6 highly coveted jobs that you may be over-qualified to do

January 19, 2012   admin   No comments

The world is filled with plenty of 9 to 5 jobs that require a fair share of qualifications for individuals to apply and be accepted as part of this profession; namely white collar jobs. Other less monotonous jobs, while lacking the routine of a 9 to 5 job, still require a certain skill set for the applicants to qualify; the majority being in the blue collar realm of work.

There are however jobs out there in our world that – while seemingly requiring a fair share of skill and experience – require absolutely minimal training and skills which are relevant to the occupation. The following are 6 of the most sought after jobs that are consistently portrayed in movies and media as nothing short of awesome; requiring absolutely no skill whatsoever.

6 – Bounty Hunter

This millennia old profession can be found in nearly every country in the world and is characterized with featuring the toughest and meanest looking men (and on occasion, women) whose sole occupation is to capture and apprehend even less sultry characters than themselves in exchange for a fee; commonly a substantial one. Most bounty hunters are featured in media as being ex-members of the armed forces, the law enforcement agencies or of a similar background. The job title and requirements would indicate a need for familiarity with weaponry, fire arms, martial arts, high fitness levels, keen observation and detective skills and a wider array of other skills which are deemed as necessary to capture those they set out against.

The job title itself holds a great deal of appeal for thousands around the world as it allows a sort of unconstructed freedom that few other jobs could match. Being a bounty hunter entitles one to abide to their own schedule, having no boss to answer to, determining their own pay by being selective about which jobs or chases to undertake, etc. The bounty hunting field is also one that is filled with competition, therefore requiring that the individuals be skilled and delivers outstanding performance in order to set themselves apart from their competitors. Being a bounty hunter essentially gives one all the dangers and action-filled life of a police officer with none of their rules or regulations to abide by. The sole purpose of a bounty hunter is to operate where the law cannot, bringing justice to their own hands and delivering those whom are wanted in order to collect their coveted rewards.

This is exactly why those who are in the bounty hunting business are experienced men who are dedicated to their occupation with years of training under their belts in addition to experience and skills in a wide variety of realms. It’s not exactly like anyone could just roll out of bed on an average Tuesday and decide they’re on their way to become their local community’s next big shot bounty hunter.

But did you know…?

There are exactly two steps to becoming a bounty hunter, they are as follows,

1 – Decide you want to become a bounty hunter.

2 – Congratulations! You are now a bounty hunter in your own right.

The technical and specific details may differ from one country to another but in the United States of America as in many other nations around the world, one can become a bounty hunter by simply filling the appropriate and relevant forms at their local law enforcement offices. It’s all in the simplicity you see, the laws have not been changed since the times when bounty hunting was very common place, such as in the old Wild West, when law enforcement agencies could not match up with the growing crime rate. This is exactly why becoming a bounty hunter in most countries requires absolutely zero training or diplomas prior to being legally capable of practicing it as your chosen profession.

The fact is, despite the abundance of “bounty hunting schools”, they serve no practical purpose and most existing bounty hunters have never been enrolled in one such school. Even the school themselves have fully admitted in providing no actual additional experience or skills to their applicants. It seems that being a bounty hunter relies solely on working within the confines of the state laws and having picked out the nicest looking leather jacket and matching pants as well as aligning oneself with a bail bondsman to keep the business flowing in. So there you have it kids, run outside and declare yourselves bounty hunter because, well frankly, there isn’t much anyone can do about it.

 

5 – Martial Arts Instructor

It seems that every civilization on Earth has developed its own martial art system at one point or another. Many of us, as children, dream of the day when we become masters of such highly disciplined skills, capable of unleashing seemingly infinite power and pain onto others at a moment’s notice; and to master it to such a degree that we could pass on our knowledge to others. Many of us were bullied during our younger years by an older or stronger bully and wished that we would have mastered the skills of Karate or Judo or any other martial art; having vowed to become a master in our own right when we become grownups.

A martial arts instructor is someone who operates their own dojo and transfers their intimate and skilled knowledge of their respective martial art onto their many students who move upwards through many levels in the hope of becoming masters in their right one day. Martial arts instructors were once students to other great masters themselves and therefore utilize the knowledge they were given in addition to the skills they acquired along their own lifetime. The allure of being a martial arts instructor is very easy to understand, having multiple disciples who will do whatever you command them to, spewing out your carefully chosen words to correspond with the infinite wisdom you are trying to pass on. After all, martial arts are more religion than combat in terms of dedication and will power; a martial arts instructor must be a person who is extremely well disciplined and is one with the universe among other things. A lifetime spent studying and practicing the very martial art you are about to instruct, having moved up the levels to achieve mastery, as well as passing multiple tests and proving yourself worthy of passing on this ancient knowledge onto others surely must be among the infinite criteria required to legally perform this role.

However, the reality of the situation is…

…you will need just about enough money to advertise yourself as an instructor and a dojo to rent out for lessons. No trainer’s license. No black belt. No lifetime spent practicing Karate. Just the decision to become a martial arts instructor.

The fact is, there’s such an abundance of “fake” martial arts instructors who have little or no experience or relations to the very martial arts they claim to be experts on, that the “professional” martial arts community is quite angry about it. The lack of a legal framework that prevents any one from renting out a dojo and declaring themselves “masters” of any martial art of their choosing simply don’t exist. This is such a problem that entire websites and online forums have become dedicated solely to expose those fake masters and to alert others to their existence; pinpointing the whereabouts of the “real” masters for those who are interested.

You realize what this means, right? You have the ability to completely immerse yourself into this childhood dream and live it out in real life. You too, with absolutely no experience whatsoever, can become a martial arts instructor and dupe enough people into handing over their kids to you so you can “teach” them your skills. Sure, there’s a bit of a moral dilemma in question when it comes to this type of behavior but it’s important to keep in mind that this is completely legal. You can easily invent your own fighting style, give it an Asian name and peddle it as the real deal with none the wiser. There are agencies out there which supply “authentic” certificates that can rectify your claim as an established martial artist and experienced instructor in your respective field. Your options are seemingly limitless and as long as you stay clear from those who look like they have a background in actual martial arts and don’t trip too often while demonstrating your “style” to your students, you’ll be just fine.

 

4 – Private detective

Admit it; the moment you read about Sherlock Holmes and saw the series and movies, you were completely enamored at the very idea of becoming a private detective. The notion of solving crimes that the law enforcement agencies could only dream to crack, acquiring information that cops were otherwise incapable to procure, and facing off against the occasional dangers which provide all the thrill of cop work. Unlike many other professions which hardly seem realistic in this day and age like bounty hunters, being a private detective is a very real job and can be quite the diverse occupation.

The occupation of a private detective obviously needs a very keen sense of focus, being self-aware, being meticulously organized, prepared and focused on the small surrounding details. These are but a handful of the necessary skills a private detective will need to utilize in order to crack unsolvable cases, finding missing persons or otherwise. The image of 1940’s private detectives is deeply engraved into our collective memory as a race, with scenes of cunning men who can outsmart the goons in order to crack the case in time, draped in their coats, donning their fedora hats and always getting the girl at the end. It’s only natural that private detectives are expected to have a background in police work, coming from some sort of law enforcement agency as well as displaying the ability to be trustworthy yet dubious, extreme detection skills as well as numerous contacts from the underworld in addition to a familiarity with all that is necessary for the private detective to be well equipped to take on any case.

The shocking reality, however…

…is that while a background in police work is definitely handy, a simple certificate from any number of dedicated websites will be more than enough in order for you to secure your footing as an official and legal private detective. There are numerous agencies and centers whose sole occupation is to provide you with the certification that asserts your qualification as a private detective for a small fee and having to scroll through a few website pages, printing your very own private detective certificate at the end. Can it get any easier?

Yes. Yes it can.

Depending on where you live, especially if you’re in the United States, the requirements for being declared a private detective and being capable of taking on cases may vary depending on the state with some states requiring rigorous checks and examinations to assert the person’s qualification for the occupation in order to give out a practitioner license while other states practically hand you the license on a silver platter. Other states don’t even require a license or even the completion of an online course. You can simply set up shop wherever you please and start practicing right then and there. While the moral dilemma which exists in the two previous cases exists, you’ll be happy to know this particular occupation is far less risky and offers a more or less better paycheck. Better go buy your magnifying glass and smoking pipe; you’re halfway to your dream job.

 

3 – Decontamination specialist

More commonly known as Hazmat workers, these brave souls are the men and women whom we entrust to handle and dispose of the most disgusting and filthiest of substances. They’re constantly portrayed in numerous works of media, particularly in Sci-Fi novels and movies. They are always dressed in protective clothing, holding complex electronic gadgets and are always at the site of some disaster or another.

The decontamination specialists are there to neutralize an environmental risk and to ensure that the disaster or crisis does not spread elsewhere. The dangers which they take on are infinite, being at the heart of the events, dealing with the toxic or nuclear substances in order to bring safety back to the area.  It seems that this is a highly technical job which requires carefully trained individuals who are focused, determined and above all; qualified. Certainly backgrounds in chemistry, biology, physics and other similar sciences are required in order to perform their job adequately and safety. Other attributes such as team communication, attention to details and many others are clearly a staple of this profession.

Or are they?

The actual qualifications required to become a decontamination “specialist” do not exceed a high school diploma and a mere 40 hours on-the-job training. Other skills are so ambiguous; they could apply to an infinite number of jobs. Some of these “skills” include the ability to deal positively with bad smells, loud noises, the ability to follow orders and the ability to understand and speak English.

Despite their job title, the specialist part is clearly one of the very limited perks of this particular occupation. Despite being entrusted to deal with contamination sites which could contain hazardous and toxic materials that could threaten hundreds of thousands if not millions of civilians, the men who do the clean up need no more than spending at the training facility and having successfully graduated from high school; and of course, speaking English.

The pay for the job is not exceedingly high; in fact, it rates just barely above any lowly position at a fast food franchise. It does however offer remarkable fringe benefits, especially those in the medical department, no doubt to counteract any adverse effects of the materials that the decontamination specialists may become exposed to on the job.

If you want to be one of the men who get to wear the cool suits, boss bystanders around and carry around expensive and technically advanced tools and gadgets; this is the job for you. Just like that.

 

2 – Ice road trucker

This occupation is relatively new in comparison to the others on this list, if only for the fact that automobiles are relatively new themselves. Ice road truckers are those who are given the job of hauling massive trucks and lorries across the temporary ice roads which form above water surfaces during the winter months when the temperatures are low enough for a thick ice plate to form.

While this may seem somewhat insane, the practice is commonplace in countries where the temperatures are so low that they are sure the ice can handle the weight of a multi-ton truck passing through such as in Russia or Canada. There are still many dangers at place, after all, you are driving an extremely heavy vehicle above a plate of ice that hovers over water. The job is so dangerous in fact, that ice road truckers are constantly labeled among the riskiest of occupations anywhere in the world. The mere over-speeding or under-speeding of a single mile per hour can mean the difference between sinking and staying above the icy waters below. An intimate knowledge of the weather forecast and weather conditions is also crucial to ensure a smooth trip with no accident.  Even the slightest hiccup or pressure ridge can land your large and heavy vehicle deep into ice waters; therefore an intimate knowledge of trucks and the physics relating to ice road driving are an absolute necessity to any man entrusted with this job, correct?

Wrong.

While it remains a fact that this is indeed an extremely dangerous profession, due to the extreme and never ending need for the supplies to get dropped off where they need to be, companies are always on the lookout for new and available driver; irrelevant of their skills or expertise.

You don’t need to own your own truck, you don’t need to be aware of impeding weather conditions, you don’t need to know a damn thing about ice and driving on top of it, hell, and you don’t even need to have a truck driver’s license. All you need to do is apply and you will be trained and given your very own truck to go about on your merry way and drive it across sheets of ice of variable thickness. Payment for your food, travel expenses and lodging are on the company’s bill in addition to a rather hefty signing bonus as well as numerous fringe benefits. Depending on how much you think your life and soul are worth, you too can become a fearsome ice road trucker.

 

1 – Bodyguard

This job has been staple as long as humanity has had people who are more important than other people, thus acquiring the hatred of other people, and thus requiring protection. Bodyguards is a millennia old profession in which dedicated and professional individuals literally put somebody else’s life into their own hands; showering them with uninterrupted focus and attention at all costs.

The job of a bodyguard isn’t just about standing tall next to your client, it requires immense dedication on your part, an intimate knowledge of every venue you are about to walk into, a keen sense of observation as well as being constantly aware of your surroundings. A bodyguard must be subtle yet vigilant and capable of scanning and defusing a situation before it gets out of hand. If it comes down to it, a bodyguard should take a bullet instead of their client; it’s all part of the job. Naturally, you’d assume this kind of job – which evidently offers little or no rest to the bodyguard – requires someone who is highly trained, highly professional, preferably from a law enforcement or military background, amassing a considerable amount of necessary skill that can be used to protect the client at all costs.

If you assumed all of the above, you’re more than slightly mistaken.

You see, for all the needs of a client for protection and the seemingly endless qualifications one must amass in order to have the guts to even offer their services as a bodyguard, becoming a bodyguard is a mere matter of a special certification which can be acquired by literally anyone within a few weeks. In fact, all you have to do is attend a few lectures a week for a couple of weeks, get your certificate and you are off on your way to protect others from deadly assassins and the like with only about 3 weeks of practical experience in your bag!

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Administrative Assistant Job Description

February 17, 2012   admin   No comments

1. An administrative assistant’s profile and job description

The work of an Administrative Assistant – Job profile and description

The first thought that comes in the mind when one thinks of admin assistant is the busybody who is the nerve centre of all the action in an office or commercial enterprise. The administrative assistant works in tandem with the head manager of the office/branch or department and supports the work of the whole department and branch. His or her main job is to handle all communication and receive and make phone calls, faxes, along with carrying out basic administrative, managerial and clerical functions. The admin assistant spends most part of the day communicating with officials, staff and visitors to the office. The admin assistant works under the guidance of the Executive Director or the Managing Director and this job is full-time, five days a week. The main aim of the administrative assistant is to help the Executive Director or MD in all tasks and to simplify the clerical jobs to ensure the office runs smoothly.

This is known to be a challenging job considering all the responsibilities of the admin assistant and the indispensability that this job demands but still lucrative. In this profession as in most others that deal with administrative tasks, the more education, experience and maturity the person brings to the job the easier the work and better the efficiency. Most often the administrative assistant undertakes all the tasks of the receptionist, front desk executive or personal assistant. This is a job with plenty of multi-tasking required. Probably the only visible difference in the two professions is that while a secretary deals with daily miscellaneous situations, the administrative assistant has much broader duties.

In the past many studies have been done into the jobs available in the admin sphere and it has been estimated that about 2,000,000 administrative assistants are currently employed in the US. This includes financial, legal, healthcare, government, education, hospitality, marketing and web based organizations. The number of hours an administrative assistant works in one week is from 35 to 40 hours. A sound working knowledge of office functions and computer applications is ideal for this job role. When any project requires a temporary fill in or if there is a meeting the admin assistant is given the job. Before a meeting, the assistant will inform the relevant departments of the agenda of the meeting, take the minutes during the meeting and write a report of the matters discussed afterwards. Any staff announcements will be displayed on the noticeboards or an email will be sent by the admin assistant. On the instructions of the manager, the admin assistant will also make reports, charts and audio-visual presentations. Depending on where the individual is employed, the tasks, specialization and knowledge of specific jargon and skills differ.

2. Duties and responsibilities

A look at the duties and responsibilities of an Administrative Assistant

There is never a shortage in demand for admin assistants, because they multitask and report to many people keeping every department bound together through information and communication. The administrative assistant occupies a pivotal role in any enterprise, regardless of the industry type. It would not be an exaggeration to say that if one considers the manager as the brain then the admin assistant has to be the limbs of the office. To keep all the wheels in the office moving in perfect alignment an administrative assistant is very important.

The primary duties of an admin assistant are:

  • Handle paperwork – The paperwork is done by the admin assistant along with copying, scanning, printing and filing them carefully.
  • Keep a watch on things – Maintaining a log of visitors, supplies, stores and attendance of staff.
  • Care for machinery and equipment – Maintaining office equipment and computers.
  • Discipline and code of conduct – Ensuring that work flows smoothly without delays and discipline and decorum are maintained.
  • Be the face of the organization to people who visit – Receive and deal with visitors to the premises.
  • Communicate effectively – Communicate with employees, management, housekeeping staff, suppliers, customers, visitors, vendors and so forth.
  • Party and event planning – Organizing and conducting office events, celebrations and parties.
  • Internal and external communication - Make and receive telephone calls, faxes, emails, post, parcels and memos.
  • Stock up and record supplies – Upkeep of office stationery and supplies.
  • Clerical duties – Create forms, documents, files and journals for clerical work.
  • Provide internal circulations – Supply in-house magazines, company annual reports and newsletters to staff.
  • Grievance redressal – Address any issues of the staff in the office.
  • Ask for and make changes – Collect feedback from employees, visitors and management and implement the changes if required.
  • Provide information and news – Create notices and disclosures and display them prominently.
  • Hiring and HR duties – Oversee interview and hiring processes and maintain the databank of all employees.
  • Watchdog duties – Supervise other clerical staff and offer suggestions if required.
  • Make and transfer calls – Handle the PBX and connect various departments via line transfer.
  • Repairs and purchases – Get any faulty equipment or furniture repaired or purchase any spares as soon as possible and ensure everything in the office is in perfect working order.
  • Maintain records – The administrative assistant has to keep a record of the keys, parking spaces, expenses and staff utilities.
  • Travel arrangements – If and when a member of the staff has to go on official trip then the administrative assistant will make the travel arrangements like booking flight tickets, luggage allowances, visa documentation, forein exchange, hotel accommodation and taxi services.
  • Housekeeping and maintenance staff – The administrative assistant needs to keep a watch on the cleaning and housekeeping staff and guide them on how to maintain the air-conditioning, sanitation, plants, pantry, window glasses, cabins and lobby in a neat manner.
  • Coordinate meetings – Prior to meetings the admin assistant has to inform the employees or concerned department of the agenda, time and venue, during the meeting, she/he takes the minutes and after the meeting, the admin assistant will make a report or circular and file the minutes.

The admin assistant is an important person in the office and he is entrusted with some key jobs in the functioning of the daily office activities.

The fundamental responsibilities of the administrative assistant are as follows:

a)    Men, material, money, method and machinery are to be put to right use; this is the chief job of the admin assistant.

b)    He must ensure the computers, office equipment, stationery and fittings are used carefully and are in ship-shape.

c)    Proper filing and upkeep of documents, licenses, registration and legal deeds for easy use in future.

d)    If there is anything to convey to all employees in the office then the admin assistant makes sure he gets the message across properly through notices, emails and circulars.

e)    The administrative assistant also has the job of ensuring everyone in the office works in tandem to create a cordial, cohesive, work-centric atmosphere.

f)    When there is some outside communication required like new faces, media presentations, public news releases etc, then the admin assistant is the generally the eyes and mouth of the organization.

g)    In case of any emergency, the admin assistant has to calm and reassure the employees and ensure the safety systems are in working condition and are used correctly.

4. Education and Skills Required

The academic requirements and talent needed for an administrative assistant job

It is to be understood that the administrative assistant job, though hectic and multi tasking is not one that requires too much educational training. Someone with a bachelor’s degree in any stream will do just fine. This is a profession for the energetic, enterprising, efficient and self-motivated individuals. There is a lot of demand on time and physical activity in this job and so one needs to be up to it.

  • Academics needed for an admin assistant:

As said earlier, the admin assistant doesn’t need any great educational achievements; a degree in any field will suffice. It is ideal though to have a degree in business administration and office management. A degree or diploma in commerce too is helpful. Some employers will prefer to hire individuals who are computer savvy, type fast and have a diploma in secretarial practices.

  • Certification, if any:

Administrative assistants do not require any certification from the national or state level. They are free to take up and practice any job they desire.

  • Licenses, if any:

Admin assistants unlike teaching, healthcare and legal professionals do not require license whatsoever.

  • Prior training:

When employers are hiring administrative assistants, they look for those with some sort of prior training as admin executives, whether a training, practicum or internship. A previous part time job in the same profession too is preferred.

  • Relevant work experience:

This job is open to fresher’s with no experience whatsoever, however having some prior knowledge of the duties and responsibilities is ideal. This helps as the individual will be faster, more efficient and waste less times learning the ropes. Ofcourse, every organization has its own ways and means to get things done but by and by every new admin assistant will get the hang of things. The candidate with some work experience will respect deadlines better. The individual with some knowledge of accountancy, office software and administrative and clerical duties will be best suited for this job role.

  • Abilities needed for this job:

The prime need is to be a people’s person. Along with this an administrative assistant should also possess the following traits:

  • Self motivated
  • Conscious of deadlines and timing
  • Communication skills
  • Writing and typing skills
  • Bookkeeping and costing knowledge
  • Computer savvy
  • Keen observer and fast learner
  • Attentive to details
  • Cordial and caring nature
  • Pleasing personality
  • Prompt in action
  • Knowledge of English along with languages, both local and foreign
  • Be good at basic arithmetic
  • Adept at public relations
  • Know how to use fax machine, printers, scanner, copier, shredder, filing systems, printers, PBAX and telephones
  • Well versed in official routine, the company rules and code of conduct
  • Good general knowledge
  • Ability to handle large number of people simultaneously
  • Physical fitness and stamina to handle long hours of standing, hectic running around to get things done and lots of patience
  • Calm and good composure at all times
  • Rational and objective thinking
  • Adaptive to new work environments
  • Multitask with ease
  • Knowledge of payrolls, spreadsheets, data entry, staff benefits, taxation and legal systems.

5. Employment Avenues

Where are administrative assistants employed?

Every office, no matter the industry needs an administrative assistant. Legal firms, doctor’s offices, schools, cinemas, government departments, banks, insurance companies, shops, science laboratories, corporate offices, airports, universities, internet enabled services, social service organizations, clubs, media houses and factories, require someone who can handle the front desk and undertake a medley of admin, clerical and supervisory roles. They wear many hats from secretary, front desk executive, admin assistant and clerk, depending on the needs.

The different types of administrative assistants are:

  • General administrative assistant
  • Medical administrative assistant
  • Executive administrative assistant
  • Legal administrative assistant
  • Virtual administrative assistant

6. Average Salaries of a an Administrative Assistant

What is the remuneration of an administrative assistant?

The average pay for an administrative assistant in the U.S is close to $35,000 per year as per a study by the US bureau of Labor Statistics. Depending on the nature of the industry and employer type, the pay of the admin assistant also differs and it has been seen some admin assistants can earn as much as $54,000 annually. Along with the basic pay, they also avail bonus, increments, leave, travel allowances, maternity leave, health coverage and provident fund.

With no experience, an admin assistant can earn from $21,000 to $40,000.

With more than two decades of work experience, the administrative assistant can earn up to $55,000. Boston, Massachusetts paid the best salaries at $30,000 to $52,000 while Houston, Texas paid the lowest salaries of $25,000 to $46,000. The benefits for an admin assistant are approximately as follows:

  • Paid leave – $25,000 to $50,000 per year
  • 401(k) – $26,000 to $51,000
  • Life Insurance or disability coverage – $26,000 to $ 50,000

It was seen as per salary studies that the top paying for administrative assistants are:

  • Educational institutions – $ 23,000 to $42,000
  • Law offices – $24,000 to $ 47,000
  • Health care sector – $25,000 to $50,000
  • Financial companies – $25,000 – $56,000
  • Insurance firms – $23,000 – $ 48,000

7. Future Scope in the Field

What are the long-term prospects of an administrative assistant?

This is an evergreen career avenue with unlimited jobs in the future. Every day in the classifieds one can see many job openings looking for experiences receptionists/admin assistants. It helps to have an impeccable work record and to keep learning new skills on the job, so as to adapt to latest trends in the industry with ease. Working on personality skills, communication, efficiency, business writing and typing speed also will improve future job prospects. It is good to take up a part time course in secretarial services or business administration while working so that your academics will get a boost. There are many videos, articles and classes available online to brush up ones professional skills and an admin assistant can check these to help develop his/her professional skills. With time and experience in an organization, an admin assistant will be promoted to the position of a manger and this will bring about a hike in the salary too. In addition, one can always diversify into a sales or marketing job with prior experience as an administrative assistant. The job description of an admin assistant is very attractive and one that is ever popular around the globe.

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Toxicologists Job Description

February 15, 2012   admin   No comments

1. Nature of Job

Who is a toxicologist and what does he do?

The toxicologist is a person who performs studies related to laboratory work and fieldwork. Their duty is to conduct the laboratory tests, check, and record the influence of toxic chemicals on the health of living organisms and environment. They also indulge themselves in the study of radiation and its effects on human beings and atmosphere. They also study about the influence of technology in the future. According to a research organization, toxicology deals with bad impact of toxins on the animals, plants, humans and the environment. It also tells us the way to get out of these problems or lower the problems. Toxicology is classified as clinical, occupational, eco-toxicology, regulatory, forensic, academic, industrial and pharmaceutical. Toxicologists do various tests and experiments to find the impact of certain chemical substances on the human body and other living organisms. This job involves scientific terminology and therefore needs the deep study of biology. They can also conduct tests in the laboratory to study the impact of cosmetics, food and other materials on human body. They will mainly carry out the experiments on animals and later will work with human experimentation. Toxicologists do various kinds of task during their research work, listed below are the few tasks that they do

Tasks of toxicologists

  • The toxicologists conduct research on animals with different chemicals.
  • Recording the chemical reactions on the animals is the main task of toxicologists.
  • Making suggestions on the findings is the other important task of toxicologists.
  • The toxicologists needs to discuss with seniors and peers about their findings.
  • Disposing the chemical waste in a safe way is an important task of toxicologists.

2. Education qualification

Education/training

The toxicologists’ job is a very challenging profile. They have to be highly educated in the field of science and biology. For becoming toxicologists, they should have bachelor’s degree biological sciences and have a specialization in subjects like pharmacology, toxicology and cell biology. After the completion of the bachelor’s degree, they can opt for post graduation or research. They can pursue their doctorate in toxicology, biochemistry, cell biology, physiology and other related fields that have four-year course duration. The required education and training in the field of toxicology will help them to work with research teams in various toxicology research centers.

Skills

  • The toxicologists must have leadership skills.
  • Communication skills both written and oral are required for toxicologists.
  • A toxicologist must have in-depth knowledge in physics, computers, biology and chemistry.
  • They must be a team player.
  • A toxicologist must have complete knowledge about calculus, statistics and environmental studies.
  • They should show interest in working for baccalaureate degree in chemistry and biology.

3. Career growth

Future prospects of toxicologists

There is a bright future for toxicologists as there are number of pharmaceutical companies and research centers coming up. PhD in research will be helpful for toxicologists in his/her career and thereby making way for higher pay scales and career growth.

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Posted in: Education

Stock Broker Job Description

February 15, 2012   admin   No comments

1. Nature of the Job

Who is a stockbroker and what do they do?

Stockbrokers are the people who deal with trading in stocks and shares of the customer. They have the responsibility of buying and selling of shares and securities on behalf of their client. They have the duty of maintaining the portfolios of the customer. They have to keep themselves updated with the latest information on the stocks of their clients. They have to tell the clients on changes of stock or share values and suggest their client what would be beneficial. That is either to keep or sell the shares. They need to have good communication skills that will help them to accumulate more client base. Stockbroker can work in a stock broking firm or they can set up their own office. Some stockbrokers work for banks, investment companies, and brokerage firm. They have to win the clients trust by providing them the best services and suggestions that will maximize the client’s investments. Stockbrokers work on commission basis. They charge some commission on every transaction that is performed for the client. Stockbrokers help the client by suggesting where to put their money or investments that will fetch them most returns. They not only have to keep a track of their own countries stock markets but also need to have complete information about international stock market, which directly or indirectly have an impact on concerned country’s stock market. Stocks brokers need to do various tasks. Given below are some of the tasks that are performed by a stockbroker:

Tasks of a stockbroker

  • The stockbroker is required to monitor the rise and fall of the share values of different companies.
  • Monitor the customer’s investments and recommend them about companies that are good for investing.
  • Get the best of the prices for their clients.
  • Inform customers about the risks involved on investment and risk strategies.
  • Acquire and trade securities on behalf of the client.
  • Discuss with clients to assess their requirements.
  • Developing trust in customer is an important task of a stockbroker.

2. Educational Qualification

Qualifications required for becoming a stockbroker

Aspirants who want to become a stock broker needs to be a graduate or post-graduate in subjects like finance or accounting. To become a stockbroker they need to get licenses or membership of stock exchanges, they must sign a memorandum with the concerned stock exchange and must follow all the norms formulated by stock exchange of that country.

Skills of a stockbroker

  • A stockbroker must have strong analytical skills.
  • Logical skills are essential skills of a stockbroker.
  • A stockbroker must have good communication skills.
  • Inter people skills are mandatory for a stockbroker.

3. Career growth

Future prospects of stockbroker

The future prospects of stockbroker are very bright as more and more people are diverting their investments to stock trading and buying most of the profit-making shares.

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Posted in: Business

Secretary of state Job Description

February 15, 2012   admin   No comments

 1. Nature of Job:

Who is Secretary of state and what does he do?

Secretary of state is a top level position in the United States. The secretary of a state is responsible for foreign polices and enhancement of foreign development of the organization. She/he is the adviser to the president of the government. They interact with other countries people to discuss on foreign polices and make them to follow the United States foreign policies.

Responsibilities of Secretary of state:

  • Offers guidance to the president of united states on foreign relations and political issues
  • Also  monitors the military activities of the state
  • Deals with the foreign embassies  administration and management
  • Manages the foreign  consulate offices
  • Responsible for foreign trade missions
  • Provides advisory service sot the president of united states on the foreign economic issues
  • Negotiates with new treaties in the  concerned area
  • Also performs various functions like immigration supervising and passport issues

2. Qualifications and Expertise Required:

What are the qualifications and skills required for Secretary of state Job?

Education / Training:

  • Should have a minimum bachelor’s degree in any discipline
  • The candidate need to have a minimum work experience in  the area of foreign relations at state level
  • Developing relationships with state governments.

Skills:

  • Should have a strong communications skills
  • Should have the in-depth knowledge of foreign relations
  • Able to coordinate with multiple foreign issues
  • Need to have strong organizational skills
  • Should be able to coordinate the overseas relations
  • Should act as a link between the federal government and foreign countries

3. Career Growth:

What is the future growth of Secretary of state Job?

Secretary of the state is a key position in the United States. The responsibilities of the state secretary vary from country to country. It is a politically recruited position in most of the countries. In United States, there is one secretary for the state, who is responsible for the foreign policies of the state. They are highly paid position which is equal to the foreign minister.

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Posted in: Job Description

School Librarian Job Description

February 15, 2012   admin   No comments

The School librarian is the person in charge of the maintenance of the library. This person must handle all the activities of ordering, cleaning, classifying and selecting books, library software and library related equipment.  All these activities depend on the external factors like the size of the library, the number of students or the requirements of the concerned educational institution. The school librarian is also in charge of various library activities like returning of books, cataloging of the books, undertaking proper care of old documents, papers and books in the library. The school librarian is also required to do educational activities in the library to promote reading habits among the students. With his or her experience of educational activities, the librarian is required to teach to the student’s various activities like how to search for new books, key points when reading a book etc.

In addition, the school librarian is required to help all the students who come to the school library in choosing proper books required as per their school curriculum. The school librarian must attend to the enquiry of the students about the books and must fulfill their requirements.

Qualifications and ability required for becoming a school librarian are

To become a school librarian the process is too long and complex. Normally in most of the states across the country certifications as a school librarian is in huge demand. The following qualifications are required to become a school librarian and these are

  • The least educational qualification required is to have a High School Degree and
  • Hold a bachelor’s degree bachelor degree and or
  • Have a Master’s degree in library and information science or MLIS and or
  • The person must also hold certification as a school librarian as per the concerned state’s requirements for being appointed as a school librarian.

The duties and responsibilities of a school librarian are

  • A school librarian is required to aid students and school staff in the proper access and use of library.
  • A school librarian is responsible for providing intellectual and physical access to all the materials and information available within the library premises.
  • He or she is required to give learning strategies to meet the needs of the individual students.
  •  A school librarian must promote awareness about various resources available for acquiring the knowledge required for the schoolchildren.
  • He or she is required to help the teachers in the use and choice of general literature, use of available technologies and suitable resources in the field of their concerned teaching subjects.

Career growth:

In the past few years the job opportunities in this field has increased manifold across the country. The number of students attending to school libraries is higher. Therefore, the demand for school librarians had risen and it is a fact that many schools demand these professionals for administering their school libraries.

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Posted in: Education

Sales and Marketing Job Description

February 15, 2012   admin   No comments

1)   Nature of job

Who are sales and marketing staff?

Sales and Marketing Job Description is to promote a product of the company. Individuals in sales and marketing play a real role in making business a success. Sales and marketing staff are the ones who endorse a product on behalf of the company. Businesses are using internet and other technology to attract the costumers, they could instead use sales and marketing staff who posses management and leadership abilities that are needed to lead companies that conduct business on a global scale.

Duties include:

  • Increase company’s profit margin and growth.
  • Promote company’s product in a given territorial area efficiently.
  • Attract customers and expand local operations into global ones.

2)   Qualifications and Expertise required for becoming a sales and marketing staff

Qualifications required for becoming a sales and marketing staff members

One needs to have hands-on training in business and sales to be a successful sales and marketing staff. An associate degree in sales and marketing will be helpful in having an overview of marketing principles.

Managers of international business often hold an MBA degree with a focus on international business or trade.

Extra Programs required for undertaking or enrolling for career enhancement in this field: The person desirous of making a career in this field needs to have a grip over marketing, communication skills, sales management, economics and accounting areas.

Extra courses are required to further one’s skills. These courses will give a broader view to make a career in this field. Courses that will help in sales and marketing includes

  • Studying of introduction to marketing as a subject at degree or postgraduate level.
  • Marketing communications can also be taken as a subject at the degree level.
  • Sales management knowledge is needed for evaluating the sales environment.
  • Economics as a subject at graduate and postgraduate level helps in understanding the overall economy.
  • Introduction to accountancy throws light on the basic tenets of maintain accounting records in an organization.
  • Introduction to marketing management is the most important subject to be studied for making career in sales and marketing.
  • Marketing principles can be termed as the bread and butter of sales and marketing.
  • Financial management is the other subject that will help in knowing about the finances of the organization and the role of finance in sales and marketing.
  • Consumer behavior and customer service helps in understanding the consumer behavior.
  • Market research and approaches to selling.
  • Traditional marketing methods are the foundation for the sales and marketing people.

Skills required by sales and marketing staff:

Personal selling skills are an essential skill.

  • Communication skills are necessary for sales and marketing staff.
  • Management skills give an insight to how to manage a business.
  • Negotiation rules and tactics is an important skill need for sales and marketing staff.
  • Critical thinking is essential skill for sales and marketing staff.
  • Innovative ways to attract customers is an important skill for sales and marketing staff.
  • Developing marketing plans is a skill that will help the sales and marketing staff in helping to expand the business of the concerned organization.
  • Designing specific marketing, advertising and promotional plans is a part of the job for sales and marketing staff.

3)   Career growth of a sales and marketing staff:

Future of a sales and marketing staff

Marketing professionals are needed in all areas of business to drive profitability and make sure successful business. Career growth is very high as there is an expected demand for these professionals. These professionals have to work at different territories, so they change so.

Sales and marketing field opens a variety of career options including those in advertising, public relations, sales management, business management and marketing. The managers who are experienced in sales and marketing are expected to see a career growth that is faster than average growth rate.

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Posted in: Marketing

QA Analyst Job Description

February 15, 2012   admin   No comments

1.    Nature of the Job

Who is a QA Analyst and what do they do?

The professionals who test the applicability and correctness of the computer applications are known as the QA or the Quality Assurance Analysts. They have to check the working of the computer applications. They have to be very responsible in performing their work and give out desired results. They work with a particular method and structure. They test all the applications and softwares related to computers.The quality analyst tests software by two different methods. They can go for automation by using tools of third party and also by manual testing. The quality analyst plays a very important role in a company. They have to build good relations with the clients.

The most important job responsibility of a quality analyst is to check that any application that is rolled out to the clients by the company has to be free from errors. The quality assurance analyst also performs different types of tests on the software applications like testing with black box, testing of performance, load testing, testing of systems, acceptance testing, etc.

The qa analyst job description involves several roles and responsibilities in software companies and handles the following duties:

  • One of the important duties of the quality analyst is to analyze the defects related to software applications in computers.
  • The quality analyst should follow IEEE standards to test the computer applications.
  • They should know the requirements of the users.
  • They should test different areas of modules.
  • They should be well aware of the testing procedures and steps.
  • They should also make sure that the module which is to be tested is developed completely.
  • They should keep a record of the different test cases to be done.
  • If the quality analyst finds a bug, then they should report it to the team head or leader.
  • They have the responsibility of tracking the bugs using the tracking tools.
  • They are also responsible for fixing the bug and testing the applications again to make sure that the fault is not repeated again.
  • The quality analysts also attend the team meetings.
  • They help in overcoming queries of clients.

2.    Credentials and Abilities Required

Title- What are the essential requirements for the QA Analyst?

Qualification- The quality assurance analyst needs to have a bachelor’s degree in computer science. They can even go for a master’s degree in computer science. It will add to their job pursuits. The candidates have an edge over other employees if they are postgraduates. They can even go for computer related certifications, which add to their resume.

General Skills required- The skills and abilities of a quality analyst are as follows:-

  • Good communication skills.
  • Good listening and writing skills.
  • Immense knowledge of computer related softwares.
  • Capable of completing tasks within the deadline provided.
  • Can work both in teams as well as independently.
  • Skills of finding defects in software applications.
  • Perform the tests related to software with different data inputs.
  • Work according to the company rules and regulations.
  • Can manage and motivate the teams.
  • Good problem solving skills.
  • Capable of analyzing the things analytically.
  • Efficient decision making skills.
  • Hardworking and flexible to environment.

3.    Professional Growth

Title- What are the job prospects for a QA Analyst?

The quality assurance analysts having a master’s degree in computer science and good experience can excel in their careers. With experience, they can go to higher level posts like senior quality assurance analysts or QA managers. They can even work on contract basis.The US statistics predicts that the employment opportunities for quality analysts will increase by 10 percent by 2014.

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Posted in: Professional

Purchasing Agent Job Description

February 15, 2012   admin   No comments

1. Nature of Job

Who is a purchasing agent and what does he do?

The companies for doing purchases on their behalf use purchasing agents. These agents are responsible for purchasing of raw materials, unfinished goods for the company. These raw materials are processed in the factories of the company and are produced as finished goods that are ready to be released into the market. Purchasing agents are not confined to one sector they can be hired at different levels by companies and in different industrial sectors.

They can find their employment in government establishments, hospitals, schools and many more places. One of the main job responsibilities of a purchasing agent is that he or she needs to make sure that the company never falls short of raw materials that are required for production of finished goods and commodities. The purchasing agent is required to get the goods at the lowest prices that will in turn increase the company profits. The purchasing agent must also keep in mind that the quality of the raw material is also not too low.

The purchasing agents need to get to updating themselves with prices of the product on regular basis. Some prices of the products keeps changing on a day-to-day to basis and due to this factor the purchasing agent looks for the latest price of the product and tries to bargain with the sellers on that price. They also need to calculate the transportation cost and other miscellaneous costs. The purchasing agent is required to give a complete expenditure details to the company for whom he or she is working for and is purchasing the goods.

The purchasing agents must be completely aware of the changing marketing trends and give suggestions to the company. These suggestions may be related to the details pertaining to how much requirement of the raw product will be good. They need to update the organization about the reorder level of the stock without incurring any losses. They are also required to inform about the products that are out of demand or the time when these products will turn into a dead stock thereby attracting huge financial loss to the company. Purchasing agents have to coordinate with all the officials who are in production team and take report of stock levels or reserves.  The purchasing agent is also required to know about how much there will be the demand for the products or raw materials in the coming days, so that production does not come to a halt because of unavailability of raw material.

2. Educational qualification

Qualifications and skills required for becoming a purchasing agent

Purchasing agent play a very important role in company’s success, as they make sure that the companies for which they are working will never fall short of the materials for a smooth manufacturing process.  Therefore, it is important that a purchasing agent is a well-learned person. Listed below are the educational requirements for becoming a purchasing agent,

  • Individuals who are interested in becoming purchasing agents need to be a graduate in commerce and management subjects.
  • Some companies would like to hire purchasing agents who had completed their masters in finance, marketing and management. Educational requirements vary from company to company, depending on the size of the company or organization.

Skills of a purchasing agent

  • A purchasing agent is required to have good communication skills.
  • Oral and written skill is the necessary criterion for a working as a purchasing agent.
  • The purchasing agent must have good negotiating skills.
  • Analytical and logical skills are the other essential need of a purchasing agent.

3. Career Growth

Future scope for a purchasing agent job profile

There is a lot of scope for purchasing agents. People working for a company as a purchasing agent can become purchasing manager. The purchasing agent can also move to other companies that offer financial growth and good career prospects.

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Posted in: Manager

Production Manager Job Description

February 15, 2012   admin   No comments

1. Nature of Job

Who is a production manager and what does he do?

A production manager is a person who has a job responsibility of planning, coordination and control of manufacturing procedure. A production manager has to make sure that the goods and services are produced efficiently without any production stoppage.  They have to make sure the product or service is produced at the right cost and at the right level of quality. The roles and responsibilities of a production manager differs from company to company they are working for. Different organizations have different types of production units, adding to the variations in the job functionalities. Production managers have to be responsible for both human and material resources.

The production manager roles depend upon the size of the organization he or she is working for and in some companies, production managers have to manage entire production of the company.  In large-scale companies, they need to manage a part of production unit.  Another prime duty of a production manager is to be creative and find best ways to make the production process more efficient. Listed below are the important tasks that are performed by a production manager,

Tasks of a production manager

  • Ensuring that the production cost is within proposed budget.
  • Dealing with both human and material resources is the main task of a production manager.
  • The production manager is required to prepare timetable for the staff.
  • Setting and maintaining quality standards.
  • The other main task of a production manager is to check the production process.
  • Supervise the production procedure and making any changes if required.
  • Keep a check on equipment condition.
  • Checking the product quality standards and implementing quality-control checks.
  • Coordinating with managers and ensuring that company’s policies and goals are met.
  • A production manager is required to make sure about the safety of the workers in the company.
  • Providing training to the staff whenever required is the other important task of a production manager.

2. Education qualification

Education/training required for production manager

Production manager need to be a well-educated person, because of the challenges that they face in their day-to-day job functions. They need to hold a graduation certificate preferably from commerce background and must be good at mathematics and accounting.

Skills of a production manager

  • Good at judging demands of people.
  • A production manager needs to be attentive to even the smallest of issues.
  • Good planning and organizing ability is an important skill required from a production manager.
  •  A production manager must have leadership qualities.
  • He or she should be good at understanding about the production methodologies.
  • Management skills are a prerequisite function required from a production manager.
  • Communication skills form an essential skill for the production manager.

3. Career growth

Future prospects of production manager job profile

There is a bright future growth for production managers as many companies are coming up every year and all the companies are looking out for quality production managers.

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Posted in: Manager

Prep Cook Job Description

February 15, 2012   admin   No comments

1. Nature of Job

Who is a prep cook and what do they do?

Prep cooks are the persons who work for star hotels, restaurants, fast food joints and many other eatery places. It is an entry-level job positions in the kitchen. This role is suited for those people who want to be a chef in the future. The prep cook is the first step of the career who wants to become a chef in star hotels or restaurants. Prep cooks do all the miscellaneous works like cutting and chopping of vegetables, dicing of meat and other jobs that will be used by the chef to make the dish. Prep cooks receive training during their work. It would be helpful for the prep cook if they have an earlier experience or have training in culinary arts. In other words, they work like a kitchen hand under the supervision of senior chef or staff members in the kitchen. Sometimes there will be situations that the kitchen will be too busy with loads of orders to be ready. However, if there is a good prep cook it will be handy for the chefs to prepare the dishes ordered by the customers in a quick time. Prep cooks need to be a team player and be a fast learner to quickly climb the success ladder. Although the role played by them is a small one but it is very vital and useful role, but is very much contributes to the success of the hotel or restaurant for which he or she is working.  They do many tasks in their day to-day works in the kitchen. Listed below are some of the tasks performed by the prep cook:

Tasks of a prep cook

  • A prep cook needs to chop of the vegetables.
  • Preparation of salads is an essential task of a prep cook.
  • Keeping the kitchen clean is the most important task of a prep cook.
  • Cleaning the kitchen at the close of the restaurant or eating-place is also an important task of a prep cook.
  • Washing dishes, floors forms the routine task of a prep cook.
  • The prep cook is required to take the temperatures of the freezers and warmers.
  • Sanitizing the kitchen premises before closing the kitchen forms the part of the tasks of a prep cook.
  • Stock taking and re ordering the ingredients is one of the tasks of prep cook.

2. Education Qualification

Prerequisites for becoming prep cook

There is no precise educational qualification required for becoming a prep cook. A High school certificate or diploma would be sufficient for becoming a prep cook. It would helpful if the person has some training in culinary arts. Listed below are some of the skills that will help the prep cook to climb the career ladder quickly:

Skills of a prep cook

  • A prep cook must be a quick learner.
  • Team player skills are essential for a prep cook.
  • A prep cook must take criticism in a positive way.
  • A prep cook is required to be swift at work.
  • Cutting and chopping skills are part of the prep cook skills.
  • Communication skills are an essential need for a prep cook.

3. Career Growth

Future prospects of a prep cook

There is a lot of scope for prep cooks, as they can pursue their chef courses and become a good chef t one of the top hotels and restaurants. This experience of a prep cook would definitely come handy for him in his future endeavors.

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Posted in: home
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