Law Enforcement
ATF Special Agent
The education typically required to enter the occupation ranges from a high school diploma to a college degree. Most police and detectives must graduate from their agency's training academy before completing on-the-job training. Other requirements vary, but candidates usually must be at least 21 years old and able to meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
Border Patrol Agent
The education typically required to enter the occupation ranges from a high school diploma to a college degree. Most police and detectives must graduate from their agency's training academy before completing on-the-job training. Other requirements vary, but candidates usually must be at least 21 years old and able to meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
Campus / University Police Officer
The education typically required to enter the occupation ranges from a high school diploma to a college degree. Most police and detectives must graduate from their agency's training academy before completing on-the-job training. Other requirements vary, but candidates usually must be at least 21 years old and able to meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
CBP Officer (Customs & Border Protection)
The education typically required to enter the occupation ranges from a high school diploma to a college degree. Most police and detectives must graduate from their agency's training academy before completing on-the-job training. Other requirements vary, but candidates usually must be at least 21 years old and able to meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
Crime Scene Investigator / Forensic Technician
Forensic science technicians typically need a bachelor's degree to enter the occupation. They may need on-the-job training to attain competency.
DEA Special Agent
The education typically required to enter the occupation ranges from a high school diploma to a college degree. Most police and detectives must graduate from their agency's training academy before completing on-the-job training. Other requirements vary, but candidates usually must be at least 21 years old and able to meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
Deputy Sheriff
The education typically required to enter the occupation ranges from a high school diploma to a college degree. Most police and detectives must graduate from their agency's training academy before completing on-the-job training. Other requirements vary, but candidates usually must be at least 21 years old and able to meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
Deputy U.S. Marshal
The education typically required to enter the occupation ranges from a high school diploma to a college degree. Most police and detectives must graduate from their agency's training academy before completing on-the-job training. Other requirements vary, but candidates usually must be at least 21 years old and able to meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
Detective / Criminal Investigator
The education typically required to enter the occupation ranges from a high school diploma to a college degree. Most police and detectives must graduate from their agency's training academy before completing on-the-job training. Other requirements vary, but candidates usually must be at least 21 years old and able to meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
FBI Special Agent
The education typically required to enter the occupation ranges from a high school diploma to a college degree. Most police and detectives must graduate from their agency's training academy before completing on-the-job training. Other requirements vary, but candidates usually must be at least 21 years old and able to meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
Federal Police Officer (VA, Pentagon, Capitol…)
The education typically required to enter the occupation ranges from a high school diploma to a college degree. Most police and detectives must graduate from their agency's training academy before completing on-the-job training. Other requirements vary, but candidates usually must be at least 21 years old and able to meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
Fish & Game Warden
The education typically required to enter the occupation ranges from a high school diploma to a college degree. Most police and detectives must graduate from their agency's training academy before completing on-the-job training. Other requirements vary, but candidates usually must be at least 21 years old and able to meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
ICE Deportation Officer
The education typically required to enter the occupation ranges from a high school diploma to a college degree. Most police and detectives must graduate from their agency's training academy before completing on-the-job training. Other requirements vary, but candidates usually must be at least 21 years old and able to meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
Police Officer
The education typically required to enter the occupation ranges from a high school diploma to a college degree. Most police and detectives must graduate from their agency's training academy before completing on-the-job training. Other requirements vary, but candidates usually must be at least 21 years old and able to meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
School Resource Officer
The education typically required to enter the occupation ranges from a high school diploma to a college degree. Most police and detectives must graduate from their agency's training academy before completing on-the-job training. Other requirements vary, but candidates usually must be at least 21 years old and able to meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
Secret Service Special Agent
The education typically required to enter the occupation ranges from a high school diploma to a college degree. Most police and detectives must graduate from their agency's training academy before completing on-the-job training. Other requirements vary, but candidates usually must be at least 21 years old and able to meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
State Trooper / Highway Patrol Officer
The education typically required to enter the occupation ranges from a high school diploma to a college degree. Most police and detectives must graduate from their agency's training academy before completing on-the-job training. Other requirements vary, but candidates usually must be at least 21 years old and able to meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
Transit Police Officer
The education typically required to enter the occupation ranges from a high school diploma to a college degree. Most police and detectives must graduate from their agency's training academy before completing on-the-job training. Other requirements vary, but candidates usually must be at least 21 years old and able to meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2025–35 edition (XML compilation); U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025–35 — education and training assignments by detailed occupation (Tables 5.3, 5.4). Data captured September 30, 2026.
Fire & Rescue
Fire / Arson Investigator
To enter the occupation, fire inspectors typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent and work experience as a firefighter or in a related occupation. Once hired, they typically receive on-the-job-training in inspection and investigation. They also may need certification.
Fire Engineer / Driver-Operator
Firefighters typically need a high school diploma and training in emergency medical services. Most firefighters receive training at a fire academy. Other credential requirements, such as emergency medical technician (EMT) certification, vary by state or locality.
Fire Inspector / Fire Marshal
To enter the occupation, fire inspectors typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent and work experience as a firefighter or in a related occupation. Once hired, they typically receive on-the-job-training in inspection and investigation. They also may need certification.
Firefighter
Firefighters typically need a high school diploma and training in emergency medical services. Most firefighters receive training at a fire academy. Other credential requirements, such as emergency medical technician (EMT) certification, vary by state or locality.
Firefighter/Paramedic
Firefighters typically need a high school diploma and training in emergency medical services. Most firefighters receive training at a fire academy. Other credential requirements, such as emergency medical technician (EMT) certification, vary by state or locality.
Wildland Firefighter
Firefighters typically need a high school diploma and training in emergency medical services. Most firefighters receive training at a fire academy. Other credential requirements, such as emergency medical technician (EMT) certification, vary by state or locality.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2025–35 edition (XML compilation); U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025–35 — education and training assignments by detailed occupation (Tables 5.3, 5.4). Data captured September 30, 2026.
Emergency Medical Services
EMT (public EMS)
Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics typically complete a postsecondary educational program. All states require EMTs and paramedics to be licensed in the state in which they work; requirements vary by state.
Paramedic (public EMS)
Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics typically complete a postsecondary educational program. All states require EMTs and paramedics to be licensed in the state in which they work; requirements vary by state.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2025–35 edition (XML compilation); U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025–35 — education and training assignments by detailed occupation (Tables 5.3, 5.4). Data captured September 30, 2026.
Emergency Communications & Management
911 Dispatcher / Public Safety Telecommunicator
Public safety telecommunicators typically need a high school diploma to enter the occupation and then are trained on the job. Many states and localities require these workers to become certified.
Emergency Management Specialist
Emergency management directors typically need a bachelor's degree and many years of work experience in emergency response, disaster planning, or public administration.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2025–35 edition (XML compilation); U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025–35 — education and training assignments by detailed occupation (Tables 5.3, 5.4). Data captured September 30, 2026.
Corrections, Probation & Parole
Correctional Counselor / Case Manager
Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists typically need a bachelor's degree. In addition, candidates may be required to pass oral, written, and psychological exams.
Correctional Officer (state prison)
Correctional officers and bailiffs typically need a high school diploma to enter their occupation. They typically go to a training academy and then are assigned to a facility, where they receive on-the-job training. Although qualifications vary by state and agency, many agencies have an age requirement for correctional officers. Some federal agencies also require officers to have a bachelor's degree or related work experience.
Detention Officer (county jail)
Correctional officers and bailiffs typically need a high school diploma to enter their occupation. They typically go to a training academy and then are assigned to a facility, where they receive on-the-job training. Although qualifications vary by state and agency, many agencies have an age requirement for correctional officers. Some federal agencies also require officers to have a bachelor's degree or related work experience.
Federal Correctional Officer (BOP)
Correctional officers and bailiffs typically need a high school diploma to enter their occupation. They typically go to a training academy and then are assigned to a facility, where they receive on-the-job training. Although qualifications vary by state and agency, many agencies have an age requirement for correctional officers. Some federal agencies also require officers to have a bachelor's degree or related work experience.
Juvenile Corrections / Detention Officer
Correctional officers and bailiffs typically need a high school diploma to enter their occupation. They typically go to a training academy and then are assigned to a facility, where they receive on-the-job training. Although qualifications vary by state and agency, many agencies have an age requirement for correctional officers. Some federal agencies also require officers to have a bachelor's degree or related work experience.
Parole Officer
Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists typically need a bachelor's degree. In addition, candidates may be required to pass oral, written, and psychological exams.
Probation Officer
Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists typically need a bachelor's degree. In addition, candidates may be required to pass oral, written, and psychological exams.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2025–35 edition (XML compilation); U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025–35 — education and training assignments by detailed occupation (Tables 5.3, 5.4). Data captured September 30, 2026.
Courts & Legal
Administrative Law Judge / Hearing Officer
Judges and hearing officers typically need a law degree and work experience as a lawyer.
Court Clerk
Information clerks typically need a high school diploma and learn their skills on the job. Some employers may prefer to hire candidates with some college education or an associate's degree, depending on the occupation.
Court Interpreter
Interpreters and translators typically need at least a bachelor's degree to enter the occupation. They also must be proficient in English and at least one other language, as well as in the interpretation or translation service they intend to provide.
Court Officer / Bailiff
Correctional officers and bailiffs typically need a high school diploma to enter their occupation. They typically go to a training academy and then are assigned to a facility, where they receive on-the-job training. Although qualifications vary by state and agency, many agencies have an age requirement for correctional officers. Some federal agencies also require officers to have a bachelor's degree or related work experience.
Court Reporter (official)
Many community colleges and technical institutes offer postsecondary certificate programs for court reporters and simultaneous captioners. These workers typically receive on-the-job training that varies by type of reporting or captioning. Many states require court reporters and simultaneous captioners who work in legal settings to have a state license or a certification from a professional association.
Government Attorney (agency counsel)
Lawyers typically need a law degree and a state license, which usually requires passing a bar examination.
Judge / Magistrate
Judges and hearing officers typically need a law degree and work experience as a lawyer.
Prosecutor / Assistant District Attorney
Lawyers typically need a law degree and a state license, which usually requires passing a bar examination.
Public Defender
Lawyers typically need a law degree and a state license, which usually requires passing a bar examination.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2025–35 edition (XML compilation); U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025–35 — education and training assignments by detailed occupation (Tables 5.3, 5.4). Data captured September 30, 2026.
Transit & Transportation
Air Traffic Controller (FAA)
There are several paths to becoming an air traffic controller. Candidates typically need an associate's or a bachelor's degree from the Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative program, several years of progressively responsible work experience, or a combination of education and experience. They also must be a U.S. citizen, submit to medical and background checks, and complete training at Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) academy.
Bus Operator (public transit)
Bus drivers must have a commercial driver's license (CDL), which they sometimes earn during on-the-job training. They also need a good driving record and must meet physical, hearing, and vision requirements. In addition, bus drivers typically need a high school diploma or the equivalent and may be required to pass a background check.
Conductor (transit / commuter rail)
Railroad workers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and several months of on-the-job training.
DMV Clerk / Driver License Examiner
Information clerks typically need a high school diploma and learn their skills on the job. Some employers may prefer to hire candidates with some college education or an associate's degree, depending on the occupation.
Station Agent / Transit Customer Service
Information clerks typically need a high school diploma and learn their skills on the job. Some employers may prefer to hire candidates with some college education or an associate's degree, depending on the occupation.
Toll Collector
Cashiers typically have no formal education requirement to enter the occupation. They are trained on the job.
Transit Bus Mechanic
Although diesel service technicians and mechanics typically learn on the job after a high school education, employers may prefer to hire candidates who have completed postsecondary training programs in diesel engine repair. In addition, industry certification may be required.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2025–35 edition (XML compilation); U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025–35 — education and training assignments by detailed occupation (Tables 5.3, 5.4). Data captured September 30, 2026.
Public Works & Utilities
Custodian (schools & public buildings)
Janitors and building cleaners typically do not need formal education to enter the occupation. However, some employers may require or prefer that workers have a high school diploma or equivalent. Most janitors and building cleaners learn on the job.
Fleet Mechanic (city/county)
Although diesel service technicians and mechanics typically learn on the job after a high school education, employers may prefer to hire candidates who have completed postsecondary training programs in diesel engine repair. In addition, industry certification may be required.
Heavy Equipment Operator (government)
Many workers learn how to operate construction equipment on the job after earning a high school diploma or equivalent; others learn through an apprenticeship or by attending vocational schools.
Lineworker (public power utility)
To enter the occupation, electrical power-line installers and repairers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. To become proficient, they typically require technical instruction and on-the-job training. Apprenticeships are common.
Parks / Grounds Maintenance Worker
Grounds maintenance workers typically do not need a formal educational credential and are trained on the job. States may require licensing for workers who apply pesticides and fertilizers.
Sanitation Worker / Refuse Collector
There are usually no formal educational requirements to become a hand laborer or material mover. They typically learn through on-the-job training that lasts 1 month or less.
Stationary Engineer (public facilities)
Stationary engineers and boiler operators need at least a high school diploma or equivalent and are trained either on the job or through an apprenticeship program. Many employers require stationary engineers and boiler operators to demonstrate competency through licenses or company-specific exams before they are allowed to operate equipment without supervision.
Water / Wastewater Treatment Operator
Water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent. They also complete on-the-job training. A state license is usually required; however, entry-level workers often complete their licensing requirements during on-the-job training.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2025–35 edition (XML compilation); U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025–35 — education and training assignments by detailed occupation (Tables 5.3, 5.4). Data captured September 30, 2026.
K-12 Public Schools
Assistant Principal
Principals typically need a master's degree in education administration or leadership. In addition, they need teaching experience.
Career & Technical Education (CTE) Teacher
Career and technical education teachers typically need at least a bachelor's degree and work experience in the subject that they teach. Public school teachers may be required to have a state-issued teaching certification or license.
Elementary School Teacher
Kindergarten and elementary school teachers usually must have at least a bachelor's degree. In addition, public school teachers must have a state-issued certification or license.
ESL / ELL Teacher
Kindergarten and elementary school teachers usually must have at least a bachelor's degree. In addition, public school teachers must have a state-issued certification or license.
High School Teacher
High school teachers typically have at least a bachelor's degree. In addition, public school teachers must have a state-issued certification or license, which may require an academic background in the subject(s) they will be certified to teach.
Instructional Coach / Coordinator
Instructional coordinators typically need a master's degree and related work experience, such as in teaching or school administration, to enter the occupation. Coordinators in public schools may be required to have a state-issued license.
Kindergarten Teacher
Kindergarten and elementary school teachers usually must have at least a bachelor's degree. In addition, public school teachers must have a state-issued certification or license.
Middle School Teacher
Middle school teachers typically need at least a bachelor's degree. In addition, public school teachers must have a state-issued certification or license.
Paraprofessional / Teacher Aide
To enter the occupation, teacher assistants typically need to have completed at least 2 years of college coursework.
Principal
Principals typically need a master's degree in education administration or leadership. In addition, they need teaching experience.
Public Pre-K Teacher
Education and training requirements vary based on settings and state regulations. Preschool teachers typically need at least an associate's degree.
Public School Teacher
Kindergarten and elementary school teachers usually must have at least a bachelor's degree. In addition, public school teachers must have a state-issued certification or license.
School Bus Driver
Bus drivers must have a commercial driver's license (CDL), which they sometimes earn during on-the-job training. They also need a good driving record and must meet physical, hearing, and vision requirements. In addition, bus drivers typically need a high school diploma or the equivalent and may be required to pass a background check.
School Cafeteria / Food Service Worker
Cooks typically learn their skills through on-the-job training and related work experience. Although no formal education is required, some cooks attend culinary school.
School Counselor
Most school counselors need a master's degree in school counseling or a related field and have a state-issued credential. Some states require licensure for career counselors and advisors.
School Librarian / Media Specialist
Librarians typically need a master's degree in library science (MLS). School librarians and library media specialists typically need a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field, along with a teaching certificate; requirements vary by state.
School Nurse
Registered nurses usually take one of three education paths: a bachelor's degree in nursing, an associate's degree in nursing, or a diploma from an approved nursing program. Registered nurses must be licensed.
School Psychologist
Psychologists typically need an advanced degree, such as a master's or doctoral degree, in psychology. Licensing requirements vary by state and position.
School Secretary / Office Manager
High school graduates who are comfortable using word processing and spreadsheet programs usually qualify for entry-level positions. Although workers typically learn their duties over several weeks on the job, legal and medical secretaries and administrative assistants may need additional training for industry-specific terminology. Executive secretaries and executive administrative assistants typically need several years of related work experience.
School Social Worker
Social workers typically need a bachelor's or master's degree in social work. They also may need a license; specific requirements vary by state.
School Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-language pathologists typically need at least a master's degree in speech-language pathology. All states require that speech-language pathologists be licensed. Licensure requirements vary by state but typically include clinical experience and passing an exam.
School Superintendent
Principals typically need a master's degree in education administration or leadership. In addition, they need teaching experience.
Special Education Teacher
Special education teachers in public schools are required to have a bachelor's degree and a state-issued certification or license. Teachers in private schools typically need a bachelor's degree but may not be required to have a state license or certification.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2025–35 edition (XML compilation); U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025–35 — education and training assignments by detailed occupation (Tables 5.3, 5.4). Data captured September 30, 2026.
Public Colleges & Universities
Academic Advisor
Most school counselors need a master's degree in school counseling or a related field and have a state-issued credential. Some states require licensure for career counselors and advisors.
Admissions Counselor
Most school counselors need a master's degree in school counseling or a related field and have a state-issued credential. Some states require licensure for career counselors and advisors.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2025–35 edition (XML compilation); U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025–35 — education and training assignments by detailed occupation (Tables 5.3, 5.4). Data captured September 30, 2026.
Public Health & Government Healthcare
Community Health Worker
To enter the occupation, community health workers typically need at least a high school diploma; some employers prefer to hire candidates who have postsecondary education. To attain competency, they typically complete a brief period of on-the-job training, and some states require certification.
Correctional Nurse
Registered nurses usually take one of three education paths: a bachelor's degree in nursing, an associate's degree in nursing, or a diploma from an approved nursing program. Registered nurses must be licensed.
Death Investigator / Coroner
Compliance officers typically need a bachelor's degree to enter the occupation. They often receive training on the job. Employers may prefer or require candidates to have experience related to the position.
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists typically need at least a master's degree to enter the occupation. They may have a master's degree in public health (MPH) or a related field, and some have completed a doctoral degree in epidemiology or medicine.
Health Inspector / Environmental Health Specialist
To enter the occupation, environmental scientists and specialists typically need a bachelor's degree in natural science or a related field.
Psychiatric Technician (state hospitals)
To enter the occupation, psychiatric technicians typically need a postsecondary certificate, and aides need at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Some states require technicians to be licensed. Both technicians and aides get on-the-job training.
Public Health Nurse
Registered nurses usually take one of three education paths: a bachelor's degree in nursing, an associate's degree in nursing, or a diploma from an approved nursing program. Registered nurses must be licensed.
VA Nurse (Veterans Affairs)
Registered nurses usually take one of three education paths: a bachelor's degree in nursing, an associate's degree in nursing, or a diploma from an approved nursing program. Registered nurses must be licensed.
VA Physician
Physicians and surgeons typically need a bachelor's degree as well as a medical degree, which takes an additional 4 years to complete. Depending on their specialty, they also need 3 to 9 years in internship and residency programs. Subspecialization includes additional training in a fellowship of 1 to 3 years.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2025–35 edition (XML compilation); U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025–35 — education and training assignments by detailed occupation (Tables 5.3, 5.4). Data captured September 30, 2026.
Social & Human Services
Adult Protective Services Worker
Social workers typically need a bachelor's or master's degree in social work. They also may need a license; specific requirements vary by state.
Child Protective Services (CPS) Caseworker
Social workers typically need a bachelor's or master's degree in social work. They also may need a license; specific requirements vary by state.
Eligibility Worker / Benefits Specialist
Information clerks typically need a high school diploma and learn their skills on the job. Some employers may prefer to hire candidates with some college education or an associate's degree, depending on the occupation.
Social Security Claims Specialist
A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required for a person to work as an entry-level claims adjuster, examiner, or investigator, although some positions need a bachelor's degree or insurance-related work experience. Auto damage appraisers typically have either a postsecondary nondegree award or work experience in identifying and estimating the cost of automotive repair.
Social Worker (government)
Social workers typically need a bachelor's or master's degree in social work. They also may need a license; specific requirements vary by state.
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
Rehabilitation counselors typically need a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling or a related field, although a bachelor's degree may be sufficient for some jobs. Some positions require a license or certification.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2025–35 edition (XML compilation); U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025–35 — education and training assignments by detailed occupation (Tables 5.3, 5.4). Data captured September 30, 2026.
Inspection, Regulation & Revenue
Bank / Financial Examiner
Financial examiners typically need a bachelor's degree that includes some coursework in accounting. Entry-level examiners are trained on the job by senior examiners.
Building Inspector
Construction and building inspectors usually need a high school diploma and work experience in a construction trade to enter the occupation. They typically learn on the job to attain competency. Many states and localities require some type of license or certification.
Code Enforcement Officer
Construction and building inspectors usually need a high school diploma and work experience in a construction trade to enter the occupation. They typically learn on the job to attain competency. Many states and localities require some type of license or certification.
Environmental Compliance Inspector
Compliance officers typically need a bachelor's degree to enter the occupation. They often receive training on the job. Employers may prefer or require candidates to have experience related to the position.
Government Auditor
A bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field is typically required to become an accountant or auditor. Completing certification in a specific field of accounting, such as becoming a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA), may improve job prospects.
OSHA / Workplace Safety Inspector
Occupational health and safety specialists typically need a bachelor's degree in occupational health and safety or a related field. Occupational health and safety technicians typically need at least a high school diploma to enter the occupation, and they receive training on the job.
Property / Tax Assessor & Appraiser
Property appraisers and assessors typically need a bachelor's degree, although educational requirements vary. Appraisers of real estate must meet state licensure or certification requirements.
Revenue Agent / Tax Examiner (IRS and state)
Tax examiners and collectors, and revenue agents typically need a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field. However, the level of education and experience required varies with the position and employer.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2025–35 edition (XML compilation); U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025–35 — education and training assignments by detailed occupation (Tables 5.3, 5.4). Data captured September 30, 2026.
Administration, Finance & IT
Accountant (government)
A bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field is typically required to become an accountant or auditor. Completing certification in a specific field of accounting, such as becoming a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA), may improve job prospects.
Administrative Assistant (government)
High school graduates who are comfortable using word processing and spreadsheet programs usually qualify for entry-level positions. Although workers typically learn their duties over several weeks on the job, legal and medical secretaries and administrative assistants may need additional training for industry-specific terminology. Executive secretaries and executive administrative assistants typically need several years of related work experience.
Budget Analyst
Budget analysts typically need a bachelor's degree to enter the occupation. Courses in accounting, economics, and statistics are helpful.
CIA Officer (intelligence)
The education typically required to enter the occupation ranges from a high school diploma to a college degree. Most police and detectives must graduate from their agency's training academy before completing on-the-job training. Other requirements vary, but candidates usually must be at least 21 years old and able to meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
City / County Clerk
Information clerks typically need a high school diploma and learn their skills on the job. Some employers may prefer to hire candidates with some college education or an associate's degree, depending on the occupation.
City / County Manager
Top executives typically need at least a bachelor's degree and considerable work experience to enter the occupation.
Contract / Procurement Specialist
Purchasing managers, buyers, and purchasing agents typically need a bachelor's degree, although some employers hire candidates who have a high school diploma. Purchasing managers also need several years of related work experience.
GIS Analyst / Specialist
Cartographers and photogrammetrists typically need a bachelor's degree in cartography, geography, geomatics, surveying, or a related field.
Human Resources Specialist (government)
To enter the occupation, human resources specialists typically need a bachelor's degree in human resources, business, or a related field.
IRS Customer Service Representative
Customer service representatives typically need a high school diploma to enter the occupation and are trained on the job. They should be good at communicating and interacting with people.
Office Clerk / Clerk Typist (government)
General office clerks typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Most learn their skills on the job.
Policy / Management Analyst
Management analysts typically need at least a bachelor's degree and several years of related work experience.
Program Analyst (federal)
Management analysts typically need at least a bachelor's degree and several years of related work experience.
Public Information Officer
Public relations specialists typically need a bachelor's degree to enter the occupation.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2025–35 edition (XML compilation); U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025–35 — education and training assignments by detailed occupation (Tables 5.3, 5.4). Data captured September 30, 2026.
Planning, Engineering & Environment
Civil Engineer (DOT / city / county)
Civil engineers typically need a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a related field to enter the occupation. They typically need a state-issued license if they provide services directly to the public.
Engineering Technician (DOT)
An associate's degree, preferably in civil engineering technology, is typically required to enter the occupation.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental engineers typically need a bachelor's degree in environmental engineering or a related field, such as civil, chemical, or general engineering. Some employers prefer to hire candidates who have gained practical experience in an internship or a cooperative education program.
Environmental Scientist (government)
To enter the occupation, environmental scientists and specialists typically need a bachelor's degree in natural science or a related field.
Forester
Conservation scientists and foresters typically need a bachelor's degree in forestry, natural resources, or a related field.
Hydrologist
To enter the occupation, hydrologists typically need a bachelor's degree in geology, hydrology, or a related field. Some employers prefer to hire candidates who have a master's degree.
Soil Conservationist / Conservation Scientist
Conservation scientists and foresters typically need a bachelor's degree in forestry, natural resources, or a related field.
Urban / City Planner
Urban and regional planners typically need a bachelor's or master's degree from an accredited planning program to enter the occupation. Employers may prefer or require planners to be certified.
Wildlife / Fisheries Biologist
Zoologists and wildlife biologists typically need a bachelor's degree for entry-level positions and may need a master's degree for higher level jobs. They typically need a Ph.D. to lead research projects.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2025–35 edition (XML compilation); U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025–35 — education and training assignments by detailed occupation (Tables 5.3, 5.4). Data captured September 30, 2026.
Parks, Recreation & Libraries
Librarian (public library)
Librarians typically need a master's degree in library science (MLS). School librarians and library media specialists typically need a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field, along with a teaching certificate; requirements vary by state.
Library Assistant / Page
Library technicians typically need a postsecondary certificate. Library assistants typically need a high school diploma or its equivalent, combined with short-term on-the-job training.
Lifeguard (city / state beaches & pools)
Recreational protective service workers typically do not need formal education to enter the occupation. To qualify for jobs, candidates usually need athletic ability in a related recreational sport, such as swimming, skiing, or biking. Certification is often required.
Park Ranger (NPS / state / county)
Conservation scientists and foresters typically need a bachelor's degree in forestry, natural resources, or a related field.
Recreation Coordinator / Supervisor
Recreation workers typically need at least a high school diploma or the equivalent, although requirements may vary by type of job. Once hired, these workers typically need a short period of on-the-job training.
Recreation Leader / Aide
Recreation workers typically need at least a high school diploma or the equivalent, although requirements may vary by type of job. Once hired, these workers typically need a short period of on-the-job training.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2025–35 edition (XML compilation); U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025–35 — education and training assignments by detailed occupation (Tables 5.3, 5.4). Data captured September 30, 2026.
Postal Service (USPS)
USPS City Carrier (Mail Carrier)
Although no formal education is typically required to enter these occupations, most postal service workers have at least a high school diploma. All applicants for these jobs must pass a written exam.
USPS Mail Handler / Mail Processing Clerk
Although no formal education is typically required to enter these occupations, most postal service workers have at least a high school diploma. All applicants for these jobs must pass a written exam.
USPS Postal Clerk (window/distribution)
Although no formal education is typically required to enter these occupations, most postal service workers have at least a high school diploma. All applicants for these jobs must pass a written exam.
USPS Rural Carrier
Although no formal education is typically required to enter these occupations, most postal service workers have at least a high school diploma. All applicants for these jobs must pass a written exam.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2025–35 edition (XML compilation); U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025–35 — education and training assignments by detailed occupation (Tables 5.3, 5.4). Data captured September 30, 2026.
Elected & Appointed Officials
Governor
Top executives typically need at least a bachelor's degree and considerable work experience to enter the occupation.
Mayor
Top executives typically need at least a bachelor's degree and considerable work experience to enter the occupation.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2025–35 edition (XML compilation); U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025–35 — education and training assignments by detailed occupation (Tables 5.3, 5.4). Data captured September 30, 2026.
National guidance from the Bureau of Labor Statistics for each job's occupation; every employer sets its own hiring rules, tests and timeline.