SOC Responses

The Standard Occupational Classification Policy Committee (SOCPC) and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) received and reviewed over 1,200 public comments on information presented in the May 22, 2008, Federal Register notice (73 FR 29930). The 2010 SOC was announced in the January 21, 2009 Federal Register notice (74 FR 3920), available from www.bls.gov/soc/soc2010final.pdf. Each individual comment received a unique docket number when conveyed to the SOCPC secretariat at the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Dockets providing the same or essentially similar comments or suggestions were reviewed simultaneously by the SOCPC. Combined responses addressing multiple dockets are indicated by "Multiple dockets..."

The SOCPC considered each part of every docket number separately, as indicated by "(part A), (part B), etc."

Responses are sorted by the docket number, followed by those responses addressing multiple dockets.

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Response to Docket Number: 08-0012
Docket No. 08-0012 requested the SOCPC provide information on whether changes in titles and codes in the 2010 SOC or future classification systems stem from either : (1) changes in classification principles and coding guidelines, or (2) actual changes in the nature or organization of work activities being performed in the economy.

The SOCPC concluded that changes to the 2010 SOC structure did not stem from changes to the 2000 SOC Principles. The 2000 SOC Principles were edited for clarification only. Therefore, all of the substantive structural changes made were based on actual changes in the nature or organization of work activities being performed in the economy.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0087
Docket No. 08-0087 contained comments thanking the SOCPC for accepting recommendations received regarding the occupation 29-2057 Ophthalmic Medical Technicians.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0107
Docket No. 08-0107 requested a new detailed occupation for "Arts Administrators and Managers." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category. The title "Arts Administrators and Managers" is so broad it could fit into multiple SOC occupations, depending on the work performed.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0144
Docket No. 08-0144 requested a new detailed occupation for supervisors of 31-1011 Home Health Aides. The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation. According to Classification Principle 5, occupations in major group 31-0000 Healthcare Support Occupations are usually supervised by workers in Major Group 29-0000 Healthcare Practitioner and Technical Occupations. Therefore, major group 31-0000 Healthcare Support Occupations does not include a detailed occupation for first-line supervisors. First-line supervisors of Home Health Aides can be classified in various occupations depending on the particular establishment.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0168
Docket No. 08-0168 requested that the title for the occupation 29-2021 Dental Hygienists be changed to "Registered Dental Hygienists." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. It is not a convention of the SOC to use the term "registered" unless it is necessary to distinguish the occupation from another.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0202
Docket No. 08-0202 raised a question concerning the coding of Registered Nurses who practice as midwives, but are not trained as 29-1161 Nurse Midwives. The SOCPC determined these individuals would be classified in 29-1161 Nurse Midwives. Classification Principle 2 states that occupations are classified based on work performed. Therefore if the work performed is that of a Nurse Midwife, the workers should be classified in the same occupation.
Response to Docket Number 08-0206
Docket No. 08-0206 requested four new detailed occupations: "Evidence Masters," "Evidence Technicians," "Master Timekeepers," and "Metrological Researchers." The SOCPC did not accept these recommendations, based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category. The commenter describes very specialized functions or tasks that may be performed by workers in several occupations. The SOCPC also questioned whether agencies can reliably collect and report data on these occupations, as required by Classification Principle 9.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0239
Docket No. 08-0239 requested that proposed 2010 SOC occupation 29-1151 Nurse Practitioners be retitled to include "Nurse Practitioners and Clinical Nurse Specialists." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category and Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. While both Nurse Practitioners and Clinical Nurse Specialists have graduate nursing education, the two groups do not perform the same tasks.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0245
Docket No. 08-0245 requested the SOCPC identify the corresponding 2000 SOC occupation for the proposed 2010 SOC occupation 15-1129 Software and Web Developers and Computer Analysts, All Other. The SOCPC will publish a correspondence between all occupations in the 2000 SOC and the 2010 SOC.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0292
Docket No. 08-0292 requested a new detailed occupation for "Genetic Counselors." The SOCPC accepted this recommendation because the work that Genetic Counselors perform is sufficiently distinct from the work of other occupations. Although employment is low, Genetic Counselors are concentrated in certain industries, reducing concerns regarding collectability. The SOCPC recommends establishing a new code for this occupation, 29-9092.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0314
Docket No. 08-0314 requested a new detailed occupation for "Professional Organizers." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category. The title "Professional Organizers" is so broad it could fit into multiple SOC occupations, depending on the work performed.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0315
Docket No. 08-0315 requested a new detailed occupation for "Clinical Nurse Specialists without prescriptive authority." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category and Classification Principle 9 on collectability. The SOCPC questioned whether agencies are able to collect and report data on "Clinical Nurse Specialists without prescriptive authority" separately from data on other nurses.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0331
Docket No. 08-0331 requested three new detailed occupations: "Culinary Scientists," "Research Chefs," and "Culinologists." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category and Classification Principle 9 on collectability. The committee determined the tasks performed in the proposed occupations are already covered by existing SOC occupations, such as 19-1012 Food Scientists and Technologists and 35-1011 Chefs and Head Cooks.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0337
Docket No. 08-0337 requested a new detailed occupation for "Anesthesiologist Assistants." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category and Classification Principle 9 on collectability. Some, but not all, Anesthesiologist Assistants are nurses. Anesthesiologist Assistants are estimated to be small in number, they overlap with other occupations, and they are not uniformly defined.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0341
Docket No. 08-0341 requested that the title for proposed SOC occupation 29-1141 Nurse Anesthetists be changed to "Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. It is not a convention of the SOC to use the term "registered" unless it is necessary to distinguish the occupation from another.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0358
Docket No. 08-0358 requested (1) moving 29-9091 Athletic Trainers from its current location to 29-1000 Heath Diagnosing and Treating Practitioners; and (2) classifying 29-9091 Athletic Trainers with 29-1129 Therapists, All Other. The SOCPC did not accept these recommendations. Classification Principle 2 states that occupations are classified based on work performed. Athletic Trainers evaluate and advise individuals to assist recovery from or avoid athletic-related injuries or illnesses, or to maintain peak physical fitness. They do not diagnose injuries and illnesses. They may provide first aid or emergency care treatment. While they help prevent injury and illness, they are not therapists.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0362
Docket No. 08-0362 requested splitting 31-1012 Nursing Aides, Orderlies, and Attendants into two detailed occupations: (1) Nursing Aides and (2) Orderlies and Attendants. The SOCPC accepted a modified version of this proposal, recommending a title change for 31-1012 to "Nursing Assistants" to reflect the most common job title used. As required by Classification Principle 2, this occupation will continue to include Nursing Aides, Nursing Attendants, and Nursing Care Attendants because they perform work that is too similar to distinguish the occupations from Nursing Assistants. The SOCPC also recommended a new detailed occupation, 31-1014 "Orderlies" because the work performed is sufficiently distinct to reliably collect data, as required by Classification Principle 9.

The SOCPC reviewed proposed titles and definitions for 31-1011 Home Health Aides and 39-9021 Personal and Home Care Aides, as also requested in this docket. Modifications were recommended to clarify distinctions between these occupations.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0454
Docket No. 08-0454 requested a new detailed occupation for "Hearing Aid Specialists," which is an illustrative example for 29-2099 Health Technologists and Technicians, All Other in the 2000 SOC. The SOCPC accepted this recommendation because Hearing Aid Specialists is a well-defined and measurable occupation. They are concentrated in a relatively small number of industries, which may facilitate collectability. The SOCPC recommends establishing a new code for this occupation, 29-2092.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0455
(part A) Docket No. 08-0455 requested a new detailed occupation for "Communications Managers." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category. The title "Communications Managers" is so broad it could fit into multiple SOC occupations, depending on the work performed.

(part B) Docket No. 08-0455 requested a new detailed occupation for "Case Supervisors." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 4 which states that workers in major groups 13-0000 through 29-0000 are classified with the workers they supervise.

(part C) Docket No. 08-0455 requested changing the title for 43-6011 Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants to "Administrative Assistants and Executive Secretaries." The rationale provided was that the term "Executive Secretaries" is somewhat antiquated. The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation because research indicates the term "Executive Secretaries" is still in use.

(part D) Docket No. 08-0455 requested a new detailed occupation for "Airfield Ground Crew Operations." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category. The SOCPC determined these workers are already covered in major group 53-0000 Transportation and Material Moving Occupations.

(part E) Docket No. 08-0455 requested three new detailed occupations: "Physical and Life Science Research Assistants," "QA Analysts," and "Banking Service Agents." The SOCPC did not accept these recommendations based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category and Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. Physical and Life Science Research Assistants are included in Physical and Life Science Technicians already covered in detail in the SOC. The SOCPC had insufficient information on the work performed to recommend accepting "QA Analysts" or "Banking Service Agents" as unique detailed occupations.

(part F) Docket No. 08-0455 contained comments thanking the SOCPC for accepting recommendations received regarding 13-1131 Fundraisers.

(part G) Docket No. 08-0455 requested changing the title for 43-9011 Computer Operators to "Data Processing Technicians and Computer Operators." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation based on Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. The title "Computer Operators" reflects common terminology used in the field. The term "technicians" should not be used in the title for this occupation to avoid any confusion resulting from its use elsewhere in the SOC structure.

(part H) Docket No. 08-0455 contained comments thanking the SOCPC for accepting recommendations received regarding the occupation 43-3099 Financial Clerks, All Other.

(part I) Docket No. 08-0455 requested changing the title for 13-1079 Human Resources Workers, All Other to "Human Resources Specialists, All Other." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation because it is counter to the naming conventions used across the SOC structure. As a result of this discussion, the SOCPC investigated the likely coverage for the 2010 SOC occupation 13-1079 Human Resources Workers, All Other. The SOCPC recommended changing 13-1079 from a residual occupation to a detailed occupation, to reflect its actual coverage, 13-1075 Labor Relations Specialists.

(part J) Docket No. 08-0455 requested changing the title for 43-5081 Stock Clerks and Order Fillers to "Order Fillers, Stock and Inventory Clerks." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation because the activities of stock clerks and inventory clerks are not sufficiently distinct to justify adding "inventory" to the title.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0462
Docket No. 08-0462 requested a new detailed occupation for "Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category. Oriental medicine is not uniformly defined as a field, and aspects of oriental medicine are practiced widely by healthcare providers in more than one SOC occupation.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0464
(part A) Docket No. 08-0464 requested adding "distribution center order puller" as an illustrative example for 43-5081 Stock Clerks and Order Fillers to better distinguish this occupation from 53-7062 Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand. The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation. Because distribution center order pullers do not put merchandise onto sales floors, these workers are correctly classified in 53-7062 Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand or 53-7051 Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators.

(part B) Docket No. 08-0464 requested the SOCPC provide guidance on where to classify Digitizers in the apparel embroidering manufacturing industry. The SOCPC agreed that Digitizers should be classified under 51-6099 Textile, Apparel, and Furnishings Workers, All Other and recommended adding an illustrative example, "Embroidery Digitizer." Digitizers put designs into digital form for use by embroidery machines. Tasks can be learned on-the-job and require more knowledge of textiles than of computers.

(part C) Docket No. 08-0464 requested removing the detailed occupation 53-3031 Driver/Sales Workers because it is not well-differentiated from the other driver occupations. In May 2007, the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) program reported employment of almost 400,000 jobs in the occupation. The SOCPC did not accept the recommendation to remove this occupational category from the 2010 SOC, but modified the definitions for driver occupations.

(part D) Docket No. 08-0464 requested modifying the definitions for 43-5021 Couriers and Messengers and 53-3033 Light Truck or Delivery Services Drivers to clarify how to classify drivers of delivery service vehicles other than trucks. The SOCPC recommended classifying these workers in 53-3033 Light Truck or Delivery Services Drivers and modifying the definitions to clarify the distinction. The SOCPC also recommended a revised title for 53-3033.

(part E) Docket No. 08-0464 requested modifying the definitions of 39-9021 Personal and Home Care Aides and 31-1011 Home Health Aides to clarify the distinctions between the two occupations. The SOCPC recognized some of the same problems the commenter pointed out and the new 2010 definitions will address these issues.

(part F) Docket No. 08-0464 requested modifying the definition for 49-9031 Home Appliance Repairers to include commercial appliances, such as those used in commercial bakeries or restaurants. The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category and Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. Repairers who work on such equipment could be classified in multiple occupations, depending on the work performed. These occupations include: 49-9021 Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers; 49-9041 Industrial Machinery Mechanics; and 49-9071 Maintenance and Repair Workers, General.

(part G) Docket No. 08-0464 requested the SOCPC provide guidance on classifying operators or programmers of Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) woodworking machines. The SOCPC recommended modifying the definitions for 51-7041 Sawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Wood and 51-7042 Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing, to stipulate inclusion of workers who operate CNC equipment.

(part H) Docket No. 08-0464 requested modifying the definitions or illustrative examples for 51-2041 Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters and 51-4121 Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers to better differentiate between the two occupations and clarify how to classify Welder-Fabricators. The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation to change the definitions because the SOCPC determined that the existing definitions were sufficiently distinct. Additionally, individual welder-fabricators may be classified differently based on work performed. Specifically, as stated in Coding Guideline 2, workers should be coded in the occupation that requires the highest level of skill. If there is no measurable difference in skill requirements, workers should be coded in the occupation in which they spend most of their time.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0492, 08-0762 & 08-1157
Docket Nos. 08-0492, 08-0762, and 08-1157 requested the SOCPC create a number of new "green" detailed occupations related to alternative energy or "green" technologies. The SOCPC concurred with the recommendation to add the new detailed occupations Wind Turbine Service Technicians (49-9081) and Solar Photovoltaic Installers (47-2231), based on Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed and Classification Principle 9 on collectability. Workers in both of these occupations perform tasks that are sufficiently distinct from tasks in existing SOC occupations and are concentrated in a small number of industries.

The SOCPC carefully analyzed over 80 unique suggestions regarding "green" occupations and considered these recommendations from the perspective of the classification principles of the SOC. The SOCPC frequently found that the work performed by a proposed "green" job was already covered by the description of an existing SOC occupation. For example, the work performed by Solar Photovoltaic Electricians is not sufficiently distinct from the work of 47-2111 Electricians. Therefore Solar Photovoltaic Electricians should be classified in 47-2111. The SOC system does not distinguish between workers performing similar duties in different industries. Some recommendations were not accepted based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category and Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. In these cases, the recommendation described specialized functions or tasks performed by workers in several SOC occupations, or distinguished the job from current SOC occupations based on educational background rather than tasks. This is inconsistent with the SOC, which is task-based.

In other cases, recommendations were not accepted based on Classification Principle 9 which states that for a detailed occupation to be included in the SOC, either the Bureau of Labor Statistics or the Census Bureau must be able to collect and report data on that occupation. In some instances, the quantity of workers performing "green" tasks as their primary activity is not substantial enough to support a new detailed occupation. For other recommendations, the recommended occupations were so dispersed throughout the economy that it would be difficult to reliably collect and report data.

If a job title was not accepted as a separate SOC occupation, the SOCPC then considered whether to include it in the Direct Match Title File. The SOCPC agreed to add various "green" job titles to the Direct Match Title File, including Environmental Economists, Hybrid Vehicle Mechanics, Environmental Communications Specialists, Wind Turbine Erectors, and Wind Turbine Mechanics.

In some cases, the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) Data Collection Program, supported by the Employment and Training Administration, is able to collect descriptive information, including tasks, knowledge, skills, and abilities on occupations that may not meet Classification Principle 9. These occupations are identified as O*NET breakouts within the SOC structure or O*NET New and Emerging Occupations, typically from a SOC residual occupation. The O*NET program successfully collects descriptive information on these types of occupations, including information that can be used to indicate how they differ from existing SOC occupations. Some of the "green" occupations that were recommended, or occupations with similar titles, have been identified for collection as O*NET New and Emerging Occupations.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0520
Docket No. 08-0520 requested a new detailed occupation for "Vascular Technologists" that would be broken out of 29-2031 Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians. The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed and Classification Principle 9 on collectability. Vascular Technologists are estimated to be small in number, they overlap with other occupations, and they are not uniformly defined.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0524
(part A) Docket No. 08-0524 requested a new broad group called Advance Practice Nurses that would include the proposed 2010 occupations 29-1141 Nurse Anesthetists, 29-1151 Nurse Practitioners and 29-1161 Nurse Midwives. The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. In the case of Advance Practice Nurses, they are similar in that they all have graduate nursing education, but the work performed is different.

(part B) Docket No. 08-0524 requested 3 changes related to the computer occupations proposed in the May 22, 2008, Federal Register notice.

The first recommendation was to reorganize the occupations within the proposed broad occupation 15-1120 Software and Web Developers and Computer Analysts in order to separate "Computer Analysts" and "Software and Web Developers" into two unique broad groups. The SOCPC determined Analysts and Developers are distinct enough to classify in different broad groups and therefore accepted this recommendation.

The second recommendation was to remove the proposed occupation, 15-1142 Computer Programmers, as a unique detailed occupation, subsuming the workers in this occupation into 'Software and Web Developers." While the industry may be heading in this direction, workers are still identified by this occupational title in large numbers. Therefore the SOCPC recommended retaining "Computer Programmers" in the 2010 SOC structure.

The third recommendation was to remove the proposed occupation, 15-1144 Web Technicians, from the 2010 SOC structure or use a more descriptive title. The SOCPC accepted this recommendation because although the title "web technician" is prevalent in international classification systems, including ISCO 2008, it is less common in the United States. In the final 2010 SOC, these workers are classified in one of three occupations depending on work performed. Workers who design, create, and modify Web sites are included in the 15-1134 Web Developers. Workers who install, configure, and support an organization's network, including ensuring network availability, and monitor and test Web site performance to ensure Web sites operate correctly and without interruption are included in 15-1142 Network and Computer Systems Administrators. Computer support specialists who maintain the function of computer networks by analyzing, testing, troubleshooting, and evaluating existing network systems, including performing network maintenance, are classified in the newly-created 2010 SOC occupation 15-1152 Computer Network Support Specialists.

(part C) Docket No. 08-0524 requested reinstating "Farm Labor Contractors" as a detailed occupation in the 2010 SOC in the same location as in the 2000 SOC structure. The SOCPC accepted the recommendation to reinstate the occupation, but noted that declining employment may make future data collection difficult. The SOCPC further recommended moving "Farm Labor Contractors" to the broad occupation 13-1070 Human Resources Workers based on Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. Farm Labor Contractors should not be classified as supervisors because they do not spend 80 percent or more of their time performing supervisory activities. While Farm Labor Contractors may have additional activities, their core activities relate to human resources, and therefore they should be classified in the broad occupation 13-1070 Human Resources Workers as detailed occupation 13-1074 Farm Labor Contractors.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0596
Docket No. 08-0596 requested a new detailed occupation for "Clinical Exercise Physiologists" in addition to the proposed 2010 SOC occupation 29-1128 Exercise Physiologists. The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category and Classification Principle 9 on collectability. Clinical Exercise Physiologists are not sufficiently distinguishable from Exercise Physiologists to support a separate SOC occupation.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0646
(part A) Docket No. 08-0646 requested changing the title of major group 21-0000 to "Community, Social, and Human Service Occupations." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation because the titles included in the major group do not use the term "Human Service" often enough to justify including the term in the major group title.

(part B) Docket No. 08-0646 requested adding a new detailed occupation for "Human Service Practitioners." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation based on Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. Human Services Practitioners do not perform work that can be sufficiently distinguished from work performed in other Community and Social Service occupations. (See also Docket No. 08-1155).
Response to Docket Number: 08-0679
Docket No. 08-0679 requested (1) changing the title of the broad group 29-2070 Medical Records and Health Information Technicians to "Medical Records and Health Information Management Specialists" and adding a new detailed occupation, "Medical Records and Health Information Managers" to this broad group; and (2) moving Medical Records and Health Information Managers currently classified in 11-9111 Medical and Health Services Managers to the new detailed occupation "Medical Records and Health Information Managers." The SOCPC did not accept these recommendations. Managers and specialists should not be classified in the same major group, based on Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. Medical and Health Information Managers are appropriately classified in 11-9111 Medical and Health Services Managers.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0802
Docket No. 08-0802 requested a new detailed occupation for "Informatics Nurses." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category and Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. Informatics nurses are distinguished from other records management workers based on their educational background, and the SOC classification is task-based. The 2010 SOC was designed solely for statistical purposes, and the classification will not be modified to meet the requirements of any nonstatistical uses. (See also Docket No. 08-0855).
Response to Docket Number: 08-0809
Docket No. 08-0809 requested that proposed 2010 SOC occupation 29-1128 Exercise Physiologists be moved into a new broad group called "Exercise Physiologists" within the 29-1000 minor group Health Diagnosing and Treating Practitioners. The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. Therapists in 29-1000 Health Diagnosing and Treating Practitioners are classified together in 29-1120.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0855
Docket No 08-0855 requested a new detailed occupation for "Informatics Nurses." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category and Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. Informatics nurses are distinguished from other records management workers based on their educational background, and the SOC classification is task-based. The 2010 SOC was designed solely for statistical purposes, and the classification will not be modified to meet the requirements of any nonstatistical uses. (See also Docket No. 08-0802).
Response to Docket Number: 08-0897
Docket No. 08-0897 requested modifying SOC Classification Principle 2 to read "â€¦education, training, and/or legally defensible and psychometrically sound credentials, such as those in compliance with the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) Standard for Accreditation for Certification Programs, needed to perform work at a competent level." [italics indicate the requested change] This request also recommended OMB, the SOCPC, and other Federal organizations work with the National Organization for Competency Assurance to "regularly update comprehensive information regarding credentials and credentialing organizations."

The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation. The SOC classifies occupations based on work performed, therefore unless a specific credential is required in order to work in a position (as in the case of licensed occupations), possessing a credential may enhance an individual's skills or employability but is not always a requirement for employment in the occupation. Persons employed in most occupations include both those who do not possess certain credentials, as well as those who do, with significant variation by locality and employer. No good information exists on the number or share of people in occupations who possess credentials. Further, many credentials are for specific skill sets, not for occupations, and would not be germane in any case.

As required by Classification Principle 9, the SOCPC also questioned whether agencies can reliably collect and report data such as whether individuals have or are required to have credentials. The SOCPC noted that in terms of promoting knowledge of available credentials, the U.S. Department of Labor does this in several ways, including through occupational information provided in the Occupational Outlook Handbook and through the searchable database called the Certification Finder, available through the CareerOneStop.org Web site at https://www.careeronestop.org/toolkit/training/find-certifications.aspx.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0898
Docket No. 08-0898 requested three new detailed occupations for optics-related workers: "Optical Engineers," "Optical and Electro-optical Technicians," and "Optical Scientists." The SOCPC did not accept these recommendations, based on Classification Principle 9 on collectability. The SOCPC recognized Optical Engineers as an emerging occupation, but decided it is not yet feasible for occupational employment surveys to reliably collect data on this occupation. "Optical Engineer" should remain an illustrative example for 17-2199 Engineers, All Other. The next SOC revision should re-evaluate collectability of data on new detailed occupations for Optical Engineers and Optical and Electro-optical Technicians. The SOCPC agreed that "Optical Scientists" represent a specialty within 19-2012 Physicists, but raised concerns regarding current and future collectability.

The Occupational Information Network (O*NET) Data Collection Program, supported by the Employment and Training Administration, is able to collect descriptive information on occupations that may not meet Classification Principle 9 and identifies these occupations as breakouts within the SOC structure. This occupation, or a similar title, is one that has been identified for collection as an O*NET New and Emerging Occupation. For more information on O*NET, please visit http://www.onetcenter.org/taxonomy.html.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0903
Docket No. 08-0903 requested a new detailed occupation for "Records and Information Managers." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 9 on collectability. The number of workers performing records and information management tasks as their primary activity is not substantial enough to support a new detailed occupation. These workers are so dispersed throughout the economy that it would be difficult to reliably collect and report data. The SOCPC recommended modifying the definition for 11-3011 Administrative Services Managers to clarify the inclusion of records and information management. (See also Docket No. 08-0938).
Response to Docket Number: 08-0913
Docket No. 08-0913 requested changing the title for 31-9094 Medical Transcriptionists to "Medical Language Specialists" and expanding the job duties described in the definition. The SOCPC did not accept the recommendation for the proposed title because it is not common enough to merit changing a well-established occupation title. The SOCPC recognized the commenter's concerns regarding the 2000 SOC definition and noted that the definition will be modified to update the description of job duties.
Response to Docket Number: 08-0938
Docket No. 08-0938 requested a new detailed occupation for "Records and Information Managers." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 9 on collectability. The number of workers performing records and information management tasks as their primary activity is not substantial enough to support a new detailed occupation. These workers are so dispersed throughout the economy that it would be difficult to reliably collect and report data. The SOCPC recommended modifying the definition for 11-3011 Administrative Services Managers to clarify the inclusion of records and information management. (See also Docket No. 08-0903).
Response to Docket Number: 08-0950
Docket No. 08-0950 contained comments thanking the SOCPC for accepting recommendations received regarding 31-2011 Occupational Therapy Assistants and 31-2012 Occupational Therapy Aides.
Response to Docket Number: 08-1017
Docket No. 08-1017 contained comments thanking the SOCPC for accepting recommendations received regarding "Nurse Practitioners," "Nurse Anesthetists," and "Nurse Midwives."
Response to Docket Number: 08-1021
Docket No. 08-1021 contained comments thanking the SOCPC for accepting recommendations received regarding 51-5100 Printing Workers and proposed definitions for 51-5111 Prepress Technicians and Workers, 51-5112 Printing Press Operators, and 51-5113 Print Binding and Finishing Workers. The SOCPC asked for Workgroup input and made definition changes.
Response to Docket Number: 08-1027
Docket No. 08-1027 requested removing 31-9095 Pharmacy Aides from the 2010 SOC structure. The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation. The SOCPC noted that pharmacy aides held a substantial number of jobs-about 50,000-in May 2007, according to the OES survey. The SOCPC recognized that employment levels may decline to levels that would support removing the occupation from the SOC in the future.
Response to Docket Number: 08-1041
Docket No. 08-1041 contained comments thanking the SOCPC for accepting recommendations received regarding "Audiologists."
Response to Docket Number: 08-1045
Docket No. 08-1045 requested a new detailed occupation for "Cytogenetic Technologists." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category and Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. Cytogenetic Technologists are a subset of 29-2011 Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists and the work performed by Cytogenetic Technologists is not sufficiently distinguishable from the definition for 29-2011.

The Occupational Information Network (O*NET) Data Collection Program, supported by the Employment and Training Administration, is able to collect descriptive information on occupations that may not meet Classification Principle 9 and identifies these occupations as breakouts within the SOC structure. This occupation, or a similar title, is one that has been identified for collection as an O*NET New and Emerging Occupation. For more information on O*NET, please visit http://www.onetcenter.org/taxonomy.html.
Response to Docket Number: 08-1081
(part A) Docket No. 08-1081 requested changing the title for the detailed occupation 13-1121 Meeting and Convention Planners and adding illustrative examples specific to social occasions such as reunions and weddings. The SOCPC accepted the recommendation to change the title to 13-1121 "Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners," agreeing that the new title better describes the workers in this occupation and reflects the evolution of event planning to extend beyond business meetings and conventions. Illustrative examples will be provided in the SOC manual.

(part B) Docket No. 08-1081 requested changing the title for 45-2093 Farmworkers, Farm and Ranch Animals to include aquacultural animals since the definition mentions them. The SOCPC accepted this recommendation, as it better describes the workers included in the occupation. The new title for 45-2093 is "Farmworkers, Farm, Ranch, and Aquacultural Animals."

(part C) Docket No. 08-1081 requested changing the title for 53-6031 Service Station Attendants, because the current title describes the location in which the work is performed rather than the actual work performed. The SOCPC agreed and recommended changing the title to "Automotive and Watercraft Service Attendants."

(part D) Docket No. 08-1081 requested modifying the definition for 25-1043 Forestry and Conservation Science Teachers, Postsecondary to remove the word "environmental." The SOCPC agreed and changed the word "environmental" to "forestry." Postsecondary Environmental Science Teachers are classified in 25-1053.

(part E) Docket No. 08-1081 requested modifying the definition for 25-1071 Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary to add "medical doctors" to the list of specialties. The SOCPC agreed to clarify the definition by specifying that medicine is a field in which health specialties are taught.

(part F) Docket No. 08-1081 requested adding the illustrative example, "transportation planner" to 19-3051 Urban and Regional Planners. The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation because the title may be used by workers in other occupations such as 11-3071 Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers, 53-1031 First-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material-Moving Machine and Vehicle Operators, and 53-6041 Traffic Technicians.

(part G) Docket No. 08-1081 requested modifying the definition for 13-1031 Claims Adjusters, Examiners, and Investigators to add "settling insurance claims." The SOCPC accepted this clarification to the definition.

(part H) Docket No. 08-1081 requested modifying the definition for 19-1011 Animal Scientists to include "research or investigation regarding the health and diseases of farm animals." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation because those activities are performed by Veterinary Medicine Scientists, not Animal Scientists. Veterinary Medicine Scientists are classified in 29-1131 Veterinarians. The SOCPC recommended modifying the definition for 29-1131 Veterinarians to clarify the inclusion of Veterinary Medicine Scientists.

(part I) Docket No. 08-1081 requested adding "barista" as an illustrative example for 35-3022 Counter Attendants, Cafeteria, Food Concession, and Coffee Shop. The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation. Depending on the work performed, baristas can be classified in more than one occupation, including 35-2021 Food Preparation Workers, 35-3021 Combined Food Preparation and Serving Workers, Fast Food, and 35-3022 Counter Attendants, Cafeteria, Food Concession, and Coffee Shop. The SOCPC recommended classifying workers who perform duties combining preparation and serving of non-alcoholic beverages in 35-3021 Combined Food Preparation and Serving Workers, Including Fast Food, and modifying the definition to clarify their inclusion.

(part J) Docket No. 08-1081 requested modifying the definition for 37-2012 Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners to delete restaurants from the examples of types of establishments cleaned. The SOCPC accepted this clarification to the definition.

(part K) Docket No. 08-1081 requested modifying the definition for 39-9031 Fitness Trainers and Aerobics Instructors to delete "Teach the fundamentals of sports." The SOCPC accepted this clarification to the definition.

(part L) Docket No. 08-1081 requested adding "wetlands and rangelands" to the definition for 45-4011 Forest and Conservation Workers. The SOCPC accepted this clarification to the definition.

(part M) Docket No. 08-1081 requested excluding Logging Truck Drivers from 45-4022 Logging Equipment Operators. The SOCPC accepted this recommendation, agreeing that Logging Truck Drivers should be classified under 53-3032 Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers.
Response to Docket Number: 08-1096
Docket No. 08-1096 requested two new detailed occupations: "Internal Audit Managers" and "Internal Auditors." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed and on Classification Principle 9 on collectability. The SOCPC found the work performed in the proposed occupations is not distinguishable from the work performed in other related occupations, such as 13-1111 Management Analysts.
Response to Docket Number: 08-1146
(part A) Docket No. 08-1146 requested that apprentices and trainees have unique detailed occupations rather than being classified with the occupations for which they are being trained. The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed and on Classification Principle 9 on collectability. If the work performed is the same even though the level of complexity and/or supervision differs, the occupations should be classified the same. This is true for many occupations other than those that have trainees and apprentices, such as in the construction trades and production occupations.

(part B) Docket No. 08-1146 requested reclassifying 43-4051 Customer Service Representatives within the 2010 SOC structure to major group 41-0000 Sales and Related Occupations. The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. Because the primary job duties of these workers are not sales-related, the SOCPC recommended against moving this occupation to major group 41-0000 Sales and Related Occupations.

(part C) Docket No. 08-1146 requested reclassifying 43-4151 Order Clerks within the 2010 SOC structure to major group 41-0000 Sales and Related Occupations. The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. Because the primary job duties of these workers are not sales-related, the SOCPC recommended against moving this occupation to major group 41-0000 Sales and Related Occupations.

(part D) Docket No. 08-1146 requested modifying the definition for 41-9041 Telemarketers to specify that these workers engage in outbound calling to generate sales. The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation because this task is already covered by the existing definition.
Response to Docket Number: 08-1154
Docket No. 08-1154 requested two new detailed occupations: "Automation Engineers" and "Control System Technicians." The SOCPC did not accept these recommendations, based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category. The titles "Automation Engineers" and "Control System Technicians" are so broad these workers could fit into multiple SOC occupations, depending on the work performed.
Response to Docket Number: 08-1155
(part A) Docket No. 08-1155 requested creating a new broad group, 21-1030 "Human Services Practitioners," to include 21-1011 Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors, 21-1014 Mental Health Counselors, 21-1015 Rehabilitation Counselors, 21-1091 Health Educators, and 21-1092 Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists. The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation to restructure the SOC because of the potential impact on other users. It is not clear why the 5 proposed occupations would be the only ones in this new broad group.

(part B) Docket No. 08-1155 requested changing the title of minor group 21-1000 to "Counselors, Social Workers, Community, and Human Service Specialists." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation because the titles included in the minor group do not use the term "Human Service" often enough to justify including the term in the major group title.

(part C) Docket No. 08-1155 requested adding a new detailed occupation for "Human Service Practitioners." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation based on Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. Human Services Practitioners do not perform work that can be sufficiently distinguished from work performed in other Community and Social Service occupations. (See also Docket No. 08-646).
Response to Docket Number: 08-1156
Docket No. 08-1156 requested modifying the SOC structure to accommodate combination occupations for individuals whose job duties are included in multiple SOC occupations. While the SOCPC recognized the coding challenge described, it did not accept this recommendation based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category. In the May 22, 2008, Federal Register notice, the SOCPC published proposed coding guidelines to assist users in consistently assigning SOC codes and titles to survey responses and in other coding activities. Coding Guideline 2 states "When workers in a single job could be coded in more than one occupation, they should be coded in the occupation that requires the highest level of skill. If there is no measurable difference in skill requirements, workers should be coded in the occupation in which they spend the most time."

The commenter also requested a new major group, 24-0000, for support workers in the public sector. The SOCPC did not accept this suggestion, based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category and Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. Therefore, administrative support workers such as secretaries should be classified in "Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical and Executive" (43-6014) in both the public and private sectors.
Response to Docket Number: 08-1158
Docket No. 08-1158 requested a new minor group for "Engineering Technologists" that would include 14 new detailed occupations, such as Chemical Engineering Technologists and Electromechanical Engineering Technologists. The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category and Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. The job title "engineering technologist" is used by workers who are classified in 17-2000 Engineers and by workers who are classified in 17-3000 Drafters, Engineering Technicians, and Mapping Technicians. The title is more appropriately used to identify educational background rather than occupational duties, and the duties performed by Engineering Technologists vary widely.
Multiple Dockets on "Medical Staff Services Professionals"
Multiple dockets requested a new detailed occupation for "Medical Staff Services Professionals." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation based on Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. The work performed by Medical Staff Services Professionals is not managerial in nature. Rather, the role of these workers relates more to Human Resources functions. The commenters describe specialized functions or tasks performed in the proposed occupation that are already sufficiently covered by existing human resources and compliance occupations.
Multiple Dockets on "Radiologic Technologists and Technicians"
Multiple dockets requested changing the title for 29-2034 Radiologic Technologists and Technicians to "Radiologic Technologists," eliminating "Technicians." The SOCPC accepted this recommendation, because the term "Technicians" is outdated for those who provide clinical services and is not recognized by the national certifying body.
Multiple Dockets on "Cancer Registrars"
Multiple dockets requested a new detailed occupation for "Cancer Registrars." The SOCPC did not accept these recommendations based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category. The work that Cancer Registrars perform is not sufficiently distinct from the work of 29-2071 Medical Records and Health Information Technicians.
Multiple Dockets on Metrology-Related Workers

Multiple dockets requested new detailed occupations, or modifications to existing SOC definitions, in order to improve classification of metrology-related workers. Proposed new occupations included: Calibration Engineers, Calibration Technicians, Instrument Engineers, Instrument Technicians, Metrologists, Metrologists and Calibration Engineers, Metrology Engineers, Metrology Specialists, and Quality Engineers.

The SOCPC did not accept the recommendations for new detailed occupations based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category and Classification Principle 9 on collectability. Metrology and calibration functions or tasks may be performed by workers in several occupations, such as Electrical Engineers, Industrial Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians, Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians, Electro-Mechanical Technicians, Industrial Engineering Technicians, and Mechanical Engineering Technicians. The number of workers performing metrology and calibration tasks as their primary activity is not substantial enough to support new detailed occupations.

The SOCPC reviewed and modified definitions for engineers, engineering technicians, and production workers, to clarify coverage of metrology and calibration tasks. Also, the SOCPC recommended removing "Calibrators" from the title of 51-2093 "Timing Device Assemblers and Adjusters."
Multiple Dockets on "Acupuncturists"
Multiple dockets requested a new detailed occupation for "Acupuncturists." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 9 which states that for a detailed occupation to be included in the SOC, either the Bureau of Labor Statistics or the Census Bureau must be able to collect and report data on that occupation. Based on the information received, neither agency was able to determine it would be able to collect and report data for Acupuncturists. Acupuncture is practiced widely by healthcare providers in more than one SOC occupation.

The Occupational Information Network (O*NET) Data Collection Program, supported by the Employment and Training Administration, is able to collect descriptive information on occupations that may not meet Classification Principle 9 and identifies these occupations as breakouts within the SOC structure. This occupation, or a similar title, is one that has been identified for collection as an O*NET New and Emerging Occupation. For more information on O*NET, please visit http://www.onetcenter.org/taxonomy.html.
Multiple Dockets on "Dental Hygienists"
Multiple dockets requested that Dental Hygienists be moved from the minor group 29-2000 Health Technologists and Technicians to the code 29-1025 in the minor group 29-1000 Health Diagnosing and Treating Practitioners. The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. In some States, Dental Hygienists are not required to be supervised by Dentists and can make an initial patient diagnosis without supervision, but this is not widely practiced in the United States.
Multiple Dockets on "Community Health Workers"
Multiple dockets requested that the SOCPC create a distinct occupation for Community Health Workers, removing it from 21-1091 Health Educators and Community Health Workers, because of differences in work performed, skills, and education and training. The SOCPC accepted this recommendation and created a separate occupation and a new definition for 21-1094 Community Health Workers. The SOCPC modified the title and definition for 21-1091 Health Educators and Community Health Workers to eliminate Community Health Workers.
Multiple Dockets on "Clinical Nurse Specialists"
Multiple dockets requested a new detailed occupation for "Clinical Nurse Specialists." The SOCPC did not accept this recommendation, based on Classification Principle 1 which states that occupations are assigned to only one occupational category and Classification Principle 2 which states that occupations are classified based on work performed. Clinical Nurse Specialists are distinguished from Registered Nurses based on their educational background, and the SOC classification is task-based.

The Occupational Information Network (O*NET) Data Collection Program, supported by the Employment and Training Administration, is able to collect descriptive information on occupations that may not meet Classification Principle 9 and identifies these occupations as breakouts within the SOC structure. This occupation, or a similar title, is one that has been identified for collection as an O*NET New and Emerging Occupation. For more information on O*NET, please visit http://www.onetcenter.org/taxonomy.html.

Last Modified Date: May 15, 2018