U.S. Office of Personnel Management - Ensuring the Federal Government has an effective civilian workforce
Generic
Job Qualification System for Trades and Labor Occupations
RATING GUIDE NO. 25
Shop and Trade Practices (Specify shop, machine, sheetmetal, etc.)
DESCRIPTION OF JOB ELEMENT
Knowledge of how shop functions are performed in different situations; alternative methods; tricks of the trade; mechanical principles; ingenious devices; latest developments, etc.
LEVELS OF ABILITY
Most Difficult
- Able to adapt shop equipment and trade practices to unique complex problems, such as in setting up a new station, testing prototype models of unusual complexity for research and development, or contributing in a major way to complex design development.
- Able to plan, lay out, set up, and carry through all operations to complete jobs considered difficult in the trade or line of work; make modifications in equipment and switch readily from one technique to another if necessary to achieve work goals; contribute ideas based on practical knowledge to the solution of problems. Interested in and able to apply recent developments in trade practices.
Common
Able to lay out, set up, and perform operations to complete common jobs typical of the journeyman in the trade or line of work, working from prints, plans, sketches, specifications, and oral instructions; manufacture or prepare tools or fixtures; or prepare materials to facilitate work, if relevant to trade; put new ideas into practice; and adhere to good practices such as working to tolerances.
Less Difficult
- Able to complete tasks of average difficulty for the type of trade, craft, work, etc., working under close supervisory instructions; adhere to standard shop practices in conserving materials, economically accomplishing assignments, etc.
- Able to complete tasks requiring knowledge of simple procedures in the trade, craft, work, etc., and the relationships among various machines, work areas, etc.
SAMPLE QUESTIONS
Tell how you gained your knowledge of shop practice; adhering to standard practices in conserving materials, using correct parts, keeping exact tolerances, handling different situations and "tricks of the trade." If you do planning, layout, or setup, tell the kinds of work you can do this for. Tell about any experience that shows you know about and can apply recent developments in shop practices.
To Guide IndexRATING GUIDE NO. 25A
Work Practice (Includes Keeping Things Neat, Clean and in Order)
DESCRIPTION OF JOB ELEMENT
Practices required by jobs where things must be kept, neat, clean, and in order. In addition to ability to keeping things neat, clean, and in order, this usually includes one or more of the following:
-Accuracy in checking, counting, verifying, sorting.
-Keeping records, logs, inventories, etc.; making reports.
-Ability to use arithmetic: add, subtract, multiply, divide, etc.
-Knowledge of storage, treatment, care.
-Knowledge of handling.
-Knowledge of loading.
-Ability to meet a time schedule, deadline, or emergency.
LEVELS OF ABILITY
Most Difficult
-Very meticulous in keeping things neat, clean, and in order.
-Ability to instruct or direct others in orderly work practices.
Common
Satisfactory ability in keeping things neat, clean, and in order on one's own initiative.
Less Difficult
- Ability to keep things neat, clean, and in order under close supervision and guidance.
- Ability to do the very simple tasks to keep things neat, clean and in order.
SAMPLE QUESTIONS
For each ability or knowledge you use, write the number of each statement that describes your training or experience. Give examples of work:
1. Occasional use of the ability or knowledge.
2. Frequent use.
3. Instruct or direct others in use.
4. Very thorough ability or knowledge (Explain).
RATING GUIDE NO. 25-C
Practices in Construction, Structure
DESCRIPTION OF JOB ELEMENT
Knowledge of how shop or trade functions are performed in different situations related to construction or structure: buildings; bridges; highways and streets; tunnels, sewers, pipelines.
LEVELS OF ABILITY
Most Difficult
- Able to adapt equipment and trade practices to unique, complex problems or contributing in a major way to complex design development.
- Able to plan, lay out, set up, and carry through all operations to complete jobs considered difficult in the trade or line of work; make modifications in equipment and switch readily from one technique to another if necessary to achieve work goals; contribute ideas (based on practical knowledge) to the solution of problems. Interested in and able to apply recent developments in trade practices.
Common
Able to lay out, set up, and perform operations to complete common jobs in the trade or line of work, working from prints, plans, sketches, specifications and oral instructions; manufacture or prepare tools or fixtures, or prepare materials to facilitate work, if relevant to trade; put new ideas into practice; and adhere to good practices such as working to tolerance
Less Difficult
- Able to complete tasks of average difficulty for the type of trade, craft, work, etc., working under close supervisory instructions; adhere to standard shop practices in conserving materials, economically accomplishing assignments, etc.
- Able to complete tasks requiring knowledge of simple procedures in the trade, craft, work, etc., and the relationships among various machines, work areas, etc.
SAMPLE QUESTIONS
For each kind listed below, at which you worked, give type and size, and note job numbers or other information to show where you worked at it.
Buildings
Bridges
Highways and streets
Tunnels, sewers, pipelines
Others (Specify)
For each kind at which you worked, write the number of each statement that shows the scale of work you did. Write a few words to show the work you did:
1. I did rough or temporary work.
2. I did light work.
3. I did medium work.
4. I did heavy work.
RATING GUIDE NO. 25-D
Theory and Instruments (Electrical, Electronic) Used in Shop and Trade Practices
DESCRIPTION OF JOB ELEMENT
Knowledge of electrical and electronic theory and instruments.
WORK EXAMPLES
See "Sample Questions."
LEVELS OF ABILITY
Most Difficult
- Able to apply theory and instruments to unique complex problems, such as in setting up a new station, testing prototype models of unusual complexity for research and development, or contributing in a major way to complex design and development.
- Able to plan, lay out, set up, and carry through operations dependent upon use of electrical theory and instruments considered difficult; switch readily from one point of theory to another and from one instrument to another as necessary to achieve work goals; contribute ideas based on practical knowledge to the solution of problems. Interested in and able to apply recent developments in trade practices.
Common
Able to lay out, set up, and perform operations dependent on electrical and electronic theory and instruments considered common, working from prints, plans, specifications, and oral instructions; put new ideas into practice.
Less Difficult
- Able to use theory and instruments of average difficulty, working under close supervisory instructions.
- Able to use the simplest theory and instruments.
For each group of knowledge below that you can use, note job numbers or other information to show where you used each knowledge. If you know only some items in a group, cross out the ones you don't know.
- Current, voltage, resistance, Ohm's Law, series and parallel circuits, conductors, insulators.
- Power and work, magnetism, electromagnetism, induction, electromotive force, alternating current, capacitance, power factor, other electrical theory (Specify).
- Electron tubes, transistors, rectifiers, amplifiers, modulation, radiation, other electronic theory (Specify).
- Test light, megger, ammeter, ohmmeter, voltmeter, power meter, test set (Specify). Other electrical meters (Specify).
- Oscilloscope, frequency meter, bridge. Other electronic instruments (Specify).
For each group of knowledge that you can use, write the number of each statement that shows the extent of your knowledge. Give examples of use:
1. Limited knowledge.
2. Used knowledge in closely supervised work.
3. Completed training courses.
4. Used knowledge in circuit tracing on units of a system.
5. Used it in circuit tracing and troubleshooting of entire system.
6. Used it along with mathematical analysis of circuits.
RATING GUIDE NO. 25-E
Technical Practices (Theoretical Precise, Artistic)
DESCRIPTION OF JOB ELEMENT
Ability to do the theoretical, precise, and/or artistic work applies to a wide variety of skilled and semi-skilled occupations:
- For skilled occupations (such as Patternmaker, Toolmaker, Sheet Metal Mechanic, Mason, and Carpenter), this element pertains to knowledge of trade theory and up-to-date trade practices used in performing the work; and
- For semi-skilled occupations (such as Tools and Parts Attendant, Sewing Machine Operator, and Animal Caretaker), this element pertains to special skills or procedures which the worker must know to do the work and which have been acquired through experience in the line of work.
SKILLED OCCUPATIONS
Work Examples in Skilled Occupations
- Constructing, altering, and repairing forging die block impressions, considering how to produce accurate contours and dimensions with the least costly materials and labor.
- Fabricating tools, jigs, fixtures, and gages which have critical dimensions, using arithmetic, geometric, and trigonometric formulas to figure angles, distances between center, tapers, and clearances.
- Constructing, assembling, and installing different, new, or one-of-a-kind items for one-time projects or experimental or testing activities, adapting shop practices to fit each new situation.
- Making and repairing wooden items with curved, contoured, and shaped surfaces and features such as inlays, scroll-work, carving, miniature parts, matched panels etc., requiring skill in laminating, veneering, plastic overlaying, steam bending, and grain matching.
- Planning and performing decorative brickwork according to the end result desired, e.g., placing brick of different colors to create various designs and patterns; fastening brick on terra cotta veneer to face of structure using tie wire or anchor holes.
- Applying coating materials so that surfaces meet texture, decorative, thickness, and level requirements.
- Coordinating cooking of several menu items for one meal so that all are cooked to the proper degree and in the proper quantities by mealtime.
Levels of Ability in Skilled Occupations
Most Difficult
-Able to adapt shop equipment and trade practices to unique, complex problems such as setting up a new station, testing prototype models of unusual complexity for research and development, or determining techniques and materials for building a model of complex design.
-Able to plan, lay out, set up, and carry through all operations to complete jobs considered difficult in the trade or line of work. Able to modify equipment and switch readily from one technique to another if necessary to achieve work goals. Contributes ideas (based on practical knowledge) to the solution of problems. Interested in and able to apply recent developments in trade practices.
Common
Able to lay out, set up, and perform operations to complete work which is common to the journeyman job in the trade or line of work. This includes knowing the trade theory and up-to-date practices and ability to obtain required decorative effects and tolerances needed in the trade or line of work, as appropriate to the particular occupation.
Less Difficult
-Able to complete tasks of average difficulty for the type of trade, craft, work, etc., working under close supervision. Able to follow standard shop practices in saving materials, using machines and equipment, etc.
-Able to complete tasks requiring knowledge of simple procedures in the trade, craft, or work, and the relationships among various machines, work areas, etc.
Sample Questions for Skilled Occupations
Questions should be worded in terms of the occupation to get information on the following, as appropriate:
-Examples of work requiring inventing new methods to do tasks that cannot be done in regular ways.
-Examples of trade theory or technical principles which must be understood to meet job requirements.
-Examples of work requiring use of trade math in making computations, e.g., angles, tapers, and tolerances.
-Examples of work requiring knowledge and experience in new and up-to-date trade practices.
-Examples of work requiring special, decorative effects.
-Examples of work (not described before) requiring precise timing, accurate dimensions, precise fit, etc.
For each example that the job candidates provide, they may be asked to describe the extent of their knowledge of ability by adding the following:
1. Occasional use of the ability or knowledge.
2. Frequent use.
3. Instruct or direct others in use.
4. Very thorough ability or knowledge (Explain).
SEMI-SKILLED OCCUPATIONS
Work Examples in Semi-Skilled Occupations
-Setting up and shifting storage locations, considering such factors as the available space, turnover, and how items can be easily moved; recommending possible substitutes to users; and deciding when tools or equipment should be sent to appropriate shops for test, repair, or adjustment.
-Selecting containers, protective devices, cushioning materials, and techniques for packing a variety of items, considering such factors as size, type, weight, fragility, how they are to be transported, and where they are being sent.
-Altering the basic cut or fit of trousers and shirts, considering such factors as which seam to rip first, how much to taper without distorting the basic hang or shape, and the degree of precision sewing needed to assure a good appearance.
-Measuring ingredients for recipes furnished by the cook or baker and preparing nourishments or supplemental feedings such as malted milks, eggnogs, and high protein drinks.
-Reporting or recording signs of abnormality in animals such as excessive feather and hair loss, abnormal pelt appearance, and changes in feeding habits.
-Sorting laboratory glassware considering whether the items are suitable for tissue culture work or less exacting purposes, whether they can be fire-polished and salvaged, or whether they are not salvageable for any purpose.
-Knowing locations of stock and how they are marked, tagged, or otherwise identified; selecting items from stock by matching names, models, and stock or part numbers; and rotating items according to shelf-life, age, and code date.
-As a team member, assisting in assembling patients' trays for soft, bland, liquid, low caloric, low sodium, or other common modified diets.
Levels of Ability in Semi-Skilled Occupations
Difficult
Ability to independently do the more difficult semi-skilled tasks.
Ability to answer questions and to check work performed at the next lower level to see that procedures have been followed in terms of accuracy, adequacy, or completeness.
Common
Ability to select or vary established procedures common to the semi-skilled occupation, e.g., considers the needs of the user, condition of items, etc., in deciding how items are to be handled, processed, or stored. OR as appropriate in the job, ability to do work involving close tolerances in manipulating, adjusting, or measuring materials, or detecting slight defects or changes that would not be noticed by the untrained observer.
Less Difficult
-Ability to do routine procedures which require memorizing or remembering a variety of steps and alternative ways of doing the work. Uses some judgment or skill acquired through training or experience in the line of work, e.g., in interpreting or filling written requests and recording data; assembling, arranging, or processing items in special ways; etc. Knows which kinds of obvious defects or problems to handle and which to refer to the supervisor. Works as a member of a production team or on his or her own.
-Some familiarity with the work area, equipment, or procedures, and ability to do simple tasks in the line of work as a team member or on his or her own. Is a reliable worker; can be depended upon to follow instructions. Is interested in learning special or advanced procedures in the line of work. Persons who have performed satisfactorily at entrance levels in support jobs would usually be rated at least at this level.)
-Ability to do simple tasks and be a reliable, steady worker. Is willing to work conscientiously in learning the work area, equipment, and procedures. OR some familiarity with the work area, equipment, and procedures but cannot be depended upon to follow instructions, e.g., has to be reminded about tasks to be done and needs extra supervision to assure that work is completed.
Sample Questions for Semi-Skilled Occupations
Questions should be worded in terms of the occupation to get information on the following, as appropriate:
-Examples of work involving checking to see that other workers have followed procedures.
-Examples of work requiring substituting one item for another.
-Special techniques used and kinds of items handled, processed, or stored.
-Examples of machines or equipment used in doing the work.
-Examples of items disassembled or assembled in doing the work.
-Examples of work requiring matching of names, numbers, or other identification to orders or receipts.
-Examples of work requiring arithmetic, e.g., counting and adding number of items, dividing or multiplying items into equal groups, etc.
-Examples of work involving arranging items in a certain order or position.
-Examples of work requiring filling out forms or recording information.
-Kinds of factors considered in deciding how to do the work, e.g., use, condition, size, or quantity of items.
-Kinds of problems, defects, changes, or discrepancies which worker must look for or handle in doing the work.
-Degree of accuracy or preciseness needed.
-Examples of work, not previously shown, which indicate ability to be a reliable, steady worker.
RATING GUIDE NO. 28-A
Knowledge of Different, Relevant Lines of Work
DESCRIPTION OF JOB ELEMENT
Knowledge of work procedures in all lines of work that will be involved in the given job. A high degree of such knowledge is usually important in jobs involving supervision of workers in several lines of work, e.g., general foreman or construction superintendent. A lower degree of such knowledge is often required in assisting mechanics and doing the simpler tasks of helpers in several trades or areas.
LEVELS OF ABILITY
Most Difficult
-Able to perform a job requiring a level of knowledge possessed by a worker who is well grounded in trade theory and practice in all lines of work that the job requires.
-Able to perform a job requiring a level of knowledge possessed by a worker who is well grounded in trade theory and practice in one line of work and has familiarity with most of the lines of work that the job requires
OR
who has familiarity with all the lines of work that the job requires.
Common
Able to perform a job requiring a level of knowledge possessed by a worker who is well grounded in trade theory and practice in one line of work
OR
who has familiarity with most of the lines of work that the job requires.
Less Difficult
Able to assist mechanics in making repairs to much of the equipment, in many of the different kinds of production and construction operations, etc., that are pertinent locally, e.g., repairs to furniture, fixtures, plumbing, and heating and lighting systems. This level presumes ability to do simpler tasks associated with the variety of local trades and occupational areas under only general direction.
RATING GUIDE NO. 28-B
Ability to Perform Variety of Work in the Line of Work
DESCRIPTION OF JOB ELEMENT
Ability to perform the complete set of functions associated with a given line of work.
Elements 75, 80, 81, 82, are especially appropriate when competitors in different lines of work are to be recruited under the same announcement.
LEVELS OF ABILITY
Most Difficult
-Able to serve as a specialist in the line of work; able to handle unusual processes usually related to prototype and experimental design and work that cannot be performed by personnel at the next lower level.
-Able to do more difficult processes of line of work requiring unusual accuracy, special finish, artistic ability, etc. Able to do a full variety of tasks in the line of work.
Common
Able to do usual variety of tasks in the line of work.
SAMPLE QUESTIONS
List the different kinds of work you have done in your line of work. For each kind, write the job number or other item numbers to show where you did it.
For each kind you list, write the number of each material that shows your ability.
1. Have assisted others.
2. Have done work with help of supervisor.
3. Have done on my own.
4. Have served as an expert giving advice to journeymen.
Give examples of work you have done.
Page Updated 11 July 2000
U.S. Office of Personnel Management 1900 E Street NW, Washington, DC 20415 | (202) 606-1800 | TTY (202) 606-2532