Transcript Introduction to Health Care Careers

Introduction to Health Care Careers
2005
Created by the San Diego City College Nursing
Department Health Care Career Ladder Project Team
(2005)
SAN DIEGO COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT
3375 Camino del Rio South
San Diego, CA 92108-3883
619-388-6500
Board of Trustees: Marty Block, J.D., Rich Grosch, Maria Nieto Senour, Ph.D., Bill
Schwandt, Peter Zschiesche, Constance M. Carroll, Ph.D., Chancellor
The SDCCD is governed by its Board of Trustees. No oral or written representation is binding on
the San Diego Community College District without the express approval of the Board of
Trustees.
SDCCD Public Information & Government Relations 08.2005
Overview
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Career Clusters
Career Opportunities
Job Descriptions
Choosing a Career
Personality Test
Job Outlook
Source of Information
Informational Websites
Career Clusters
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Laboratory Careers
Imaging Careers
Medical Careers
Dental Careers
Nursing Careers
Mental Health Careers
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Rehabilitative Careers
Emergency Health Careers
Biotechnology Careers
Environmental Control Careers
Nutrition Services Careers
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Laboratory Careers
PURPOSE: Laboratory workers perform tests to monitor and provide support for the functions of
other health care providers. Laboratory personnel do not usually have contact with clients/patients
(unless obtaining specimens).
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Clinical Laboratory Scientists/Laboratory Technologist
Medical Lab Technician/Clinical Laboratory Technician
Certified Histology Technician
Medical Laboratory Assistant
Phlebotomists
Blood Bank Technologist
Imaging Careers
PURPOSE: Radiology and related fields, heart monitoring (electrocardiography), Brain monitoring
(electroencephalography)
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Radiographer/Radiologic Technologist
Nuclear Medicine Technologist
MRI Technologist
Ultrasound Technologist (US Tech)
Medical Careers
PURPOSE: Promotes health, provide care during an illness, Doctor of Medicine, Doctor of
Osteopathic Medicine
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Doctor of Medicine (MD)
Physician Assistant
Dental Careers
PURPOSE: Provide optimal to the oral cavity of clients.
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Dentist
Dental Hygienist
Dental Assistant
Registered Dental Assistants (RDA)
Registered Dental Assistants in Extended Functions (RDAEF)
Dental Laboratory Technician
Nursing Careers
PURPOSE: Largest group of health care workers, promote optimal health and care during illness,
provide care without prejudice.
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Registered Nurse
Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse
Certified Nurse Assistant
Medical Assistant
Nurse Practitioner
Certified Nurse Midwife
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
Nursing Educator
Mental Health Careers
PURPOSE: Provide care and treatment for individuals with disorders of the mind, emotion or
behavior.
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Psychiatrist
Psychologist
Psychiatric Technicians
Psychiatric Assistant
Rehabilitative Careers
PURPOSE: Provide services to overcome physical, developmental, behavioral, or emotional
disabilities including impaired muscle strength, physical endurance, sensory or muscle
coordination, concentration and spatial discrimination.
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Physical Therapist
Physical Therapy Assistant
Occupational Therapist
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
Speech and Language Pathologist
Emergency Health Careers
PURPOSE: Provide immediate care (first aid) at the scene of an injury.
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Emergency Medical Technician
1. EMT I
2. EMT II
3. EMT Paramedic (EMT-P)
Biotechnology Careers
PURPOSE: Uses living organisms and their components to make products. The products include
drugs for humans and animals, medical diagnostics, agricultural products, and health related
services.
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Biotechnologist
Biochemist I
Biomedical Engineering Technician
Cytotechnologist
Clinical Geneticist
Environmental Control Careers
PURPOSE: protect public health and the environment.
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Industrial Hygienists
Health Inspectors
Ecologists
Nutrition Service Careers
PURPOSE: Plan food and nutrition programs and supervise the preparation and/or serving of
meals.
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Dietician
Dietetic Technician
Food Service Workers
JOB DESCRIPTIONS
Laboratory Careers
Clinical Laboratory Scientists
Laboratory Technologist
Job Tasks: performs clinical laboratory testing & analyzes the results using
independent judgment, calibrates equipment & assists in determining the accuracy of
tests & procedures.
Education Required: Bachelor’s Degree followed by a training program up to 1 year
in length, passage of an exam administered by the Board of Registry for Laboratory
Technologists.
Salary:
$16.38 (median hourly wage)
$36,916 (average annual salary)
Laboratory Careers
Medical Lab Technician
Clinical Laboratory Technician
Job Tasks: Supervised by the Laboratory Technologist or Pathologist. Prepares tissue
slides, obtains specimens, performs simple blood tests, performs cell counts &
urinalysis.
Education Required: 2 years of career specific training for Certification through the
American Society for Certified Pathologists: Associate Degree or 5 years of fulltime
acceptable clinical laboratory experience and successful completion of certification
examination.
Salary:
$30.26 (median hourly wage),
$62,798 (average annual salary)
Laboratory Careers
Certified Histology Technician
Job Tasks: Supervised by Pathologist. Specialized Lab Technician.
Prepares tissues for diagnosis, research & teaching purposes.
Education Required: Associate degree and 1 year of acceptable experience
in histopathology or 3 years of experience under the supervision of a certified
pathologist.
Salary: $40,437 (average annual salary)
Laboratory Careers
Medical Laboratory Assistant
Job Tasks: Supervised by the Lab Technician. Performs routine urinalysis,
serology, hematology & bacteriology.
Education Required: 1 year of training in a hospital or 2 years in college or
vocational programs. Certification possible after successful completion of an
accredited program and a registry exam.
Salary: $30,140 (annual average salary based on 2003 data)
Laboratory Careers
Phlebotomist
Job Tasks: Obtain & process blood specimens to aid in diagnosis & treatment of
disease.
Education Required: On the job training or community college or vocational
training programs.
Salary: $27,518 (Average Annual Salary in San Diego, CA)
Laboratory Careers
Blood Bank Technologist
Job Tasks: responsible for knowing blood bank techniques such as typing, collection,
and transfusion. They also search for blood irregularities and are responsible for
processing, testing, and labeling donor blood. Disease control is a priority for these
specialists because they ensure that blood samples are safe for public use and are
handled properly.
Education Required: Baccalaureate degree, certification as a Medical Technologist,
and 12 month period of study prior to certification examination.
Salary: $27,540 to $40,510 (average annual salary)
Imaging Careers
Radiographer/Radiologic Technologist
Job Tasks: Use x-rays, fluoroscopes and other techniques to create images
used to diagnose patients; position patients for procedure and calculate the
approximate exposure; may also assist in delivering substances by multiple
routes such as ingestion that help produce clearer images; during x-ray
process, they monitor patients’ condition and reactions; develop the x-ray film
for the physician to view.
Education Required: Radiologic Technologists must be licensed as a Certified
Radiologic Technologist by the California Department of Health Services. To take the
state exam, the applicant must have completed Radiologic Technologist Program
offered by a community college, vocational school, hospital, or university. Most
programs in California are two-year programs leading to a certificate or associate’s
degree. Some programs offer a bachelor’s degree. Registration with American
Registry of Radiologic Technologists is also required.
Salary:
$25.39 (median hourly wage)
$52,810 (average annual salary)
Imaging Careers
Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Job Tasks: Prepares & administers radioactive compounds; participates in
research; treat diseases by administering radioactive medicines to patients;
also perform laboratory test using radioactive materials applied to tissue
samples or blood to diagnose diseases.
Education Required: Must pass a state-licensing exam. Two types of training
available: First, many become Radiologic Technologists then specialize in Nuclear
Medicine Technology, which requires one additional year of education. People who
are not already Radiologic Technologists generally need a four-year college degree in
the field. Registration with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist or
Nuclear Medicine Technologist Certification is required.
Salary:
$31.02 (median hourly wage)
$66,045 (average annual salary)
Imaging Careers
MRI Technologist
Job Tasks: Produce cross-sectional images of a patient’s body using magnets and
radio waves instead of x-rays to create images; explain the procedure to patients and
prepare them for the MRI; select appropriate equipment, position the patient, and
monitor them during testing.
Education Required: Licensure from the State of California as a Certified Radiologic
Technologist and Registration by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
are required. This requires completion of a Radiologic Technologist program offered
by a community college, vocational school, hospital, or university. Registration by the
American Registry of Radiologic Technologists in Magnetic Resonance Imaging is
preferred or must be obtained within 1 year. MRI Technologists must have an
additional year of training beyond the basis Radiologic Technologist program to
operate this specialized equipment.
Salary: $57,874 (average annual salary in San Diego, CA)
Imaging Careers
Ultrasound Technologist (US Tech)
Job Tasks: Use sound waves to create cross-sectional images of a patient’s body;
Use knowledge of anatomy to find the correct area to review.
Education Required: High school diploma or equivalent. Completion of a three-year
training program at a community college or vocational school. Shorter programs
lasting one or two years are offered to people who have previous training or
experience in radiologic technology or related medical field. Registration by the
American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers is required.
Salary: $59,619 (average annual salary in San Diego, CA)
Medical Careers
Doctor of Medicine (MD)
Job Tasks: Also known as a physician, supervises overall care of clients; prescribes
tests and medications; supervises and coordinates care provided by other members of
the health care team.
Education Required: Completion of 4 year baccalaureate degree, then 4 years of
medical school. Specialization in specific fields of medicine require further education
including internship and residency. Some areas of specialty include: gerontology,
primary care, internal medicine, obstetrics, pediatrics, urology.
Salary: $120,000 - $250,000 (average annual salary)
Medical Careers
Physician Assistant
Job Tasks: Provides personal care under the direction of the physician; supervised by
the RN; participates in the development and implementation of the plan of care based
upon client needs and identified problems.
Education Required: 3 years education at Masters level after completion of 4 years
baccalaureate degree and successful completion of licensure exam.
Salary:
$41.22 (median hourly wage)
$85,733 (average annual salary)
Dental Careers
Dentist
Job Tasks: Supervises and manages care related to the oral cavity & teeth; education
of clients and community; detection of disease; improve cosmetic appearance;
correction of oral problems.
Education Required: At least 2 years of college before entering dental school. 90%
of students entering dental school have completed 4 year baccalaureate programs.
Dental school lasts 3 – 4 years and offers the Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or
Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degrees. In order to be a licensed by the state,
successful completion of a national examination is required.
Salary:
$69.63 (median hourly wage)
$144,812 (annual average salary)
Dental Careers
Dental Hygienist
Job Tasks: Recording health history, teeth cleaning, x-rays, polishing & flossing teeth,
client instruction.
Education Required: 2 year Community College or 4 year college or university
degree and successful completion of state issued examination for licensure.
Salary:
$38.37 (median hourly wage)
$82,179 (average annual wage)
Dental Careers
Dental Assistant
Job Tasks: Clerical duties, billing, cleaning & sterilizing equipment, taking initial health
history, developing x-rays.
Education Required: No state mandated educational requirements; some training
may be on the job. Some learning institutions offer 1-2 year programs.
Salary:
$15.15 (median hourly wage)
$31,985 (average annual wage)
Dental Careers
Registered Dental Assistants (RDA)
Job Tasks: Applies bleaching agents; makes and cements temporary crowns; looks
into the mouth with a mirror and charts dental information about lesions and missing
teeth; places post-extraction and periodontal dressings; records medical and dental
histories and vita signs of patients.
Education Required: Complete a State Dental Examiners Board approved extended
functions training program before performing more advanced patient care tasks.
Salary: $48,000 (average annual salary)
Dental Careers
Registered Dental Assistants in
Extended Functions (RDAEF)
Job Tasks: Takes impressions for orthodontic appliances and cast restorations;
prepares enamel for bonding; applies pit and fissure sealants.
Education Required: Must be a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA). Successful
completion of a State Board approved program in extended functions. Must renew
their California State License every two years and complete 25 hours of continuing
education. Current CPR training approved by the American Red Cross or the
American Heart Association is required.
Salary: Wages vary widely depending upon experience, education, ability, type of
employer, and geographical location. Licensed Registered Dental Assistants and
Registered Dental Assistants in Extended Functions may expect to receive higher
wages than a Dental Assistant.
Dental Careers
Dental Laboratory Technician
Job Tasks: Do not work with clients; fabricates dental bridges, dentures, crowns,
inlays, space maintainers, orthodontic appliances.
Education Required: Mostly on the job training, but Certification is offered through the
National Association of Dental Laboratories.
Salary:
$15.72 (median hourly wage)
$35,038 (average annual salary)
Nursing Careers
Registered Nurse
Job Tasks: Supervises the nursing care of clients; administers medications and
treatments as ordered by the physician; educates clients and their families and
communities; promotes health; identifies alterations in health and develops and
implements a plan of care to resolve actual and potential problems.
Education Required: 2 year Community College, 3 year Diploma or 4 year
Baccalaureate program and successful completion of licensure exam (NCLEX-RN).
Further advancement in education includes Masters and Doctorate education,
specialized certification and licensure as Nurse Practitioner.
Salary:
$32.36 (median hourly wage)
$68,500 (average annual salary)
Nursing Careers
Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse
Job Tasks: Provides personal care under the direction of the physician; supervised by
the RN; participates in the development and implementation of the plan of care based
upon client needs and identified problems.
Education Required: 1-2 year vocational training program and successful completion
of licensure exam (NCLEX-PN).
Salary:
$19.86 (median hourly wage)
$41,898 (average annual salary)
Nursing Careers
Certified Nurse Assistant
Job Tasks: Provides clients with assistance in performance of activities of daily living;
provides personal care and companionship.
Education Required: 250 hours of combined theory and clinical instruction in state of
California; successful completion of state certification exam.
Salary: $24,546 (annual average salary in San Diego, CA)
Nursing Careers
Medical Assistant
Job Tasks: Take height, weight, pulse respiration, temperature, prepare and
administer injections, apply bandages and dressings and record electrocardiograms.
Education Required: Graduation from a medical assisting program at an accredited
institution or at least two years experience as a practicing medical assistant within the
five years or military training or schooling equivalent to that provided by accredited
medical assisting programs and successful completion of state issued certification
examination.
Salary:
$13.08 (median hourly wage)
$28,890 (average annual salary)
Nursing Careers
Nurse Practitioner
Job Tasks: Examines and treats patients independently and in autonomous
collaboration with other health care professionals. Ensures proper illness and injury
care and disease prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Familiar with a
variety of the field's concepts, practices, and procedures. Relies on extensive
experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of tasks.
May lead and direct the work of others. A wide degree of creativity and latitude is
expected. Typically reports to a manager or head of a unit/department.
Education Required: Requires a master's degree in area of specialty, national board
certification as a nurse practitioner in an area of specialty, 2-4 years of experience in
the field or in a related area, and is licensed as a nurse practitioner.
Salary:
$77,897 (annual average salary in San Diego, CA)
Nursing Careers
Certified Nurse Midwife
Job Tasks: Provides professional care for patients with obstetric and gynecologic
needs. Assists patients in labor and delivery, as well as postpartum care. Ensures
safety and health of mother and child and identifies need for additional care. Performs
a variety of tasks. Works in conjunction with a practicing physician. A certain degree of
creativity and latitude is required. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager.
Education Required: Requires certification, a bachelor's degree and 2-4 years of
experience in the field or in a related area. Must be a registered nurse and familiar with
standard concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on
experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals.
Salary:
$85,174 (annual average salary in San Diego, CA)
Nursing Careers
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
(CRNA)
Job Tasks: Prepares prescribed solutions and administers anesthetic following
specified methods and procedures. Informs physician of patient's condition during
anesthesia. Performs pre- and post-anesthesia patient visits and documents
anesthesia notes on patient records. Familiar with standard concepts, practices, and
procedures within a particular field. Relies on extensive experience and judgment to
plan and accomplish goals.
Education Required: A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or other appropriate
baccalaureate degree. A current license as a registered nurse. At least one year of
experience as a registered nurse in an acute care setting. Graduation with a master’s
degree from an accredited nurse anesthesia program. Pass a national certification
examination following graduation. In order to maintain their certification, CRNAs must
obtain a minimum of 40 hours of continuing education every two years.
Salary: $135,990 (annual average salary in San Diego, CA)
Nursing Careers
Nursing Educator
Job Tasks: Nurse educators are responsible for designing, implementing, evaluating
and revising academic and continuing education programs for nurses. These include
formal academic programs that lead to a degree or certificate, or more informal
continuing education programs designed to meet individual learning needs.
Education Required: At a minimum, nurse educators who work in academic settings
must hold a master's degree. In order to be promoted to the upper academic ranks
(e.g., associate professor and professor) and to be granted tenure, academic faculty
typically must hold an earned doctoral degree. Nurse educators who work in clinical
settings must hold the minimum of a baccalaureate degree in nursing, but more and
more institutions are requiring the master's degree for such appointments.
Salary:
$61,000 (annual average salary – doctoral degree)
$49,000 (annual average salary – master’s degree)
Mental Health Careers
Psychiatrist
Job Tasks: Determine the type & severity of mental/behavioral/emotional disorders,
plan therapy, prescribe medications.
Education Required: Bachelor’s degree followed by medical school, followed by a 4
year residency. Specialties include psychoanalysis, psychotherapy, forensics, private
practice, research, education.
Salary:
$88.85 (median hourly wage)
$184,809 (average annual salary)
Mental Health Careers
Psychologist
Job Tasks: Treat mental & emotional disorders using personal interviews, aptitude
and intelligence testing, observation.
Education Required: 4 year college or university degree, then advanced study at the
doctoral level before licensure/certification examination.
Salary:
$34,88 (median hourly wage)
$72,550 (average annual salary)
Mental Health Careers
Psychiatric Technicians
Job Tasks: Interview clients, lead group sessions, give daily care, make home visits,
administer medications.
Education Required: 2 year Associate degree from a board accredited program &
successful completion of licensure exam.
Salary:
$20.67 (median hourly wage)
$47,325 (average annual salary)
Mental Health Careers
Psychiatric Assistant
Job Tasks: Work under the direction of a psychiatric nurse or MD; aide with activities
of daily living, socializes with clients, leads recreational activities, observes for &
reports unusual behavior.
Education Required: Usually on the job training for 2-6 months. Some community
colleges may offer programs.
Salary: $28,728 -$39,240 (annual average salary)
Rehabilitative Careers
Physical Therapist
Job Tasks: Restore function, relieve pain, and prevent disability after disease, injury
or loss of a body part; utilize exercise programs & adaptive equipment.
Education Required: Completion of a Board approved program (at least 4 years in
length) and successful completion of state licensure exam. Phasing out Baccalaureate
degree and moving to a minimum educational requirement of a Master’s Degree.
Salary:
$34.09 (median hourly wage)
$70,907 (average annual salary)
Rehabilitative Careers
Physical Therapy Assistant
Job Tasks: Provide routine treatments under the supervision of a licensed Physical
Therapist; Applies hot and cold packs, ultraviolet stimulation and hydrotherapy;
observe clients during treatment & record observations.
Education Required: 2 year college level training and Associate Degree from
approved program.
Salary:
$20.65 (median hourly wage)
$42,960 (average annual salary)
Rehabilitative Careers
Occupational Therapist
Job Tasks: Use activities to help clients reach highest level of independent living by
overcoming injury, birth defects, aging or emotional and developmental problems; aid
the client develop, maintain or regain skills that enable independent life; utilize
adaptive equipment.
Education Required: Completion of an accredited 4 year baccalaureate program
(degree), at least 6 months clinical training, and successful completion of national
exam.
Salary:
$32.37 (median hourly wage)
$67,318 (average annual salary)
Rehabilitative Careers
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
Job Tasks: Instruct & assist clients to perform activities of daily living; help to design &
adapt living & working environments to meet needs of disabled clients.
Education Required: Completion of approved 2 year program and successful
completion of a national examination.
Salary: $39,893 (Average Annual Salary in San Diego, CA)
Rehabilitative Careers
Speech and Language Pathologist
Job Tasks: Evaluation, treatment and research in communication and related
disorders; identify and treat swallow disorders.
Education Required: Completion of Master’s Degree, 9 months of supervised
experience, and successful completion of nation examination, with each state issuing a
license. For education and research, doctoral degree is required.
Salary:
$32.32 (median hourly wage)
$67,223 (average annual salary)
Emergency Health Careers
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) I & II
EMT Paramedic (EMT-P)
Job Tasks: Work under the supervision of a physician to provide care to the acutely ill
or injured; respond to medical emergencies; give immediate care; transport victim to
hospital; maintain rescue vehicles & equipment.
EMT I - Education Required: (Certified by County EMS offices) – Minimum age: 18;
100 hours of approved EMT training; 10 hours of supervised clinical experience; valid CA
driver’s license.
EMT II - Education Required: (Certified by County EMS offices) – Minimum age: 18; high
school diploma or equivalent; EMT-1 certification and one year field experience; minimum of
210 hours of approved classroom and skills laboratory training; 96 hours clinical training &
field internship; minimum of 20 emergency advance life support patient contacts.
EMT-P - Education Required: (licensed by State EMS Authority) – Age 18 with high school
diploma or equivalent; Valid EMT-I/II certificate; 320 hours-Approved classroom and skills
laboratory; 160 hours approved hospital clinical training; 460 hours approved field internship
with a minimum of 40 patient contacts who required emergency advanced life support
assistance; licensed by state.
Salary:
$11.36 (median hourly wage)
$28,890 (average annual salary – higher salary based EMT level)
Nutrition Services Careers
Dietician
Job Tasks: Plan and supervise the preparation of meals for patients/clients and confer
with physicians and other medical professionals about each patient’s/client’s nutritional
needs and preferences. They may coordinate diet therapy and nutritional education
programs, including teaching patients and their families about specific diets to be
followed.
Education Required: Completion of a bachelor’s degree in food service
management, nutrition, or dietetics from a college accredited by the American Dietetic
Association (ADA). Registered Dietitian certification is increasingly preferred by
employers.
Salary:
$26.21 (median hourly wage)
$55,071 (average annual salary)
Nutrition Services Careers
Dietetic Technician
Job Tasks: Assist the Dietitian in developing nutritional care plans, assessing dietary
needs, and supervising food production in institutions such as prisons, daycare
centers, and schools. May plan and produce meals based on established guidelines,
evaluate dietary histories of clients to plan nutritional programs, teach principles of
food and nutrition, or counsel individuals.
Education Required: Completion of an associate degree. Practical experience,
scientific aptitude, and fingerprint clearance may be required by employer.
Salary:
$14.33 (median hourly wage)
$29,702 (average annual salary)
Nutrition Services Careers
Food Service Worker
Job Tasks: The duties of the food service worker cover the whole range of
food preparation, storing, preparing, and serving, as well as dishwashing and
kitchen cleaning. Every one of these jobs is an important link in making
certain that high standards are maintained in preparation and service.
Education Required: High School Diploma. On the job training available in
most institutions.
Salary:
$8.54 (median hourly wage)
$17,758 (average annual salary)
Environment Control Careers
Industrial Hygienists
Job Tasks: Keep workers, their families, and the community healthy and safe. Ensure
that federal, state, and local laws and regulations are followed in the work
environment. Investigate and examine the workplace for hazards and potential
dangers. Conduct scientific research to provide data on possible harmful conditions in
the workplace. Train and educate the community about job-related risks. Ensure that
workers are properly following health and safety procedures
Education Required: Certification: CIH, CAIH (may apply) undergraduate degree in
one of the sciences, such as engineering, chemistry, biology, etc.
Salary:
$40,000 - $50,000 (entry-level)
$50,000 - $70,000 (mid-level)
$60,000 - $130,000 or higher (top-level).
Environment Control Careers
Health Inspectors
Job Tasks: Conducts investigations of work environments to determine if safety and
health requirements are being met. Familiar with standard concepts, practices, and
procedures within a particular field. Relies on judgment and limited experience to plan
and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of tasks. Works under general supervision;
typically reports to a supervisor or manager. A certain degree of creativity and latitude
is required.
Education Required: May require a bachelor's degree and 2-4 years of experience in
the field or in a related area.
Salary: $43,613 (average annual salary in San Diego, CA)
Environment Control Careers
Ecologists
Job Tasks: study the relationships between living organisms and their environments.
In the petroleum industry, ecologists can be involved in assessing the environmental
impact of operations, spill clean-up and site reclamation.
Education Required: Degree in science is required. Degree in biology, chemistry,
ecology, environmental science and environmental engineering are preferred. Masters
degree or Ph.D. can improve employment prospects, salary and employment options.
Ongoing education is required throughout this career.
Salary: $40,000 - $60,000 (average annual salary)
Biotechnology
Biotechnologist
Job Tasks: apply biochemistry (chemistry that deals with the chemical substances
and processes occurring in organisms) to find environmentally-friendly applications for
the petroleum industry. They use biological processes to supplement non-biological
methods used in applications such as clean-up of oil spills. They use sophisticated
technology to conduct experiments with micro-organisms.
Education Required: A degree in biotechnology, biochemistry, microbiology or a
related field is required. A Masters degree or Ph.D. in chemistry and Certification from
a professional association may be required.
Salary: $55,000 - $70,000 (average annual salary)
Biotechnology
Biochemist I
Job Tasks: Evaluates the physical properties of various living organisms in order to
investigate their applications to medicine and other industries. Has knowledge of
commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on
instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Works
under immediate supervision. Primary job functions do not typically require exercising
independent judgment. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager.
Education Required: Requires a bachelor's degree and 0-2 years of
experience in the field or in a related area. Opportunity for promotion to Biochemist
level II, III.
Salary: $43,380 (average annual salary in San Diego, CA)
Biotechnology
Biomedical Engineering Technician
Job Tasks: Assembles, maintains, and repairs various medical equipment. Tests the
functionality of equipment and takes accuracy, sensitivity, and selectivity
measurements. Assists medical staff in operation of equipment. Familiar with standard
concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on experience and
judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of tasks. Works under
general supervision. A certain degree of creativity and latitude is required. Typically
reports to a supervisor or manager.
Education Required: May require an associate's degree in biomedical engineering or
electronic engineering.
Salary: $46,915 (average annual salary in San Diego, CA)
Biotechnology
Cytotechnologist
Job Tasks: A laboratory professional who studies cells and cellular
abnormalities. They use the microscope to analyze slides of human cells to search for
cause or abnormalities that indicate a cell is malignant, pre-malignant or diseased. By
observing the nuclei and cytoplasmic structures within cells, cytotechnologists can
identify malignancies.
Education Required: Training programs in cytotechnology exist at the baccalaureate,
post-baccalaureate certificate, and master's levels. Usually, students are accepted
into an accredited hospital or university-based program after their sophomore or junior
year of college.
Salary: $49,026 (average annual salary)
Biotechnology
Clinical Geneticist
Job Tasks: They provide genetic diagnosis, management, therapy and counseling
services. They often supervise genetic counselors, and help families understand
possible genetic issues.
Education Required: There are various training programs throughout the United
States in genetics. Most of the programs are two years in duration and offer hands-on
experience along with skills in writing, conducting clinical and or laboratory research,
and organizing and delivering lectures and seminars.
Salary: data not available
CHOOSING A CAREER
Choosing a Career
Choosing a career is one of the most important decisions you will ever make.
Unfortunately it’s not an easy decision. There are many factors that
determine which career you might succeed at most (i.e. likes, dislikes,
interest, salary, personality). The following websites will help to
determine which career is best for you.

Live Career (Take a Free Career Test)
Go to: http://www.livecareers.com/

Health Care Careers
Finding a Match for Your Interests (Pg 108-113)
Go to: www.calmis.cahwnet.gov/file/occmisc/HealthCareCareers.pdf
PERSONALITY TEST
Personality Test
Personality tests help employers to learn more about you as an individual
and how you will react to different situations. The following online tests
will help you determine your personality type (i.e. Extravert, Introvert) and
help discover which career fits best with your personality type.

Personality test based on Jung - Myers-Briggs typology
www.humanmetrics.com/cgi-win/JTypes1.htm

Tickle Tests
http://web.tickle.com/tests/

The Big Five Personality Test
www.outofservice.com/bigfive
JOB OUTLOOK
Job Outlook
California Occupational Projections 2002 - 2012
Occupational Titles
Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Occupations
Health Diagnosing and Treating Practitioners
Dentists
Dietitians and Nutritionists
Family and General Practitioners
Psychiatrists
Physician Assistants
Registered Nurses
Occupational Therapists
Physical Therapists
Speech-Language Pathologists
Health Technologists and Technicians
Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists
Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians
Dental Hygienists
Nuclear Medicine Technologists
Radiologic Technologists and Technicians
Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics
Dietetic Technicians
Pharmacy Technicians
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses
Medical Records and Health Information Technicians
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists and Technicians
Psychiatric Aides
Occupational and Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides
Occupational Therapist Assistants
Physical Therapist Assistants
Dental Assistants
Medical Assistants
Healthcare Support Workers, All Other
Annual
Average
Employment
2002
2012
564,900 721,700
337,700 430,400
10,400 12,400
4,100 5,000
9,200 11,000
2,200 2,700
4,400 6,200
201,600 258,400
6,100 8,600
11,200 16,000
6,400 8,300
197,700 254,000
11,600 14,200
12,600 15,000
16,600 26,200
1,300 1,600
14,400 17,500
13,700 18,100
2,400 2,800
18,600 24,400
52,900 65,500
15,000 21,200
3,500 4,200
1,700 2,000
9,900 15,400
1,300 2,000
3,900 6,000
42,700 67,100
50,700 74,000
29,500 40,000
Numerical
Change
156,800
92,700
2,000
900
1,800
500
1,800
56,800
2,500
4,800
1,900
56,300
2,600
2,400
9,600
300
3,100
4,400
400
5,800
12,600
6,200
700
300
5,500
700
2,100
24,400
23,300
10,500
Percent
Change
27.8%
27.5%
19.2%
22.0%
19.6%
22.7%
40.9%
28.2%
41.0%
42.9%
29.7%
28.5%
22.4%
19.0%
57.8%
23.1%
21.5%
32.1%
16.7%
31.2%
23.8%
41.3%
20.0%
17.6%
55.6%
53.8%
53.8%
57.1%
46.0%
35.6%
Modified
INFORMATIONAL WEBSITES
Informational Websites
OCCUPATION
ORGANIZATION NAME
Biomedical Equipment
Technicians
Association for the Advancement of www.aami.org
Medical Instrumentation
Dentists
California Dental Assistants
Association
Committee on Dental Auxiliaries
Dental Laboratory Technician
National Board of Certification
American Dietetic Association
Dietetic Technicians
California Dietetic Association
Dental Assistants
Dental Board of California
California Dental Assistants
Association
Dental Hygienists
Committee on Dental Auxiliaries
Dental Laboratory Technicians National Board for Certification
Dietitians and Nutritionists
Emergency Medical
Technicians (EMTs) &
Paramedics
Licensed Practical and
Licensed Vocational Nurses
WEBSITE
www.cdaaweb.org
www.comda.ca.gov
www.nadl.org/html/certific
ation.html
www.eatright.org
www.dietitian.org
www.dbc.ca.gov
www.cdaaweb.org
www.comda.ca.gov
www.nadl.org/html/certific
ation.html
American Dietetic Association
California Dietetic Association
www.eatright.org
www.dietitian.org
Emergency Medical Services
Authority
Board of Vocational Nurses and
Psychiatric Technicians
www.emsa.ca.gov
www.bvnpt.ca.gov
Informational Websites
OCCUPATION
ORGANIZATION NAME
Medical and Clinical Laboratory National Accrediting Agency for
Technicians Phlebotomists
Clinical Laboratory Sciences
Accrediting Bureau of Health
Education Schools
Medical Assistants
American Association of Medical
Assistants
Nuclear Medicine Technologists Society of Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear Medicine Technology
Certification Board
American Registry of Radiologic
Technologists
Occupational Therapist
Assistants
Physical Therapist Assistants
Physician Assistant
Psychiatric Technicians
California Board of Occupational
Therapy
National Board of Certification in
Occupational Therapy
Physical Therapy Board
American Physical Therapy
Association
Physician Assistant Committee
California Academy of Physical
Assistants
Board of Vocational Nursing and
Psychiatric Technicians
California Association of Psychiatric
Technicians
WEBSITE
www.naacls.org
www.abhes.org
www.aama-ntl.org
www.snm.org/about/new_tech
-1.html
www.nmtcb.org
www.arrt.org
www.bot.ca.gov
www.nbcot.org
www.ptb.ca.gov
www.apta.org
www.physicianassistant.ca.go
v
www.capanet.org
www.bvnpt.ca.gov/factpt.htm
www.psych-health.com
Informational Websites
OCCUPATION
ORGANIZATION NAME
WEBSITE
Radiologic Technologists and
Technicians
Department of Health Services
Radiologic Health Branch
Radiological Society of North
America
State Board of Registered Nursing
California Nurses Association
Respiratory Care Board of California
www.dhs.ca.gov/rhb
www.rsna.org
www.rn.ca.gov
www.calnurse.org
www.rcb.ca.gov
Registered Nurses
Respiratory Therapists
SOURCE OF INFORMATION
Source of Information
CAREER INFORMATION
 Environmental Careers
www.scdhec.net/eqc/lwm/recycle/forms/fyi_01.pdf
 Health Career Guidance Manual
http://www.tju.edu/hcg/hcg-jobs/2b-jbrief99p60.htm
 California Occupational Guides
Occupational Studies by Industry: Health
Care
http://www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/cgi/caree
r/?PageID=3&SubID=139
 advancing occupational & environmental
health & safty globally
http://www.aiha.org/aboutAIHA/html/ih-info.htm
 EDD Labor Market Information Division
Information Services Group
www.calmis.cahwnet.gov/file/occmisc/HealthCar
eCareers.pdf
 U.S. Department of Labor - Bureau of Labor
Statistics
http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos077.htm
 Nurses for a Healthier Tomorrow Career
Info.
http://www.nursesource.org/nurse_educator.html
 Careers in Biology: Biotechnologist (PDF)
www.gov.ns.ca/petro/documents/PetroleumCareers.
pdf
 Healthcare Careers 2004-2005
http://www.utc.edu/Administration/UTCTV/HOSA/HC_cat.html
 CRNA
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
http://www.aana.com/crna/ataglance.asp
 California Occupational Guides
Dental Assistants
http://www.calmis.cahwnet.gov/file/occguide/DE
NTAAST.PDF#search='Registered%20Dental%
20Assistants%20in%20Extended%20Functions
%20%28RDAEF%29'
Source of Information
GRAPHICS
STATISTICS
 Microsoft Office ClipArt and Media
 A labor day briefing for California
http://office.microsoft.com/clipart/default.aspx?lc=en- http://www.calmis.ca.gov/specialreports/La
us
bor-Day-Briefing-2004.pdf
 Name: Male_ER_Nurse_BW.jpg
http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images?p=
nurse%2C+male&ei=UTF8&fl=0&qp_p=nurse+male&imgsz=all&fr=FP-tabimg-t&b=41
 Name: male-nurse.jpg
http://www.abpi.org.uk/publications/publication_detail
s/annualReview2002/images/male-nurse.jpg
 Name: labcoats.male.jpeg
http://www.ramgraphics.com/medwear.images/labco
ats.male.jpeg
 Projections of Employment by
Industry & Occupation
Long Term (Ten Years) Projection
(2002-2012)
http://www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/cgi/
databrowsing/?PageID=145
Source of Information
SALARY INFORMATION
 OES Employment & Wages by Occupation
www.calmis.cahwnet.gov/file/occup$/OES$.htm

ADDITIONAL SITES


www.careerexplorer.net
http://education-portal.com
U.S. Department of Labor - Bureau of Labor
Statistics
www.bls.gov

Salary Wizard
Location: National Averages
www.salary.com
 O*net Online
http://online.onetcenter.org/link/summary/29-2012.00
.
SAN DIEGO COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT
3375 Camino del Rio South
San Diego, CA 92108-3883
619-388-6500
Board of Trustees: Marty Block, J.D., Rich Grosch, Maria Nieto Senour, Ph.D., Bill Schwandt, Peter Zschiesche, Constance M. Carroll, Ph.D., Chancellor
The SDCCD is governed by its Board of Trustees. No oral or written representation is binding on the San Diego Community College District without the express approval of the Board of Trustees.
SDCCD Public Information & Government Relations 08.2005