The Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) serves as a vital resource for individuals seeking information about various professions. It provides comprehensive insights into job responsibilities, work environment, educational and training requirements, salary expectations, job outlook, state and regional data, related occupations, and additional sources of information. Covering 324 occupational profiles, the OOH encompasses about 80% of jobs in the U.S. economy.
Navigating the Occupational Outlook Handbook
The OOH is structured into occupation clusters, making it easier to explore related careers. To locate a specific occupation:
Browse occupation groups of interest on the left-hand side of the homepage.
Use the A-Z Index for direct searches.
Utilize the search function on the homepage to filter occupations by pay range, required education level, on-the-job training, projected job growth, and number of new jobs.
Explore dedicated sections for highest-paying, fastest-growing (projected), and most in-demand jobs.
Although the OOH covers many occupations, additional employment information is available for professions where detailed occupational data is not provided.
Employment and Career Resources
While the BLS primarily hires economists, mathematical statisticians, and computer specialists, job seekers can explore career opportunities at: BLS Jobs. Further career guidance is available at America’s Career InfoNet.
For non-U.S. citizens, immigration regulations regarding employment can be reviewed through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Finding Occupations and Industries of Interest
The OOH provides insights into over 250 different occupations, covering 90% of jobs in the U.S. economy. Additionally, the Career Guide to Industries (CGI) offers similar details about over 40 industries, representing 75% of wage and salary jobs. Both resources are organized into clusters for ease of navigation.
If an occupation is not listed in the OOH, consider:
Searching under alternative job titles in the index.
Reviewing the Occupational Outlook Quarterly, which publishes articles on professions not detailed in the OOH or CGI.
Choosing the Right Occupation
The BLS does not provide personalized career counseling; however, the OOH offers general education and training guidance for various occupations. The job outlook sections can help determine career prospects. Additional resources are available at America’s Career InfoNet.
Differences between estimated employment figures in the OOH and other BLS surveys (OES, CPS) occur due to variations in data sources and classification methodologies.
Earnings and Salary Information
Occupational Employment Statistics (OES): Provides wage estimates for over 700 occupations at BLS GOV
Starting salary information: Not directly collected by the BLS but included in some OOH job outlook statements
Earnings by education level: See median earnings chart at Employment Projections table - BLS GOV
Highest-paying jobs: View the top 25 highest-paying occupations at BLS GOV
Education, Training, and Licensing
Finding education and training programs: Available at America’s Career InfoNet
Recommended courses for occupations: Listed under each occupation's training, qualifications, and advancement section
Licensing requirements: Vary by state; search for specific licensing details at Career InfoNet
Military Careers
For those interested in joining the U.S. military, information is available through local recruitment offices or at Military Career Guide Online. Non-U.S. citizens should check eligibility requirements at USCIS.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of occupational research and career planning using BLS and government resources. By leveraging these tools, job seekers, students, and career changers can make informed decisions about their professional future.
Conclusion
The Occupational Outlook Handbook is a valuable tool for job seekers, students, and career changers who want to explore and understand employment trends, salary expectations, and training requirements. By utilizing the OOH, along with additional BLS and government resources, individuals can make well-informed career decisions that align with their interests, skills, and long-term goals.
Mary Watson
