Despite rapid declines in overall employment due primarily to automation, job opportunities should arise from the need to replace workers who leave the labor force or transfer to other occupations.
Employment change. Employment of weighers, measurers, checkers, and samplers is expected to decline rapidly by 11 percent from 2006 through 2016 because of the increased use of automated equipment that now performs the function of these workers.
Job prospects. Despite employment declines, job opportunities should arise from the need to replace workers who leave the labor force or transfer to other occupations.
Weighers, measurers, checkers, and samplers held about 79,000 jobs in 2006. Their employment is spread across many industries. Retail trade accounted for 14 percent of those jobs, manufacturing accounted for about 22 percent, and wholesale trade employed another 18 percent.
Overall Experience
Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience maybe helpful in these occupations, but usually is not needed. For example, a drywall installer could benefit from experience in installing dry wall, but an inexperienced person could learn the job fairly easily.
Education
These occupations usually require a high school diploma and may require some vocational training or job related course work. In some cases, you may need an associate's or bachelor's degree.
Job Training
Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees.
Examples
Drywall installers, fire inspectors, flight attendants, pharmacy technicians, retail salespersons, and bank tellers.
In these occupations you can often use your knowledge and skills to help others.
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Information about job opportunities may be obtained from local employers and local offices of the State employment service.
Sources: O*Net data version 12.0
Occupational Outlook Handbook
Department of Labor
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