Introduction to Health Care Careers

Created by the San Diego City College Nursing Department Health Care Career Ladder Project Team (2005)

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

Career Clusters Career Opportunities Job Descriptions Choosing a Career Personality Test Job Outlook Source of Information Informational Websites

Career Clusters

Laboratory Careers Imaging Careers Medical Careers Dental Careers Nursing Careers Mental Health Careers

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).

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)

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

Doctor of Medicine (MD) Physician Assistant

Dental Careers
PURPOSE: Provide optimal to the oral cavity of clients.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Biotechnologist Biochemist I Biomedical Engineering Technician Cytotechnologist Clinical Geneticist

Environmental Control Careers

PURPOSE: protect public health and the environment.

Industrial Hygienists Health Inspectors Ecologists

Nutrition Service Careers

PURPOSE: Plan food and nutrition programs and supervise the preparation and/or serving of meals.

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: Bachelors 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 associates degree. Some programs offer a bachelors 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 patients 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 patients 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 masters 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 masters degree)

Mental Health Careers

Psychiatrist
Job Tasks: Determine the type & severity of mental/behavioral/emotional disorders, plan therapy, prescribe medications. Education Required: Bachelors 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 Masters 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 Masters 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 drivers 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 patients/clients 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 bachelors 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 its 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
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 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 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
Biomedical Equipment Technicians

ORGANIZATION NAME

WEBSITE

Association for the Advancement of www.aami.org Medical Instrumentation

Dentists

California Dental Assistants Association Committee on Dental Auxiliaries

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 www.eatright.org www.dietitian.org www.emsa.ca.gov www.bvnpt.ca.gov

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

American Dietetic Association California Dietetic Association Emergency Medical Services Authority Board of Vocational Nurses and Psychiatric Technicians

Informational Websites
OCCUPATION ORGANIZATION NAME WEBSITE
www.naacls.org www.abhes.org 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

www.aama-ntl.org

Nuclear Medicine Technologists Society of Nuclear Medicine Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board American Registry of Radiologic Technologists Occupational Therapist Assistants 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

www.snm.org/about/new_tech -1.html www.nmtcb.org www.arrt.org www.bot.ca.gov www.nbcot.org

Physical Therapist Assistants

Physician Assistant

www.ptb.ca.gov www.apta.org www.physicianassistant.ca.go v www.capanet.org

Psychiatric Technicians

www.bvnpt.ca.gov/factpt.htm www.psych-health.com

Informational Websites
OCCUPATION
Radiologic Technologists and Technicians

ORGANIZATION NAME
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

WEBSITE
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 advancing occupational & environmental health & safty globally http://www.aiha.org/aboutAIHA/html/ih-info.htm U.S. Department of Labor - Bureau of Labor Statistics http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos077.htm 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 California Occupational Guides Occupational Studies by Industry: Health Care http://www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/cgi/caree r/?PageID=3&SubID=139 EDD Labor Market Information Division Information Services Group www.calmis.cahwnet.gov/file/occmisc/HealthCar eCareers.pdf Nurses for a Healthier Tomorrow Career Info. http://www.nursesource.org/nurse_educator.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 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 ADDITIONAL SITES www.careerexplorer.net http://education-portal.com

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