Occupation Employment Statistics Help Target Your Job Search

By Frances Chaves

Data from the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) program at the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics can help you to target your job search more effectively. OES data shows the areas and industries with the highest employment for distinct occupations and their wages. The data, which is updated annually, is available at http://www.bls.gov/oes.

The website has a comprehensive list of 800 occupations as well as information on the variety of jobs in a particular industry. This can be useful if, for example, you are a paralegal who has been having trouble finding a position with a law firm. On the website you learn that the government hires lots of paralegals. With this information, you can widen your job search to an area where you may have more success. You can also find information on how much paralegals working in government are paid. If it is not enough, you can save your time by NOT applying for government jobs.

The website also tells you where the jobs are located. If you are looking for a job as a zoologist or wildlife biologist, you will be better compensated in Seattle, Portland or San Diego. Employment levels for computer software engineers are highest in Washington, DC; Boston; and San Jose, California.

If you are considering using your skills in a different industry, consult the Occupational Outlook Handbook. Here you will find the qualifications, responsibilities and job outlook in the industry you are considering targeting.

You may find that you are well qualified for a job in another industry where there is more employment opportunity. Or you may decide that looking for a position in another state may be more successful. No matter where you are in your job search, being informed is going to help.