importance of adhering to a schedule and secure the competitive edge consistently performing well at work demonstrates pro- in an increasingly diverse fessional maturity. One of the most difficult challenges global marketplace, hiring to hiring professionals is being able to accurately judge executives need to identify candidates in these areas. Through service, training, and top employees and get the lifestyle, former military personnel will typically have costly hiring process right the the work ethic that any business owner would be thrilled first time. Military personnel are to replicate in all of the organization’s employees. For employers looking to hire a mature professional with a uniquely positioned to fill strong work ethic, a military-trained candidate should this need and should draw attention to their loyalty, receive serious consideration. motivation, work ethic, and 3. Motivated Productivity In today’s technologically driven workplace, self-dis- communication skills when cipline is at the heart of worker productivity. Convincing seeking a civilian job. If you workers to respect employer’s rules involving the use are a military veteran looking of social media, for instance, is becoming an increasing for ways to translate your
Page 11
increasing number of civilian employers are becoming more aware of the unique strengths former military personnel can bring with them to a civilian job. Whether you are a business leader considering expanding your work force, or a veteran considering which qualities to highlight in your cover letter, reviewing these top four military-related attributes that top executives find most attractive will help you simplify the task at hand.
workplace challenge. In addition to this challenge, the loss of time from inefficient work habits and idle down time is a significant concern to employers attempting to retain the competitive edge in a challenging economy. Military personnel have been trained to work toward efficiency, ask for guidance when needed, and exercise self-discipline in professional settings. Hiring managers actively building a corporate culture of increased productivity and strong motivation would be wise to consider military candidates not only for their hard skills, but also for the soft skills they bring with them to civilian business settings.
4. Comprehensive Communication Skills
Military personnel not only understand workplace diversity, they know that good communication also needs to be flexible. Many military personnel not only speak more than one language, but also have traveled extensively and understand the nuances of international communication. For business owners looking to evolve with the needs of a global marketplace, a military veteran can be just the person your team needs to expand your business. In addition to being aware of diversity, military per-
Delaware North Companies is a global leader in hospitality and food service that is grounded in a foundation of family ownership. For current employment opportunities and application procedures, please visit our websites: www.KennedySpaceCenter.com www.delawarenorth.com EEO/AAP/M/F/D/V. Drug Free Workplace. Pre-employment Screening Required.
Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts at KSC, Inc. Mail Code DNPS Kennedy Space Center, FL 32899 Fax: 321-449-4284
Military personnel bring with them an intrinsic understanding of how loyalty adds to team proficiency and builds trust in a work environment. other skills into terms best understood by civilian hiring professionals, here are a few helpful resources:
Translating Your Skills From Military Jargon to Civilian Language
The Professional Association of Résumé Writers and Career Coaches also provide services related to translating military skills into civilian job descriptions. In a job market as competitive as this one, it is more important than ever to devise a strategy to move beyond the competition. In addition to work experience, veterans should also highlight the most desirable attributes employers seek in the quest to secure top notch talent for the most coveted positions. Article provided by military.com. Visit www.military.com/veteran for more information.
Page 12
equal opportunity employment journal
January 2014
Wanna Be A
Font Designer? by Dennis Vilorio
We all know that words convey information. But did you know that the appearance of the letters can also speak? The way letters look can change how we perceive words. It can convey an emotion, add formality, or even elicit a cultural response. “The words on traffic signs, for example, always look the same to help you recognize them quicker,” says font designer Rich Roat of Yorklyn, Delaware. “If they looked different, traffic signs would seem strange to us.”
L
etters with a consistent aesthetic use the same font or typeface. But a font is more than letters. It’s a collection of all text characters, known as glyphs. Glyphs include numbers, symbols, and punctuation marks, as well as letters. Font designers package these glyphs into a cohesive font.
What they do
Your Career is Our Business!
Font designers create fonts to meet a client’s needs or their own. Working at font design companies or for themselves, designers can approach a project in different ways. For example, they may work off an existing font or develop one from scratch. “Font design is a very independent type of trade,” Rich says. “Everyone can do it differently.” Design. Font designers develop a font’s aesthetic based on its intended use. Designers consider the font’s message, whether it will serve as a headline or body
text, and where it typically will be presented. For example, a movie poster might need a more casual, eye-grabbing font than one for an academic journal. But designers must think about more than a font’s intended use. Fonts must be appealing and easy to read in different sizes and media, such as mobile devices and computer monitors. They must also stand out from the competition, which increasingly includes free fonts online. Font design requires a lot of trial and error. Most font designers draw directly on a computer using a pen tablet and a font design program. Font designers who prefer to draw by hand must later scan and trace their drawings on a computer. Computers help designers experiment, manage different versions, and maintain a database of relevant glyphs. The font design process can take one month to several years, depending on a font’s complexity. The more variations—
Johnston Community College provides accessible, high-quality educational and community enrichment opportunities for the successful development of learners.
Hagerstown Community College
245 College Road • Smithfield, NC 27577
Hagerstown Community College is committed to the recruitment, selection, hiring and retention of a diverse workforce. To view and apply online visit: www.hagerstowncc.edu
www.johnstoncc.edu
Johnston Community College is an Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer
learner centered discovery driven globally engaged patient & family focused WMed is an Equal Opportunity Employer seeking to hire employees of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin
HCC does not discriminate against any individual on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, age, sexual orientation, or conditions of disability in the admission and treatment of students, educational programs and activities, scholarship and loan programs, hiring of faculty and staff, or any term and conditions of employment. The College is a committed equal opportunity employer.
The Providence Public School District is the largest, urban school district in the State of Rhode Island.
The mission of Western Michigan University School of Medicine (WMed) is to advance the health of humanity through excellence in medical education, clinical care, research, and service. These pursuits are interdependent and together assume optimal care for today and hope for tomorrow. WMed is located in a family-friendly, culturally-rich academic community situated in beautiful southwest Michigan, centrally located between Chicago and Detroit. 1000 Oakland Drive • Kalamazoo, MI 49008-1284 (269) 337-4400
http://www.med.wmich.edu
Providence Public Schools is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer actively seeking to increase minority recruitment among its administrators and teaching staff. We are searching for individuals with the appropriate amount of experience, a proven ability to positively impact our educational programs and outstanding communication skills for our “Hard To Fill Areas”. We need fully certified regular teachers and Long Term Substitute Teachers in Pool. Teachers near completion may also be considered. • Chemistry • Physics • Math • Middle and High School Math • Middle and High School Science • ESL (all levels) • Bilingual Spanish (all levels) • ECH/ECH Special Education • Secondary Special Education with content • French/Italian • School Nurse Teacher • School Psychologist • Speech Pathologist • Librarian • Reading Specialist • Biology/Chemistry Dual To find out more about these great career-advancing positions, please apply online at www.ProvidenceSchools.org/careers for immediate consideration!
www. eoejournal .com
For more information visit our website at
11400 Robinwood Drive • Hagerstown, MD 21742
January 2014 such as bold or italics—and languages the font must support, the more complex it is, and the more glyphs a designer must create. A simple font might need 256 glyphs, but a complex one, such as Arial, might need more than 6,000 glyphs. After completing a font’s design, designers package the glyphs into a standard format that computers can read. They then sell it or distribute it for free. Client interaction. Font designers, particularly those doing freelance or commission work, often interact with clients. Talking to clients helps designers determine the font’s requirements from the outset. Early design decisions, like the spacing between glyphs, are particularly important because they’re difficult and time consuming to change later on. Designers also receive feedback from the client during the font design process. They use this feedback to better tailor the font to the client’s needs. Other. Some font designers perform additional duties, such as researching fonts for ideas. Other designers, especially those who are self-employed, may need to promote their services, handle billing, and purchase supplies.
How they prepare
Font designers typically need a combination of education and experience. Fast drawing skills and a design aesthetic are also important. Self-employed designers need some administrative and marketing skills. Education. Most font design companies hire graduates of art or design school programs. Some of these programs offer courses in font design. But specialized font design programs are rare. Cooper Union, a nonprofit university in New York, offers the only such program—a postgraduate certificate—in the United States.
It is the policy of Seneca Foods Corporation to provide equal opportunity through affirmative action in employment and educational programs and activities. Discrimination is prohibited on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, and special disabled veteran, other eligible veteran or Vietnam era veteran status.
equal opportunity employment journal Another education option for aspiring font designers is apprenticeship. Apprentices learn the trade working alongside experienced font designers. But apprenticeships usually are available only at some small companies. Experience. Aspiring font designers who forgo school or an apprenticeship can still gain experience on their own. With inexpensive technology, would-be font designers can create fonts on their home computer and share them online. Networking can provide another important resource for gaining experience. “Who you know can expand your knowledge of tools, develop your design aesthetic, and help you find work,” Rich says.
What it’s like
There are many factors that every aspiring font designer should consider. These factors include the work environment, employment and wages, and the occupation’s challenges and rewards. Work environment. Font designers generally work alone. But work hours vary by employer. Some, like Rich, work during regular business hours. Others work irregular hours, which may include weekends or overtime, to complete a project. Selfemployed designers often set their own schedule. Employment and wages. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not collect employment and wage data specifically for font designers. Instead, BLS counts these workers among graphic designers. In May 2012, according to BLS, there were 191,440 graphic designers employed in the United States. Their median annual wage was $44,150. Data are for wage and salary workers only and do not include the self-employed. Challenges and rewards. Designing fonts is challenging, both technically and
Seneca Foods recognizes that it is our employees who have contributed to our success as a world leader in agribusiness. As an employee of Seneca Foods, your contribution to that success is rewarded by many opportunities to grow and develop.
Designing fonts is challenging, both technically and artistically. artistically. “You must have a balance of right and left brain skills,” Rich says. For example, font designers might need to program their own computer tools or determine a consistent spacing between each glyph. Sometimes, font design is repetitive and time consuming. To make a font work in another language, for example, a designer needs to create many glyphs to present new characters, such as the accented vowels and inverted question marks required for Spanish. And even when doing repetitive tasks, designers still have to make aesthetic decisions. “We can’t turn over the grunt work to someone else,” says Rich. But the technical and artistic challenges of the work also bring rewards. “Font design is always interesting,” Rich says. “There’s always a new way to do something because there are always new ideas and new media to present them in.” And when their work is done, font designers enjoy producing something tangible that many people may see. Some people never realize that there was a designer behind every letter they read, but that’s OK with Rich. For him, font design is more than a job: “It’s a passion.” Article the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Visit http://www.bls.gov/ for more information.
Bunn-O-Matic Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and offers a competitive compensation and benefits program along with a quality work environment. To view current openings and application procedures, visit us online at: www.bunn.com Mail your resume and cover letter to Human Resources at: Bunn-O-Matic Corporation, PO Box 3227, Springfield, IL 62708
555 Broiler Blvd. Baldwin, GA 30511
Seneca seeks a workforce that is diverse and desires to hire or promote the individual best qualified for the position. For more information on a career with Seneca, visit www.senecafoods.com. 3736 South Main Street Marion, New York 14505
Page 13
Fax Resumes to: 706•776•6993 Fieldale Farms is a family business, still owned by its founders, but has grown to become one of the largest independent poultry producers in the world.
Learn more about us online at: www.fieldale.com Equal Opportunity Employer
Page 14
equal opportunity employment journal
January 2014
Want Jobs? Try Advanced Manufacturing by Thomas A. Hemphill and Mark J. Perry
B
While many U.S. manufacturing firms have reduced or eliminated the traditional apprenticeship model, there is evidence that this approach is returning.
Monorail, Inc. TC/American and Jet Edge are dedicated to precision manufacturing with strict quality control, fast delivery and competitive pricing. Learn more about us at www.tcamerican.com or www.jetedge.com. 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. 12070 43RD STREET NE | ST MICHAEL, MN 55376
y itself, the U.S. manufacturing sector would be the tenth-largest economy in the world, and there is growing concern among U.S. manufacturers about finding enough skilled workers to fuel its continued expansion. During the Great Recession, American manufacturing got hit hard, even more so than the rest of the U.S. economy, which is always the case during economic downturns. For example, as recession-related job losses in the overall economy brought the national unemployment rate to 10 percent in 2009, job losses at American factories were greater, and the manufacturing jobless rate reached 13 percent, three full percentage points higher than the national average. But at the beginning of 2010, the manufacturing sector started making a comeback, and more than 500,000 new jobs have been added to factory payrolls in the last three years, the largest increase in manufacturing jobs over a three-year period since 1996. Employment gains in the manufacturing sector have been so strong that by the fall of 2011, the manufacturing jobless rate fell below the national rate, and it has stayed lower in almost every month since then. In April, the jobless rate for factory workers was only 6.4 percent, more than a full percent below the 7.5 percent national average. The low manufacturing jobless rate is just one sign that America’s factories are humming again. Factory output of durable manufactured goods such as motor vehicles has returned to pre-recession 2007
levels, with last year’s 9.1 percent growth in durable goods greatly outpacing the 2.2 percent pace for the overall economy. And manufacturing is expanding the most in the traditional industrial sectors of machinery, motor vehicles, steel, and industrial equipment in the Midwest’s traditional “Rust Belt” states, where manufacturing output is growing at twice the national rate. With America’s factories booming again, the demand for highly skilled workers is also on the rise, which is reflected in both the decline in the manufacturing jobless rate to a four-year low in April and the recent increase in manufacturing overtime hours to a six-and-a-half-year high. As the economic expansion starts to pick up steam this year, there is growing concern among U.S. manufacturers about whether they’ll be able to find the skilled workers needed as factories ramp up output to meet the pent-up demand for durable goods like cars, appliances, and household goods. The concern about a shortage of skilled workers has been well documented. In the report “Boiling Point? The Skills Gap in U.S. Manufacturing,” released by The Manufacturing Institute and Deloitte in October 2011, 82 percent of American manufacturers surveyed reported a moderate or severe shortage of high-skilled workers – translating into approximately 600,000 high-skilled manufacturing positions that are currently going unfilled. The National Association of Manufacturers estimates that filling those 600,000 positions
Tosoh is a global supplier of inorganic chemicals, petrochemicals, and specialty materials to customers in the semiconductor, pharmaceutical, health care, food, and many other industries that produce items used daily. For more information or to apply online visit: www.tosoh.com
Hagemeyer North America Hagemeyer is an equal opportunity employer, M/F/D/V.
An Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employer
Hagemeyer North America, is a subsidiary of Sonepar USA, a member of the global Sonepar family. Headquartered in Charleston, South Carolina, Hagemeyer North America is a distributor of products and services focusing on business-to-business markets in electrical materials, safety products, and industrial products.
Sterling Jewelers has immediate opportunities available in retail locations across the US and at our corporate office located in Akron, Ohio. For a complete list of employment opportunities, visit sterlingcareers.com and apply online today!
Hagemeyer North America offers exciting career opportunities for outgoing, ambitious, and energetic associates. If you are ready to build an exciting career with a global organization that is a leader in our industry, then you will want to join our team. For more information visit us online at www.hagemeyerna.com.
At Sterling Jewelers, diversity is the synergy of many different people working toward One Mission. Sterling values the differences between people and fosters an environment of opportunity and acceptance throughout the organization. Sterling is an equal opportunity employer committed to promoting diversity among all levels of Team Members. Our diversity inspires innovation and is the secret to our success. At Sterling, we are more than just the sum of our parts — Together, we can achieve great success. 2013 0M
RER BEB EM M
BEERR MB EEM
22 00 11 30M ME
January 2014
equal opportunity employment journal
would create 406,441 additional jobs in other industries, lower the jobless rate by 0.64 percent, and increase GDP by 1.03 percent. In October 2012, the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) released a study, “Made in America, Again: Understanding the U.S. Manufacturing Skills Gap and How to Close It,” which estimated that the present high-skills gap in the United States, while much smaller than 600,000, is currently between 80,000 and 100,000 workers nationwide. In February of this year, the MIT Taskforce on Innovation and Production reported that just under 20 percent of manufacturers surveyed reported experiencing long-term job vacancies (of three months or more), equivalent to approximately 5 percent of core production jobs. In the long term, the manufacturing skills gap is forecast to worsen. The Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) predicts that the shortfall of skilled factory workers could increase to 3 million jobs by 2015 due to pending retirements of older workers and the manufacturing rebound. The BCG study forecasts a high-skills gap in manufacturing that could approach 875,000 machinists, welders, industrial engineers, and industrial machinerymechanics by 2020. According to the Department of Labor, the percentages of manufacturing workers aged 55 to 64 years old and the share of workers older than 65 have both significantly increased since 2000 – the median age of the manufacturing workforce has risen from 40.5 years in 2000 to 44.1 in 2011. Moreover, the average age of a high-skilled worker (that is, one having technical training and industry certification, or an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a manufacturing-related field) is now 56 years. With a pending wave of retirements in the manufacturing sector, the looming demand for high-skilled factory workers adds urgency to the already existing employment shortage in a 21st-century U.S. economy built on technology-driven advanced manufacturing. Fortunately, the manufacturing sector is actively addressing the skilled worker shortage. In April 2010, the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), in collaboration with the Department of Labor, the National Council for Advanced Manufacturing, and the SME, updated their Advanced Manufacturing Competency Model (AMCM), which reflects the knowledge and skills required for the 21st-century workforce. Separately, to meet its mission, the Manufacturing Institute has developed a NAM-endorsed Manufacturing Skills Certification System (MSCS) of “stackable” credentials applicable to all aspects of the manufacturing sector. With 113 community colleges across the United States using the MSCS, the Manufacturing Institute reported that 84,738 skill
Page 15 With America’s factories booming again, the demand for highly skilled workers is also on the rise, which is reflected in the decline in the manufacturing jobless
rate to a four-year low.
certifications were issued in 2011. To address the immediate staffing needs of U.S. manufacturers, limited on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs are again being incorporated strategically into employee-employer joint efforts of skill acquisition. While many U.S. manufacturing firms have reduced or eliminated the traditional apprenticeship model, there is evidence that this approach is returning and that many companies are revitalizing their in-house training programs and using job placement services to fill high-skill positions. Additionally, the manufacturing sector has started to consider other initiatives, such as implementing continuing education and re-certification programs for skilled workers who may need to refresh or update their skills so they can also be part of the new “adaptable” candidate pool for manufacturers. The importance of American manufacturing to the health of the national economy cannot be overstated: by itself, the U.S. manufacturing sector would be the tenth-largest economy in the world. Every dollar of manufacturing sales supports $1.34 in additional output from other busi-
We Generate More Than Electricity
ness sectors. Given this economic reality, filling the human capital skills gap in the manufacturing sector over the next decade will be a critical challenge for fueling the continued expansion of the U.S. economy. As Americans struggle to find employment in one of the worst job markets in decades, they need to revise their thinking that manufacturing is an industry in decline. To the contrary, U.S. manufacturing is experiencing a robust turnaround, and career opportunities in manufacturing are better than in a generation. With the proper training, some of the best job opportunities over the next decade will be in America’s advanced manufacturing sector. Part of the solution to filling the skilled worker shortage is to get the word out that if Americans want to get back to work, there are currently thousands of unfilled openings in the nation’s increasingly high-tech factories. And there’ll be even more in the future. Thomas A. Hemphill is an associate professor of strategy, innovation, and public policy at the University of Michigan’s Flint campus. Mark Perry is a scholar at the American Enterprise Institute and a professor of economics at the University of Michigan’s Flint campus. He blogs regularly for AEIdeas This article reprinted from The American magazine, a publication of the American Enterprise Institute. Web address: www.american.com
A leader in the office furniture industry. Nationwide career opportunities. See our career opportunities at www.hnicareers.com and listed with state workforce training and development centers. As Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employers, the operating companies of HNI Corporation support the advancement of all people based on their qualifications and experience without regard to race, color, creed,religion, gender, age, national origin, marital status,veteran status, citizenship status, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other status protected by law.
The New York Power Authority is the nation’s largest state
electric utility, and one of the “greenest” power organizations in the country. Our 16 generating facilities include New York State’s largest hydropower plants. Our investments in energy efficiency and clean energy exceed $1 billion. And our low-cost power helps keep more than 400,000 New Yorkers on the job. We are an equal opportunity employer, encourage employee growth and advancement, and are committed to workplace diversity. We are especially proud of our involvement in the national Troops to Energy Jobs campaign to promote veteran hiring. To learn more about the Power Authority, visit www.nypa.jobs
Albany•Astoria•Gilboa•Holtsville•Lewiston•Marcy•Massena•White Plains
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.
RECEOEJ 3-93-13.indd 2
4/23/13 12:13 PM
Page 16
equal opportunity employment journal
January 2014
Health Care Careers on The Rise
The controversial Affordable Care Act (ACA) goes into effect January 1, 2014, at which point almost everyone in the U.S. will be subject to the health-insurance mandate. Studies predict a dramatic increase in care-seeking individuals, who are the driving force of future job growth and healthcare demand in the healthcare industry. Healthcare support workers and personal-care aides are the fastest growing occupations in the U.S., let alone in the healthcare industry. Demand for these positions is projected to increase by nearly 70 percent in the coming years thanks to an aging baby-boomer population fast approaching retirement. These particular jobs typically require minimal education credentials and offer training programs to new recruits.
As a leader in the HVAC/R market, Watsco fosters employee creativity and personal growth. Our team is constantly challenged to uncover innovative and exciting ways to out-service the competition. If you are ready to meet that challenge, we want to hear from you.
www.watsco.com Watsco, Inc. offers a competitive benefit package and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants applying for employment must be authorized to work in the United States. 2665 South Bayshore Drive • Suite 901 • Coconut Grove, FL 33133
We’re on the move – literally! CRST International, Inc. is one of the nation’s leading transportation and logistics companies. Headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, we have offices throughout the United States, employing more than 1,700 1,000 office employees and 6,000 4,200 company drivers and working with more than 3,000 independent contractors. If you are interested in making a valuable contribution to a dynamic company with plans for a bright future, apply now. Learn more about us and our employment opportunities at www.crst.com We support equality for and advancement of all people based on their qualifications to perform the job and actions alone without regard to race, gender, age, religion, genetic information, national origin, disability or any other protected category.
Increased utilization of offices of physicians, dentists, other health practitioners, along with outpatient care centers, medical and diagnostic laboratories and home health care services contribute to the growth seen in this sector. There can be no doubt that these trends are tied to the wellness campaigns being sponsored by such influential organizations as the U.S. Center For Disease Control and Kaiser Permanente, as they encourage the public to take an active role in preventive health. Statistics published by Baby Boomer Magazine show that: “By age 65, two-thirds of all Baby Boomers have at least one chronic disease and have seen seven physicians.” Seventy-eight million members of this Boomer generation are becoming a larger part of nearly every physician’s practice, which will drive the current trends seen in healthcare employment rates for years to come. With the Affordable Care Act and a growing senior population just around the corner, the healthcare field and prospective healthcare workers are reaping the benefits. The industry needs thousands of seniorcare providers and primary-care physicians to accommodate these new developments in patient care. Article the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Visit http://www.bls.gov/ for more information.
www.eoejournal.com
A
ccording to an Economic News Release from the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, job growth in health care is increasing. Jobs in this field have averaged 17,000 per month thus far this year, compared with an average monthly gain of 27,000 in 2012. Job posting sites like have also seen an increase the amount of posted job openings.
January 2014
equal opportunity employment journal
Attitude! Attitude! Attitude! by Mike Corso at disABLEDperson.com
For those of us with physical disabilities, getting around every day, performing daily tasks etc. can be a major challenge. For me, it’s about my attitude. My attitude dictates how my day goes. The one good thing about attitude is that you get to choose it!
R
egardless of your physical disability, regardless of the level of pain that you have every day (all day), regardless of your limitations, regardless, regardless, regardless, you get to choose your attitude for the day. When you wake up in the morning, prior to putting your feet on the floor, you decide whether you are going to have an up day or a down day. Most of us however are not aware of that decision. Simply, we wake up and move on. What I want to briefly talk about here is the choice that we have to have a positive attitude and how having a positive attitude will help us get through the day. I believe that the best way of dealing with the pain and frustrations of a physical disability is to first admit to ourselves that we have a disability. That’s right, wake up in the morning and declare to yourself that you have a disability. This sounds stupid I know but what it does is give you a daily reminder that you have limitations and that for the most part, you will be in pain. I know you are thinking that you don’t have to be reminded of it, it is always there as it changed your life.
Why should I remind myself that I have limitations and I am in constant pain? The answer is so that you can accept it. I know! How can I accept limitations, pain and frustration? The answer and only answer in my opinion is because you have to. Accepting who you are is a basic premise to happiness. Accepting that you are a person with a physical disability and that you have limitations and constant pain is the only way to find some happiness. Attitude! Attitude! Attitude! So when you wake up in the morning, choose a positive attitude. Dismiss the negative attitude. Dismiss feeling sad because you have limitations or pain. Choose happiness! Affirmative behavior is a great way to do this. You have to make a conscious effort throughout the day affirming to yourself that you have a disability and you are in pain but life is still good! There are still things for me to smile about! There are still moments that I can cherish. Embrace life!
disABLEDperson.com is a national job board for IWDs with over 40,000 active jobs at any given time.
www.eoejournal.com
Together, we can recruit and hire qualified applicants
Parker Hannifin Parker Hydraulics Hydraulic Pump & Motor Division 2745 Snapps Ferry Rd. Greeneville, TN 37745
Continued Progress to All Minority Communities Parker Hannifin Corporation’s Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action commitment is to recruit and hire qualified applicants and to take affirmative action to recruit, hire and promote females and minorities, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, genetic characteristic, or veteran status.
www.parker.com/careers
Page 17
Our past achievements and successful future depends solely on the employees of Seco Tools. Seco is a successful and profitable organization and we are always looking for talent to support our business. Seco Tools offers a comprehensive benefits plan designed to meet the needs of all our employees. If you are energetic, creative, customer-focused, and positive, you can contribute to Seco Tools. Please review our available opportunities on our website at
www.secotools.com Seco Tools is an Equal Opportunity Employer 2805 Bellingham Drive • Troy, MI 48083
www.secotools.com
Page 18
equal opportunity employment journal
January 2014
Getting Back To Work: Returning To The Labor Force after An Absence
T
Most successful re-entrants do three things that contribute to their satisfaction: They determine what they want to do, look to see if that type of work is available in their communities, and do what they need to do to qualify for a job.
by Elka Jones
heresa Green understands the ups and downs of employment. She was promoted quickly and then fired by one employer. For her next employer, she worked only a short time before quitting. She found yet another position, had to leave it for a few weeks, and then returned—only to walk off the job after working in it for 5 years. Green admits to making some mistakes, and her mental illness contributed to a rocky start early in her career. She’s also taken time off to raise her kids. But throughout her changing circumstances, Green has, when ready, reentered the labor force. For the millions of Americans who decide to return to work after any type of absence, there is good news: having an imperfect employment history may not be the problem it once was. “People are more willing to show a resume that’s been through stormy weather,” says Boston career counselor Ed Colozzi. Over the years, he says, he has noticed a positive change in people’s determination to stand up for themselves and their right to balance work with their personal lives. Knowing what to do and what to expect when returning to the labor force can help ease the transition back to work. Keep reading to find out what Green and others have done—and what employment counselors advise—for a successful re-entry. The first part of this article offers tips on how to identify, and prepare for, your ideal job. The second part helps you get set for the workforce. The third part suggests ways to make your dream job a reality without letting your time off interfere with your plans. In sidebars throughout the article, you’ll
find suggestions for some special re-entry situations.
Get ready for re-entry
“It was a scary time,” says Brian Trott of his 9 months without a job. “I was unemployed with no benefits and no income during the worst possible time in the job market.” The experience was a humbling one. “You find yourself just sitting in the coffee shop, reading the paper,” says Trott. “You get to that point where you get very down and depressed.” As Trott discovered, there are challenges to being out of work. But if re-entering the workforce is your goal, make the most of your downtime. The earlier that you invest extra effort in career planning, the better off you’ll be later when you begin the job hunt. Sara Rix, senior policy advisor for AARP (formerly the American Association of Retired Persons) in Washington, DC, says most successful re-entrants do three things that contribute to their satisfaction: They determine what they want to do, look to see if that type of work is available in their communities, and do what they need to do to qualify for a job.
Consider what you want to do
Jobseekers should think about their interests and skills—and how to apply them in a work setting. Employment counselors agree that assessing both what you like to do and what you are able to do is critical to making a good job match. See the resources section at the end of this article for information about self-assessment guides. Employment counselors also suggest that jobseekers look at how the world of work is constructed. Nearly all jobs involve working with some combination of people, data,
E. A. Patten Co.
303 Wetherell Street • Manchester, CT 06040 • Fax resumes to 860-649-6230
At Yamaha, our vision is to: “Be the Leader in Creating a Lifetime of Exciting and Memorable Experiences.” At Yamaha, we are committed to promoting a positive work environment through empowerment, opportunity, education, compensation and recognition.
Yamaha Motor Corporation
6555 Katella Avenue • Cypress, CA 90630
A few things that set us apart as an employer include: • Customer Focus • A Team Environment • Exciting Experiences • Excellence through quality, innovation and performance • Competitive Compensation & Benefits For more information on a career with Yamaha Motor Corporation, visit us online at:
www.yamaha-motor.com
Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. is proud to be an equal opportunity employer
We are a quality manufacturer of tube assemblies and components for the Aerospace Industry, the Military and other high precision industries. For more information visit us at www.eapatten.com. 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 Agricultural Division of Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, L.L.C. is located in Des Moines, Iowa, stands on almost 120 acres and has 1500 employees. Our company offers a competitive benefits package and many development opportunities for our teammates, including an on-site college program, leadership training and technical training. To view current openings or to apply online visit www.firestoneag.com or fax your resume to 515-235-4079. Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, L.L.C. Agricultural Division 4600 N.W. 2nd Avenue | Des Moines, IA 50313 | EOE
January 2014 things, and ideas. Knowing what your preferences are can help you decide which types of work environments are likely to be a better fit. Trott began exploring careers when he got discouraged in his initial job search. With the help of a career coach, Trott started identifying some employment choices. He referred to the Occupational Outlook Handbook for detailed occupational descriptions, which include information on working conditions and employment settings. Studying occupations in detail helped Trott identify several that might be good for him, based on his interests and skills.
equal opportunity employment journal
Page 19
Meet job qualifications
The more you learn about what you want to do and what your local job market offers, the more you should learn about the qualifications needed for the types of positions you want. Consider testing your interests in a “real world” work situation before launching into a fullfledged pursuit of a new career. Volunteering, job shadowing, or similar hands-on opportunities might help you to discover whether a job that seems just right on paper is all wrong in reality. If you determine that you need some training or retraining, employment counselors suggest pausing to make sure that you’re ready to invest the required effort and money. When you’re prepared to commit to training, the next step is to find out how much to get and where to get it. Employers are one source of training; some occupations involve employer-provided training specific to a company or a job. Know what’s out there Community colleges are another possible training Once you know what you want to source. See the resources section at the end of the do, you need to know whether you article for information about community colleges and can find a job doing it. Examine your local job market to see where opportunities exist. In the course of your research, you might find a job you want to apply for. But generally, jobmarket exploration is your chance to learn about possibilities rather than to search for a specific position. Conduct a search using common job-seeking methods, includParker Hannifin - Fluid Control Division is a ing reviewing help-wanted listings, world-wide market leader of solenoid valves researching employers, “cold callthat control motion, flow and pressure. ing,” and networking. By combining several activities, you can gain Parker Hannifin insight into jobs in your community. Fluid Control Division 95 Edgewood Avenue • New Britain, CT 06051 Informational interviewing is a way of combining research techJoin our global workforce of approximately 58,000 niques. Find employers that interest employed in accounting, communications, engineering, you, set up an appointment with human resources, information technology, legal, as many as you can, and then meet manufacturing, marketing, operations and lean, sales, with workers who have jobs that you and supply chain. View and apply at www.parker.com. think you might enjoy. Informational Parker is an Equal Opportunity Employer, M/F/D/V interviews provide an opportunity to ask specific questions about occupations and employers. For example, you might learn about a job’s educational requirements and whether the employer provides training, how Set your course with Ensco, the offshore people typically get started in the driller rated #1 by customers. Discover the occupation, and what’s required to be new high-tech world of offshore drilling, promoted. Trott found informational where our growing fleet and extensive training create limitless opportunities in a interviewing valuable and recomdiverse global organization. mends it for other jobseekers. But, he cautions, remember that arranging “Sea” what your future could hold, at for these interviews usually involves www.enscoplc.com/future/. cold calling—contacting workers or employers who don’t know you— and that cold calling often is unsuccessful. “If I got 2 out of 10 people to talk to me, I was doing really well,” says Trott. “You’ve got to deal with some rejection. It’s not easy, but you have to keep at it.” In addition to helping you learn about occupationsand employers, informational interviews help you to network. And networking, discussed in more detail later, is a crucial tool for scoping out the “hidden” job EOE/M/F/D/V www.enscoplc.com/future/ market.
Sea your future.
Houston • London • Aberdeen • Dubai • Macaé • Singapore • +1 713 789 1400
Schlumberger is the leading oilfield services provider, trusted to deliver superior results and improved E&P performance for oil and gas companies around the world. One of our greatest strengths is the diversity of our workforce, with men and women of many nationalities and backgrounds working together and sharing common objectives. Schlumberger does not have a ‘nationality’ that describes its culture, but operates in a truly global fashion throughout the world. As a company, we encourage fair employment practices worldwide and offer equal opportunities to all our employees. We’re looking for men and women to join our global family in this effort. If you’re ambitious, innovative, and hard working, a Schlumberger career may be for you. Learn more about us at
www.slb.com/careers.
Success without boundaries
Page 20
equal opportunity employment journal pation of dental hygienist seemed a perfect fit. The self-assessment made a difference; Pearson now thoroughly enjoys what she does. “You spend a lot of time at work,” she says, “but if you can find the right job, it’s almost like you’re not working.”
Get set for the workforce
Work defines our identity. It contributes to our self-worth and sense of pride. other training courses and programs, including where to find them. Training varies, depending on the type and complexity of a subject area. Some people might have to take only a class or two. Other people, especially those who are retraining to enter a different occupation, might need to enroll in a lengthy program. Ultimately, only you can decide what’s right for you. When Julie Pearson realized how unhappy she was in her previous job, she stepped off the work path and went to school full time for 2½ years.“I won’t lie: it was hard,” she says. “But I haven’t looked back.” Pearson’s decision to go back to school was an informed one. With the help of a career counselor, she considered what her skills were and what she wanted from a job. Pearson researched careers and concluded that the occu-
Highways and Bridges Ports and Marine Federal/DOD Aviation
careers@wwebber.com 9303 New Trails Dr., Ste. 200 | The Woodlands, TX 77381 | (281) 987-8787 | www.wwebber.com
• Design-Build • Program Management • Construction Management • CM at Risk • Design-Bid-Build #1 Top Texas Transportation Contractor 2010, 2011 & 2012 ENR Texas & Louisiana Webber is EOE Company
For many jobseekers, especially reentrants, getting ready to join the working world can seem daunting. After all, most workers want more than just a paycheck, says Troy Justesen, deputy commissioner of the Rehabilitation Services Administration in Washington, DC. “It’s one of the first questions someone asks when you meet: ‘So what do you do?’” he says. “Work defines our identity. It contributes to our self-worth and sense of pride.” Minimize the stress of looking for work by knowing what to expect. Help prepare yourself by finding out where to get career assistance, being ready to work hard to find a job, and thinking about ways to balance work with life.
Seek help…
When Brian Trott was ready to re-enter the workforce, he didn’t go it alone—he had help in the form of career resources, assessments, and counseling. You, too, can benefit from many types of assistance. A lot of career help is available, and much of it is free. You just need to know where to look. Federally funded One-Stop Career Centers are located throughout the country and offer many free resources for jobseekers. These resources include informational materials, resume-writing seminars, and Internet access for online job seeking. Some people qualify for additional services, such as individualized counseling and job training. There are a variety of other options for employment assistance. Most colleges and universities, for example, provide career counseling services to their alumni as well as to their students. Individuals with some special re-entry situations may have specific sources of help. What is available at a given employ-
Since 1924, PTI Technologies has devoted its energies and knowledge to developing and manufacturing superiorquality filtration solutions and products for industries such as aerospace and industrial fluid power.
January 2014
ment center and what is offered to you may vary, depending on your situation and where you live. In addition to employment centers, look into other options within your community. For example, some religious organizations sponsor seminars or support groups for people who are returning to work. Individualized career guidance is also offered, for a fee, by private employment counselors. To find publicly funded employment centers, check the blue pages of your telephone book; for private employment centers, check the yellow pages. Program offerings, including contact information, also may be available online. See the resources section at the end of the article for more information.
…But take the lead
Employment offices, employment counselors, and community organizations provide valuable assistance to jobseekers. Still, it is important to recognize that these resources have limitations—and the success of your job hunt depends, primarily, on your efforts. “A lot of places offer help, but it’s up to you to take control of your job search,” says Grant Collins, a former welfare coach and current chief of staff for the Office of Family Assistance in Washington, DC. Collins and other counselors stress that the most successful jobseekers are those who are proactive. Trott, for example, didn’t just sit in the coffee shop; he took action that led to results. “I’ve been at my job 11 months now—and I love it!” he says. “I enjoy what I do, but Ispent a lot of time getting here.” Dedicating a great deal of time and effort to a job search is not only recommended, it’s essential. Most employment counselors suggest that people look for work in an organized way, as if the search itself were a full-time job. Begin each morning just as you would if you were going to work: get up early, get dressed, and have breakfast. Then, approach the day’s regimen of job-hunting tasks with the same interest
Check Out The Opportunities at PTI... Please browse our website at www.ptitechnologies.com to see if there is a position available that you would be interested in applying for. You may email, fax, or mail your resume:
PTI Technologies Inc. Attn: Human Resources 501 Del Norte Boulevard Oxnard, California 93030 hremail@ptitechnologies.com Fax 805-604-3772 Equal Opportunity Employer
January 2014
equal opportunity employment journal
and professionalism that an employer would expect. Taking charge and approaching a career search seriously can help you focus on the importance of finding a job. And as Trott and others have discovered, staying focused increases the likelihood that jobseeking efforts pay off.
Balancing work with life
Life isn’t just about work. If you haven’t had a job for a while, though, it might be harder to draw a line between your work and your life. This is because the absence of a job has allowed you to do other things and fulfill other commitments. Managing your life has become your job. In preparing to In preparing to re-enter the workforce, it is important to recognize that balancing re-enter the workforce, life and work involves making tradeoffs. it is important to rec“It’s a matter of figuring out what part ognize that balancing you want a job to play in your life,” says Chris Olson, a counselor at the New Ulm, life and work involves Minnesota, Life-Work Planning Center, making tradeoffs. “It’s which assists homemakers in their return a matter of figuring to work. This is important whether you’re starting over or just sorting things out. out what part you Starting over. For some people, getting want a job to play back to work is part of beginning anew. in your life,” Larry Matthews wanted to make a fresh start of his life when he was released from prison after serving a 7-year sentence. “The hardest part is when you first come out,” says Matthews. “No one accepts you. You need to get back into society.” One of the first things Matthews did toward that effort was to get a job. He credits his success to his decision to stay strong, keep focused, and not look back. “I kept to my plan to get a job and stay out of trouble,” he says. And his determination has helped him to excel at work, get his own place, and be a good role model for his son. Sorting it all out. Knowing how work fits into your life also helps you to define yourself. “It’s important to develop a work identity,” says Suzanne Wagner, research associate of Project Match, a Chicago-based organization that has developed the Pathways Case Management System for State and local welfare agencies. “Everyone develops
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. Alcon attracts and retains highly qualified people - the company’s most important resource. For career opportunities visit:
Page 21
various identities, based on the relationships they have and the roles they play. Often, non-work identities, such as that of a parent, spouse, or significant other, are stronger and take priority. So when there are problems, the work part of a person’s life is the first to go.” Wagner illustrates by citing Sarah, a Pathways participant in New York who was ready to return to work despite being a single mom with many demands on her time. When Sarah first went back to work, says Wagner, she was overwhelmed to the point of being nearly unable to function. But with the help of her Pathways counselors, Sarah was able to create a specific, step-by-step plan each month to address her problems and focus on getting a better job. Sarah separated her personal life from her job-seeking efforts. After she sorted out many of her personal problems, Sarah pursued a longstanding interest by enrolling in an auto mechanics course and getting a part-time job on an assembly line. Sarah and her counselors broke down bigger goals into mini-goals, helping Sarah to see her life as manageable and her goals as achievable. Go land a job! Finding job openings, completing applications, writing resumes and cover letters, and interviewing—the basic steps to getting a job probably sound familiar. But the details of what these steps entail, and how to handle them in light of re-entry, may be less clear. This section provides an overview on the basics of getting a job and is geared toward jobseekers who have been out of work for a while. Jobseekers and employment counselors say it’s important to remember that success will come, but it might take time. Try not to get discouraged as applications or resumes are rejected or go unanswered, as they sometimes will be. Don’t worry about whether your prior employment record, or lack of one, is a hindrance. Instead, throughout the job-seeking process,
ArjoHuntleigh is a leading global provider of medical technology products and solutions.
2349 WEST LAKE STREET • ADDISON, ILLINOIS 60101
www.alcon.com
We are dedicated to increasing the quality and efficiency of care. We serve the needs of acute and long-term care in more than 100 countries worldwide and have great opportunities for ambitious and talented people.
A global healthcare company... The leader in eyecare products
We hire sales representatives, service technicians, engineers, clinical - and product specialists and a wide range of other positions. In total, we employ more than 5,500 people worldwide and growing and our revenues exceed SEK 7.5 bn. ArjoHuntleigh is part of Getinge Group – a leading global med-tech company.
714 COLUMBIA AVENUE • SINKING SPRING, PA 19608
A career with us gives you plenty of professional challenges. You will become part of an international company with a strong corporate culture and with ambitious plans for continued growth.
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.
Please visit our local websites for current vacancies:
www.arjohuntleigh.com
Page 22
equal opportunity employment journal
Jobseekers should spend a significant amount of time networking—talking to people, and then asking those people for names of others to talk to—to learn about any available positions.
1223 SW Washington Street Suite 200 Portland, Oregon 97205 Equal Opportunity Employer
Our practice of sustainable architecture, urban design, landscape architecture and interior design provides opportunities in design, management, marketing, communication arts, accounting, technology and administration. We are always looking for talented individuals. We invite qualified candidates to apply online to post cover letter, resume and professional work samples. For more information visit
www.zgf.com
January 2014
picture yourself doing work you enjoy. As Theresa Green was still training for her new says, “Really, it’s your performance once you start the job career, for example, she got a part-time job in a dental office. that matters—not your past.” That position later turned into The 21st century job search Often, one of the hardest things about getting a job a full-time job after she comis finding one that’s available. Employment counselors pleted her studies in dental suggest conducting a search that uncovers both adver- hygiene. Internships and co-operative tised and unadvertised job openings. Networking. Employers fill the majority of job open- work arrangements are other ings through the unadvertised, or hidden, job market. ways in which people gain Once you realize that almost all job openings are experience and make connecannounced through word of mouth, says career counselor tions. Many employers hire Ed Colozzi, you can adjust your job search accordingly. directly from these programs. They provide another avenue And that can lead to a more productive quest. Jobseekers should spend a significant amount of time net- into the unadvertised job marworking—talking to people, and then asking those people ket. Traditional and contempofor names of others to talk to—to learn about any available rary methods. In addition to positions. In some communities, job clubs provide a way uncovering hidden jobs, search to network. Another way to network that is recommended by for ones that are advertised. employment counselors is to keep active in your desired Help-wanted postings are career field even if you aren’t working in it. Attending everywhere—in storefront association meetings, contributing to a newsletter, vol- windows, on library bulletin unteering, or working part time can help you maintain boards, and in local newspaor expand your group of contacts. While Julie Pearson pers, for example. But some advertisements are misleading, and not all are for legitimate jobs. Be suspicious of ads that promise high earnings in a short time, require a purchase, or charge fees, for example. Traditional media are no longer the only venue for publicizing job vacancies. Deborah Russell, manager of Economic Security and Work at AARP, North Florida Shipyards offers says that people who haven’t North Florida competitive wages and looked for a job in a while comprehensive benefits. Shipyards is a full might notice some differLearn more about us and our service shipyard ences. “The computer age employment opportunities online. specializing in has in many ways changed NFSY does not discriminate in employment job searching,” she says. For ship repairs, opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, example, the Internet can be a conversions, and age, disability, or any other characteristic valuable source of information protected by law. dry dockings. about employers and the types North Florida Shipyards, Inc. of positions that they offer. Jacksonville, FL 32202 And because employers freApply in person: quently use their Web sites or 2060 East Adams Street online job banks to post openJacksonville, FL 32202 ings, jobseekers may want to or call #904-354-3278 x250 investigate these options. Most www.northfloridashipyard.com aspects of looking for jobs remain the same, however.
Powered by people.
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 The key to our success is our people. viewpoints, experiences, and intellectual skills needed People, passion, and progress have made our Company to succeed across our global environment.
Stantec is an Equal Opportunity Employer dedicated to Affirmative Action, Workforce Diversity, and the principles of Employment Equity. If you are an individual with a disability and require accommodation is an Equal Opportunity Employer to complete anyStantec part of the application process, you may contact dedicated our Helpline at 1-855-917-7440 or Action email access@stantec.com. to Affirmative and Workforce Diversity
stantec.com/careers
One Team. Infinite Opportunities.
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.
Powered by people. 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. V1
AD-RA-IRV-2011APR18-P1V1
what it is today, and create the foundation for what it will be tomorrow. We are a strong, dynamic, growingDiversity expresses itself in so many different ways. company with virtually infinite career opportunities. Some examples include gender, race, culture, sexual
Stantec is an Equal Opportunity Employer dedicated to Affirmative Action, Workforce Diversity, and the principles of Employment Equity.
January 2014
equal opportunity employment journal
Page 23
Effective presentation
Employers want to know some important information about you before they invite you for a job interview or offer you a position. In addition to providing your name and contact information, you are asked to describe your experience, skills, and education. You also should expect to supply the names and phone numbers of people who can act as references. Obviously, you want to present your history (both good and bad) to potential employers in the best possible light. Well-crafted applications, resumes, and cover letters help you to do this. And strong references reinforce a solid presentation. Different jobs have different procedures for candidates seeking a job. Some employers require jobseekers to submit an application; other employers require a resume and cover letter. Still others require both. Acing applications. Fitting your background and accomplishments into an application sometimes requires a little creativity, especially if you’re returning to work after a long absence. If you don’t have much paid experience, counselors say that you can give job titles to volunteer work or academic pursuits. For example, current or recent students who have little job history may want to list “student” as a job title and then describe a school project or assignment that relates to the job they’re applying for. Throughout the job-seeking process, however, don’t succumb to dishonesty. If you think employers might have a problem with your past, you can be sure they’ll have a bigger problem with your lying about it. “When you fill out applications, tell the truth,” says Larry Matthews. Matthews acknowledged his criminal record on his job application—and was hired by his current employer the same day. Your reason for leaving a former job might be problematic, but employment counselors say you should address it rather than ignore it. “Leaving sections blank for any reason is often a red flag for employers, so you’ll need to give an explanation,” says Grant Collins of the Office of Family Assistance. Collins and other counselors say it’s a matter of phrasing. Some circumstances, such as stopping employment to raise a family, get a better job, or return to school, are fine to state directly, they say. Other circumstances, particularly those that may be seen as negative, are better if described less specifically. Theresa Green had been promoted quickly and then fired at a time when her performance was affected by then-undiagnosed bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness. While in a manic state, Green impressed her employer, who expedited her promotion. But when she fell into a depressive state—related to the illness and unrelated to the job—Green was unable to perform basic functions at work. She was fired after a couple of months. Now that Green has been diagnosed, she knows that her mental illness was the reason behind her rapid ascent and decline. But because she successfully manages her disorder, she doesn’t want subsequent employers to hold the difficulties of her past against her. On job applications when she began looking for work again, Green was selective but truthful in reporting what happened. “I didn’t come right out and say I was fired,” she says. “When I did have to explain why I left the other job, I simply said that I was promoted really quickly and was unhappy with the increased job responsibilities.” Resumes for re-entry. A resume provides much of the same information as an application, but it allows greater flexibility. This flexibility extends to the ease with which resumes are created on personal computers. Gone are the days when jobseekers could send out multiple copies of the same resume; most employers now expect resumes to be tailored to each advertised vacancy. The one-type-fits-
A functional resume—one that focuses on skills rather than work history—is preferred if you’ve been out of the workforce for a while. all resume is no longer very effective. Employment counselors point out that there are many different resume styles, although some may be more appropriate than others for re-entry situations. The most common styles are functional and chronological. How you decide to structure your resume, counselors say, depends on which style is best for emphasizing your strengths and downplaying your weaknesses. A functional resume—one that focuses on skills rather than work history—is usually preferred if you’ve been out of the workforce for a while. When creating a functional resume, focus on tasks or skills you’re good at, such as budgeting or management, and then build your resume around them. Tailor these skill sets to the job you’re applying for; in other words, find out what types of skills the employer is looking for, and then find concrete examples of when or how you have demonstrated the skills. A brief summary of work history usually follows this skills presentation. When Julie Pearson applied for a job in her new field, she focused on the skills she gained in her previous job. “It became a real-
ly big selling feature,” she says. “You always have some sort of transferable skill, and my old job gave me good communication and computer skills. It showed that I was professional and knew how an office works, and employers were interested in what I could do for their business environment.” Pearson’s resume helped convince herself as well as her employer. “Making the switch wasn’t as hard as I thought,” she says. Within any type of resume, small gaps in employment often can be easily overcome. Brian Trott says that he got around having to mention his unemployment by using years only, instead of including months, when giving the time periods for his former jobs. Cover letters for a callback. Resumes generally require an introduction, and the cover letter serves this purpose. Additionally, a well-written cover letter can help you to stand out from your competition. Use your cover letter to convey the kinds of traits that employers seek in workers, such as competence, professionalism, enthusiasm, and courtesy. You might also call attention to some experience or skill you have that makes you a good choice for
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, Suite 2800, Madison, WI 53718
www.aebs.com • EOE
Providence and Worcester Railroad Company 75 Hammond Street • Worcester, MA 01610 Visit us at
www.pwrr.com *********************************** P&W is a regional freight railroad operating in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut and New York. The Company transports a wide variety of commodities for its customers, including automobiles, construction aggregate, iron and steel products, lumber, chemicals, scrap metals, plastic resins, cement, coal, ethanol, construction and demolition debris, paper products, processed foods and edible food stuffs, such as frozen foods and corn syrup.
P&W IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.
Page 24
equal opportunity employment journal the job. As you did in completing applications and writing your resume, take the time necessary to ensure that your cover letter is neat and accurate. A sloppy, error-filled letter isn’t likely to convince an employer that you would do a good job. Employment counselors say that the cover letter might also be a good place for re-entrants to explain any noteworthy gaps in job history that employers might otherwise view with suspicion. But counselors stress that jobseekers should keep this explanation short and not mention any unnecessary negatives. Keep the focus on your abilities and the reasons why you’d be an ideal person to hire.
Jobseekers should spend a significant amount of time networking—talking to people, and then asking those people for names of others to talk to—to learn about any available positions.
G4S Technology (formerly Adesta) is a systems integrator that brings innovative, flexible and cost efficient thinking to the design, construction and maintenance of stand-alone or integrated communication networks and electronic security systems. G4S Technology offers an attractive, competitive compensation plan, a comprehensive Benefits Package, and significant opportunity for professional growth and advancement. G4S Technology is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Visit us online for more information.
www.g4stechnology.com 1200 Landmark Center, Suite 1300 Omaha, NE 68102
Securing Your World
January 2014
approach.“Volunteering shows that you are able to get somewhere on time and be there on a regular basis,” says Suzanne Wagner of Project Match, “and this is what employers are looking for.” To identify possible references, think about people you’ve come in contact with who might be able to convey to employers that you are dependable and hardworking. For example, recent graduates Work references for the jobless At some point in the job search, you will likely be might want to ask a former asked for the names and contact information of several instructor, coach, or mentor to people who can vouch for your character and work ethic. serve as a reference. It’s a good idea to think about these references before The job interview you’re asked for them. As a courtesy, you should also Most employers want to meet inform people before you use them as references and applicants before deciding explain that potential employers might be contacting whether to hire them. Making a them to discuss you. If possible, employment counselors good impression when you’re say, try and reconnect with people you used to work face to face with an employwith. Green says that she has asked former employers to er is the next step in getting be references for her, and all—even the one who fired back to work. Preparing for her—were willing to help. this meeting is one of the best If you haven’t had a job recently, there are other ways to ensure success. options. Green isn’t currently employed, opting instead Prepare and rehearse. It is to volunteer for a nonprofit organization. And although important, employment counshe says she would be able to get a recommendation selors say, to do your homefrom her last employer, she doesn’t plan on using old work and know something references when she is ready to go back to work. “I am about the job before going active in my volunteer work for the nonprofit, on the into the interview. Employers PTA and PTO boards, and at church,” she says. “So now want to know how well your I’d probably use recommendations from these activities.” skills and abilities match Employment counselors agree with this those required for the position they’re looking to fill. So, the more you know about what they want, the easier it will be to demonstrate that you’re a good fit. Finding out about the job should include finding out about the company, suggests Francina Carter, correctional program specialist for the National Institute of Corrections in Washington, DC. “If you have time, do some research,” she says. “Find out what the company does or what it makes.” Researching Established in 1899, Electric Boat has the company enables you to established standards of excellence in the better explain to employers design, construction and lifecycle support why you want to do the job, she adds. Many public librarof submarines for the U.S. Navy. ies have reference materials available, and most companies • GREAT PAY • MEDICAL / DENTAL provide general information • PAID VACATION • 401k PLAN about themselves on their Web • PAID SICK DAYS • WILLING TO TRAIN sites.Brian Trott agrees that research is important. When he finally got a job, he says, To complete an application, please visit: it was largely due to the work he put in upfront. “I went in to my interview with a file full Employment Office: 401-268-2400 of research on the company, and they were, like, ‘Wow!’” he says. U.S. citizenship required/Equal Opportunity/ Employment counselors also Affirmative Action Employer say that practicing for an interview really helps. This practice
www.gdeb.com/careers
January 2014
equal opportunity employment journal
includes thinking about how you will answer some of the questions you are likely to be asked. It also includes doing mock interviews or rehearsing your answers aloud. In addition, consider the interview itself as practice: you may not get the first (or second or third or more) job you interview for, but each interview gives you an opportunity to get better at presenting yourself to employers. Evaluate your performance after each unsuccessful interview—contact the employer, if you can—to find ways to improve for the next time. Re-entrants should also realize that some techniques may have changed since they last interviewed for a job. “An interview is no longer just to tell your story,” says AARP’s Deborah Russell. “Employers want to know who you are, how your skills fit, and how you will handle yourself.” Russell explains by describing the behavioral interview, a common technique in which interviewers propose a hypothetical situation and ask how an applicant would react. The scenario might be intended to reveal your approach to having multiple deadlines to meet or the role you would take when working in a group.Overall, you want the employer to come away from the interview with a clear understanding of why you would be a valuable employee. To convey this, discuss what you’re offering and why you’re the best person for the position. In other words, show self-confidence. “I had to believe in myself,” says Trott. Time off, not wasted time. When preparing for an interview, you should also think about what to say about your time spent not working. Addressing employment gaps yourself, instead of letting the interviewer raise them, gives you a chance to head off any misconceptions an employer might have about your work history. Employment counselors suggest that you not lead with an explanation of your time off, but rather embed it within discussions about your experiences or accomplishments. It’s perfectly OK to stand up for yourself and your decisions when talking about why you stopped working, say counselors. And, they add, if not all of your choices were wise ones, it’s often a good idea to acknowledge this. Then move on to talking about improvements you’ve made and things you’ve accomplished. “If you’re talking to employers and explaining a gap in your resume, it may be for raising a family, or traveling to Europe for a year,” says Troy Justesen of the Rehabilitation Services Administration. “If there are other reasons, be clear, but stress, ‘It will have no bearing on my ability from this point forward.’” Difficult or illegal questions. Personal questions that don’t have anything to do with your ability to do a job, such as questions about your age, marital status, or disability, are often illegal. However, employment counselors say that employers sometimes don’t know the law. So, if you’re asked illegal personal questions during interviews, you should probably assume that the employers don’t have bad intentions. “If they did, you wouldn’t want to work for them anyway,” says Linda Batiste, a consultant at the Job Accommodation Network in Morgantown, West Virginia. Employment counselors say that it’s usually best not to respond “That’s illegal!” when asked an inappropriate question; such a reply would reduce your chances of getting the job. Batiste says that some people find a way of addressing the question, while others brush over it and use the opportunity to provide supplemental information. “Each individual should respond in the way he or she is most comfortable with,” she says. But no matter how you choose to handle difficult questions, try to respond in a way that redirects the conversation toward your skills and abilities as they relate to the job. Interview day. On the big day, remember to gravitate toward the positive. If you’ve made it to the interview, it means the employer likes what you have to offer. Your preparation has given you an added advantage. Stay positive, keep focused, and try to relax. Follow up the interview with a thank-you letter, which provides another opportunity to highlight why you would be a good choice for the position. Continue the job hunt while waiting to hear back, and you’re well on your way toward re-employment.
Page 25
Getting back to work may take awhile, even if you do everything right. But try not to get discouraged. “Success may not come on the first try, but it will come.”
experience. “It may not be your dream job,” says Francina Carter of the National Institute of Corrections, “but it can lead to a better one.” Take Larry Matthews, for example. When he was first released from prison, Matthews took a job in food services. After 2 weeks, he was promoted to a warehouse position; after another month, he became a supervisor. “Now, I run the place,” says Matthews. One-Stop Career Centers have employment counselors who may be able to help you examine what you’ve been doing and suggest modifications to your plan. Private employment counselors can help in this way, too. Supportive discussion groups can also be helpful. “If people have been out of work a long time,” says Chris Olson of the Life-Work Planning Center, “it’s important for them to find out that what they’re going through is normal, that they’re not alone.” Matthews agrees. “You can’t let your self-esteem get low,” he says. “Get together with others who are going through the same thing, and start talking about it.” Words of experience. Brian Trott offers encouragement for jobseekers who might feel discouraged, as he once did. “Keep going, because it will come together,” he says. “It’s a generic thing to say, but it’s true.” Larry Matthews offers similar advice. “Be strong and keep your head up,” he says. “Have faith.” Your options are more numerous than you might think, adds Julie Pearson: “You’d be surprised at what you can swing. I never would’ve thought I could do it.” Your journey to re-entry will give you personal insight and job-search knowledge that will remain a valuable tool as you manage your future career and the changes it may bring. “Now that I’m not working again, it will be me deciding what I want to do when I’m ready to get a job,” says Theresa Green. “And I look forward to that challenge.” Article the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Visit http://www.bls.gov/ for more information.
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.” - Joseph E. Gallo CEO
Putting it all together
Getting back to work may take awhile, even if you do everything right. But try not to get discouraged. “Know that there is something out there for you,” says career counselor Ed Colozzi. “Success may not come on the first try, but it will come.” Counselors say that sometimes, if people are having trouble, they may need to re-evaluate their expectations and desires. Instead of seeking to enter a new career at the same level you were in your previous field, for example, you might consider seeking an entry-level position to gain
Gallo. Be part of it all. Gallo.com/careers/CareersatGallo.html
©2010, Ernest & Julio Gallo Winery, Modesto, CA. All rights reserved.
Page 26
In
equal opportunity employment journal
January 2014
Online Education for Healthcare Professionals
the fast-changing world of medical professionals, ongoing development is necessary to remain competitive. In many cases, these programs are mandatory. Even in situations where continuing education is not strictly required, continuing your education can give you a professional edge and keep you on top of your career goals. Although continuing development courses are valuable for many reasons, they can also be difficult for busy professionals to pursue. Medical careers are already time-intensive, and attempting to balance work with life and education can be very stressful. Fortunately, there are solutions that can reduce the stress and time commitment associated with continued education. Online classes have swiftly gained in popularity over the past few years. As advancements in Internet technology improve, online courses have become more sophisticated. Today, online education is a viable option for many students. Although it may not be the best choice for everyone, it might be right for you. Only by carefully weighing the pros and cons can you decide whether online continuing education will suit your needs.
How Online Education Works
by T.L. Bodine
As long as you take the time to identify a good program for your continuing education, you should be able to reap the benefits of a high-quality education without investing the time commitment required by traditional in-person classes.
Online classes are structured in much the same way as their classroom counterparts. Each class will have a professor who develops the curriculum and oversees the work done in the class. This professor can be contacted with any questions or concerns you may have throughout the duration of the course. Specific coursework varies depending on the type of class being taken, but it will generally consist of quizzes and tests combined with written projects. The material you cover may be presented in a purely written format, or you may watch or listen to multimedia lectures about the topic. Some online courses also encourage interaction between students by offering discussion forums, messaging systems or chat rooms to facilitate class discussion. Some online courses do require an in-person component as well to achieve completion. For example, it’s possible to obtain a nursing degree online by completing practical rotations at a local hospital. Online colleges partner with the community to provide these opportunities even in areas where in-person programs are not available.
as that offered in person. One study completed by the University of Australia suggests that online learning is actually more effective in many cases than traditional classroom education. The study advocates a blended approach whenever possible to maximize the benefits of each type of learning, but it does highlight many of the advantages of online classes: high information retention, ability to balance school with life, and easy access to learning tools over the Internet. As long as you take the time to identify a good program for your continuing education, you should be able to reap the benefits of a high-quality education without investing the time commitment required by traditional in-person classes.
Weighing the Pros and Cons of Online Education
Although online classes have many valuable benefits, there are also a few important drawbacks to consider. Here are some of the pros and cons of online education as opposed to the traditional classroom setting. Depending on your individual needs, you may be better suited to one form Is Online Education High Quality? For years, online college was looked down upon by many people as an over the other. inferior education option. To some extent, this reputation was earned. Pros of Online Classes: Some online colleges have a reputation for charging a high amount for — Coursework can be completed at any time of day to suit the stua degree or certification that is essentially useless. These schools would dent’s schedule. This makes it much more flexible than a traditional place little value in their students and offer poor curriculum, leaving the classroom setting, which would require a set time commitment each student poorer but with little else to show for it. week. This is the primary reason why online classes are so popular Fortunately, those colleges are now the minority. Most online schools among working professionals. are held to very high academic standards, and many well-qualified profes— Classes are largely self-paced, which caters well to students who sors have moved to online teaching for a variety of reasons. This means are self-motivated and driven. You don’t need to linger unnecesthat it’s possible to take a class online of the same or even higher value sarily on material that you understand just because a classmate is
January 2014
equal opportunity employment journal
struggling with it, and you can go over complex material several times to ensure understanding. — Classes are taken from the comfort of your home, which allows you to study while attending to household and family duties. Additionally, you save time and money on gas by taking classes at home rather than commuting to an in-person college. — Online education is often less expensive than in-person tuition, and you save additional money on transportation and food costs. — Classes are structured around the students and their needs, and you will often have more freedom to interact with fellow students about your course material.
Page 27
strength is working together.
Cons of Online Classes:
— There is less social interaction between students and the professor, and there may be fewer professional networking opportunities arising from the classes. — There is less opportunity for personal one-onone assistance from your professor. You can request clarification over email if something in class confuses you, but overall you will get less feedback than you would in person. — Students with older model computers or poor Internet connections may have difficulty completing classes, and they may need to calculate the expense of a new computer into their total education costs.
All of us at Stamford Hospital share a passionate pursuit of excellence in patient-centered care as evidenced by our recent achievement of becoming a Planetree-Designated® Patient-Centered Hospital. We recognize that only by working together, finding common ground, and celebrating our differences can we truly do our best to help our patients heal.
See for yourself by viewing our nursing video
www.maddash.net/mvp/stamford/nursing then come join us.
Staff Nurses Operating Room (OR) Cardiovascular (CVOR) Emergency (ED) Open Heart Stepdown Intensive Care (ICU) Qualified candidates for all positions will be CT-licensed RNs with ASN (BSN preferred), a minimum of 2 years of current related experience, and BLS certification. Specialty certification preferred. Ideal candidates will also be exceptional communicators at all levels – patients, families, unit staff, physicians, and other healthcare workers. Additionally, CVOR nurses MUST possess 2 years of open heart experience.
Technicians Surgical Qualified candidates will be graduates of an accredited program, and possess at least 2 years of experience as a Surgical Tech. Must be able to scrub and circulate. BLS certification required; CST certification preferred.
Emergency (ED) Qualified candidates will possess a high school diploma or equivalent, and EMT-B certification or 5+ years of experience as an ED Tech, preferably in a hospital setting.
Online learning is better designed for students who learn well through memorization and quizzing than those who might require a more hands-on approach. Online learning is better designed for students who learn well through memorization and quizzing than those who might require a more handson approach. This means that some students genuinely thrive in an online environment while others may struggle more. Your individual learning style will determine whether you’ll be well-suited to online classes. Ultimately, the decision about your education and future is in your hands. With so many options available today, opportunities exist that were not available just a few years ago. Learning as much as you can about these opportunities can lead you to discover the best fit for your needs as you strive to maintain excellence and expertise in your field. T.L. Bodine provides content for constantcontent.com
Medical Qualified candidates will possess a Bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology or related field; at least 2 years of experience as a Medical Tech; and ASCP registry or registry eligible, or equivalent registry (AMT, NCA, or CLS).
To attract and retain key talent, we provide a total rewards package: $10,000-$15,000 sign-on bonus for select positions • Competitive salary • Benefits day one – medical, pharmacy, dental, and vision • Wellness programs • 26 PTO days • Hospital-matching pension plan (403b) • Tuition reimbursement • Professional clinical ladder • High acuity care and level of autonomy • Strong shared governance • Award winning on-boarding and retention program • Free parking • Free train station shuttle • Concierge service • Subsidized cafeteria • Child care partnership with Bright Horizons
Stamford Hospital is proud to support a diverse culture and an environment of inclusiveness where everyone, including members of underrepresented groups can flourish. To learn more, please call Sarah Devine, RN, Nurse Recruitment and Retention Manager, at 203.276.7827 or forward your resume to: sdevine@stamhealth.org. Visit us at: StamfordHospital.org.
EOE M/F/D/V
Page 28
equal opportunity employment journal
January 2014
Stay Motivated At Work: How to Keep Your Energy Going by Taking Small Breaks
RECR91B
Spartanburg, South Carolina
by Long Yun Siang
No
big hairy goals how to stay motivated at work tips in this article. Instead I am going to share how you can keep your energy going and hence increase your motivation. No one can motivate you except yourself. So, if you expect this article to solve your problems, it won’t. What it will give you though are tips on how to stay motivated by doing some simple things. While you take care of these simple things, you have fewer burdens on your mind. Leaving you more productive and hence, more energy to deal with bigger issues that are bothering you at a later time—like after work. Let’s look at how you can stay motivated at work:
A job that matters at Spartanburg Regional
1. Ten Minutes For Every 50 Minutes Of Work
You entered health care to make a difference.
For me, what works is taking a quick 10 minute break for every 50 minutes of work. Even machines needs rest once in a while. After some time knocking away at the computer or whatever else you do at work, you can get tired or feel monotonous. That’s when you need to take that small 10 minutes break. I find these breaks extremely useful and have been doing it for years.
Spartanburg Regional offers a cutting-edge, team environment where you can do just that. Having achieved top honors—including the Magnet award for
2. What Can You Do In 10 Minutes?
nursing excellence—we make it a priority to remain
How do you occupy the 10 minutes break you have? There are various things you can do to stay motivated at work. Here are some suggestions which have worked for me. You are free to explore, experiment and change it. The key is to stay discipline and stick to the 10 minutes, otherwise you end up wasting time.
on the forefront of health care. And, 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.
3. Look At What You Have Completed
One quick way to stay motivated at work is to look at what you have completed after working for quite a while and you are getting tired. Ticking off the to-do list is a good way to show you how much you have completed. That is one way that can keep you going.
Consider joining our team, and make a difference forLife Areas of availability: • Women’s & Children’s Care
4. Read Something Interesting
Try reading some interesting articles. Something motivating, perhaps. It works and don’t be embarrassed to do it. I know of people who are shy to reveal they read motivational books. There is nothing wrong in that. Just because it doesn’t work for them does not mean you cannot do it. The important thing is do not get distracted. This can make you stay motivated at work.
• Gibbs Cancer Center • Heart Center • Surgical Care
5. Take A Walk To The Pantry
• Emergency Center
Walk to the pantry to make a cup of coffee, or even to rinse your cup. The walk stretches you and a quick chat – again do not get distracted – is a good diversion from some boring proposals you maybe doing. I used to walk out of my room to joke around with my department staff. Now, that was acceptable in my company’s culture. It may not fit yours. It provided a break for everyone and we feel refreshed after some good laughs.
• Regional Hospice • Home Health
6. Clear Your Table
For more information or to apply, please call a hospital recruiter at 800-288-7762 or visit spartanburgregional.com.
You will be surprised with this one. I know it is symptomatic relieve. If you are already unmotivated to work, your table is likely messy or it can be a little more organized. Clear your table and see how it can clear your mind at least for that period. The cleared table will make you want to do a little more. Again, deep issues with motivation need other solutions. This just provides the slightly better environment. Do some of these simple tasks and take small undistracted breaks at work. It works wonders to stay motivated at work. EOE
Long Yun Siang or Long, as he is popularly known runs http://career-success-for-newbies.com with his wife Dorena as their way of paying it forward. Their website, provides tips, tools and advise for newbies pursuing career success.
January 2014
equal opportunity employment journal
Page 29
A Challenging Nursing Career:
Caring for Patients with Mental Disorders
Be
by Nichewriter
ing a nurse is tough. The profession requires an extraordinary level of commitment, compassion, and versatility. Oftentimes, the responsibilities of a nurse can become exhausting not only in the physical sense but emotionally and mentally as well. One of the biggest challenges you have to face if you’re a nurse is the fact that you’ll be exposed to all sorts of situations and you’ll be providing care for many different types of patients. For instance, if you land a nursing job in mental health, you will often have to care for patients who are mentally incapable of functioning normally and who will need more than the usual patience and assistance.
Nursing Responsibilities in Mental Health
Although the expectation may be a little bit more, the basic duties of nurses in a mental health institution are pretty much the same as in any other environment. Here are some of the task assignments you can expect to have:
1. Gathering information about the patients.
If you have been placed in charge of a new patient, the first thing you should do is collect all the relevant information regarding them, including their vital information, family background, and medical history. You may also need to interview family members regarding the patient‘s recent behaviors and lifestyle.
2. Making an initial diagnosis.
While it is certainly the doctor’s job to give the final diagnosis, nurses are sometimes expected to be able to figure out the causes of certain illnesses, as well as to administer first-aid treatment when necessary.
3. Monitoring the progress of a patient.
It is the nurse’s responsibility to keep track of all developments in a patient’s condition and to notify the doctor of these developments. The nurse should also make sure the patient takes all the necessary medications and does all the required procedures in order to facilitate faster healing and recovery.
4. Interpreting and evaluating results.
Nurses should be able to accurately interpret and evaluate results of a patient’s treatment and determine whether the treatment has been successful or not. They should also be capable of making the necessary adjustments should the treatment prove inadequate or ineffective. Working as a nurse in a mental health institution is undoubtedly more challenging because most patients will be unable to respond normally to routine procedures. Some might be very uncooperative while others can even be downright violent. However, despite these difficulties, many mental health nurses also say that working with
While it is certainly the doctor’s job to give the final diagnosis, nurses are sometimes expected to be able to figure out the causes of certain illnesses, as well as to administer first-aid treatment when necessary. mentally challenged individuals is also more rewarding, especially when they are able to witness the complete healing of a person. On another note, nursing jobs in mental health also generally pay more than ordinary nursing jobs, so this is another factor that may attract you to this field. You do have to be able to exercise a lot of patience if you want to have a nursing job in mental health. It will also help if you truly love what you do because this is the most important factor that will make you last long in your career and help you become a successful and well-liked nurse in the mental health niche. Nichewriter provides content for constantcontent.com
Lakeview Hospital is a five-time Top 100 Hospitals award winner. We offer market competitive pay and benefits, and an award winning team to work with. For more information visit us at www.lakeviewhealth.org. 927 Churchill Street West Stillwater, MN 55082 Email hr@lakeview.org • EOE/AA
Discover an Equal Opportunity Employer
offering unequaled career opportunities As New Jersey’s largest and busiest medical center, Hackensack University Medical Center offers you unrivaled career paths alongside the industry’s most talented and dedicated professionals. Whether you’re experienced or just starting your career, you’ll be given every opportunity to reach your fullest potential within our dynamic culture of constant learning, growth and advancement. There’s a reason we are:
• A 4-TIME MAGNET AWARD WINNER • ONE OF “AMERICA’S 50 BEST HOSPITALS” BY HEALTHGRADES FOR 7 YEARS RUNNING • A J.D. POWER AND ASSOCIATES DISTINGUISHED HOSPITAL PROGRAM • ONE OF THE FASTEST GROWING HOSPITALS IN THE NATION Learn more and apply at www.humccareers.com. We are an equal opportunity employer offering a smoke-free environment.
Expert Care, Close To Home. At MedCentral, the largest health system between Cleveland and Columbus, we know that you don’t have to live or work in a major metropolitan area to deliver comprehensive health care. We’re dedicated to making a real difference in the lives of people across the communities we serve — and starting today, we’re making a difference in yours.
Healthcare Professionals Full- and Part-Time For complete job descriptions and to apply online, visit www.MedCentral.org. EOE
EOE
www.medcentral.org
Page 30
equal opportunity employment journal
January 2014
Becoming a Medical Assistant
W
by Jon Mark
Port Huron Hospital, established in 1882 is a not-for-profit hospital with a proven commitment to education and quality patient care. Port Huron Hospital provides a full spectrum of inpatient and outpatient healthcare services to residents in St. Clair and Sanilac Counties. Learn more about us and our employment opportunities at: www.porthuronhospital.org EEO/AA Employer
ithout there being too much effort towards an investigation, it is very clear that the health care industry is one of the most sought after for employment opportunities. The benefits are the assurance of log term employment, a stable career and great pay. This applies to any position in the industry including that of a medical assistant. Many feel there is a stigma attached to being an assistant due to the cliché that it is a temporary position on the way toward reaching the status of a physician however, this is not the case in the health care industry. A position as a medical assistant puts the person right in the center of a environment that is full of challenges and opportunity. They types of benefits all depend on that person’s field of focus. Because these positions are becoming more specialized, the assistant can do administrative or clinical work for a physician with a private practice, a free standing emergency center, or in a medical partnership. Once more, this also depends on the practice of interest such as pediatrics, surgery, psychiatry and more. Here is an overview of what to expect.
Educational Requirements Port Huron Hospital is an EEO/AA Employer.
opportunity connected Hiring RNs & Allied Health Professionals Join Colorado’s largest, integrated health system with a faith-based, non-profit mission of care. With 13 hospitals, home care, hospice services, physician clinics and seven senior living communities, we have locations everywhere you want to work, live and play in this great state!
careers.centura.org EOE
For Rewarding Careers in Health Care . . .
For some areas the minimum requirements for this position are at least for a GED but an associates degree is taking its place as the new minimum standard that is administered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). This was a necessary step to not only rid the industry of malpractice but to also standardize the profession where medical assistants would learn at the same level with learning physicians. This in turn helps to make the role more efficient. For those who are already active in the profession, the learning process is designed around modules where each student learns for what they need. This saves time on relearning and keeps their skill set up to date. New students also benefit from the module learning, but will have to learn the basics such as: Computer Literacy Emergency First Aid Basic Medical Law and Ethics Documentation Cardio resuscitation
Join the UT Medical Group team. We are a widely recognized health care organization with exciting opportunities for qualified, caring professionals. We strive to keep our working environment pleasant and salary and benefits competitive. If you are looking for a rewarding career in health care, visit our career site to submit a resume for consideration and learn more about UT Medical Group.
UT Medical Group, Inc. Human Resources 1407 Union Avenue, Suite 100 Memphis, Tennessee 38104 https://www.utmg-careers.com
Responsibilities
The responsibilities are similar except that the physician tends to more direct procedures such as surgery and the direct diagnosis of the patient. The medical assistant is supervised and handle the pre-evaluation process with the patient before they are seen by a doctor. This also varies from one facility to another due to the type of practice and they physician’s working habits. If the office is small then the clinical and administrative duties might be handled and directed by the one medical assistant. This also depends on the degree and how it applies to that environment. Some assistants will perform duties in a lab or operating room environment. The majority of their duties will require direct contact with the patient, so if this is the profession of choice than the student should expect to interact with the patients. When there are many patients to see, it helps the physician diagnose and help more people quickly if the patient is prepared by the assistant before they are seen. In many cases, what might have at first been considered a critical issue might easily be resolved by the assistant and this helps the doctor with assigning priorities. Team work is also very important, there will be responsibilities processing insurance, payments, patient forms and files, using MRI/X-ray machines, preparing rooms, organizing stations, handling prescriptions and over all covering the physician when they are away.
Conclusion Brooke Glen Behavioral Hospital is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a corporate culture which promotes integrity as a fundamental basis for all decisions by its employees and those with whom the company deals. To find out about employee opportunities, please visit:
www.brookeglenhospital.com Brooke Glen Behavioral Hospital 7170 Lafayette Avenue • Fort Washington, PA 19034
With new technology, medicines, discoveries and current health care reform the environment is constantly changing. This makes the position for more valuable than it has ever been and those students to decide to pursue it find it to be extremely satisfying and beneficial career move. Jon Mark provides content for constantcontent.com
January 2014
equal opportunity employment journal
Page 31
The Job of Rehabilitation Counselors
R
ehabilitation counselors help people with emotional and physical disabilities live independently. They work with clients to overcome personal, social, and professional effects of disabilities as they relate to employment or independent living.
Duties
Rehabilitation counselors typically do the following: • Provide individual and group counseling to help clients adjust to their disability • Evaluate clients’ abilities, interests, experience, skills, health, and education • Develop a treatment plan in consultation with other professionals, such as doctors, mental health counselors, and psychologists • Create treatment plans based on clients’ values, strengths, limitations, and goals • Arrange for clients to get service, such as medical care or career training • Help employers understand the needs and abilities of disabled people • Assist clients in creating strategies to develop their strengths and overcome their limitations • Locate resources, such as wheelchairs or computer programs, that help clients live and work more independently • Monitor clients’ progress and adjust the treatment plan as necessary • Advocate for the rights of people with disabilities to live in the community and work in the job of their choice Rehabilitation counselors help people with physical, mental, emotional, or social disabilities at various stages in their lives. Some work with students to develop strategies to live with their disability and to move from school to work. Others help veterans cope with the mental or physical effects of their military service. Still others help elderly people adapt to disabilities developed later in life due to illness or injury. Because rehabilitation counselors deal with employment issues, they typically work with older students and adults rather than young children. Some rehabilitation counselors work in private practice. These counselors must spend time marketing their practice to prospective clients and working with insurance companies and clients to get paid for their services. Rehabilitation counselors held about 129,800 jobs in 2010. They work in a variety of settings, such as colleges, elementary and secondary
VA Northern California Health Care System (VANCHCS) is an integrated health care delivery system, offering a comprehensive array of medical, surgical, rehabilitative, mental health and extended care to veterans in Northern California. Join our outstanding team of diverse professionals with the resources, training and expertise necessary to provide America’s heroes with the highest quality of health care services available. We offer a variety of employment opportunities in our state-of-the-art health care facilities located throughout Northern California. In addition to an outstanding pay and benefits package we offer an opportunity to work in a dynamic, exciting and highly regarded organization. For more information on current open positions at VANCHCS visit: www.northerncalifornia.va.gov
Mercy Medical Center is a general acute care hospital serving the health care needs of the greater Merced Community. Our vision is to help the people of our community become physically, emotionally and spiritually healthy. Wherever you work throughout our system, you will find faces of experience with dedication to high quality, personalized care. Joining our 1,300 employees, 230 physicians and many volunteers, you can help carry out our commitment to providing our community with the excellence they have come to associate with Mercy Medical Center. Learn more about us and our career opportunities online or contact the Human Resources Dept. at 209-564-4340.
www.mercymercedcares.org
WE ENCOURAGE QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WITH DISABILITIES TO APPLY The United States Government does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, disability and genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, or other non-merit factor. VA Northern California Health Care System | 10535 Hospital Way | Mather, CA 95655
333 Mercy Avenue • Merced, CA 95340
We voluntarily support the practice of affirmative action in the recruitment, selection, and advancement of qualified women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans.
Page 32
equal opportunity employment journal
January 2014
field. Most master’s programs in rehabilitation counseling accept a bachelor’s degree in almost any field to enter. These programs focus on evaluating clients’ needs, and implementing job placement strategies, and providing mental health counseling. They typically require a period of supervised experience, such as an internship. Some employers hire workers with a bachelor’s degree in rehabilitation and disability studies. Generally, these workers cannot offer the full range of services that a rehabilitation counselor with a master’s degree can provide. Bachelor’s degree programs teach students about issues that Work Schedules people with disabilities face and about the Some rehabilitation counselors work part process of providing rehabilitation services. time, but most work full time. schools, prisons, and independent-living facilities. They also work in private practice and in state, private, and nonprofit rehabilitation agencies. The following industries employed the most rehabilitation counselors: • Vocational rehabilitation services 30% • Nursing and residential care facilities 15% • State government, excluding education and hospitals 15% • Individual and family services 14% • Local government, excluding education and hospitals 6%
Licenses
How to Become a Rehabilitation Counselor
To help people learn new skills, rehabilitation counselors must have patience as clients struggle to learn about and address the impact of their disabilities.
Most employers require rehabilitation counselors to have a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling or a related field. Most often, rehabilitation counselors must have a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling or a related field. Some positions require certification or a license.
Education
Most employers require a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling or a related Oscar G. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center is located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The organization provides primary care at the VA Medical Center in Iron Mountain, as well as at six outpatient clinics.
At Oscar G. Johnson VA Medical Center, we strive to hire only the best! Working with and for America’s veterans is a privilege, and we pride ourselves on the quality of care we provide. If you have what it takes, please consider applying for one of our available positions.
Mercy Hospital
Mercy Hospital
Memorial Hospital
2215 Truxtun Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93301
400 Old River Rd, Bakersfield, CA 93311
420 34th Street, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Some employers prefer to hire licensed rehabilitation counselors, but a license may not be necessary in many settings. However, it is required to work in private practice. Licensure requires a master’s degree and 2,000 to 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience. In addition, counselors must pass a state-recognized exam and complete annual continuing education credits. Contact information for state regulating boards is available through the National Board of Certified Counselors. Human Resources Management Service Oscar G. Johnson VA Medical Center 325 East H Street Iron Mountain, MI 49801 Phone: 906-774-3300 ext.32281
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.
For more information visit:
Mercy & Memorial Hospitals offer a broad range of services so that the care you or someone you love may need is never far from home. At our family of hospitals you have all the challenge and growth you need in order to drive your career. It’s the collaborative spirit of the people and the long-standing culture of growth. Our outstanding compensation and benefits programs are designed to foster career satisfaction, as well as the well being of you and your family. Apply Today!
www.choosemercymemorial.org
www.usajobs.gov • www.va.gov www.ironmountain.va.gov
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
January 2014 Certification
equal opportunity employment journal
Page 33
clients, families, employers, or other professionals. They must be able to develop a good working relationship. Speaking skills. Rehabilitation counselors need to be able to communicate with clients effectively, expressing ideas and information in a way that is easily understood.
Some employers prefer rehabilitation counselors who are Certified Rehabilitation Counselors (CRC). Applicants must meet advanced education, work experience, and clinical supervision requirements, and pass a test. Once certified, counselors must complete continuing education require- Pay ments. For more information, contact The median annual wage of rehabilithe Commission on Rehabilitation tation counselors was $32,350 in May Counselor Certification. 2010. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupaImportant Qualities Compassion. Counselors often work tion earned more than that amount and with people who are dealing with stress- half earned less. The lowest 10 percent ful and difficult situations, so they must earned less than $20,770 and the top 10 be compassionate and empathize with percent earned more than $56,720. In May 2010, the median annual wages their clients. of rehabilitation counselors in the top Listening skills. Good listening skills are essential for rehabilitation counsel- employing industries were as follows: • State government, excluding educaors, who need to give their full attention tion and hospitals $42,930 to clients in order to understand their • Local government, excluding educaproblems, concerns, and values. tion and hospitals $38,790 Patience. To help people learn new • Individual and family services skills and strategies, rehabilitation coun$30,310 selors must have patience as clients • V ocational rehabilitation services struggle to learn about and address the $29,100 impact of their disabilities. • N ursing and residential care facilities People skills. Being able to work with $28,110 different types of people is essential for rehabilitation counselors, who spend Article the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Visit http://www. most of their time working directly with bls.gov/ for more information.
Being able to work with different types of people is essential for rehabilitation counselors, who spend most of their time working directly with clients, families, employers, or other professionals.
At the St. Cloud VA Health Care System, we strive to hire only the best! We are proud to serve America’s Veterans with the best health care available today. Join our team by viewing and applying for one of our administrative and clinical positions. Available clinical positions include Director, Primary and Specialty Medicine (Internal Medicine), Psychiatrist, and Nurse Practitioners.
www.usajobs.gov St. Cloud VA Health Care System 4801 Veterans Drive Saint Cloud, MN 56303
VA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and an Affirmative Employment employer.
Brighter facilities. Leaders who shine.
Are you ready to make a difference in the lives of your patients and work autonomously in a fast-paced, fulfilling environment?
CAREERS
Join DaVita in our mission to be the provider, partner
http://careers.davita.com
and employer of choice. We are a FORTUNE® 500 company and GI Jobs Top 100 Military Friendly Employers— 2013 winner of The Freedom Award and The Patriot Award. Visit careers.davita.com to learn more and apply.
DaVita is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
© 2004 - 2013 DaVita HealthCare Partners Inc. All rights reserved.
www.eoejournal.com
Page 34
equal opportunity employment journal
January 2014
Sources of Career Information
Informational interviews
This article identifies some major sources of information on careers.
People already working in a particular field often are willing to speak with people interested in joining their field. An informational interview will allow you to get good information from experts in a specific career without the pressure of undergoing a job interview. These interviews allow you to determine how a certain career may appeal to you while helping you build a network of personal contacts.
How to use this information best
The sources mentioned in this section offer different types of information. For example, people you know may provide highly specific information because they have knowledge of you, your abilities and interests, and your qualifications. Other sources, such as those found in the state sources listed, provide information on occupations in each state. Professional Gathering information from a wide societies, trade range of sources is the best way to groups, and labor unions determine what occupations may be These sources have information appropriate for you and in what geoon an occupation or various relatgraphic regions these occupations Like any major decision, selecting a career involves ed occupations with which they are are found. The sources of informaassociated or that they actively repa lot of fact finding. Fortunately, some of the best tion discussed in this section are not resent. This information may cover exhaustive, and other sources could training requirements and earnings, informational resources are easily accessible. prove equally valuable in your career and may provide listings of local search. employers. These sources may train with someone who has some experience in the Like any major decision, selecting a career field. This personal networking can be invalu- members or potential members themselves, or involves a lot of fact finding. Fortunately, some able in evaluating an occupation or an employer. they may be able to put you in contact with of the best informational resources are easily People you know will be able to tell you about organizations or individuals who perform such accessible. You should assess career guidance their specific duties and training, as well as what training. materials carefully. Information that seems out they did or did not like about a job. People who Guidance counselors and of date or glamorizes an occupation—over- have worked in an occupation locally also may career counselors states its earnings or exaggerates the demand be able to give you a recommendation and get Counselors can help you make choices about for workers, for example—should be evaluated you in touch with specific employers. which careers might suit you best. They can with skepticism. Gathering as much information Employers. These are the primary source help you establish which occupations fit your as possible will help you make a more informed of information on specific jobs. Employers skills by testing your aptitude for various types decision. may post lists of job openings and applica- of work and determining your strengths and tion requirements, including the exact training interests. Counselors can help you evaluate your People you know One of the best resources can be your friends and experience required, starting wages and options and search for a job in your field or help and family. They may answer some questions benefits, and advancement opportunities and you select a new field altogether. They also can about a particular occupation or put you in touch career paths. help you determine which educational or training
People come from all over the world
VA Long Beach Healthcare System 5901 East 7th Street • Long Beach, CA 90822 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. 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.
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
For more information about us and our current vacancies, please visit: www.longbeach.va.gov EOE
THOMAS JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY AND HOSPITALS
www. eoejournal .com
to study here, to practice here, and to be treated here.
January 2014
equal opportunity employment journal
Page 35
institutions best fit your goals and then assist helping place their graduates in good jobs, businesses or careers; and writing résumés. you in finding ways to finance your education or because the success of their graduates reflects Libraries frequently have subscriptions to vartraining. Some counselors offer other services, the quality of their institution and may affect ious trade magazines that can provide informasuch as interview coaching, résumé building, the institution’s ability to attract new students. tion on occupations and industries. Your local and help in filling out various library also may have video mateforms. Counselors in secondary rials. These sources often have Postsecondary institutions commonly have schools and postsecondary references to organizations that institutions may arrange guest career centers with information on different careers, can provide additional informaspeakers, field trips, or job fairs. tion about training and employlistings of related jobs, and alumni contacts • You can find guidance and ment opportunities. career counselors at If you need help getting started in various professions. or finding a resource, ask your • High school guidance offices librarian for assistance. • College career planning and Internet resources placement offices Postsecondary institutions commonly have A wide variety of career information is eascareer centers with information on different • Placement offices in private vocational or ily accessible on the Internet. Online resources careers, listings of related jobs, and alumni contechnical schools and institutions include job listings, résumé posting services, tacts in various professions. Career centers fre• Vocational rehabilitation agencies and information on job fairs, training, and local quently employ career counselors who generally wages. Many of the resources listed elsewhere • Counseling services offered by community provide their services only to their students and in this section have Internet sites that include organizations alumni. Career centers can help you build your valuable information on potential careers. No • Private counseling agencies and private résumé, find internships and co-ops—which single source contains all information on an practices can lead to full-time positions—and tailor your occupation, field, or employer; therefore, you course selection or program to make you a more • State employment service offices will likely need to use a variety of sources. When using a private counselor, check to marketable job applicant. When using Internet resources, be sure that see that the counselor is experienced. One way Local libraries the organization is a credible, established source to do so is to ask people who have used the Libraries can be a valuable source of informa- of information on the particular occupation you counselor’s services in the past. The National tion. Because most areas have libraries, they Board of Certified Counselors is an institution can be a convenient place to look for informa- are interested in. Individual companies may include job listings on their websites, as well as that accredits career counselors. To verify the tion. Also, many libraries provide access to the information about required credentials, wages credentials of a career counselor and to find a Internet and email. and benefits, and the job’s location. Contact career counselor in your area, visit www.nbcc.org/. Libraries may have information on job open- information, such as whom to call or where to Postsecondary institutions ings, locally and nationally; potential contacts send a résumé, is usually included. Colleges, universities, and other postsecond- within occupations or industries; colleges and Some sources exist primarily as a Web ary institutions typically put a lot of effort into financial aid; vocational training; individual service. These sources often have information Founded in 1950, St. Francis is a non-profit faith oriented community hospital based in Columbus Georgia, along the Chattahoochee River. Our mission is to provide exceptional health care services for all those in need, through a full range of inpatient, outpatient and emergency room services including high quality cardiac care, surgical services, pain management and relief services and women’s health care, among others. Every day our associates go above and beyond for our patients, our hospital and our community. We care greatly about our associates, offering outstanding compensation, comprehensive benefits, career growth opportunities, and a great place to make a difference in the lives of those in need, each and every day. Join our team! Apply online today: www.wecareforlife.com
ST. FRANCIS • 2122 Manchester Expressway • Columbus, GA 31904 St. Francis is an AA/EEO Employer
1555 Soquel Drive • Santa Cruz, CA 95065 • Fax: 831-462-7564
www.dominicanhospital.org
Dominican Hospital is a full-service healthcare facility with 375 acute beds throughout our main hospital and rehabilitation services campus. At Dominican Hospital, you can truly change people’s lives while living yours with a strong sense of meaning and finding that much needed balance you deserve. To search for current openings visit our website. EOE
Page 36
equal opportunity employment journal
Libraries can be a valuable source of information. Because most areas have libraries, they can be a convenient place to look for information. Also, many libraries provide access to the Internet and email.
When using Internet resources, be sure that the organization is a credible, established source of information on the particular occupation you are interested in. Individual companies may include job listings on their websites, as well as information about required credentials, wages and benefits, and the job’s location.
January 2014
on specific jobs and can greatly aid in the job-hunting process. Some commercial sites offer Web services, as do federal, state, and some local governments. CareerOneStop, a joint program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor and the states as well as local agencies, provides these services free of charge.
Online Sources from the Department of Labor
A major resource in the U.S. Department of Labor’s Labor Market Information System is the CareerOneStop site. This site includes links to the following sources: State job banks allow you to search job openings listed with state employment agencies. America’s Career InfoNetprovides data on employment growth and wages by occupation; the knowledge, skills, and abilities required by an occupation; and links to employers. America’s Service Locatoris a comprehensive database of career centers and information on unemployment benefits, job training, and educational opportunities. O*net Online provides occupational information, including descriptors on hundreds of occupations. For more information on specific occupations, you can also visit the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). BLS publishes a wide range of labor market information, from regional wages for specific occupations to statistics on national, state, and area employment. For information on training, workers’ rights, and job listings, visit the Employment and Training Administration website. The Occupational Outlook Quarterly (OOQ) is a career magazine published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the U.S. Department of Labor. The magazine includes many articles about finding, applying for, and choosing jobs. See, for example, the following OOQ articles: “Job search in the age of the Internet: Six job seekers in search of employers,” online at http://www.bls.gov/opub/ooq/2003/summer/art01.pdf “Focused Jobseeking: A measured approach to looking for work,” online at http://www.bls.gov/opub/ooq/2011/spring/art01.pdf “Résumés, applications, and cover letters,” online at http://www.bls. gov/opub/ooq/2009/summer/art03.pdf
Tampa General is a private not-for-profit hospital and one of the most comprehensive medical facilities in West Central Florida serving a dozen counties with a population in excess of 4 million. HENDRICK MEDICAL CENTER 1900 Pine Street • Abilene, Texas 79601
The mission of Hendrick Medical Center is to deliver high quality healthcare emphasizing excellence and compassion consistent with the healing ministry of Jesus Christ. We strive to embody the mission of Hendrick not only in our workplace, but within our community. As Hendrick Medical Center grows, its staff continues to change and take on new faces. Hendrick recruits its medical nursing, clinical and non-clinical staff from throughout the United States and some from around the world. Search our openings to find a position at Hendrick that’s right for you.
Tampa General Hospital fosters an environment where staff provides the highest quality care with kindness and respect. TGH is an equal opportunity educator and employer. For general employment questions, please call (813) 844-7551. To view and apply for current career opportunities, please visit our website:
www.TGH.org
For more information please visit: www.ehendrick.org Hendrick Health System is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal opportunities to all applicants and employees regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, genetic information, or any other protected status.
TAMPA GENERAL HOSPITAL
1 Tampa General Circle • Tampa, FL 33601
January 2014 “Informational interviewing: Get the inside scoop on careers,” online at http:// www.bls.gov/opub/ooq/2010/summer/ art03.pdf “Getting back to work: Returning to the labor force after an absence,” online at http://www.bls.gov/opub/ooq/2004/ winter/art03.pdf Organizations for specific groups. Some organizations provide information designed to help specific groups of people. Consult directories in your library’s reference center or in a career guidance office for information on additional organizations associated with specific groups.
Workers with disabilities
Information on employment opportunities, transportation, and other considerations for people with a wide variety of disabilities is available from the following sources: National Organization on Disability, 5 East 86th Street, New York, NY 10028. Telephone: (646) 505-1191 Job Accommodation Network (JAN), Telephone: (800) 526-7234 TTY: (877) 781-9403 A comprehensive federal Web site of disability-related resources, accessible at http://www.disability.gov Workers with vision problems: Information on the free national reference and referral service for the blind can be obtained by contacting National Federation of the Blind, 200 East Wells Street, Baltimore, MD 21230. Telephone: (410) 659-9314 Older workers: National Council on Aging, 1901 L St. NW., 4th Floor., Washington, DC 20036. Telephone: (202) 479-1200 National Caucus and Center on Black Aged, Inc., 1220 L St. NW., Suite 800, Washington, DC 20005. Telephone: (202) 637-8400
equal opportunity employment journal
Page 37
Veterans: Contact the nearest regional office of the U.S. Department of Labor’s Veterans Employment and Training Service or Credentialing Opportunities Online (COOL), which explains how military personnel can meet civilian certification and license requirements related to their Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). Women: Department of Labor, Women’s Bureau, Telephone: (800) 827-5335 Federal laws, executive orders, and selected federal grant programs bar employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, and handicap. Information on how to file a charge of discrimination is available from U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission offices around the country. Their addresses and telephone numbers are listed in telephone directories under U.S. Government, EEOC. Telephone: (800) 669-4000 TTY: (800) 669-6820
Office of Personnel Management
Information on obtaining civilian positions within the federal government is available from the U.S. Office of Personnel Management through USAJobs.gov, the federal government’s official employment information system. Military. The military employs people in, and has information on, hundreds of occupations. Information is available on tuition assistance programs, which provide money for school and other educational debt repayments. Information on military service can be provided by your local recruiting office, or visit the Handbook profile on . You can also find more information on careers in the military at Today’s Military. Article the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Visit http://www. bls.gov/ for more information.
For more information on specific occupations, you can visit the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). BLS publishes a wide range of labor market information, from regional wages for specific occupations to statistics on national, state, and area employment.
To view career opportunities or downloand an application, please visit us at www.mrhcok.com. MRHC is an equal opportunity employer.
www. eoejournal .com
Mail your resumè and application to the following address: McAlester Regional Health Center • Human Resources Dept. One Clark Bass Boulevard • McAlester, OK 74501 Phone 918-426-1800 • Fax 918-421-8633
3214 EAST RACE AVENUE SEARCY, AR 72143 We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, or any other legally protected status.
At White County Medical Center, we offer a number of job opportunities in medical, surgical, and specialty clinical fields as well as business and administrative areas. We offer competitive wages and an extensive benefit package. For job opportunities, please visit us online at www.wcmc.org.
Tosoh Bioscience, Inc. (TBI) provides highly sophisticated diagnostic systems to doctor’s offices, hospitals and reference laboratories.
Kindred Nursing and Rehabilitation Centers are always looking for professional, compassionate caregivers. We embrace a diverse workforce and we understand that hiring outstanding people is the key to quality care. Learn more about us at www.parkplacehealthcare.com or apply in person at 1500 32nd Street South, Great Falls, MT 59405. We are an equal opportunity employer.
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
equal opportunity employment journal
Monadnock produces a variety of specialty graphic arts printing papers, custom-designed technical/specialty and converting papers and non-woven materials.
Monadnock Paper Mills Inc. 117 Antrim Road • Bennington, NH 03442 Visit us at: www.mpm.com
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.
Since 1936 R.L.Coolsaet Construction Company has been building a record of solid performance in our field. We have qualified personnel, first-class equipment and available finances to successfully complete any pipeline project from small diameter to forty-two inch in size. Learn more about us at:
www.rlcoolsaet.com
PO Box 279 • Taylor, MI 48180 • EOE
www.eoejournal.com
Page 38
January 2014
The mission of the ND Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DOCR) is to enhance public safety, to reduce the risk of future criminal behavior by holding adult and juvenile offenders accountable, and to provide opportunities for change. To accomplish this mission the ND DOCR has over 90 job position classifications that are used to provide therapeutic rehabilitation, care, and security of offenders placed under the custody of the DOCR. Position classifications responsibilities are categorized into professional, security, industry, sales, maintenance, and administrative support groups. View our current job openings and application procedures online: www.nd.gov/docr PO BOX 1898 • BISMARCK, ND 58502-1898 • EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
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.
11280 Mercer Pike Meadville, PA 16335 Job Line: 814.337.4501 Fax: 814.333.9795
33 Turnpike Road Southborough, MA 01772
www.necc.org 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 View our latest job postings on professionals, and we believe that our website at: workplace diversity is a valuable www.necc.org asset. Our firm commitment to diversity stems from our belief in We stand in support of equality for and the benefits of incorporating advancement of all people based on their different backgrounds, qualifications and actions alone without perspectives, cultures, and life regard to color, gender, age, religion, situations within our organization. national origin or disability.
Working at Minnehaha Academy is a rewarding and fulfilling experience. We seek the very best faculty to educate our students along with the very best staff to support the faculty, students, parents and alumni of Minnehaha. Minnehaha is dedicated to excellence in all that we do, while striving to remain family-friendly.
Minnehaha Academy is an EEO/AA Employer. 3100 W. River Pkwy. Minneapolis, MN 55406
Learn more about us and view or apply online for current open positions.
www.minnehahaacademy.net
Marten Transport, Ltd., with headquarters in Mondovi, Wisconsin, strives to be the premium supplier of time and temperature-sensitive transportation services to customers nationwide with more than 65 years experience in transportation. Marten serves customers with more demanding delivery deadlines, as well as those who ship products requiring modern temperature controlled trailers to protect goods.
At Marten Transport, Ltd. we believe our people are an important asset. We go to great lengths to enable individuals to gain the skills they need to develop to their fullest potential. Learn more about our open positions at www.marten.com. We are an equal opportunity employer. 129 Marten Street • Mondovi, WI 54755
January 2014
equal opportunity employment journal
Strategic Connections:
Page 39
Recruiting Candidates with Disabilities
M
WANTED: Qualified, dedicated problem solvers with a demonstrated ability to adapt to different situations and circumstances.
any individuals with disabilities possess precisely these Individuals with disabilities can help employers gain a strategic advanattributes. Yet, as a whole, individuals with disabilities tage in responding to these shifts. Now more than ever, students with represent one of the largest untapped pools of skills and talent disabilities pursue higher education and participate in work experience in the U.S. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, just over 60 percent programs such as internships and mentoring. Employees with disabilities of men ages 16 to 65 who have also contribute to a business’s disabilities were working in 2000, diversity and competitive edge Now more than ever, students with disabilities pursue compared to 80 percent of men in by offering fresh perspectives higher education and participate in work experience that age group without disabilities. and ideas on how to accomplish For women in the same age group, tasks and implement strategies. programs such as internships and mentoring. the numbers were 51.4 and 67.3 Moreover, research demonpercent, respectively. strates that employees with disIndividuals with disabilities have the requisite knowledge, skills and abilities consistently meet or exceed performance expectations and have abilities to succeed in today’s rapidly changing workplace. From compa- a lower than average rate of turnover. ny headquarters to the factory floor, technology continues to drastically Strategies and Resources alter the way individuals work, helping to level the playing field for Taking the following kinds of steps can help employers obtain these individuals with disabilities and expand opportunities for employers to benefits and ensure that individuals with disabilities are included in their benefit from their capabilities. recruiting efforts: In the 1990s, two-thirds of America’s economic growth resulted from • Including people with disabilities in diversity recruitment goals new technologies. More than half of U.S. workers now use a computer • Creating partnerships with disability-related advocacy organizations • Contacting career centers at colleges and universities as part of their job. Furthermore, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau • Posting job announcements in disability-related publications, Web of Labor Statistics projects that total employment will increase by 21.3 sites and job fairs million jobs, adding 600,000 more jobs than in the previous decade. This • Establishing summer internship and mentoring programs targeted at growth is expected to be concentrated in the service sector, particularly youth with disabilities the professional and business services, health and information technology industries. In fact, of the 20 fastest growing occupations, 15 are related to Article the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Visit http://www.bls.gov/ for more information. health or information technology. 54389 VA NJ EDE Journal 1/4 pg 4.90” x 6.65” 3.11.13
At VA New Jersey Health Care System, we strive to hire only the best! Working with and for America’s veterans is a privilege and we pride ourselves on the quality of care we provide. If you have what it takes, please consider applying for one of our available positions. We encourage qualified candidates with disabilities to apply. For career opportunities at our East Orange or Lyons campuses, or at one of our Community Based Outpatient Clinics, please visit: www.USAJobs.gov To learn more about us visit: www.newjersey.va.gov VA New Jersey Health Care System cultivates an inclusive work environment that reflects the diversity of our global community. We stand in support of equality for and advancement of all people based on their qualifications and actions alone without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, gender identity, parental status, marital status, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, or political affiliation.
DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
We’re delighted you’re interested in joining Kentucky’s leading health care provider. We are a comprehensive health system strengthened by our Catholic, Jewish and academic heritages and inspired by our shared values. Our vision is to be the premier, integrated, comprehensive health system in the Commonwealth providing high-quality care close to home — reducing the incidence of disease and eliminating inequities in access. We are fortunate to attract people who believe in our mission and who are dedicated to the service of our patients and their families. Whether you have a clinical or non-clinical background, we have allied health, professional, technical, administrative and clerical opportunities from entry level to senior management from which you can choose.
View and apply online for current open positions: KentuckyOneHealth.org/careers KentuckyOne Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Page 40
equal opportunity employment journal
January 2014
The Role of EMTs and Paramedics
E
MTs and paramedics use special equipment, including backboards and restraints, to immobilize patients and secure them in the ambulance for transport. Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics care for the sick or injured in emergency medical settings. People’s lives often depend on their quick reaction and competent care. EMTs and paramedics respond to emergency calls, performing medical services and transporting patients to medical facilities. A 911 operator sends EMTs and paramedics to the scene of an emergency, where they often work with police and firefighters.
• Create a patient care report; documenting the medical care they gave the patient • Replace used supplies and check or clean equipment after use When taking a patient to the hospital, one EMT or paramedic may drive the ambulance while another monitors the patient’s vital signs and gives additional care. Some paramedics work as part of a helicopter’s flight crew to transport critically ill or injured patients to a hospital. EMTs and paramedics EMTs and paramedics work on teams and coordinate their also take patients from one medical facility to another. activities closely with others in stressful situations. Duties Some patients may need to EMTs and paramedics typically be transferred to a hospital that specializes in treating their injury or illdo the following: • Respond to 911 calls for emergency medical assistance, such as car- ness or to a facility that provides long-term care, such as a nursing home. If a patient has a contagious disease, EMTs and paramedics decontamdiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or bandaging a wound inate the interior of the ambulance and may need to report these cases to • Assess a patient’s condition and determine a course of treatment the proper authorities. • Follow guidelines that they learned in training and that they receive The specific responsibilities of EMTs and paramedics depend on their from physicians who oversee their work level of training and the state they work in. The National Registry of • Use backboards and restraints to keep patients still and safe in an Emergency Medical Technicians. (NREMT) provides national certiambulance for transport • Help transfer patients to the emergency department of a healthcare fication of EMTs and paramedics at four levels: EMT-Basic, EMTIntermediate (which has two levels, respectively called 1985 and 1999), facility and report their observations and treatment to the staff
Adena Health System is always looking for highly motivated, success seeking individuals to join and enhance the organization that already encompasses over 2800+ of Ohio’s finest physicians, employees and volunteers. We are a growing and progressive organization that offers highly competitive compensation as well as a wide range of employee benefits. A listing of available positions can be found on our website at:
www.adena.org
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
Adena Health System is an equal opportunity employer. We employ the persons best qualified for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age (40 and over), veteran status, the presence of a disability or any other legally protected status.
272 Hospital Road • Chillicothe, OH 45601
January 2014 and Paramedic. Some states, however, have their own certification programs and use different titles. An EMT-Basic, also known as an EMT, cares for patients at the scene and while taking patients by ambulance to a hospital. An EMT-Basic has the emergency skills to assess a patient’s condition and manage respiratory, cardiac, and trauma emergencies. An EMT-Intermediate, also known as Advanced EMT, has completed the training required at the EMT-Basic level, as well as training for more advanced skills, such as the use of intravenous fluids and some medications. Paramedics provide more extensive prehospital care than do EMTs. In addition to carrying out the procedures that EMTs use, paramedics can give medications orally and intravenously, interpret electrocardiograms (EKGs)—used to monitor heart function—and use other monitors and complex equipment. The specific tasks or procedures EMTs and paramedics are allowed to perform at any level vary by state.
Work Environment
EMTs and paramedics care for sick or injured patients in a pre-hospital setting. Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics held about 226,500 jobs in 2010. They work both indoors and outdoors, in all types of weather. Their work is physically strenuous and can be stressful, sometimes
equal opportunity employment journal
Page 41
involving life-or-death situations and patients who are suffering. Most career EMTs and paramedics work in metropolitan areas. Volunteer EMTs and paramedics are more common in small cities, towns, and rural areas. These individuals volunteer for fire departments, providers of emergency medical services, or hospitals and may respond to only a few calls per month. As shown below, almost half of paid EMTs and paramedics worked as employees of ambulance services in 2010. Others worked in hospitals or local government: In 2010, about 22 percent of EMTs and paramedics belonged to a union or were covered by a union contract. Ambulance services Local government Hospitals
48% 29% 17%
Injuries
EMTs and paramedics experience a much larger than average number of work-related injuries or illnesses. They are required to do considerable kneeling, bending, and lifting while caring for and moving patients. They may be exposed to contagious diseases, such as hepatitis B and AIDS. Sometimes they can be injured by mentally unstable or combative patients. These risks can be reduced by following proper safety procedures, such as waiting for police to
In addition to carrying out the procedures that EMTs use, paramedics can give medications orally and intravenously, interpret electrocardiograms (EKGs)—used to monitor heart function— and use other monitors and complex equipment
The VA St. Louis Health Care System provides inpatient and ambulatory care in medicine, surgery, psychiatry, neurology, and rehabilitation, and many other subspecialty areas. It is a two-division facility that serves veterans and their families in east central Missouri and southwestern Illinois.
BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee is the state’s leading health insurance provider. Founded 60 years ago, the company and its subsidiaries provide a comprehensive range of products to more than 3 million customers. If you’re looking for a company where you can start or grow your career, then this may be the ideal place for you. With corporate offices in Chattanooga and opportunities throughout the state, we employ more than 5,000 individuals.
Working with and for America’s veterans is a privilege, and we pride ourselves on the quality of care we provide. If you have what it takes, please consider applying for one of our available positions. For additional information, please contact our Human Resources Management Service at (314) 488-8252. For more information visit us at: www.stlouis.va.gov/careers The United States Government does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, disability and genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, or other non-merit factor.
Our organization has been recognized as an employer of choice, offering a great working environment, competitive pay and benefits. Bring your talents and ideas to BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and we’ll give you the freedom and resources to make your career – and your life – more rewarding. Visit us online to review job openings and apply.
www.bcbst.com/about/careers
BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee is an Equal Opportunity Employer
JOHN COCHRAN DIVISION
915 North Grand Boulevard • St. Louis, MO 63106
JEFFERSON BARRACKS DIVISION 1 Jefferson Barracks Drive • St. Louis, MO 63125
Page 42
equal opportunity employment journal
Because EMTs and paramedics must be available to work in emergencies, they may work overnight and on weekends.
2661 County Highway I • Chippewa Falls, WI 54729 Intrigued by the idea of being a part of an organization that invests in their colleagues, promotes innovative technology and has redesigned their services—and patient areas—to better serve the healthcare needs of the community? Consider St. Joseph’s Hospital......
For employment information visit www.stjoeschipfalls.com for more information. We are an equal opportunity employer.
Opportunities for All
January 2014
clear an area in violent situations or wear- community colleges, and facilities that ing gloves while working with a patient. specialize in emergency care training. At the EMT-Basic level, training includes Work Schedules instruction in assessing patients’ conditions, Most EMTs and paramedics work full dealing with trauma and cardiac emergentime. About one-third worked more than cies, clearing obstructed airways, using full time in 2010. Because EMTs and parafield equipment, and handling emergencies. medics must be available to work in emerFormal courses include about 100 hours of gencies, they may work overnight and on specialized training. Some training may be weekends. Some EMTs and paramedics are required in a hospital or ambulance setting. volunteers and have varied work schedules. The EMT-Intermediate 1985 or EMTHow to Become an EMT or Paramedic Intermediate 1999 level, also known as EMTs and paramedics need to be physithe Advanced EMT level, typically requires cally fit as their job requires a considerable 1,000 hours of training based on the scope amount of bending, lifting, and kneeling. of practice. At this level, people must All emergency medical technicians complete the training required at the EMT (EMTs) and paramedics must complete a level, as well as more advanced training, formal training program. All states require such as training in the use of complex EMTs and paramedics to be licensed; airway devices, intravenous fluids, and requirements vary by state. some medications. Education and Training Paramedics have the most advanced level Both a high school diploma or equiva- of training. They must complete EMTlent and cardiopulmonary resuscitation level and Advanced EMT training, as well (CPR) certification are prerequisites for as training in advanced medical skills. most formal education and training pro- Community colleges and technical schools grams. High school students interested may offer this training, in which graduin entering these occupations should take ates may receive an associate’s degree. courses in anatomy and physiology. Formal Paramedic programs require about 1,300 training is offered by technical institutes, hours of training and may take up to 2 Our mission is to provide quality, compassionate care and to strengthen the well-being of our community. We are driven by healthcare needs of the communities we serve, and very proud of our long tradition of providing quality healthcare services to the Lakes and Three Rivers Regions. LRGHealthcare offers a wide range of employment opportunities which allow you to be an integral part of our service to the Lakes and Three Rivers region. Visit us online for more information.
• Lakes Region General Hospital 80 Highland Street • Laconia, NH 03246 • Franklin Regional Hospital 15 Aiken Avenue • Franklin, NH 03235 LRGHealthcare is an equal opportunity employer.
www.lrgh.org
The University of Connecticut Health Center is a leading healthcare, educational, and research facility. UCHC is a major employer in the State of Connecticut with over 5,000 employees. We are an equal opportunity employer with a strong commitment to diversity. We provide:
• Outstanding Benefits • Upward Mobility
• Competitive Salaries • Excellent Training
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
6339 Mill Street Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Fax Resumes to: 845-876-2020 www.astorservices.org
Department of Human Resources 16 Munson Road • Farmington, CT 06034-4035 860.679.2426
For a complete listing of all open jobs and to apply online
www.uchc.edu
KNOW BETTER CARE Affirmative Action /Equal Opportunity Employer
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.
January 2014
equal opportunity employment journal
years. Their broader scope of practice may include stitching wounds or administering IV medications. Separate training and licensure is required to drive an ambulance. Although some emergency medical services hire separate drivers, most EMTs and paramedics take a course requiring about 8 hours of training before they can drive an ambulance.
Village hospital Exciting Opportunities
EMTs and paramedics need strong problem-solving skills. They must evaluate patients’ symptoms and administer the appropriate treatments. Important Qualities
Compassion. EMTs and paramedics must provide emotional support to patients in an emergency, especially patients who are in life-threatening situations or extreme mental distress. Interpersonal skills. EMTs and paramedics almost always work on teams and must be able to coordinate their activities closely with others in stressful situations. Listening skills. EMTs and paramedics need to listen to patients to determine the extent of their injuries or illnesses. Physical strength. EMTs and paramedics need to be physically fit. Their job requires a lot of bending, lifting, and kneeling. Problem-solving skills. EMTs and paramedics need strong problem-solving skills. They must evaluate patients’ symptoms and administer the appropriate treatments. Speaking skills. EMTs and paramedics need to be able to communicate clearly in order to comfort and explain procedures to the patient, give orders, and relay information to others.
Pay
The median annual wage of emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics was $30,360 in May 2010. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $19,710, and the top 10 percent earned more than $51,370. Most EMTs and paramedics work full time. About one-third worked more than full time in 2010. Because EMTs and paramedics must be available to work in emergencies, they may work overnight and on weekends. Some EMTs and paramedics are volunteers and have varied work schedules.
RECR111A
Licenses and Certification
The National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) certifies EMTs and paramedics. All levels of NREMT certification require completing a certified training or education program and passing the national exam. The national exam has both a written part and a practical part. All states require EMTs and paramedics to be licensed; requirements vary by state. In most states, an individual who has NREMT certification qualifies for licensure; in some, passing an equivalent state exam is required. Typically to apply for a license, an applicant must be over the age of 18. Many states require background checks and may decide not to give a license to an applicant who has a criminal history.
Page 43
Do you want to be part of something that coulD reDefine your career? Join the Village Hospital and be part of a unique facility devoted to quality patient care. It’s this patient-centered focus that led to a national award in room layout from the Center for Health Design. The Village Hospital includes an emergency department, medical/surgical units with intensive care and more. And recognizing that quality patient care requires quality professionals, we offer competitive salary and benefit packages. Be a part of our innovative approach to health care at the Village Hospital. For more information or to apply, please call a hospital recruiter at 800-288-7762 or visit villageatpelham.com.
EOE
Page 44
equal opportunity employment journal
January 2014
Job Outlook
Employment of emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics is expected to grow by 33 percent from 2010 to 2020, much faster than the average for all occupations. Emergencies such as car crashes, natural disasters, and violence will continue to create demand for EMTs and paramedics. There will also continue to be demand for part-time, volunteer EMTs and paramedics in rural areas and smaller metropolitan areas. Growth in the middle-aged and elderly population will lead to an increase in the number of age-related health emergencies, such as heart attacks or strokes. This, in turn, will lead to an increase in the demand for EMTs and paramedic services. An increase in specialized medical facilities will require more EMTs and paramedics to transfer patients with specific conditions to these facilities for treatment. In recent years, companies that build ambulances have started to update and redesign their interiors to keep EMTs, paramedics, and patients safer during transport. These companies are hiring EMTs and paramedics as consultants to learn their ideas about such updates and designs. Article the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Visit http://www.bls.gov/ for more information.
“My Job Means... I can give excellent patient care.” Mercy St. Anne Hospital / Mercy St. Charles Hospital / Mercy St. Vincent Hospital / Mercy Children’s Hospital At Mercy, our Mission is defined as “extending the healing ministry of Jesus by improving the health of our communities with emphasis on people who are poor and under-served”. What brings our Mission to life is an understanding among every Mercy associate that every life is worthy of our best effort. Every patient has unique circumstances, and we treat them for the individuals they are. While Mercy facilities offer the world-class technology and capabilities you would expect from a leading health system, what patients appreciate most is the genuine spirit of compassion and understanding Mercy associates provide.
Start your career today at OrthoIndy or the Indiana Orthopaedic Hospital (IOH) where we provide first-class patient care in a team-focused environment. Discover opportunities at OrthoIndy.com/careers. Christine Ealy, IOH RN
Located in Toledo, Mercy is one of Northwest Ohio’s largest employers. The division consists of two Community Hospitals, one Medical Center and one Children’s Hospital. Ancillary affiliates include Home Care, Community clinics, Life Flight, and physician offices.
Equal Opportunity Employer
For employment opportunities please visit mercyweb.org or contact the Recruitment office at: 2200 Jefferson Avenue, Toledo, Ohio 43604. EOE
The difference is excellence. Northwestern Memorial Hospital is one of the country’s leading academic medical center hospitals and the primary teaching hospital for the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.
Allscripts provides a supportive work environment and a wide array of career opportunities, including robust training programs to help students and recent graduates transition into the working world. We value the development of students in the hope that you’ll make Allscripts a part of your future success!
Various office locations available • Equal Opportunity Employer
Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, Northwestern Memorial has been recognized as one of Chicago’s premier employers. We offer exceptional resources, education, growth opportunities, and benefits, including premier health insurance featuring our renowned physician network. Due to growth, we are always seeking to add dedicated, compassionate professionals to our team. For more information about our organization, facility, and career opportunities, please visit: nmh.org
Allscripts is the leading provider in medical software
Northwestern Memorial is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability or sexual orientation.
Please apply online at:
www.allscripts.com/careers (please reference eoej when applying).
services that empower healthcare providers to deliver best in class patient safety and financial results.
AA/EOE
January 2014
equal opportunity employment journal
Page 45
Career Enhancement
Tips For First Jobbers: 3 Key Tips to Grow Your Career by Long Yun Siang
Simple Career Enhancement Tips You Can Start Now
Y
ou found your first job and you feel a little anxious. You think to yourself – “How am I going to survive through all these?” With the right attitude and guidance, you will soon look forward to doing your best. Like any other career enhancement tips, there are no guarantees for success. However, if you bring the right attitude and decide to take action then you are half way there. Nothing will stop a first jobber like you from shining at your workplace.
1. Self-discipline
The value of self-discipline in a first jobber is often underestimated. Now that you are in the working world you think to yourself, “Is selfdiscipline overrated?” I will tell you, no. It is not overrated. I have often found new staff with good self-discipline doing better than those who are poor in it. Let me use a simple example to demonstrate this, assuming it’s a Friday and the rest of the department is planning to go out for a fun night. You have an important document to be completed for the coming Monday. What do you do? Give the fun night a pass and complete the work? Or join the fun and hope that you will find time to finish it over the weekend thus leaving you little chance to perfect it before submission? Part of self-discipline is also about sacrifice. When you have strong self-discipline, it is inevitable that you would need to sacrifice some fun time to focus on your goals. If you are interested in advancing your career you may take some courses, or even read books to increase your knowledge. All these activities come with an opportunity cost. It could very well mean less time for leisure activities.
2. Success
You’re probably thinking, “Success as part of these practical career enhancement tips is funny.” Let me assure you it is not. What I want
At Eisai, human health care is our goal. We give our first thoughts to patients and their families, and to increasing the benefits that healthcare provides. Eisai is committed to growing our already diverse organization. We believe our diversity enables and empowers us to make significant contributions. To learn more about an opportunity at Eisai, visit us at
www.us.eisai.com
Eisai is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Page 46
equal opportunity employment journal
Knowing your goal and your personal definition of success is an important element amongst these career enhancement tips for first jobbers.
January 2014
to explain here is this – if you want to enhance your career, define what success is to you. Once you know what success is to you then you can plan towards that goal. Spend some time thinking what success is to you. Crystallize this in your mind. Assuming you know what success is to you, the next step is to be singleminded in the pursuit of your goal. Being single-minded means to be focused on your goals. When you focus your energy on your goal, you get more out of your effort. You inch closer to your goals. When you are single-minded other things do not distract you. You know what you want and you power yourself towards it as best as you can so you can clearly see what you want. Knowing your goal and your personal definition of success is an important element amongst these career enhancement tips for first jobbers. Equally important is to know your own strengths and your skills. If you want to enhance your career, play up on your strengths and improve on your skills required for your job. What are you good at? What are the skills sets you do not have that are required for the job? Build up on those skills. The career enhancement tips in this sub-section basically means this – when you define what is success to you, you then pursue it single-mindedly knowing your strengths and the skills required to attain that success.
3. Sincerity
Sincerity in your career means a lot of things. For
Lahey Hospital & Medical Center is a physician-led, nonprofit group practice. At Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, patient care always comes first. Because of our focus on excellence in patient care, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center continues to attract the best people across all departments and disciplines. Learn more about us at www.lahey.org. 41 Mall Road Burlington, MA 01805 Equal Opportunity Employer
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.
me, as a first jobber you should look at doing your work sincerely and joyfully. Meaning, do not treat your work as a drag. If you feel that your work is a drag, then start by asking yourself. Why is it so, before blaming anyone else – be it the company, your boss or your colleagues. So, be sincere with yourself. What is your core challenge in not being able to do your work sincerely? Being sincere at your work means doing it with your level best. It means playing your part and taking personal responsibility for your work. It also means to share your learning and knowledge. When you share what you know about a certain task, you become an asset to your unit and this inevitably enhances your career. Many people think, the more they hoard what they know the more advantage they have. However, in my experience this is not true. I find that the more you share the more others are willing to share with you and the more you know. In summary, the most important and practical career enhancement tips you can start now is – developing self-discipline, learning to sacrifice, define what success means to you, be single-minded in pursuit of your goals by knowing your strengths and skills, and doing your work with sincerity and have sharing as a work value you carry. Long Yun Siang or Long, as he is popularly known runs http://career-success-fornewbies.com with his wife Dorena as their way of paying it forward. Their website, provides tips, tools and advise for newbies pursuing career success.
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
Lebanon VA Medical Center 1700 South Lincoln Avenue • Lebanon, PA 17042
The Lebanon VA Medical Center has been dedicated to providing quality health care with dignity, compassion and respect to veterans in South Central PA. In that regard, it is necessary to hire the most competent and caring staff available. For over 60 years, we have passionately served with trust, excellence and commitment. If you are interested in joining this dynamic team of professionals, accessing our internet job site is your first step to exploring recruitment opportunities. Visit us online: www.va.gov/jobs Equal Opportunity Employer
January 2014
equal opportunity employment journal
Page 47
CAREERS IN BIOFUELS
In
2010, there were about 250 million registered vehicles on U.S. highways. Most of these vehicles have engines that use oil-based fuel, such as gasoline or diesel. Even hybrid-electric cars use gasoline to power their internal combustion engines, although they use less fuel than traditional automobiles. The use of oil-based fuels has both economic and environmental impacts. Both consumers and businesses are affected by fluctuations in oil prices. Fuel prices have been trending upward, with the annual average price of a gallon of gas increasing by about 170 percent between 2002 and 2012. And vehicles powered by oil-based fuels release emissions that are harmful to the environment, including greenhouse gases (GHGs). Consequently, the nation’s scientists and engineers have sought ways to develop alternative fuels, such as biofuels. Biofuels are defined as fuels composed of or produced from biological raw materials. Biofuels can reduce the use of oil-based fuels and can be more environmentally friendly. The biofuels industry provides career opportunities for a vast array of workers, who do such tasks as developing biofuel technologies, growing crops, and processing and selling the fuels. This report provides information on careers in biofuels. The first section describes the manufacture of biofuels and the reasons for expected growth in the industry. The remainder of the report specifies key occupations in the biofuels industry. The information for each occupation includes a brief job description; the credentials needed to work in these occupations, such as education, training, certification or licensure; and wage data.
What are biofuels?
Biofuels are produced from biomass, which are materials derived from a living or recently living organism, including plants, grains, vegetable oils, and animal-based oils. These types of materials are commonly referred to as feedstocks. First-generation biofuels are made from biomass such as sugars
Timken designs, engineers and manufactures products to keep machinery moving worldwide. If you’re ready for a challenging career that provides you with the ability to advance personally and professionally, look to Timken. Our associates truly make a difference, helping the world turn by developing innovations that improve performance in machinery on land, at sea and in space. All interested and qualified persons should use our online career tools to review and apply for employment opportunities.
www.timken.com/careers
The Timken Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
The biofuels industry provides career opportunities for a vast array of workers, who do such tasks as developing biofuel technologies, growing crops, and processing and selling the fuels.
Page 48
equal opportunity employment journal
January 2014
and starches—materials that are can be replenished naturally with the often a food source for people passage of time, unlike crude oil. They or animals. Second-generation can be produced in the United States, biofuels, known as cellulosic which reduces our dependence on forbiofuels, are made from nonfood eign oil and helps to shield American materials. Cellulosic biofuels are consumers from fluctuating global oil not yet widely available. prices. Most liquid transportation Moreover, proponents assert that biofuels are classified as either biofuels may offer an environmentally ethanol or biodiesel. Currently, friendly option for fueling our nation. most ethanol on the commercial Depending on which feedstocks are market is produced from starchused and how they are converted, bioes, most often corn; biodiesel fuels may produce fewer greenhouse is derived from plant oils, often gases (GHGs) than oil-based fuels. soybean oil, or from animal fat But biofuels have critics as well. The or recycled greases. carbon impact from biofuels largely From feedstock to fuel depends on how crops are cultivated Although production processand how fuels are produced. Some es can vary by manufacturer, argue that the carbon impact from proBecause biofuels are derived largely from plants, these ducing biofuels is no better than that many manufacturers use a production process known as a sugar fuels are a renewable resource that can be replenished from oil-based fuels. Further, some pathway to produce ethanol. The critics claim that biofuel production process is made up of two main may result in more GHGs released into naturally with the passage of time, unlike crude oil. stages: hydrolysis and fermentathe environment, depending on the to be separated from the oil. Alternatively, some tion. During hydrolysis, a chemproduction method. companies may choose a production process ical is used to break down the feedstock into In addition, there is a debate over the use of sugar. Yeast or bacteria are introduced during the known as a thermochemical pathway, which certain feedstocks, commonly referred to as the fermentation process to consume the sugar. The uses high temperatures to convert biomass into food-versus-fuel debate. Opponents of biofuels output of that process is then distilled in order ethanol or biodiesel. argue that making fuel using feedstocks that to separate the ethanol from any waste product. Biofuel as an alternative fuel traditionally have another purpose, such as corn, Lastly, the ethanol is dehydrated, producing the Biofuel proponents believe that these directly impacts the supply of that crop in the ethanol in its purest form. alternative fuels offer a number of economic food chain. These detractors argue that land is Biodiesel is produced through a chemical pro- and environmental benefits over traditional being used for growing fuel feedstocks, rather cess called transesterfication, in which oil or fat oil-based fuels. than for feeding people or livestock. This addifeedstocks are combined with alcohol and a catBecause biofuels are derived largely from tional source of demand can drive up prices for alyst, causing a reaction that allows the glycerin plants, these fuels are a renewable resource that that crop.
Climbers Wanted.
TM
To us, diversity means more than ethnicity. It means developing, manufacturing and marketing life-enhancing medical technologies in several therapeutic fields. It means cultivating a workforce that spans a variety of cultures around the globe.
As one of the leading telecommunications companies in the area, Fidelity Communications Company recruits for a wide range of technical and related professional opportunities. Attracting and retaining top talent individuals, and rewarding them with compensation and recognition, are critical components of our corporate strategy. Our success depends on maintaining a highly-technical edge and enhancing the experience of our extremely talented employees in all fields. Please feel free to review the current job openings on our website at:
And it means fostering the careers of talented individuals, whatever their background or avenue of interest. Take the next step in your career. Visit us at: www.crbard.com/careers www.facebook.com/ crbard
www.fidelitycommunications.com
Fidelity Communications Company • 64 North Clark Street • Sullivan, MO 63080 Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer
C. R. Bard, Inc. is an Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer
January 2014
Government initiatives
As the biofuels industry continues to grow, Congress has passed laws to provide funding for research and development of alternative fuels, and government agencies have established best practices for implementing use of such fuels. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has implemented mandates for how much renewable fuel must be blended with fossil fuels. The Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) mandate was passed in 2005. And in 2007, an expanded mandate, known as RFS2, was passed to include cellulosic biofuels. Both mandates have helped to increase demand for biofuels, with 13.9 billion gallons of ethanol and 967 million gallons of biodiesel produced in 2011, up from 3.4 billion gallons of ethanol and 28 million of biodiesel in 2004, the year before the mandate was first passed. In addition to the RFS mandates, the military is working to
Infrastructure
To meet the requirements set by the RFS2 mandate, more cellulosic biofuels must be produced, the fuels must be sold at a price that is competitive with traditional gasoline, and the fuels must be widely available to consumers. As technology continues to improve and cellulosic biofuels can be made in larger quantities, more biorefineries will be needed to produce the fuels for commercial use. As of June 2012, 212 biorefineries producing ethanol were active or under construction, and more than 150 plants were producing biodiesel. (See maps 1 and 2.) The vast majority of these plants are producing first-generation biofuels. More and more processing plants are working to produce cellulosic biofuels at an affordable cost, but these fuels are not yet ready to be sold commercially. Some improvements to infrastructure must be made before there can be largescale commercial use of cellulosic biofuels. First, there needs to be a greater number of cars on U.S. roads that can run on higher blends of ethanol. Most cars on the road today can run on gasoline that contains up to 10 percent ethanol. This type of gas is commonly known as E10, and it is the most common gasoline sold today. The EPA recently approved the use of E15, a gasoline that contains up to 15 percent ethanol, for model year 2001 and newer vehicles. Flexible fuel vehicles (FFVs) are vehicles that can run on fuel blends containing up to 85 percent ethanol, E85. According to the Energy Information Administration, there were more than 8 million FFVs on the road in 2010. That figure may rise as the demand for fuel-efficient vehicles grows. A Consumer Reports study found a “growing willingness of shoppers to consider alternative powertrain technologies, especially E85 ethanol.” As more consumers look into cars that can run on higher blends of biofuels, more gas stations will need to be able to supply these fuels. As of December 2012, only 11 percent of retail gas stations that offered alternative fuels in the United States offered E85 fuel.
Biodiesel is available at a limited number of retail locations. According to the Department of Energy, there were 696 retail fuel locations in the United States offering biodiesel in December 2012. Flex fuel pumps, also called blender pumps, are gas pumps that draw from more than one fuel tank. They allow a station to carry more than one type of blended fuel. Blender pumps need to be added to more stations for higher blends of ethanol gas to be available on a large scale. The Department of Energy estimates that 60,000 retail outlets will be needed to sell all of the ethanol proposed by the RFS mandate, and 90–110 million FFVs will need to be on the road. Biodiesel is available at a limited number of retail locations. According to the Department of Energy, there were 696 retail fuel locations in the United States offering biodiesel in December 2012. As with ethanol, blender pumps capable of offering various biodiesel blends will need to be added to more stations for biodiesel to be used on a larger scale.
Sharp is dedicated to improving people's lives through the use of advanced technology and a commitment to innovation, quality, value, and design. From Ultra HD Displays, to IZGO technology, to award-winning MFP solutions, to state-of-the-art electronic components, to the latest in LED lighting, Sharp has always blazed the trail. As a recognized global electronics leader with a focus on consumer and information products, we are always looking for individuals to help drive our overall success. We are committed to maintaining a progressive environment and a diverse workforce. We invite you to find out more about us, the value we place upon Corporate Social Responsibility, our on-going commitment to strong business ethics, and the numerous awards won by our innovative products. © 2014 Sharp Electronics Corporation. Sharp is a registered trademark of Sharp Corporation.
Cellulosic biofuels are made from a wide variety of nonfood biomass, such as wood chips, agricultural and municipal waste, or perennial grasses. Because they are made from nonfood feedstocks, they do not directly compete with crops used for food. Scientists and researchers are working to develop additional feedstocks that could be used to make biofuels, along with production processes that are safe for the environment and affordable on a large scale. Cellulosic biofuels may be better for the environment than first-generation biofuels. A 2009 study by scientists from the Center for Transportation Research at the Argonne National Laboratory, the Department of Energy, and Purdue University compared GHG emissions from production of cellulosic ethanol and of corn ethanol. The study found that cellulosic ethanol production resulted in a reduction in GHG emissions by an estimated 77 percent to 107 percent as compared with gasoline; corn ethanol production resulted in a 24-percent emissions reduction as compared with gasoline. Although cellulosic biofuels may offer a solution to many of the criticisms of first-generation biofuels, more research and development is needed before cellulosic biofuels are made widely available to the public. Production of cellulosic biofuels is still very expensive compared with the cost of making traditional gasoline or many of the first-generation biofuels.
Page 49
harness the power of biofuels. The Department of Defense has set a goal of obtaining 25 percent of its energy from alternative sources by 2025. To do so, the Air Force, Army, and Navy are investing in the development of alternative fuels
TEAMWORK, DEDICATION AND A DESIRE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Cellulosic biofuels
equal opportunity employment journal
For more information on the opportunities at Sharp, please contact:
SHARP ELECTRONICS CORPORATION Mahwah, NJ Apply on-line at: sharpusa.com SHARP LABORATORIES OF AMERICA Camas, WA Apply on-line at: sharplabs.com SHARP MICROELECRONICS OF THE AMERICAS Camas, WA E-mail text-version (MS Word) to: recruiter@sharpsec.com
We are an equal opportunity employer m/f/d/v
Page 50
equal opportunity employment journal includes all jobs in the basic chemical manufacturing industry that meet the green jobs definition, not just those in biofuels. There are workers in other industries that help to bring biofuels to market, too. For example, scientists and engineers who work on biofuels are often employed by scientific research and development or engineering services firms, so they are included in data for those industries.
Biofuels occupations
The biofuels industry employs a wide range of workers in a variety of occupations. Scientists and engineers conduct research and development; construction workers build plants and update infrastructure; agricultural workers grow and harvest feedstocks; plant workers process feedstocks into fuel; and sales workers sell the biofuels. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not have data specific to biofuels. However, BLS does have information on green jobs from its Green Goods and Services (GGS) survey. As the name suggests, GGS jobs are those associated with producThe biofuels industry employs a wide range ing green goods or providing green of workers in a variety of occupations. services. The GGS survey found that, in 2010, private sector employment for GGS jobs in the A 2012 study by the Renewable Fuels basic chemical manufacturing industry was 11,970. The basic chemical manufacturing industry includes the Association found that ethanol production manufacture of biofuels; however, the GGS figure supported 401,600 jobs in 2011. A National Biodiesel Board study found that the production of 1 billion gallons of biodiesel Thomas & Betts Corp. – Steel Structures Division supports 39,027 jobs. 8700 Fairbanks North Houston Road • Houston, TX 77064 Following are descriptions of some of the Thomas & Betts is one of North America’s leading providers of highly engineered, most common jobs in the biofuels industubular steel structures used for electric transmission and distribution. try, along with information on the duties We’d like to have you consider joining our team. To find out more about career associated with the jobs and the credentials opportunities at Thomas & Betts, visit us online at: www.tnb.com needed to attain a job in the field. Wage We stand in support of equality for and data also are included in the occupation advancement of all people based on their qualifications and actions alone descriptions. Although BLS does not have
January 2014
wage data specifically for occupations in the biofuels industry, BLS does have wage data for the basic chemical manufacturing industry, which includes production of chemicals from organic raw materials. Wage data do not include benefits or other compensation.
Occupations in scientific research
Scientists work to find the best, most costeffective way of turning feedstocks into fuel. They conduct experiments, document their results, and maintain various instruments in a laboratory setting. Scientists and researchers often work for a wide variety of organizations, such as colleges, private and nonprofit companies, and government agencies. Scientists generally work in offices or laboratories, though some may work in a production plant. Biochemists and biophysicists study the chemical and physical principles of living things and biological processes. Those who work in alternative fuels may research various technologies that can be used to break down feedstocks into fuel. Chemical or laboratory technicians use special instruments and techniques to assist scientists and engineers in researching, developing, and producing chemical
without regard to color, race and ethnicity, gender, age, religion, national origin, disability, or veterans’ status.
Your Digital World. Now.
It is Mediacom’s policy to affirmatively support equal employment opportunity (EEO) for all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, marital status, medical condition, sexual orientation, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.
Mediacom has an immediate need for Direct Sales Representatives, Commercial Sales Representatives, Customer Sales & Service Representatives and Installers. To view a complete listing of available vacancies, please visit our Career Center online at www.mediacomcable.com/careers 1533 S. Enterprise Avenue • Springfield, MO 65804
www.learfield.com Learfield Communications, Inc. started with just a few people 40 years ago and now there’s a bunch of us, working in offices and newsrooms all throughout the country. Learn more about us and our current openings at www.learfield.com. Learfield Communications is an Equal Opportunity/ Affirmative Action employer. Direct inquiries to: Steve Masterson, Director of Corporate Recruiting, smasterson@learfield.com, Phone (469) 241-9191.
Growth. Leadership. Innovation. PPG Industries, Inc.
3333 South Peach Avenue • Fresno, CA 93725
PPG provides a spectrum of opportunities to work in an endless variety of disciplines.
Mobile Climate Systems Division manufactures refrigerant control and containment components for heavy duty truck and off-road air conditioning applications. The division’s expertise ranges from high quality components to modular value added assemblies and subsystems.
Join our global workforce of approximately 58,000 employed in accounting, communications, engineering, human resources, information technology, legal, manufacturing, marketing, operations and lean, sales, and supply chain. For more information visit www.parker.com. We are an equal opportunity/ affirmative action employer.
We are committed to providing a fulfilling work place for our employees, creating an environment for continuous learning and embracing the ideas and diversity of others. PPG Industries, Inc. offers an excellent compensation and benefits package and an opportunity to grow and develop your career in an environment that values employee ideas and diversity. To learn more about PPG or to apply online, visit www.ppg.com. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Linking people and technology.
Belden is a leading manufacturer of signal transmission products. Belden is looking for talented individuals in all disciplines who have the desire to be part of a dynamic organization that plays to win. If you want to learn more about Belden check our website at www.belden.com. 2200 US HIGHWAY 27 SOUTH • RICHMOND, IN 47374 • EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER M/F/D/V
January 2014
equal opportunity employment journal
Page 51
products and processes. They conduct research, test for quality control, and perform analyses based on their experiments. Technicians may blend various chemicals for processing or to test the quality of a batch of fuel. Chemists study the properties, structures, compositions, and reactions of matter. They study various chemical processes that can be used to more efficiently produce biofuels. Chemists blend various compounds to see what inputs yield the best quality blends of fuel at a reasonable cost. Based on their findings, they develop new protocols for blending fuels to ensure quality control. Microbiologists study the growth, structure, development, and characteristics of microscopic organisms, such as bacteria, algae, or plant cells. They may use their knowledge of various forms of bacteria to improve the fermentation process used to make ethanol or to develop new ways of cultivating algae to use as a feedstock. Soil and plant scientists conduct research on soil, crops, and other agricultural products to find new and improved ways to use various agricultural products for fuel.
Credentials
Most scientist positions require a bachelor’s degree from a program that includes both coursework and laboratory hours. A scientist who is leading a research team or conducting independent research may need a master’s or doctoral degree to do so. Biochemists and biophysicists typically need a doctoral degree to enter the occupation. It is common for scientists to pursue a specialized degree in a subfield, such as bacteriology or toxicology. Although some lab technician jobs typically require an associate’s degree or 2 years of postsecondary training, a bachelor’s degree in science is sometimes preferred. Technician jobs generally require some laboratory experience and a strong background in math and science. Analytical skills are important for those conducting experiments and determining an outcome or a reasonable way to continue an experiment. Scientists and technicians also need oral and written communication skills because they often work as part of a team and must effectively communicate the results of their analysis to others. In addition, scientists and technicians must be detail-oriented when conducting experiments and recording data.
Biochemists and biophysicists study the chemical and physical principles of living things and biological processes.
Article the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Visit http://www.bls.gov/ for more information.
Your Safety Is Our Business
Meggitt PLC is a global engineering group specializing in extreme environment components and smart sub-systems for aerospace, defense and energy markets. Meggitt Safety Systems, Inc. is an industry leader in the design, development, and production of aviation safety equipment for commercial, military and general aviation industries.
www.meggitt.com **********************************************
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.
SAFETY SYSTEMS, INC.
11700 N.W. 102nd Road Suite 6 Miami, FL 33178
1785 Voyager Avenue Simi Valley, CA 93063 Currently seeking:
Currently seeking:
• Planner (Job location Simi Valley) • Aerospace Aftermarket Regional Sales Manager • Customer Service Administrator
An Equal Opportunity Employer
Learn more about us online at:
• Director Business Systems/ Continuous Improvement • Contracts Administrator I • HR Training Manager • Supply Chain Director
Please submit resume and apply online at meggitt.com. Please reference eoej on your application.
WORKING TOGETHER TO BUILD
TRANSFORMATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Concurrent’s diverse and multicultural work environment promotes creativity and innovation. We’re looking for people who share our passion for technology, innovation and hard work. Please visit our careers page to view current openings. www.ccur.com 4375 River Green Pkwy | Suite 100 | Duluth, GA | 30096 | EOE M/F/D/V
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 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SPILL RESPONSE 1-800-337-7455
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.
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.
C.R. Bard and the division of Bard Peripheral Vascular have demonstrated commitment to innovative medical technology by introducing surgical and interventional devices for peripheral vascular patency, while providing exceptional service and support to surgeons, interventionalists and radiologists. We seek to attract the highest caliber people for every position. Please visit us at jobs-crbard.com and submit your resume. It has been and will continue to be a fundamental policy of C.R. Bard not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or status as a veteran with respect to recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment.
1415 West 3rd Street, P.O. Box 1740 Tempe, AZ 85280
www.bardpv.com
Page 52
equal opportunity employment journal
January 2014
diversity drives
innovation A global leader in consulting, technology, outsourcing, and local professional services. Our working culture thrives on diversity - the uniqueness that our people bring is a source of innovation and inspiration. Our cohesive project teams bring together a rich variety of skills, experiences and perspectives enabling us to be thought leaders in our chosen markets. We value inclusion and our ability to operate as ONE TEAM as a strategic advantage. We actively seek to build on our diversity by attracting talented individuals from a wide range of cultural, geographic and educational backgrounds. Our priority is making sure that all our employees develop rewarding careers with us. Learn more about us or apply online for one of our many career opportunities: www.us.capgemini.com. When prompted in the application to identify how you heard about this job, please select “Agency” and then “EOE Journal”. Capgemini is an EEO/AA employer and provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, citizenship status, genetics, or status as a Vietnam-era, special disabled and other covered veteran status.
Published on Nov 26, 2013
The eoejournal is a four-color diversity publication distributed every other month since 1996 to colleges, universities, tech schools, medic...
