Job Type | Skilled Labor: Hands On, in High Demand

Skilled Labor Careers: The Craftsmanship Behind Modern Society

Skilled Labor is the backbone of various industries, encompassing jobs that require specialized skills, training, or expertise but not necessarily a four-year degree. From electricians to carpenters, skilled laborers build, maintain, and repair the infrastructure that keeps society running. If you have a knack for working with your hands and enjoy problem-solving, a career in skilled labor might be right for you.

What Does Skilled Labor Entail?

Skilled labor roles are diverse, but they generally involve manual labor combined with a specific skill set or technical knowledge. Typical responsibilities may include:

  • Constructing or repairing structures
  • Installing electrical or plumbing systems
  • Operating heavy machinery
  • Crafting or assembling products
  • Conducting routine maintenance and inspections

Types of Skilled Labor Jobs

Here are some common skilled labor roles:

  1. Electrician: Specializes in electrical wiring and systems.
  2. Plumber: Deals with installing and repairing plumbing systems.
  3. Carpenter: Skilled in woodworking, including building and repairing structures.
  4. Welder: Joins metals using high heat.
  5. HVAC Technician: Works on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
  6. Machinist: Operates machine tools to create or modify metal parts.

Salary Expectations for Skilled Labor Roles

Salaries in skilled labor can vary based on specialization, experience, and geographic location. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for electricians was about $56,180 as of May 2020, while plumbers earned a median of $55,160.

Qualities for Success in Skilled Labor

To excel in a skilled labor role, you generally need:

  • Strong technical and mechanical skills
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Attention to detail
  • Good physical stamina and dexterity
  • The ability to work both independently and as part of a team

What Does Skilled Labor Look Like in Different Industries?

Skilled labor roles are incredibly diverse and can vary significantly from one industry to another:

Building Materials / Construction:

Roles such as Concrete Foremen or Heavy Equipment Operators are common in this industry, focusing on the hands-on aspects of construction projects.

Business Products / Services:

Skilled labor in this sector might involve installation or maintenance of business-related equipment and machinery.

Engineering / HVAC:

Technicians in this field are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing HVAC systems.

Food / Seafood:

Roles could include specialized machine operators in food production lines or quality assurance experts.

Industrial:

Skilled laborers in the industrial sector may work as machinists, welders, or assembly line operators.

Medical / Dental:

In healthcare, skilled labor roles can include medical equipment technicians or specialized caregivers.

Packaging:

Skilled laborers in this sector might work in roles that require specialized knowledge of packaging machinery and processes.

Software:

While less common, some roles, like hardware technicians, fall under the category of skilled labor in the tech industry.

 

How to Find a Skilled Labor Job

Skilled labor positions are often advertised on job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and specialized trade websites. Vocational schools and trade unions also offer apprenticeships that provide hands-on training and job placement.

While formal education may not always be necessary, many skilled labor jobs require vocational training, certification, or apprenticeship programs.


Skilled labor offers a wide array of fulfilling career paths that are essential to the functioning of modern society. With the right training and a commitment to mastering your craft, you can enjoy a rewarding, well-compensated career in skilled labor.

Stay tuned for more articles covering career opportunities across various industries and job types!

If a career in Skilled Labor interests you, take a moment to check out the Skilled Labor jobs we have currently available.

Job Type | Customer Service: Facing Clients and Problems on the Front Line

Customer Service Careers: The Heartbeat of Customer Satisfaction

Customer Service roles are often considered the face or voice of an organization, responsible for ensuring customers are satisfied and their needs are met. If you’re a problem solver who enjoys working with people, a career in Customer Service might be an excellent match for you.

What Does a Customer Service Representative Do?

Customer Service Representatives (CSRs) play a pivotal role in the success of a business by maintaining customer relationships. Their duties can include:

  • Handling customer inquiries and complaints
  • Providing information about products or services
  • Processing orders and transactions
  • Offering technical support
  • Coordinating with other departments to resolve issues
  • Gathering feedback to improve customer experience

Types of Customer Service Roles

Here are some common roles within the Customer Service landscape:

  1. Inbound CSR: Handles incoming calls or inquiries from customers.
  2. Outbound CSR: Proactively contacts customers for feedback, upselling, or informational purposes.
  3. Live Chat Support: Provides real-time assistance to customers via online chat platforms.
  4. Technical Support: Specializes in helping customers resolve technical issues with a product or service.
  5. Customer Success Manager: Focuses on long-term customer relationships and works to ensure customer satisfaction and retention.

Salary Expectations for Customer Service Roles

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for customer service representatives was about $35,830 as of May 2020. However, this can vary depending on factors like industry, level of experience, and geographic location.

Qualities for Success in Customer Service

Successful Customer Service Representatives often possess the following qualities:

  • Excellent communication skills
  • Empathy and patience
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Strong multitasking skills
  • Knowledge of the product or service they represent

What Does Customer Service Look Like in Different Industries?

Customer Service roles can be specialized depending on the industry they are in. Here’s a glimpse into how these roles vary:

Building Materials / Construction:

Customer Service roles here often involve detailed product knowledge, handling contractors’ queries, and managing bulk orders.

Business Products / Services:

In this sector, Customer Service might include B2B client management, focusing on service packages, account details, and tailored solutions.

Engineering / HVAC:

Customer Service in this sector may involve technical support, helping customers understand the specifications and maintenance requirements of different systems.

Food / Seafood:

Roles here may include managing orders, tracking shipments, and ensuring food safety guidelines are met during the customer interaction process.

Industrial:

Customer Service professionals may handle inquiries related to machinery parts, availability, and provide technical specifications.

Medical / Dental:

In healthcare, Customer Service might entail appointment scheduling, patient care coordination, and providing information on medical procedures.

Packaging:

Roles in this industry could involve providing information about packaging types, managing custom orders, and ensuring timely delivery.

Software:

Customer Service in software often leans towards technical support, helping users troubleshoot issues and guiding them through various functionalities.

 

How to Find a Customer Service Job

Jobs in customer service are commonly listed on job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor. Networking can also provide valuable leads. When applying, make sure your resume emphasizes your people skills, communication abilities, and any relevant product or industry knowledge.

While some roles may require specialized training or certification, many customer service jobs require only a high school diploma and provide on-the-job training.


Customer Service is a rewarding field that offers various career paths and the opportunity to make a positive impact on people’s lives. With the right skill set and a customer-centric mindset, you can find a fulfilling and impactful role in virtually any industry.

Stay tuned for more articles covering careers across diverse industries and job types!

If a career in Customer Service interests you, feel free to check out the Customer Service jobs we have currently available.

Job Type | Administrative: Supporting Smooth Workflows and Enhancing Efficiency

Administrative Careers: A Comprehensive Guide for Job Seekers

Administrative roles are the backbone of any organization, offering essential support to ensure smooth daily operations. Administrative professionals handle a myriad of tasks including scheduling, data entry, customer service, and financial management. If you’re intrigued by the world of administrative work, this article will provide you with a broad overview of what to expect.

What Does an Administrative Professional Do?

An administrative professional is responsible for a wide range of tasks that help an organization run efficiently. Depending on the industry, this can include:

  • Managing schedules and appointments
  • Handling communications via email, phone, and in-person
  • Maintaining databases and filing systems
  • Coordinating meetings and events
  • Managing budgets and financial records
  • Overseeing office supplies and equipment
  • Assisting with human resources tasks like recruiting and onboarding

Administrative roles are often multifaceted, requiring excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Types of Administrative Roles

Administrative roles can be categorized into various types:

  1. Administrative Assistant: Provides general administrative support, often serving multiple departments.
  2. Executive Assistant: Works closely with executives, handling more sensitive tasks and communications.
  3. Office Manager: Oversees office operations, from budgeting to facility management.
  4. Receptionist: Manages front-of-office duties like greeting visitors and handling incoming calls.
  5. Data Entry Clerk: Focuses on entering and updating information in databases.

Salary Expectations for Administrative Roles

Salary can vary widely depending on the level of responsibility, industry, and geographic location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for administrative assistants was around $40,990 as of May 2020. Higher-level roles like executive assistants can command salaries upwards of $60,000 per year.

Qualities for Success in Administrative Roles

Key skills and traits for success include:

  • Excellent communication skills
  • Strong organizational abilities
  • Attention to detail
  • Proficiency in office software like Microsoft Office or Google Workspace
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
Building a Rewarding Administrative Career

Administration offers a diverse and fulfilling career path for individuals who enjoy supporting organizational operations and contributing to their success. With the right skills, qualities, and a proactive approach to professional development, you can thrive in this field.

What Does an Administrative Position Look Like in Different Industries?

Administrative professionals play a vital role in supporting various industries, ensuring smooth operations and efficient workflows. Let’s explore what administrative jobs might look like in different sectors:

Building Materials:

In the building materials industry, administrative positions involve providing support to construction companies and suppliers. Administrative professionals may handle tasks such as managing purchase orders, coordinating shipments, and maintaining inventory records for building materials such as lumber, concrete, roofing materials, and doors. They may also assist with customer inquiries, prepare quotes and invoices, and ensure timely delivery of products.

Business Products/Services:

Administrative roles in the business products/services industry focus on providing support to companies offering office supplies, software solutions, or consulting services. Administrative professionals may assist with tasks such as order processing, managing client accounts, coordinating shipments, and maintaining product/service databases. They may also handle administrative duties related to client onboarding, contract management, and invoicing.

Construction:

In the construction industry, administrative jobs involve supporting construction companies, contractors, and project managers. Administrative professionals may handle tasks such as project documentation, tracking project timelines, coordinating with subcontractors, and managing construction-related permits and licenses. They may also assist in preparing construction bids, managing project budgets, and handling administrative tasks related to project communications and reporting.

Food/Seafood:

Administrative positions in the food/seafood industry provide support to companies involved in food production, distribution, and sales. Administrative professionals may handle tasks such as order processing, managing inventory and shipments, coordinating with suppliers and distributors, and maintaining product databases. They may also assist with administrative duties related to food safety compliance, labeling regulations, and customer inquiries.

Industrial:

In the industrial sector, administrative jobs involve supporting manufacturing companies, utilities, or other industrial operations. Administrative professionals may handle tasks such as managing production schedules, coordinating with suppliers and logistics providers, and maintaining inventory records for industrial equipment or parts. They may also assist in preparing reports, handling procurement processes, and managing administrative tasks related to quality control and regulatory compliance.

Finance:

Administrative roles in the finance industry focus on providing support to financial institutions, banks, or investment firms. Administrative professionals may handle tasks such as managing client accounts, processing financial transactions, maintaining financial records, and coordinating communication with clients. They may also assist with administrative duties related to compliance documentation, preparing financial reports, and scheduling meetings for finance professionals.

Packaging:

In the packaging industry, administrative positions involve supporting companies that offer packaging solutions such as boxes, containers, or labels. Administrative professionals may handle tasks such as order processing, coordinating shipments, managing inventory, and maintaining product catalogs. They may also assist with administrative duties related to pricing, invoicing, and coordinating with design teams for custom packaging projects.

Software:

Administrative jobs in the software industry provide support to software development companies or IT departments. Administrative professionals may handle tasks such as scheduling meetings, managing project calendars, coordinating travel arrangements for technical staff, and assisting with documentation and record-keeping. They may also provide administrative support during software development cycles, assist with user testing coordination, and handle administrative tasks related to software licensing and contracts.

Administrative positions in these industries require strong organizational skills, attention to detail, effective communication abilities, and the ability to manage diverse tasks in their respective industry environments.


How to Find an Administrative Job

The demand for administrative professionals is consistently strong. Job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor often have extensive listings for administrative roles. Networking and referrals can also be valuable resources in your job search.

To get started, focus on building a strong resume that highlights your organizational skills, experience with office software, and any industry-specific expertise you may have.

Educational requirements can vary. While some roles may require specialized training or degrees, many administrative positions require only a high school diploma coupled with relevant experience.


Administrative roles offer a wide range of opportunities for career growth and specialization. The skill set you develop in an administrative role can easily be transferred to other industries or higher-level positions. With dedication and the right attitude, a career in administration can be both rewarding and fulfilling.

Stay tuned for more insights into different industries and job types!

If a career in Administration interests you, take a moment to check out the Administrative jobs we have currently available.

Job Type | Sales: Is a Career in Sales Right for You?