Tag Archives: Career

Becoming an Athletic Scout

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Athletic Scouts play a key role in searching, evaluating and recruiting talented sportspersons to play for a particular team like school, college, university, amateur or professional sports team. They are responsible to determine if a sportsperson is skilled enough to play immediately for their team or needs training to grow his/her talent.

Accordingly, they communicate their findings to the authority such as coaches or general managers in order to sign up either promising or already established players for their organization. In some cases, they also act as assistant coaches.

Athletic Scouts work either independently or for organizations such as government and private High schools, Colleges, Universities, Amateur sports teams, Professional sports teams etc. They often work outdoors and spend much of their time in traveling small and big cities across the globe to find the best skilled and suited players. Due to extensive travel requirements and busy game schedules, these professionals have to work long or irregular hours, including evenings, weekends and holidays.

Educational Requirements

To become an Athletic Scout, the aspiring candidates need to hold at least a high school diploma, but one needs to complete a Bachelor’s degree program in sports management to work at college or senior level. The course works in degree program include athletic administration, sports psychology, sports law, statistics etc.

However, former players or coaches have always an advantage to get employment as an Athletic Scout in their respective fields.

Skill set

Athletic Scouts possess extensive knowledge of the game and wide range of skills such as ability to observe the talents of the sportspersons, mange and organize multitask activities, make tough decisions, work under pressure, solve problems, understand the requirements of the team and process of recruiting the players, effective communication and interpersonal skills etc.

Job Outlook and Salary

The job outlook for an Athletic Scout remains excellent across the USA. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the growth rate for job opportunities in this profession may rise 15% during 2012-2022, higher than the average for all occupations. The average annual salary of an Athletic Scout was $28,360 in May 2012.

Becoming a Body Therapist

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Body Therapists use natural healing techniques to recover from muscle and joint pain, stiffness, reduce stress and promote wellness by improving immunity of human beings. They help the patients with different techniques including acupressure, reflexology, massage therapy, cosmetic skin treatments etc. In addition, they also get involved in other duties such as billing, networking, marketing, and scheduling of treatment.

Body Therapists work in various government or private settings and NGOs. They are employed at doctors’ offices, chiropractors’ offices, cruise ships, spas, fitness centers, rehabilitation centers etc.

Educational Requirements

To become a Body Therapist, aspiring candidates need to obtain at least a diploma certificate in Massage therapy or related health fields. The students can go for Associate’s, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degrees in Massage Therapy, Physical Therapy or related alternative health fields for better job opportunities.

These professionals learn the theory and practice of therapeutic massage and related body work topics, anatomy, kinesiology, physiology, pathology, ethics, business, law etc in their academic pursuance.

Certification and Licensure

Since most states in the USA require a Body Therapist to be licensed, the aspiring candidates need to pass a licensing exam and complete a state-approved training program. The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) offer certification for these professionals.

Skill set

Besides the clinical knowledge, a Body Therapists possess various skills such as dexterity, motivating and convincing power, empathy towards patient, high medical ethics, pleasant communications and interpersonal skills, basic computer knowledge, high level of stamina to stand for long periods of time, ability to remain calm under pressure, etc.

Job Outlook and Salary

The job outlook for a Body Therapist remains excellent across the USA. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the growth rate for job opportunities in this profession may rise 23% from 2012 to 2022, higher than the average for all occupations. The average annual salary of a Body Therapists was $40,350 in May 2012.

Becoming a Medical Fraud Investigator

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Medical Fraud Investigators play a key role in preventing the occurrence of financial fraud and the unlawful receipt of funds in health care sector. They are responsible to review and analyze suspicious medical claims filed by patients, medical personnel and insurance agencies.

Medical Fraud Investigators use a variety of tools to initiate investigations, identify suspects, collect the accurate data, secure evidences and develop cases for future action including referral to law enforcement, education, over payment recovery and other administrative actions in case of any medical fraud . They also serve as a witness in criminal and civil proceedings in connection to this malpractice.

Medical Fraud Investigators work at FBI, federal government and various private organizations.

Educational Requirements:

To become a Medical Fraud Investigator, the aspiring candidates need to hold a Bachelor’s degree related to criminal justice or health care.

The course work of Bachelor’s degree programs in health care administration includes health facilities operations, budgeting, medical billing and health care records while Criminal justice covers the area of policing strategies, judicial process, investigative techniques, crime prevention and crisis management.

Students can also go for a Master’s degree in related field or a Law degree to get better job opportunities in this field.

Certification and Licensure

Since most states of USA require a Medical Fraud Investigator to be licensed, the aspiring candidates need to pass a licensing exam and complete a state-approved training program. The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) or the National Health Care Anti-Fraud offers certification which also requires passing an examination.

Skill set

Medical Fraud Investigators possess wide range of knowledge in various fields such as health laws finance, governing regulations and medical terminology. In addition they hold various traits such as analytical and problem solving capacity, expertise in investigation, effective communication and interpersonal skills, ability to remain calm under pressure, work without supervision, interpret laws and regulations, conduct interviews, computer skills etc.

Job Outlook and Salary

The job outlook for a Medical Fraud Investigator remains excellent across the USA. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the growth rate for job opportunities in this profession may rise 3 percent from 2012 to 2022. The average annual salary of a Medical Fraud Investigator was $59,850 in 2012.

Becoming a Health Information Technician

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The Health Information Technicians organize and manage the medical record of patients in a health care institution. They ensure its accuracy, accessibility, security and proper entry into computer systems. Their responsibilities include entering, verifying and securing required data, retrieving records for patients and medical personnel, helping the patients for insurance claims etc. They also translate complex medical data into simple and lucid information for the common people.

Health Information Technicians work in government and private hospitals, nursing homes, physicians’ offices, rehabilitation centers etc. They work day, night and weekend shifts.

Educational Requirements

To become a Health Information Technician, the aspiring candidates need to hold at least a 2-year associate’s degree in health information technology or a related field. The common course work includes anatomy, medical coding, health statistics, physiology, database management and reimbursement procedures etc.

The students can pursue a Degree program or higher studies to get a better job opportunity in this field.

Consider Certification

Since many employers require professional certification, the aspiring Health information technicians can obtain it after successfully clearing an examination administered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).

Skill Set

Besides the clinical knowledge, Health Information Technician possess various skills such a clear understanding of confidentiality, high medical ethics, ability to remain calm under pressure, work with compassion, maintain privacy, pleasant communications and interpersonal skills, management and organization abilities, computer skills etc.

Job Outlook and Salary

The job outlook for a Health Information Technician remains excellent across the USA. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the growth rate for job opportunities in this profession may rise 22 % from 2012 to 2022, much faster than the average for all occupations. The average annual salary of a Health Information Technician was $34,160 in May 2012.

Becoming an Athletic Director

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Athletic Directors oversee all aspects of the sports program in various educational institutions like Schools, Colleges and Universities. They provide guidance and direction to promote sports activities.

The key responsibilities of an Athletic Director are as follows:

  • Create and administer athletic programs for the institution
  • Prepare a budget and allocate spending on items like salaries of coach and other supporting staffs, team travel and equipment purchases etc.
  • Evaluate and hire the coach and other supporting staff
  • Monitor the team and players
  • Conduct an investigation or appoint investigators to review incidents of rules violations
  • Determine the schedule of games, practices and other facilities management
  • Communicate with school officials regarding athletic events and student athletes
  • Participate in revenue development planning and fundraising to promote sports and games

Educational Requirements

To become an Athletic Director, the aspiring candidates must hold a Bachelor’s Degree with a major of sport management, physical education, athletic training or in a related field.

However, students should obtain a master’s degree in a field like physical education, education administration or sports management or a PhD to get better job opportunities in this field.

Besides, a work experience in a sports related occupation is an advantage for Athletic Director aspirants.

Certification

In order to obtain a nationally recognized certification, the candidates need to fulfill the registration criteria and successfully complete five-year-course after serving for two years as an Athletic Administrator. The National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association offers certification programs as a Registered Athletic Administrator, Certified Athletic Administrator or Certified Master Athletic Administrator.

Skills Set

Apart from academic knowledge, an Athletic Director possesses a wide range of skills including abilities to mange multitask activities, work under pressure, solve problems, make tough decisions, understand rules and regulations regarding fundraising, recruiting and athlete eligibility, effective communication and interpersonal skills, organization abilities, leadership quality so on and so forth.

Job Outlook and Salary

The job outlook for an Athletic Director remains excellent across the USA. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the growth rate for job opportunities in this profession may rise 15% during 2010-2020. In 2012, the average annual salary of an Athletic Director was $86,490 and $100,000 at School and College level respectively.

Becoming an Animal Laboratory Attendant

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Animal Laboratory Attendants play a key role in the field of veterinary science and biomedical research. They look after the animals and equipments in a laboratory setting. Their responsibilities include examining animals in the lab for signs of illness, recording observations, administering medication, providing food and water, cleaning cages and lab equipments, assisting veterinarians with research in disease control and promoting the health of animals etc.

Animal Laboratory Attendants work in both public and private settings. They are employed at veterinary or medical schools, colleges, universities, government agencies, military labs, research institutions etc.

Educational Requirements

To become an Animal Laboratory Attendant, the aspiring candidates need to hold at least a High school diploma or any equivalent qualification. However, students can get better job opportunities in this field after completing a Bachelor or an Associate degree in Animal science, Biology, or a related subject.

The course work in Degree program includes Animal science, Anatomy, Genetics, Physiology, Biology, Chemistry, Nutrition mathematics, and Communications.

Apprenticeship

Animal Laboratory Attendants can acquire training on the job during their college studies. The U.S. Department of Labor sponsors the apprenticeship program for these professionals.

Certification

Animal Laboratory Attendant aspirants need to meet minimum educational qualification and work experience to appear in the examination for certification, administered by American Association for Animal Laboratory Science (AAALS).

Skill set

Besides clinical knowledge, Animal Laboratory Attendants possess various skills such as a good understanding of animal care, adhering to research protocols, ability to work with compassion, basic computer knowledge. More importantly, these professionals need to have physically strong, as they have to lift and move the cages, control the animals.

Job Outlook and Salary

The job outlook for an Animal Laboratory Attendant remains excellent across the USA. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the growth rate for job opportunities in this profession may rise 52% during 2010-2020. The average annual salary of an Animal Laboratory Attendant Technician was $30,290 in May 2012.

Becoming an Anesthesia Technologist

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Anesthesia Technologists play a key role during the administration of anesthesia to the patients who are in chronic pain or undergoing surgery. They assist the licensed anesthesia providers at various level of anesthesia delivery system. Their responsibilities include ensuring careful patient care, collecting and testing blood samples to determine anesthesia levels, preparing intravenous drugs, observing vital symptoms of the patients and maintaining the required equipments properly before, during and after anesthesia.

Anesthesia Technologists work in both public and private healthcare institutions under the direct supervision of a licensed anesthesia provider. They are employed at anesthetic departments, outpatient clinics, operating theaters, trauma centers, emergency departments, intensive care units (ICU) etc.

Anesthesia Technologists hold an extensive knowledge in anesthesia techniques, instruments, supplies, and computer science. They also carry an expertise with the operation and maintenance of several pieces of equipment, including anesthesia delivery systems, ancillary devices, and monitors. Besides, they possess a various skills such as pleasant communication and interpersonal skills, ability to assist the patients emotionally and physically, work with compassion so on and so forth.

Educational Requirements

To become an Anesthesia Technologist, aspiring candidates must have to obtain a Diploma certificate, or an Associate’s degree. For better job opportunities, students can go for a degree programs with the course work of medical terminology, pharmacology and anesthesia equipment functions etc.

The students can also acquire training on the job during their academic session. They can gain hands-on experience in operating rooms, learn about fluid management, blood products and the devices used to administer anesthesia.

Certification

The American Society of Anesthesia Technologists & Technicians (ASATT) offers certification for the Anesthesia Technologists. The aspiring candidates need to pass an examination administered by ASATT to obtain the certification.

Job Outlook and Salary

The job outlook for an Anesthesia Technologist remains excellent across the USA. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the growth rate for job opportunities in this profession may rise 30 per cent during 2012-2022. The average annual salary of an Anesthesia Technologist was $35,715 in 2014.

Becoming an Alternative Health Practitioner

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Alternative Health Practitioners provide unconventional method of treatment to cure physical or mental disorder of the people. They may specialize in acupuncture, homeopathy, reflexology, aromatherapy, herbal therapy, naturopathy, massage therapy hypnotherapy, yoga, meditation etc. They utilize their domain of healthcare to focus upon the fitness and health of the patient. In some cases, they explore the interconnection between the mind, body, and spirit to promote good health.

Alternative Health Practitioners put more weight to ancient traditions and anecdotes over biological science and clinical trials. They use natural products such as herbs or essential oils instead of pharmaceuticals unless no alternatives remain.

Alternative Health Practitioners meet the patients directly, evaluate their problems and develop the healing strategies accordingly. They work in medical office settings, private clinics or even make house calls.

Educational Requirements:

To become an Alternative Health Practitioner, the aspiring candidates need to possess different kinds of academic qualification, training and license as per the type of the practice they wish to pursue. For instance, an herbalist can earn a required certificate in less than one year, but no formal education or licensing is required for aroma-therapists; an acupuncturist needs a master’s degree while a chiropractor requires at least 4 years of professional study besides a 4-year undergraduate course.

However, Alternative Health Practitioners study common course of Anatomy, Physiology, Clinical skills and Patient care etc. along with their special subjects.

Skill Set:

The aspiring Alternative Health Practitioners must possess effective communications and interpersonal skills, creative thinking, ability to work with compassion, understand and manage the crisis situation, convince the people, keep accurate records etc.

Salary & Job Outlook:

The job outlook for an Alternative Health Practitioner is very positive across the USA, as more people are now inclining towards alternative medicine. The salary of Alternative Health Practitioners differs according to their specialty. For instance, the annual average salary of massage therapists was $ 35,970 in 2012 while Chiropractors earned an average salary of $66,160 in the same year.

Becoming an Alcohol Counselor

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Alcohol counselors play a key role to assist the people who have alcoholic problems. They help the alcoholics to return into areas of their lives where their behavior has left a destructive trail, including work and personal relationship. They plan recovery strategies to avoid relapses through appropriate counseling the patients. In serious cases, they may refer a patient to a psychiatrist or other medical professionals.

The responsibilities of Alcohol Counselor include holding personal or group counseling sessions regarding the dangers of alcohol and encourage a healthy lifestyle, guiding pregnant women and her family members about the effects of alcohol on the fetus, assisting individuals to identify their need for treatment programs, planning to resolve addictions to alcohol.

Apart from their knowledge regarding the causes and effects of alcohol, Alcohol Counselor posses various skills such as risk assessment and an understanding of crisis management, ability to deal with life threatening situations including the prevention of suicide, temperament that mixes empathy with patience, ability to deal with aggressive and/or intoxicated clients, effective communications and interpersonal skills, computer skills etc.

Alcohol Counselor work at either government and private settings or non-government organizations. They are employed at hospitals, rehabilitation center, correction facilities, educational institutes etc.

Education Requirements:

To become an Alcohol Counselor, the aspiring candidates must hold at least a 2-year associate’s or a 4-year bachelor’s degree and relevant work experience in a field such as substance abuse counseling, social/behavioral science etc.

Alcohol Counselors who wish to work in private practices, however, need to complete a master’s degree along with several thousand hours of clinical experience and pass an exam to obtain the necessary licensure.

The common syllabus during associate’s or a bachelor’s degree course includes theories of substance abuse, principles of substance abuse counseling and basics of mental health counseling.

Licensure:

Since many states of USA require Alcohol Counselors to be licensed, the aspiring candidates should obtain a License after completing required academic courses.

Job Outlook and Salary:

The job outlook for an Alcohol Counselor remains excellent across the USA. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the growth rate for job opportunities in this profession may grow by 31 per cent during 2012-2022. The average annual salary of an Alcohol Counselors was $ 41,090 in 2013.

Becoming an Addictions Counselor

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Addictions Counselors help people who suffer from addiction problems such as alcoholism, drug addiction, eating disorders, gambling, or other behavioral problems. Their responsibilities include providing treatment and guiding the patients to recover from addiction and promote good health. They develop recovery strategies to avoid relapses through counseling the patients on diet, hygiene, and other preventive healthcare measures. In serious cases, they may refer a patient to a psychiatrist or other medical professionals.

More importantly, Addictions Counselors offer moral support to the patient as the road to recovery tends to be a long and tough one with many obstacles and challenges. In addition to counseling the addicts, these professionals organize information sessions with the family members, friends and people of a community regarding the problems and the way to recover or prevent from addiction disorders.

Addictions Counselors are employed in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, detention centers, educational institutions, centre for human service facilities so on and so forth. They may also open their own private practices as well.

Education requirements

To qualify for the position of Addictions Counselor, educational requirements range from a high school diploma to a master’s degree, depending on the place of employment and level of duties. However, these professionals with a high school diploma take training during their job assignment

At degree level, the course work includes addiction studies, psychology, behavioral science or related majors. The National Board for Certified Counselors offers the National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Master Addiction Counselor (MAC) credentials through conducting an examination.

Skill Set:

Apart from holding academic degree, Addictions Counselor need to have the knowledge of decision making, communication and interpersonal skills, along with the ability to maintain privacy and confidentiality, study the emotions of patients, work with compassion, face the irate patients or even with their violent behavior.

Licensure:

Since many states of USA require Addictions Counselors to be licensed, the aspiring candidates should obtain a License after completing required academic courses.

Job Outlook and Salary:

The job outlook for an Addictions Counselors remains bright across the USA. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the growth rate for job opportunities in this profession may rise 31 per cent during 2012-2022. The average annual salary of an Addictions Counselors was $38,520 in May 2012.