Technicians and associate professionals

Associate professionals perform mostly technical and related tasks connected with research and the application of scientific or artistic concepts and methods, and government or business regulations. Most jobs require knowledge and skills usually obtained as the result of study at a higher educational institution, following completion of secondary education for a period of one to three years. In some cases, extensive relevant work experience and prolonged on-the-job training may substitute for formal education.

Tasks performed by technicians and associate professionals usually include undertaking and carrying out technical work connected with research and the application of concepts and methods in the physical sciences (including engineering and technology and life sciences, which includes the medical profession), and in the social sciences and humanities. It also includes initiating and carrying out various technical services related to trade, finance, administration, and social work, as well as providing technical support to the arts, entertainment and sport. The types of job classified under this heading include: building inspectors, engineering technicians, medical laboratory technicians, aircraft pilots and flight engineers, buyers, office supervisors, photographers, etc.