Best and Worst States for Jobs

The best...

Location is everything, according to the real estate adage. Many people learn the wisdom of these words after they move into their first apartment on a tight budget and have a view of a landfill and the smells that come from it.

The same holds true for job hunting. Your chances of finding the right job – or any job, really – depend on where you live. The unemployment rate is the ratio of job seekers to the working population. Therefore, a low percentage means few people are having any difficulty finding work.

If you’re looking for a job, you want to be in a state that has an unemployment rate lower than the national average, which is 5 percent according to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Here are the 15 best states to find work ranked by their unemployment rates.

1. South Dakota
Unemployment rate: 3 percent*
Population: 796,214**
Mean annual wage: $30,460
Top industry: Trade, transportation and utilities (19.9 percent)***

2. Idaho
Unemployment rate: 3 percent
Population: 1,499,402
Mean annual wage: $34,810
Top industry: Trade, transportation and utilities (20.2 percent)

3. Wyoming
Unemployment rate: 3.1 percent
Population: 522,830
Mean annual wage: $34,290
Top industry: Government (23 percent)

4. Nebraska
Unemployment rate: 3.2 percent
Population: 1,774,571
Mean annual wage: $34,300
Top industry: Trade, transportation and utilities (21.1 percent)

5. Utah
Unemployment rate: 3.2 percent
Population: 2,645,330
Mean annual wage: $35,540
Top industry: Trade, transportation and utilities (19.7 percent)

6. Hawaii
Unemployment rate: 3.2 percent
Population: 1,283,388
Mean annual wage: $38,630
Top industry: Government (19.6 percent)

7. North Dakota
Unemployment rate: 3.3 percent
Population: 639,715
Mean annual wage: $32,440
Top industry: Trade, transportation and utilities (21.4 percent)

8. Virginia
Unemployment rate: 3.5 percent
Population: 7,712,091
Mean annual wage: $41,450
Top industry: Government (18 percent)

9. Montana
Unemployment rate: 3.6 percent
Population: 957,861
Mean annual wage: $31,290
Top industry: Trade, transportation and utilities (20.5 percent)

10. New Hampshire
Unemployment rate: 3.6 percent
Population: 1,315,828
Mean annual wage: $39,250
Top industry: Trade, transportation and utilities (23.3 percent)

11. New Mexico
Unemployment rate: 3.7 percent
Population: 1,969,915
Mean annual wage: $33,980
Top industry: Government (23.2 percent)

12. Delaware
Unemployment rate: 3.8 percent
Population: 864,764
Mean annual wage: $41,680
Top industry: Trade, transportation and utilities (18.7 percent)

13. Maryland
Unemployment rate: 3.8 percent
Population: 5,618,344
Mean annual wage: $44,030
Top industry: Government (18.2 percent)

14. Iowa
Unemployment rate: 4 percent
Population: 2,988,046
Mean annual wage: $33,250
Top industry: Trade, transportation and utilities (20.4 percent)

15. Vermont
Unemployment rate: 4 percent
Population: 621,254
Mean annual wage: $36,350
Top industry: Trade, transportation and utilities (19.4 percent)

The worst...

If you’ve rewritten that résumé several times and sent out dozens of applications but your job search still shows no promise, you might not be the problem.

One frequently overlooked but critical factor in finding a new job is your state’s unemployment rate. You can have the experience and skills of an employer’s dream, but they won’t do you any good if there just aren’t enough jobs available.

The unemployment rate is the percentage of job seekers in the work force who are still looking for work. The higher the percentage, the more difficult it is to find a job. The national unemployment rate is 5 percent, based on the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

If you’re looking for a job, you should see how your state compares to the rest of the country. Here are the 10 worst states to find work ranked by their unemployment rates.

1. Michigan
Unemployment rate: 7.6 percent
Population: 10,071,822
Mean annual wage: $41,230
Top industry: Trade, transportation and utilities (18.4 percent)***

2. Mississippi
Unemployment rate: 6.8 percent
Population: 2,918,785
Mean annual wage: $30,460
Top industry: Government (21.2 percent)

3. South Carolina
Unemployment rate: 6.6 percent
Population: 4,407,709
Mean annual wage: $33,400
Top industry: Trade, transportation and utilities (19.4 percent)

4. Alaska
Unemployment rate: 6.5 percent
Population: 683,478
Mean annual wage: $43,920
Top industry: Government (25.9 percent)

5. California
Unemployment rate: 6.1 percent
Population: 36,553,215
Mean annual wage: $44,180
Top industry: Trade, transportation and utilities (18.9 percent)

6. District of Columbia
Unemployment rate: 6.1 percent
Population: 588,292
Mean annual wage: $61,500
Top industry: Government (33.3 percent)

7. Ohio
Unemployment rate: 6 percent
Population: 11,466,917
Mean annual wage: $37,360
Top industry: Trade, transportation and utilities (19.3 percent)

8. Arkansas
Unemployment rate: 5.9 percent
Population: 2,834,797
Mean annual wage: $30,870
Top industry: Trade, transportation and utilities (20.6 percent)

9. Nevada
Unemployment rate: 5.8 percent
Population: 2,565,382
Mean annual wage: $36,000
Top industry: Leisure and hospitality (26.5 percent)

10. Kentucky
Unemployment rate: 5.7 percent
Population: 4,241,474
Mean annual wage: $33,490
Top industry: Trade, transportation and utilities (20.4 percent)

*Unemployment rates, mean annual wages and industry percentages obtained from BLS in January 2008. Percentages based on nonfarm payrolls, seasonally adjusted.

**Population figures based on U.S. Census Bureau data.

***Top industries are those that employ the largest percentage of a state’s labor force.

Source

13 Companies Hiring In The New Year

1. Company: 7-Eleven

Who they are: A leader in convenience retailing, with approximately 7,600 7-Eleven stores in North America [and] more than 35,000 stores in 17 countries, according to Jim Wahl, the company's manager of talent acquisition systems.

Whom they are looking for: "At 7-Eleven, we believe your work should be more than a job. It should be an investment in your future and ours," Wahl says. "In 2009 we will be seeking candidates for operations, accounting, information systems, merchandising and marketing."

2. Company: Banfield

Who they are: Banfield is the largest general veterinary practice treating pets in the world, says Mike Mason, senior director of team resources. It offers a full range of comprehensive medical services and a quality assurance program.

Whom they are looking for: "Banfield seeks associates who love pets and who share in our mission of treating pets like family and increasing the value of pets in families and communities," Mason says. "Our plan for 2009 calls for replacing new positions as they become open in our main campus in Portland, Ore., and in our hospitals, as well as hiring quality associates to staff our new hospitals. To staff our hospitals, we are looking for veterinarians, pet nurses, office managers and client service coordinators."

3. Company: Farmers Insurance

Who they are: Farmers Insurance is the nation's third-largest personal lines property and casualty insurance group, according to Andy Reser, vice president of agencies. It provides homeowners, auto, business, specialty products, life insurance and financial services to more than 10 million households.

Whom they are looking for: "We offer the opportunity to build your own business. You'll have the latitude to set your own professional goals and income potential," says Luisa Acosta-Franco, assistant vice president of diversity and emerging markets. "Farmers has a strong commitment to diverse markets; therefore the need for qualified bilingual individuals is an important component of the overall strategy to attract and retain the right people for opportunities with us."

4. Company: Gentiva Health Services

Who they are: Gentiva offers a range of highly skilled in-home care services, including nursing, therapy, infusion, pharmacy, respiratory, orthopedics, cardiopulmonary, senior health, neurorehabilitation and hospice, says Angela McClure, assistant vice president of recruitment and staffing.

Whom they are looking for: "We have career opportunities for dedicated, compassionate nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists and other clinicians; as well as sales, management and administrative support professionals," McClure says. "At Gentiva, our clinicians have a lot of flexibility and autonomy, so they must demonstrate a high level of clinical excellence and customer service."

5. Company: HealthMarkets

Who they are: A nationwide individual health insurance provider that aims to simplify the health insurance experience for its members and enhance the career experience for its agents, says Andrew Fortunato, senior vice president of recruiting strategy.

Whom they are looking for: "Our focus is on individuals with the desire and drive to be part of a team dedicated to delivering highly personalized health protection solutions to self-employed individuals and their families across America," Fortunato says. "Our agents are the main point of contact with [people who must purchase health insurance on their own]."

6. Company: ITT Corp., Advanced Engineering & Sciences division

Who they are: A division of ITT's Defense Electronics & Services group that provides leading-edge product development, technology, engineering, research and project management services to government, industrial and commercial customers, says Steve Kotecki, recruiting manager.

Whom they are looking for: "At ITT, we are looking for talented people to develop and implement innovative solutions to complex problems. We are looking for candidates with long-term vision who enjoy working in a strong team environment," Kotecki says. "We will be looking to fill a wide spectrum of positions in 2009, which are both demanding and rewarding. Our primary focus will be on candidates with a strong engineering background or those with prior military experience."

7. Company: M.A.R.S. International

Who they are: A franchise that offers mobile cosmetic repair and reconditioning services to industries including hotels, motorcycles, boats, automobiles, RVs and more. It specializes in the repair of the wear and tear that damages the look and functionality of items people use daily, says Allan Kelsey, president.
Whom they are looking for: "[We] have positions open for technicians to execute these kinds of repairs and for managers to oversee the technicians," Kelsey says. "These technicians will have some aptitude for working with their hands, enjoy working outdoors and managing their own time. They will be self-starters that are motivated, friendly and determined."

8. Company: PricewaterhouseCoopers

Who they are: An organization that provides industry-focused assurance, tax and advisory services to build public trust and enhance value for its clients and their stakeholders, according to the company Web site.

Whom they are looking for: "PwC looks for people with diverse experiences and backgrounds. Strong technical skills that are required to perform a particular role are important, but we want people who work well with others in a team environment," says Rod Adams, recruiting leader. "We're currently looking to fill roles across our organization. We have needs in each line of service -- audit, tax and advisory -- as well as our internal firm services organization, such as marketing, sales, HR and IT."

9. Company: ServiceMaster

Who they are: A company that provides such services as lawn care and landscape maintenance, termite and pest control, home warranties, cleaning and disaster restoration, house cleaning, furniture repair and home inspection, Hough says. Its brands include TruGreen, TruGreen LandCare, Terminix, American Home Shield, ServiceMaster Clean, Merry Maids, Furniture Medic and AmeriSpec.

Whom they are looking for: "We are a service-based organization that strives to earn our customers' business, build trust and exceed our customers' expectations," Hough says. "In addition, we are a relationship-based firm that prides itself on employing hard-working, ethical employees that our customers can trust to invite into their homes and enrich their lives."

10. Company: State Farm

Who they are: A provider of insurance and financial services products that insure more cars and homes than any other insurer in the U.S., says Rich Garcia, director of enterprise recruiting and retention. It has 68,000 employees and 17,000 agents who service more than 78 million insurance policies and 1.9 million bank accounts.

Whom they are looking for: "In 2009, we will continue to look for a wide range of candidates with various experiences to fill internships and opportunities ranging from entry level to management," Garcia says. "Frequently posted positions include opportunities in claims, underwriting and systems/IT. We are also always looking for that next State Farm agent."

11. Company: Sutter Health

Who they are: A family of doctors, not-for-profit hospitals and other health-care service providers that share resources and expertise to advance health-care quality and access, says Mike Helm, senior vice president of human resources.

Whom they are looking for: "Health care is about people and at Sutter Health, our commitment is to put the patient at the center of everything we do. Our aging population and Sutter Health's continued investment in technology are two important forces that are fueling our need for skilled employees," Helm says. "[We] seek to hire individuals who embrace our values. From providing care at the bedside to implementing lifesaving technology and administrative professionals, there are a variety of positions available throughout our Sutter Health network."

12. Company: The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company/Scotts LawnService

Who they are: Scotts LawnService is a division of The Scotts Co., a supplier and marketer of consumer products for do-it-yourself lawn and garden care, says Peter Korda, senior vice president. It was founded in 1997 to provide products and services for customers who desire someone else to take care of their lawns for them.

Whom they are looking for: "We are looking for people to join our team and help us deliver the very best in professional lawn care. Joining our team allows you to grow green, healthy and lush lawns, trees and shrubs, and provide the service and support customers have come to expect from a premium brand such as Scotts," Korda says. "You will have an opportunity to grow your career; we'll provide you with the knowledge and opportunities you need to succeed. ["We're hiring for territory service representatives, sales representatives and customer service representatives."]

13. Company: URS Corp.

Who they are: A provider of engineering, construction and technical services for public agencies and private-sector companies around the world, says Marian Hyder, vice president of staffing for the EG&G division. URS provides services for power, infrastructure, industrial and commercial, and federal projects and programs.

Whom they are looking for: "We seek high-quality talent in key areas of focus for our business and offer exciting domestic and global assignments for employees at every career point," Hyder says. "In 2009, we will be looking for talent in key areas such as engineering, construction management, program management, power, environmental, health and safety, homeland security, logistics, operations and maintenance and more. Positions are available at all experience levels -- from new graduates to seasoned professionals."

Source

Healthcare Job: Medical Director (Greenwood Village, CO)

Pay Opportunity: $180,630.00 - $214,600.00

ABOUT OUR COMPANY
We are a company built on excellence. We have a culture that values growth, achievement and diversity and a workplace where your voice can be heard.

JOB GROUP SUMMARY
The dedication of talented and caring health care professionals drives the delivery of high quality, cost effective products and services. They make it possible for members to get the right health care treatment for their needs and for Aetna to keep its competitive edge.

EDUCATION
The highest level of education desired for candidates in this position is a MD.

REQUIRED SKILLS
- Collaborating for Results
- Delivering Profit and Performance
- Engaging and Developing People
- Knowing Products and Services
- Supporting Medical Practice
- Introduce Aetna products and services in ways that minimize hassle factor for providers and their staff

POSITION SUMMARY
The Medical Director (MD) is responsible for providing clinical expertise and business direction in support of medical management programs to promote the delivery of high quality, constituent responsive and cost effective medical care. The MD is a critical medical and business leader and contact for external providers, plan sponsors, and regulatory agencies and participates in the strategic medical management of local markets.

Click here to apply

IT Job: Database Developer and Administrator (New York - New York)

A top ten Web property and one of the Internets leading content destinations, is looking for a talented database administrator with programming skills to add to its About Operations team. An About Associate DBA builds, maintains, and operates reliable data-stores and programs in a mixed OS but UNIX-centric development environment in order to maintain the integrity of the About.network.

The ideal candidate will be familiar with web based technologies and understand the business ramifications of accurate, reliable, and easy to access and update data. This position calls for a sharp, motivated, and meticulous team player that believes both in Agile Software Development and leveraging Open Source Solutions.

Responsibilities

• Ensure for the continued accuracy, reliability, and integrity of About.com's data systems
• Work with other team members to define and implement needed new development
• Maintain and develop tools to support the smooth operation of the About Network
• Continue to proactively improve and enhance About.com's data systems
• Support the end-users of About.com's data-stores

Requirements

• Familiar with the following technologies: Web Serving, Apache, HTML, Cookies, XML, shell scripting
• Good PHP programming skills
• Strong UNIX user skills (some UNIX admin or developer skills a plus)
• Able to read and write C/C++ or Java AND the ability to quickly pick up the other
• Able to read and write Perl and modify existing code
• Good SQL skills and relational database knowledge in either Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, and/or MySQL
• Strong communication and teaming skills in multiple mediums (email, aim, face-to-face)
• Strong problem solving abilities
• Able to calmly handle production issues

To apply go to: DBA

Industries with hiring potential in today's economy

Monday December 8, 10:47 am ET
By Jessica Dickler, CNNMoney.com staff writer

The economy continues to recede, leaving massive job losses in its wake. But while layoffs are widespread, they are not across the board. Some industries are thriving -- and hiring.

On Friday the Labor Department reported that 533,000 jobs were lost in November, which puts the year-to-date layoff total at a whopping 1.9 million. And with the unemployment rate now at 6.7%, job seekers face the worst job market in 15 years.


But it's not all doom and gloom: A range of industries are posting gains in employment figures. Here's a look at them:

Education.

With more people out of work and considering new careers, interest in degree programs, certifications and additional training has never been greater.

"Obviously some people will be out of work and see that as a chance to get additional education," said Dean Baker, director of the Center for Economic and Policy Research in Washington, DC, which will provide support - and jobs - to those in the field.

The education industry already added 9,800 jobs in November, the Labor Department said in its monthly report issued last week, and "there's still a wide range of opportunities available," according to Janette Marx, senior vice president of Ajilon Global, professional staffing firm. "It runs the gamut in the education field" beyond teachers and professors, she added.

In addition to greater demand for educators, also lending support to the sector is government financing, according to Baker. "Education will be an area that governments will try to protect because there's a lot of political support," he said.

Health services.

With an aging population and greater demand for care, health services is also adding jobs in a down market.

"The healthcare industry continues to be the healthiest sector in the U.S. job market," said Diana Fitting, vice president for staffing company Adecco. "The Baby Boomer generation is aging and it's helping to keep healthcare growing."

Even in the midst of the economic fallout, healthcare employment grew by 34,000 jobs in November. Over the past 12 months, healthcare has added 369,000 jobs, according to the Labor Department.

"Throughout 2008 the industry has continued to add thousands of new jobs each month despite the broader labor market turmoil -- and this is one trend we don't see ending any time soon," Fitting said.

At the Columbia University School of Nursing's Entry to Practice Program, applications are up 50% from last year. Mary Mundinger, dean of the school, credits the sharp uptick to the promise of relatively lucrative job opportunities and flexible schedules in an otherwise dour job market.

Options also abound at pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms and medical-equipment companies, said John Challenger, chief executive of global outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas.

In fact, healthcare products and pharmaceuticals were two of only nine industries that announced hiring plans in November, according to Challenger's latest job cut report.

Accounting.

It's no surprise that accounting is gaining momentum as well. "This is our busiest time in terms of recruiting because we're gearing up for tax season," said Saran Johnson, human resources manager at Marcum & Kliegman, a New York-based accounting and consulting firm.

Johnson said overall "hiring has remained steady, while other businesses are cutting back or letting go," making accounting even more attractive to job seekers.

Especially in a recession, "accounting is a great field," Challenger said. "Companies are trying to cut costs and not over spend, that puts more importance on good financial controls which requires accountants."

In addition, with financial firms under intense scrutiny and regulation in high demand, there will likely be an increase in auditing firms going forward, added Lee Pinkonitz, associate professor at Georgetown University McDonough School of Business.

"There is always a need for mission-critical roles like accounting," added Kimberly Bishop, vice chairman of Chicago-based executive search firm Slayton Search Partners.

Source

Top Careers to Pursue and Refrain From During a Recession

During a recession, disposable income tends to dissipate. For some people, purchasing the bare necessities can be difficult. So before you decide which career path to take, look over the following lists below.

Careers to Pursue

Health Care $50,000 +
People will always get sick creating a constant demand for Health Care. Depressions rates are often at a high creating an additional need. Examples include: Doctors, Nurses, Pediatricians, Specialists, and Therapists.

Transportation $30,000 +
Unable to afford the extreme gas prices, people opt for taking the city bus or subway. Examples include: City Bus Driver and Subway Driver.

Beauty $30,000 +
Presentation has always been and will continue to be important to an individual and required by their boss. Examples include: Hairdressers and Barbers.

Education $30,000 +
People don't pull their children out of school just because of a recession and often times, adults go back to school in hopes of pursuing a more promising a different career path. Examples include: Elementary School Teachers, Teacher's Aides, College Professors, Principals, Deans and Custodians.

International Business $60,000 +
When business isn't being done here it is being done overseas. This career will not only survive but thrive during tough times.

Bankruptcy Law $75,000 +
Unfortunately, many Americans simply can't survive when a cut-back or lay-off occurs. Bankruptcy numbers increase dramatically during a recession.

Debt Management $50,000 +
In a desperate attempt to avoid bankruptcy, debt management offices become flooded.

Grocery $30,000 +
People stop eating out and start eating in, and people need food to survive. Examples include: Butchers, Managers, Cashiers and Baggers.

Internet $25,000 +
Why go to the store when you can shop at home for less? Further, people have a lot more free time on their hands and as statistics show, a majority of that free time is spent online.

Research & Development $75,000 +
Businesses will always invest money into finding better, faster, more cost-effective ways of producing a product and providing a service, especially when business isn't that great.

Casinos $50,000 +
Regardless of how tough the times are, gambling remains an addiction. In many cases, people gamble in hopes of striking it rich during a tough time. Examples include: Owners, Hostesses, Bartenders and Security.

Pharmaceuticals $75,000 +
Doctors will continue to write prescriptions and people will continue to take them. Anti-depressants are of the top prescribed during a recession. Examples include: Pharmacists and Drug Company Representatives.

Liquor Sales $50,000 +
For many Americans, when the times are tough they turn to alcohol in hopes of drinking away their problems. Examples include: Counter-Sales and Bartenders.

Auditor $50,000 +
When you can't find any other way to save money, you do it around tax time which is why auditors are always in demand, especially during tough times.

Public Safety $50,000 +
When the times are tough, people get tough too. Crime rates experience a slight increase, creating a demand for Police Officers and Fire Fighters.

Careers to Avoid

Sales $50,000 +
While a career in sales may pay well, they only pay well when things are being sold. When money starts to get tight people refrain from spending any money they don't have to.

Real Estate $50,000 +
Most Americans can't afford to live never mind shop around for a house. Regardless of how low financing rates go, you can't take advantage of them with destroyed credit!

Mortgages $50,000 +
If people aren't buying houses they don't need to apply for a mortgage.

Retail $30,000 +
These jobs are most readily available because people are being forced to leave the industry. Most retail jobs support sales made from disposable income. Examples include: Clothing Stores Cashiers Electronic Store and Department Store Cashiers.

Automobile Sales $30,000 +
Most Americans are refraining from driving, never mind purchasing a new car. Carpooling and city transportation become a more practical alternative for most individuals.

Construction $50,000 +
People are downsizing not upsizing, and going for old not new. Whether its housing or additions, not much is being built during a recession.

Marketing $50,000 +
While it may be the most needed, the Marketing departments are usually the first to go when companies attempt to cut-costs.

Travel $30,000 +
Traveling to work is enough of a problem, never mind hopping on a plane or planning a cruise. Even if someone wanted too, taking time off from work could cost them their job. Examples include: Flight Attendant, Hostess, Travel Agent or Cruise Ship Worker.

Source

Six Jobs That Pay Over $100,000

Think you either have to be a celebrity or endure years of medical or law school to pull down six figures? Think again. These top careers approach and exceed six figure salaries, and they're easy to train for online.

Career Training for $100,000+ Salaries

Check out some of these six-figure jobs for the rest of us, most with online career training opportunities. Salary statistics provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Career Spotlight: Medical and Health Services Managers

The complex organization of a doctor's office is no challenge to trained medical and health services managers, who use their targeted health care administration knowledge to navigate patient records, equipment outlays, and medical research databases.

* Recommended Training: While a master's degree is standard credential for health care managers, smaller facilities may hire graduates with bachelor's degrees. Health care administration, office management, and health care management are all popular degrees.
* Earn Six Figures: While mean annual wages for the career were $84,980 in 2007, medical and health services managers working in the state of Washington earned $111,720. Those working for scientific research and development services earned $117,070 nationwide.

Career Spotlight: Actuaries

Mathematics, statistics, and business combine in this career, which has trained professionals working with insurance companies and private business to determine and minimize the cost of risk. Top actuaries are trusted to explain their complex formulations to business executives.

* Recommended Training: A strong background in both mathematics and general business is desirable for top actuaries. Some may hold degrees in finance, economics, or business. Regardless, a bachelor's degree is recommended.
* Earn Six Figures: Mean annual wages for actuaries nationwide were $95,420 in 2007. Those working as consultants earned $107,080. New Jersey was a top-paying state, with earnings of $100,590.

Career Spotlight: Computer Applications Software Engineers

One of the fastest-growing careers in the nation is also one of the most lucrative. Computer applications software engineers create the applications used every day in business and personal computing. With over 226,000 careers expected to enter the field through 2016, demand for these IT pros is expected to be high.

* Recommended Training: A bachelor's degree in computer science or software engineering is suggested by hiring managers in the field. Additional certification programs may be necessary to keep skills current.
* Earn Six Figures: While mean annual earnings across the nation were $85,660 in 2007, computer applications software engineers working in computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing earned $101,100.

Career Spotlight: Personal Financial Advisors

Personal financial advisors work on a one-on-one basis with their clients, recommending investments and products for wealth management. In another career expected to see a lot of growth, about 72,000 jobs for personal financial advisors are projected to enter the field through 2016. About a third are self-employed, often working from home.

* Recommended Training: Bachelor's degrees in finance, business administration, accounting, statistics, or economics are recommended for personal financial advisors. Those looking to make six figures in their work may be encouraged to earn an MBA.
* Earn Six Figures: Mean annual wages across the occupation were $89,220 in 2007. Personal financial advisors working in New York earned $131,660, and those working nationwide in financial investment earned $101,890.

Career Spotlight: Sales Managers

Acting as both masters of human psychology and logistical gurus, sales managers use their infectious charm and top-notch people skills to close the deal. Top-level managers may interact with high-profile clients while they organize a team of lower-level sales representatives. This fast-paced job may require high levels of travel.

* Recommended Training: A bachelor's or master's degree in business administration with an emphasis on marketing is recommended by hiring managers in the field. Sales managers should be confidant with the technology of their profession, including presentation software like PowerPoint.
* Earn Six Figures: Mean annual wages for sales managers nationwide were $106,790 in 2007. Those working for automobile dealers earned $114,650, while top earners in the financial investment industry earned $151,070.

Your mileage may vary, but training for six figure careers like the ones above can be the smartest way to get your foot in the door. Hiring managers look for the best, and a degree program can prove your worth among even the toughest competition.

Source

VIDEO: Solid Career Jobs in IT Network Security

IT Jobs: New Job Openings!!! (Virginia, College Park)

Here are some immediate openings available right now. If you or you know someone interested, please submit or have them submit their resume to kramer.keller@rht.com:

All levels of C# .Net and Java developers open to work in McLean, VA

PHP Developers at the junior level for locations in both Springfield and College Park

Mid-Level to Sr. System Admins for NoVa (McLean and Arlington)

Mid-Sr. UI Developers for Reston, VA

Junior SQL DBA’s for Arlington, VA

Are you rich? Here's how to tell

If your household income is $250,000, other people might consider you rich, even if it feels as if you're just getting by.

The big debate over tax cuts -- and who, exactly, constitutes the middle class that should get most of them -- usually focuses on a single income number.

Barack Obama wants to target his tax cuts at people making $200,000 or less and his tax increases at those pulling in $250,000 or more. Sen. John McCain had a more expansive view of the middle class during the presidential campaign. When asked what the income threshold for "rich" people should be, he took a stab and suggested $5 million.

Whatever the number, focusing on income alone overlooks many factors that affect whether people feel rich. Where you live is obviously one of them, since $250,000 buys a lot more in Milwaukee than it does in Manhattan. And, as any parent knows, household income tends to evaporate when the bills for diapers, day care, braces and college come due.

So we crunched some numbers to figure out what it takes to be rich in 40 cities across America -- for a typical couple with no kids and for a family of four. We started with Census Bureau data for household incomes in 2007 and ran two sets of numbers, since people define "rich" differently: average incomes for the top 20% of earners in each city and for the top 5% (see the complete list here).

If you take the more rarefied view of the rich -- the top 5% of earners -- then nationwide, their average household income is about $311,000. But that average covers everybody from widows living alone to families with three kids in college.

The average U.S. household is home to 2.54 people, so factoring in the actual size of your household produces a more realistic estimate of how much income it takes to live like the wealthiest 5% of Americans. For a family of four, nationwide, that's $490,000.

By the same measure, here's the household income required to be "rich" in the five most and least expensive cities in our sample:

Couple without kids	Family of 4
New York	$359,494	$718,989
San Francisco	$359,061	$718,123
San Jose, Calif.	$354,513	$709,025
Washington, D.C.	$347,917	$695,833
Boston	$316,613	$633,227
Colorado Springs, Colo.	$207,472	$414,943
Omaha	$207,019	$414,038
Fresno, Calif.	$205,349	$410,698
Albuquerque, N.M.	$193,483	$386,965
El Paso, Texas	$175,161	$350,321
U.S. average	$245,218	$490,436

Some other revelations about how widely incomes range across America:

• There's no single cutoff point that defines "rich." As our estimates show, the household income for a rich family varies greatly, from $350,000 in El Paso, Texas, to more than twice as much in New York. If we included smaller towns where many Americans live, the disparity would likely be even greater.

• Wealth isn't so transferable. If a rich family from Omaha, Neb., or Colorado Springs, Colo., moved to San Francisco, they'd need about $300,000 in added household income to maintain the same lifestyle. By the same measure, a family moving the opposite direction would feel even richer, as long as the transfer didn't include a pay cut.

• "Rich" people live on the coasts. By Obama's definition of rich, the top 20% of households in San Jose, Calif., San Francisco and Washington, D.C., would be targeted for higher taxes. But in 32 other cities with a lower cost of living, households in the same upper quintile would qualify for tax breaks, because they earn less than $200,000, Obama's cutoff point. In six remaining cities, average incomes for the top 20% are between $200,000 and $250,000; these households, Obama says, would see neither a tax cut nor a tax increase.

• It's easier to be rich without kids. Parents know this, needless to say, but families tend to have fewer earners contributing to household income, compared with childless couples -- and more mouths to feed. By our estimates, a family of four has to earn about $180,000 more than the average household of 2.54 people in order to feel rich. That makes it even more important to find wealth in those little faces gathered around the table.

This article was reported and written by Rick Newman for U.S. News & World Report.

Source

IT Job: Mid Level Web Developer and Junior Web Developer (Contract to Hire)

Mid Level Web Developer and Junior Web Developer (6 months Contract to Hire Op)

Our client is in need of additional personnel to work with a highly skilled and knowledgeable development team to develop C#.NET web applications. The work will involve front end, middle tied and backend SQL programming. The developer(s) will be working closely to develop new, and maintain existing code under the lead of experience senior developers, who are experts in object-oriented techniques and advanced database functionality. This is an excellent opportunity to be in on the ground floor of an expanding development team.

Education & Experience of Mid-Level Developer:
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Mathematics, Operations Research, Statistics, Engineering, or a related field from an accredited college plus four (4) recent years of experience performing related functions or a High School diploma and eight recent (8) years of experience performing the related functions. At least two (2) years of the experience must have been in programming.

Skills:
Individual must be proficient with C# and .NET 2.0 technologies, SQL Server 2000 and later & Stored Procedures – ASP.NET - .NET Windows Forms - XML, HTML

Job Description:
Applies knowledge of computer science principles, information management principles, data processing functions, ADP hardware and software systems structures and operations, and computer programming languages and techniques to solve automation problems. Uses standard or conventional approaches to define, plan, organize, design, develop, modify, test and integrate database systems. Assists in architectural design, functional specification, interfaces and documentation of software systems.

6 month, contract to hire, Salary $85K+, good benefits: $220/month stipend to travel into the city, 25 vacation days, 401k match. Green card or Citizen.

If you or anyone you know would be interested in the role(s) below, please email your resume and contact information to kramer.keller@rht.com for immediate consideration.

IT Jobs: Senior Architect, Alexandria, 85-100k

Senior Architect, Alexandria, 85-100k

Job Description:

The candidate will manage a team of software engineers to architect, design enterprise software products/operating systems. Writes product requirement
documents, implements and tracks development timelines, negotiates feature sets with the development leads and customers. Candidate must show knowledge of web application infrastructure, customer relationship management, data warehousing, and business intelligence. Relies on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. This position is a 70/30 split on management/design development. This position reports directly to the CIO.

Scope and Skills:

• Creates and executes project work plans and revises as appropriate to meet changing needs and requirements.

• Identifies resources needed and assigns individual responsibilities.

• Manages day-to-day operational aspects of a project and scope.

• Reviews deliverables prepared by team before passing to client.

• Effectively applies our methodology and enforces project standards.

• Prepares for engagement reviews and quality assurance procedures.

• Minimizes our exposure and risk on project.

• Ensures project documents are complete, current, and stored appropriately.

• Holds regular status meetings with project team.

• Keeps project team well informed of changes within the organization and general corporate news.

• Effectively communicates relevant project information to superiors.

• Delivers engaging, informative, well-organized presentations.

• Facilitates team and client meetings effectively.

• Resolves and/or escalates issues in a timely fashion.

• Understands how to communicate difficult/sensitive information tactfully.

• Possesses strong understanding in the areas of application programming, database and system design.

• Understands Internet, Intranet, Extranet and client/server architectures.

• Possesses a thorough understanding of our capabilities.

• Maintains awareness of new and emerging technologies and the potential application on client engagements.

• Challenges others to develop as leaders while serving as a role model and mentor.

• Inspires coworkers to attain goals and pursue excellence.

• Identifies opportunities for improvement and makes constructive suggestions for change.

• Effectively utilizes each team member to his/her fullest potential.

• Motivates team to work together in the most efficient manner.

• Keeps track of lessons learned and shares those lessons with team members.

• Mitigates team conflict and communication problems.

• Conducts effective performance evaluations and mentors those with less

experience through formal channels.

• Encourages more junior developers to take responsibility for their development within the company.

• Challenges fellow developers to progress toward their professional development goals.

• Suggests areas for improvement in internal processes along with possible solutions.

• Approves team members' leave and makes salary suggestions reports in a conscientious and timely manner.

• Reviews the status reports of team members and addresses issues as

appropriate.

• Complies with and helps to enforce standard policies and procedures.

Requirements:

Bachelor’s Degree in a related area

5 Years Software Programming/Development

2 Years Project Management

Background in Object Oriented Programming

Firm Understanding of Technologies: .Net Framework v2.0+, VB.Net, C#, ASP.Net, ADO.Net, XML, Oracle 9+, SQL Server 2005

Compensation & Benefits:

- 80-110k

- 401k

- Pay 100% Premiums on Health Care for Self-Only

If you or anyone you know would be interested in the role below, please email your resume and contact information to kramer.keller@rht.com for immediate consideration.