Groundskeeper Supervisor

Job Duties

Groundskeeper supervisors are responsible for directing the work of groundskeepers and related workers. They usually train new workers in the techniques of groundskeeping, such as the use of shovels, rakes, pruning and regular saws, hedge and brush trimmers, axes, lawnmowers, chain saws, leaf blowers, and electric clippers. They may even train employees in the operation of tractors or twin-axle vehicles. In addition to their training role, groundskeeper supervisors prepare cost estimates, schedule work on the basis of weather and equipment availability, check the quality of work at the job site, and suggest changes in methods or procedure.

Groundskeepers are responsible for maintaining the area around different types of facilities, including golf courses, athletic fields, cemeteries, university campuses, and parks. They keep the sod, trees, and plants healthy. They may rake and mulch leaves, clear snow, or install irrigation equipment. They are also responsible for maintaining sidewalks, parking lots, groundskeeping equipment, pools, fountains, fences, planters, and benches.

Job Skills

Groundskeeper supervisors need to have good communication and leadership skills. They should be in good physical shape due to the strenuous nature of the job. They should be able to stand and walk for most of the day. They often are required to lift heavy loads of 100 pound or even more. They also should be responsible and self-motivated because they are often left to work without supervision.

Income

In 2002, groundskeeper supervisors earned a median hourly wage of $15.89. The following shows the median hourly wages in the industries employing the largest numbers of groundskeeper supervisors:

• Elementary and secondary schools -- $13.36
• Local government -- $11.81
• Services to buildings and dwellings -- $9.38
• Other amusement and recreation industries -- $8.92
• Lessors of real estate -- $8.65
• Employment services -- $8.05

Training and Education

Advancement from groundskeeper to groundskeeper supervisor sometimes requires some education in addition to high school as well as several years of experience as a groundskeeper. Some groundskeeper supervisor jobs require a high school diploma, but, other than that, there usually are no minimum education requirements. A majority of workers have a high school diploma or less. Safety procedures and equipment operation are typically taught on the job. Being able to follow directions well is usually the most important requirement. If driving is involved in the job, employers usually try to hire candidates with a good driving record and truck driving experience. Some groundskeeper supervisors may start their own businesses if they have gained enough experience and have enough motivation. Groundskeeper managers can become certified by the Porfessional Grounds Management Society (PGMS) who have education beyond high school, 8 years of experience, and can pass an examination.

Employment

In 2002, groundskeeper supervisors held about 150,000 jobs.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of groundskeeper supervisors is expected to increase faster than the average. This will result from expected growth in building construction, as well as an increase in the number of highways and parks. The maintenance of existing facilities will also generate demand for services from these workers. More businesses are expected to hire groundskeeping services to improve the image of their business, and homeowners will continue to be a growing source of demand. More two-income households lack the time to care for their property themselves and will hire more groundskeepers and groundskeeper supervisors to do the work for them.

To learn more about hospitality careers, please see our directory of schools offering Hospitality Training and Degrees.

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Groundskeeper

Job Duties

Groundskeepers are responsible for maintaining the area around different types of facilities, including golf courses, athletic fields, cemeteries, university campuses, and parks. They keep the sod, trees, and plants healthy. They may rake and mulch leaves, clear snow, or install irrigation equipment. They are also responsible for maintaining sidewalks, parking lots, groundskeeping equipment, pools, fountains, fences, planters, and benches.

Groundskeepers who specialize in athletic fields keep the turf in healthy condition and mark boundaries and team logos on the field. They make sure the field has proper drainage. They water, mow, and fertilize the field regularly. Groundskeepers who specialize in golf courses may relocate holes on putting greens. They may also repair and paint canopies, benches, ball washers, and tee markers. Those who specialize in maintaining parks and recreation facilities may remove snow and ice from walkways, build snow fences, and clean swimming pools. They make repairs to buildings and keep buildings freshly painted.

Job Skills

Groundskeepers need to be in good physical shape due to the strenuous nature of the job. They should be able to stand and walk for most of the day. They often are required to lift heavy loads of 100 pound or even more. They need to have the ability to follow instructions carefully and precisely. They also should be responsible and self-motivated because they are often left to work without supervision. Those interested in supervisory positions should have good communication and leadership skills.

Income

In 2002, groundskeepers earned a median hourly wage of $9.51. The following shows the median hourly wages in the industries employing the largest numbers of groundskeepers:

• Elementary and secondary schools -- $13.36
• Local government -- $11.81
• Services to buildings and dwellings -- $9.38
• Other amusement and recreation industries -- $8.92
• Lessors of real estate -- $8.65
• Employment services -- $8.05

Training and Education

Some groundskeeper jobs require a high school diploma, but, other than that, there usually are no minimum education requirements. A majority of workers have a high school diploma or less. Safety procedures and equipment operation are typically taught on the job. Being able to follow directions well is usually the most important requirement. If driving is involved in the job, employers usually try to hire candidates with a good driving record and truck driving experience. Some groundskeepers may start their own businesses if they have gained enough experience and have enough motivation. Groundskeepers can earn certification from the Professional Grounds Management Society if they have a high school diploma or equivalent, plus 2 years of experience in the field.

Employment

In 2002, groundskeepers held about 1,074,000 jobs.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of groundskeepers is expected to increase faster than the average. This will result from expected growth in building construction, as well as an increase in the number of highways and parks. The maintenance of existing facilities will also generate demand for services from these workers. More businesses are expected to hire groundskeeping services to improve the image of their business, and homeowners will continue to be a growing source of demand. More two-income households lack the time to care for their property themselves and will hire more groundskeepers to do the work for them.

To learn more about hospitality careers, please see our directory of schools offering Hospitality Training and Degrees.

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Gaming Supervisor

Job Duties

Gaming supervisors are assigned to a specific area in a gaming facility and have the responsibility of directing and overseeing the gaming workers in that area. They move from table to table, observing operations and ensuring that everything goes smoothly. They make sure that every game and table are covered by a dealer during each shift. When patrons of the establishment are not familiar with the rules of a particular game, gaming supervisors will often explain the rules to them. They may plan special activities for the guests in their establishments. They may handle any customer complaints that arise.

Legalized gambling is a multi-billion-dollar business in the United States and includes casinos, State lotteries, wagering on dog and horse racing, and charitable gaming. Most gaming supervisors are employed in casinos, and their specific duties vary from establishment to establishment. Some positions require specialized skills while others require skills that are common to almost all types of businesses.

Job Skills

Gaming supervisors need to have well-developed leadership skills so they are able to communicate effectively with their staffs and with customers. They should have an outgoing personality. They must have the ability to maintain their composure even when dealing with angry or demanding patrons. Because so many of these workers handle money, and sometimes large sums of it, personal integrity and honesty are also very important qualities.

Income

In 2002, gaming supervisors earned a median annual salary of $39,290. Earnings varied greatly depending on level of experience, training, location, and size of the gaming establishment in which they worked.

Training and Education

Gaming supervisors usually have an associate's or bachelor's degree, and those without a degree usually have a good deal of experience. Because knowledge of gaming is essential to success as a supervisor, most supervisors have gained considerable experience in other gaming occupations before they move into supervisory roles. The typical minimum educational requirement for gaming supervisor positions is a high school diploma or GED. All workers are required to obtain a license issued by a State casino control board or commission. In order to qualify for this license, applicants must submit photo identification, proof of State residency, and a fee. The licensing procedure in all States includes a background check. Every casino has different educational requirements, and almost all provide some type of on-the-job or in-house training. Those interested in long-term careers in the industry are encouraged to earn an associate's, bachelor's, or master's degree in a major such as h ospitality management, hospitality administration, or hotel administration. Some vocational, community, and technical colleges offer training for this occupation.

Employment

In 2002, gaming supervisors held about 39,000 jobs. Most were employed by commercial casinos, and the largest concentration of workers was in Nevada and New Jersey.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of gaming supervisors is expected to increase faster than the average. Even in times of economic recession, casino profits continue to rise, and many States that do not currently allow gambling are reconsidering that stance. Opportunities will be best for those with a degree or certification in gaming or a hospitality-related field, as well as those with previous experience and good communication skills.

To learn more about hospitality, retail, and travel related careers, please visit our section on Hospitality Schools for more information.

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Gaming Runner

Job Duties

Gaming runners are responsible for assisting in the operation of such games as bingo and keno. They also assist patrons by taking bets on sporting events. When patrons present winning tickets, gaming runners scan those tickets, calculate the winnings, and pay the patron. Some are in charge of operating the machines that randomly generate numbers in bingo and keno games. They also announce the numbers that are generated to patrons, collect tickets and bets, and verify and record the cash wagers of patrons.

Legalized gambling is a multi-billion-dollar business in the United States and includes casinos, State lotteries, wagering on dog and horse racing, and charitable gaming. Most gaming runners are employed in casinos, and their specific duties vary from establishment to establishment. Some positions require specialized skills while others require skills that are common to almost all types of businesses.

Job Skills

Gaming runners should have an outgoing personality. They must have the ability to maintain their composure even when dealing with angry or demanding patrons. Because so many of these workers handle money, and sometimes large sums of it, personal integrity and honesty are also very important qualities.

Income

In 2002, gaming runners earned a median annual salary of $18,660. Earnings varied greatly depending on level of experience, training, location, and size of the gaming establishment in which they worked.

Training and Education

The typical minimum educational requirement for gaming runner positions is a high school diploma or GED. All workers are required to obtain a license issued by a State casino control board or commission. In order to qualify for this license, applicants must submit photo identification, proof of State residency, and a fee. The licensing procedure in all States includes a background check. Every casino has different educational requirements, and almost all provide some type of on-the-job or in-house training. Those interested in long-term careers in the industry are encouraged to earn an associate's, bachelor's, or master's degree in a major such as hospitality management, hospitality administration, or hotel administration. Some vocational, community, and technical colleges offer training for this occupation.

Employment

In 2002, gaming runners held about 14,000 jobs. Most were employed by commercial casinos, and the largest concentration of workers was found in Nevada and New Jersey.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of gaming runners is expected to increase faster than the average. Even in times of economic recession, casino profits continue to rise, and many States that do not currently allow gambling are reconsidering that stance. Opportunities will be best for those with a degree or certification in gaming or a hospitality-related field, as well as those with previous experience and good communication skills.

To learn more about hospitality, retail, and travel related careers, please visit our section on Hospitality Schools for more information.

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Gaming Dealer

Job Duties

Gaming dealers are responsible for the operation of games played at tables such as craps, blackjack, and roulette. They stand or sit behind the table, providing any necessary game devices to patrons such as dice or cards. Gaming dealers are expected to be the front line in the effort to make sure patrons have an enjoyable experience at the gaming facility. Their communication and customer service skills are usually of the highest caliber. They must also have the appropriate level of skill in running the casino table games. Most are skilled in at least two games. They decide who won, pay winners, and collect from losers. Often they are required to monitor patrons for any signs of fraud or cheating.

Legalized gambling is a multi-billion-dollar business in the United States and includes casinos, State lotteries, wagering on dog and horse racing, and charitable gaming. Most gaming dealers are employed in casinos, and their specific duties vary from establishment to establishment. Some positions require specialized skills while others require skills that are common to almost all types of businesses.

Job Skills

Gaming dealers should have an outgoing personality. They must have the ability to maintain their composure even when dealing with angry or demanding patrons. Because so many of these workers handle money, and sometimes large sums of it, personal integrity and honesty are also very important qualities.

Income

In 2002, gaming dealers earned a median annual salary of $14,090. Earnings varied greatly depending on level of experience, training, location, and size of the gaming establishment in which they worked.

Training and Education

The typical minimum educational requirement for gaming dealer positions is a high school diploma or GED. Gaming dealers are usually required to be certified by attending 2- to 4-year programs in gaming or a hospitality-related field. Dealers with the most experience usually are allowed to deal at "high-stakes" tables. All workers are required to obtain a license issued by a State casino control board or commission. In order to qualify for this license, applicants must submit photo identification, proof of State residency, and a fee. The licensing procedure in all States includes a background check. Every casino has different educational requirements, and almost all provide some type of on-the-job or in-house training. Those interested in long-term careers in the industry are encouraged to earn an associate's, bachelor's, or master's degree in a major such as hospitality management, hospitality administration, or hotel administration. Some vocational, community, and technic al colleges offer training for this occupation.

Employment

In 2002, gaming dealers held about 78,000 jobs. Most were employed by commercial casinos, and the largest concentration of workers was found in Nevada and New Jersey.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of gaming dealers is expected to increase faster than the average. In fact, among all casino occupations, employment of gaming dealers are expected to grow the fastest. This is a result of an increased demand for casino table games in existing establishments. Even in times of economic recession, casino profits continue to rise, and many States that do not currently allow gambling are reconsidering that stance. Opportunities will be best for those with a degree or certification in gaming or a hospitality-related field, as well as those with previous experience and good communication skills.

To learn more about hospitality, retail, and travel related careers, please visit our section on Hospitality Schools for more information.

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Gaming Cage Worker

Job Duties

Gaming cage workers, sometimes called cage cashiers, work in a section of casinos and other types of gaming establishments known as "the cage". The cage is the main area where money is deposited, as well as the storage area for gaming chips and paperwork. These workers are responsible for a number of different financial transactions that are necessary for gaming operations. They check the credit of patrons who wish to open a house credit account. They cash checks. They sell gaming chips, tokens, and tickets and change chips back into cash. They operate cash registers, adding machines, or computers. They are responsible for balancing the daily financial records at the end of each shift. They are required to follow certain transaction regulations, such as reporting large transactions to the Internal Revenue Service.

Job Skills

Gaming cage workers should be comfortable working in an environment in which they deal with large sums of cash. They should have excellent communication skills because they so often are required to interact with the public and represent the gaming establishment. They should be computer literate, and have knowledge of work-processing and spreadsheet software.

Income

In 2002, gaming cage workers earned a median hourly wage of $10.47. Earnings varied greatly depending on level of experience, training, location, and size of the gaming establishment in which they worked.

Training and Education

Most gaming cage worker positions require applicants to have at least a high school diploma. However, more employers are requiring applicants to have some college training. Sometimes an associate's degree in business accounting is required. Some applicants have bachelor's degrees in business, accounting, or liberal arts. Those who have bachelor's degrees usually begin working at higher salaries than those without bachelor's degrees. Experience in related jobs is highly sought after by employers.

Gaming cage workers are required to be at least 21 years of age and they must obtain a license from the State gambling commission or similar regulatory body. Applicants for these licenses are required to pay a fee, provide a photograph, and give proof of State residence. All applicants are given a thorough background check. After they are hired, gaming cage workers typically receive on-the-job training under the guidance of more experienced cage workers. Advancement usually comes in the form of more duties or transfer to a related occupation. Gaming cage workers can eventually become accountants, human resource specialists, or buyers.

Employment

In 2002, gaming cage workers held about 18,000 jobs. Most were employed by commercial casinos, and the largest concentration of workers was found in Nevada and New Jersey.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of gaming cage workers is expected to increase about as fast as the average. Even in times of economic recession, casino profits continue to rise, and many States that do not currently allow gambling are reconsidering that stance. However, employment of gaming cage workers will not be as robust as other casino workers because more casinos are moving to cashless systems that rely on debit cards. Opportunities will be best for those who have a background in mathematics, accounting, or bookkeeping, and those who have good customer service and communication skills.

To learn more about hospitality, retail, and travel related careers, please visit our section on Hospitality Schools for more information.

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Flight Attendant

Job Duties

Flight attendants have the responsibility of ensuring the safety of passengers on board commercial airline flights. They also attempt to make sure passengers have a comfortable and enjoyable flight experience. Before each flight, attendants are briefed by the pilot on such matters as emergency evacuation procedures, coordination of the crew, the length of the flight, expected weather conditions, and any special passenger needs. They then check the passenger cabins and other parts of the plane to make sure all safety equipment is on board and in working order. They check the supplies of food, beverages, pillows, earphones, and blankets. They check passengers in and greet them when they board the plane.

After the passengers have boarded the plane, flight attendants instruct passengers in regarding emergency procedures and equipment. Once the plane is in the air, they are available to assist passengers in the event of an emergency. This is actually their primary responsibility, and tasks associated with this responsibility may range from asking passengers to remain seated while the plane goes through air turbulence to overseeing the evacuation of the plane after an emergency landing. They may administer first aid to passengers who require it. They may hand out food and beverages, including precooked meals.

Job Skills

Flight attendants must be in excellent health. They must be tall enough to reach overhead bins, and usually must be weight/height proportional. Their vision must be 20/30 or better. Men are required to have hair that is shorter than their collar and must be clean shaven. Both men and women are usually required to be free of visible tattoos, body piercings, or unusual hairstyles. They must have excellent communication skills and the ability to remain calm during stressful situations.

Income

In 2002, flight attendants eared a median annual income of $43,140. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $20,890, to the highest 10%, who earned more than $91,050.

Training and Education

Most employers require applicants to be high school graduates. Several years of college can be a major advantage, as can experience in jobs dealing with the public. An increasing number of newly hired flight attendants are college graduates. College study in psychology or education can be very desirable to employers. Some applicants receive training from schools or colleges specifically in flight attendant preparation, and employers look favorably upon this. Those who apply to work for foreign airlines usually are required to speak a foreign language. Some require applicants to speak two foreign languages fluently. Newly hired flight attendants receive on-the-job training that usually lasts 3 to 8 weeks and are not considered official employees until they complete this training. Students go along on practice flights at the end of their training period. After their completion of this training and official hire, they are also required to undergo periodic training and pass a n FAA safety examination in order to continue working.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of flight attendants is expected to increase about as fast as the average. An expanding economy and a growing population will account for much of this increase. More planes will be added to airlines' fleets, creating demand for more flight attendants. As the airlines continue to recover from the devastating effects of September 11th, more opportunities will arise for flight attendants. Because the jobs are desirable and attract so many qualified candidates, competition is expected to remain keen.

To learn more about hospitality, retail, and travel related careers, please visit our section on Hospitality Schools for more information.

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Fitness Worker

Job Duties

Fitness workers assist, instruct, or coach different individuals and groups in a variety of fitness activities. These workers usually specialize in one or two areas such as weightlifting, yoga, aerobics, and karate. Their specific duties depend on their specific job title. Fitness trainers assist clients in making and reaching their individual fitness goals. They demonstrate exercise techniques for the client and then assist the client in mastering those techniques. They often maintain detailed records of their clients' exercise sessions so that they are able to gauge progress.

Personal trainers work exclusively with one client at a time, usually in a gym or at their home. Aerobics instructors lead group exercises that may include aerobic exercising, stretching, and muscle conditioning. Fitness directors manage the overall operation of fitness programs of health clubs or fitness centers. They develop and maintain programs that enhance the experience of the facility's members.

Job Skills

Important qualities for fitness workers to possess include physical fitness and excellent mental health. They should have outgoing personalities. They should be adept at motivating people and at holding a group's interest in an activity. They need to be sensitive to the various needs of a diverse population of people.

Income

In 2002, fitness workers earned a median hourly wage of $11.51. The following shows the median hourly wages in the industries employing the highest numbers of fitness workers:

• Other amusement and recreation industries -- $13.81
• Civic and social organizations -- $9.24
• Other schools and instruction -- $8.93

Training and Education

Training and educational requirements for fitness worker positions vary greatly from job to job. Certification in a specialized field of fitness is often required. Such fields include personal training, weight training, and aerobics. Certification usually lasts two years and then workers are required to become recertified by attending continuing education classes. Most workers must have a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification and some are required to have a first aid certificate.

Many employers now require their employees to hold a bachelor's degree in an area such as exercise science or physical education. Some employers allow workers to substitute a college degree for certification. In order for workers to advance to managerial positions in a health or fitness club, they usually need to have a bachelor's degree, and sometimes a master's degree, along with work experience. Many workers have their own businesses as personal trainers in addition to their job in a health club or gym. Some even open their own fitness centers.

Employment

In 2002, fitness workers held about 285,00 jobs. Almost all worked in physical fitness facilities.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of fitness workers is expected to increase much faster than the average. More people are expected to spend time and money on recreation and leisure services. A rising interest in personal training, aerobics instruction, and other fitness activities will add to the demand for these workers. Opportunities will be best for those with a combination of job experience and formal training, particularly bachelor's and master's degrees.

To learn more about hospitality, retail, and travel related careers, please visit our section on Hospitality Schools for more information.

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Fitness Worker

Job Duties

Fitness workers assist, instruct, or coach different individuals and groups in a variety of fitness activities. These workers usually specialize in one or two areas such as weightlifting, yoga, aerobics, and karate. Their specific duties depend on their specific job title. Fitness trainers assist clients in making and reaching their individual fitness goals. They demonstrate exercise techniques for the client and then assist the client in mastering those techniques. They often maintain detailed records of their clients' exercise sessions so that they are able to gauge progress.

Personal trainers work exclusively with one client at a time, usually in a gym or at their home. Aerobics instructors lead group exercises that may include aerobic exercising, stretching, and muscle conditioning. Fitness directors manage the overall operation of fitness programs of health clubs or fitness centers. They develop and maintain programs that enhance the experience of the facility's members.

Job Skills

Important qualities for fitness workers to possess include physical fitness and excellent mental health. They should have outgoing personalities. They should be adept at motivating people and at holding a group's interest in an activity. They need to be sensitive to the various needs of a diverse population of people.

Income

In 2002, fitness workers earned a median hourly wage of $11.51. The following shows the median hourly wages in the industries employing the highest numbers of fitness workers:

• Other amusement and recreation industries -- $13.81
• Civic and social organizations -- $9.24
• Other schools and instruction -- $8.93

Training and Education

Training and educational requirements for fitness worker positions vary greatly from job to job. Certification in a specialized field of fitness is often required. Such fields include personal training, weight training, and aerobics. Certification usually lasts two years and then workers are required to become recertified by attending continuing education classes. Most workers must have a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification and some are required to have a first aid certificate.

Many employers now require their employees to hold a bachelor's degree in an area such as exercise science or physical education. Some employers allow workers to substitute a college degree for certification. In order for workers to advance to managerial positions in a health or fitness club, they usually need to have a bachelor's degree, and sometimes a master's degree, along with work experience. Many workers have their own businesses as personal trainers in addition to their job in a health club or gym. Some even open their own fitness centers.

Employment

In 2002, fitness workers held about 285,00 jobs. Almost all worked in physical fitness facilities.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of fitness workers is expected to increase much faster than the average. More people are expected to spend time and money on recreation and leisure services. A rising interest in personal training, aerobics instruction, and other fitness activities will add to the demand for these workers. Opportunities will be best for those with a combination of job experience and formal training, particularly bachelor's and master's degrees.

To learn more about hospitality, retail, and travel related careers, please visit our section on Hospitality Schools for more information.

http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/careers/hospitality_careers/fitness_worker