Contra Costa County offiCe of eduCation
Career Technical Education (CTE)/ROP
Career Guide
for High School Students
Visit our website at www.cocoschools.org/rop
2 CTE/ROP
Contra Costa County Ofce of Education
Karen Sakata
Contra Costa County
Superintendent of Schools
Pamela Comfort, Ed.D.
Deputy Superintendent
Educational Services
Janet Haun
Director, Student Programs
Contra Costa County Board of Education
Jeff Belle
Christine W. Deane
Daniel A. Gomes
Mike Maxwell
Pamela M. Mirabella
A special thank you to Chevron, our partner in career
guidance activities.
Contra Costa County Ofce of Education 3
Table of Contents
Monthly Expenses ...........................................................................4
Budget Worksheet ...........................................................................5
Career Information Websites ............................................................6
Training Opportunities ......................................................................7
CTE/ROP Career Training Courses .................................................8
Job Resources................................................................................14
Job Application ..............................................................................15
Cover Letter ....................................................................................16
Résumé ..........................................................................................17
Sample Functional Résumé ...........................................................18
Sample Chronological Résumé ......................................................19
Sample Scannable Résumé ...........................................................20
Job Interview - Do’s & Don’ts. ........................................................21
Sample Interview Questions ...........................................................23
Sample Interview Questions/Legal & Illegal ...................................24
Thank You Letter ...........................................................................25
Self-Describing and Action Words ..................................................26
Working Youth ................................................................................28
CTE/ROP Information .....................................................................30
USING THE
CAREER GUIDE
The purpose of this
book is to assist you
with career planning.
It presents different
career opportunities
that are available to
you, important tips,
various samples, and
contact information.
Table of Contents
4 CTE/ROP
Monthly Expenses
Monthly Expenses
As you are considering your career plans, you’ll want to
keep in mind the cost of living in Contra Costa County. The
chart below gives the average cost of basic expenses. Your
expenses may vary depending on where you wish to live and
your lifestyle preferences. Do you want a large apartment,
or will a studio do? Will you have roommates to share
expenses? Do you like to eat out or cook your own meals?
Do you spend a lot on entertainment or prefer watching TV
at home? The costs listed are guidelines. Actual expenses
might be more, depending on your lifestyle.
Rent (one bedroom apartment) In excess of $ 1,000
Utilities $200
Food $400
Transportation $550
Health Care Insurance $300
Clothing/Personal $250
Total $2,700
How much will you need to earn to meet your monthly living
expenses? Remember that approximately 30% of your
earnings may be deducted from your paycheck for federal
and state taxes. If you make $2,000 per month, $600 might
be deducted for taxes, leaving you with $1,400. When first
starting out, many people share an apartment or house with
friends to help out with expenses.
Now it’s your turn. Using the worksheet, fill in the amount
needed for each item. For accurate figures, check rents
in the classified ads or online and talk with your parents
or friends who are already living on their own. You may
see areas where you can cut costs, but be as realistic as
possible.
(Check out www.CaliforniaRealityCheck.com)
Contra Costa County Ofce of Education 5
Budget Worksheet
Rent
Utilities
Gas & Electric _____________
Water _____________
Phone/Cell phone _____________
Cable/Satellite TV _____________
Internet _____________
Food
Groceries _____________
Pizza/Snacks/etc. _____________
Restaurants _____________
Health
Insurance _____________
Doctor’s Visit _____________
Dentist _____________
Gym _____________
Personal
Miscellaneous _____________
Grooming _____________
Entertainment and Fun
Movies _____________
Concerts _____________
Hanging Out _____________
Adventure/Vacation _____________
Miscellaneous
Pets _____________
Maintenance _____________
Student Loan _____________
Savings _____________
Transportation
Car Payment _____________
Car Maintenance _____________
Gas _____________
Insurance _____________
Bus/BART _____________
Clothes
Work Clothes _____________
Fun Clothes _____________
Laundry _____________
TOTAL: _____________
6 CTE/ROP
Navigating the Course
Career Information Websites
Many schools offer career-guidance tools. These tools can
assist you in finding out how your interests and skills fit with
careers and college.
Use the Internet
Do not provide information that identifies you unless you
know who is using this information. Do not pay for services.
Your interests and skills Career tests
www.californiacolleges.edu www.LiveCareer.com
www.onetcenter.org www.cacareerzone.org
www.careercafe.com
Job characteristics Labor market information
www.jobstar.org
www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov
www.onetcenter.org www.onetcenter.org
www.californiacareers.info www.careercafe.com
www.contracostacareers.org www.whodouwant2b.com
Contra Costa County Ofce of Education 7
Training Opportunities
Other Colleges and
Universities
John F. Kennedy University
www.jfku.edu
1-800-696-5358
Saint Mary’s College
www.stmarys-ca.edu
925-631-4000
California State University
www.calstate.edu
University of California
www.universityofcalifornia.edu
Military
Careers in the Military
www.careersinthemilitary.com
Volunteering
Volunteer Center of Contra Costa
County
www.helpnow.org
Training Programs
California Conservation Corps
www.ccc.ca.gov
U.S. Job Corps
www.jobcorps.doleta.gov
CTE/ROP
Contra Costa County Office of
Education
www.cocoschools.org/rop
Apprenticeships
Dept. of Industrial Relations
www.dir.ca.gov/DAS
California Apprenticeship
Coordinators Association
www.calapprenticeship.org
Adult Schools
Acalanes Adult
www.acalanes.k12.ca.us/adulted
925-280-3980 ext 8001
Antioch Adult
www.aaep-antioch-ca.schoolloop.
com
925-706-5310
Martinez Adult
www.martinez.k12.ca.us/schools/
mae
925-228-3276
Mt. Diablo Adult
www.mdae-mdusd-ca.schoolloop.
com
925-685-7340
Pittsburg Adult
www.pittsburg.k12.ca.us/paec
925-473-4460
San Ramon Adult Education
www.venture.srvusd.k12.ca.us
925-470-1200
West Contra Costa Adult Education
www.wccae.info
510-215-4666 or 510-559-2660
Contra Costa Community
Colleges
Contra Costa College
www.contracosta.edu
510-235-7800
Diablo Valley College
www.dvc.edu
925-685-1230
Los Medanos College
www.losmedanos.edu
925-439-2181
8 CTE/ROP
CTE/ROP Career Training Courses
CTE/ROP Training Courses
Agriculture
Environmental Science /
AP Environmental Science
Career readiness for:
• Environmental Engineer
• Environmental Scientist
• Environmental Engineer
Technician
Veterinary Science
Career readiness for:
• Veterinarian • Veterinary Assistant
• Veterinary Technician
Arts, Media, and Entertainment
Art & Animation
Career readiness for:
• Animator • Graphic Designer
• Illustrator • Multimedia Artist
Commercial Art
Career readiness for:
• Commercial Designer
• Craft Artist • Fine Artist
• Graphic Designer
Computer Graphic Arts
Career readiness for:
• Desktop Publisher
• Graphic Designer
• Illustrator • Layout Artist
Creative Writing
Career readiness for:
• Copywriter • Desktop Publisher
• Freelance Writer
Digital Recording Studio
Career readiness for:
• Sound Engineering Technician
Game Art Design
Career readiness for:
• Art Director • Graphic Designer
• Multimedia Artist & Animator
• Video Game Designer
Journalism /
Advanced Journalism /
Newspaper Production /
Publications
Career readiness for:
• Editor • News Writer • Reporter
• Sports Writer
Multimedia
Career readiness for:
• Graphic Designer • Multimedia
Artist
Advanced Communications
Media
Career readiness for:
• Communications • Film Editor
• Video Editor • Media Worker
Music Theory AP
Career readiness for:
• Music Arranger and Orchestrator
• Music Director and Composer
• Musician
Photography / Advanced
Photography /Advanced Digital
Photography
Career readiness for:
• News Photographer
• Photographic Technician
• Professional Photographer
• Scientic Photographer
Play Productions
Career readiness for:
• Actor • Director • Producer
• Set Designer
Contra Costa County Ofce of Education 9
Radio Broadcasting
Career readiness for:
• Announcer
• Disc Jockey
• Production Assistant
• Promotions Assistant
Video Broadcasting Production
(Advanced)
Career readiness for:
• Broadcast Technician
• Camera Operator
• Production Assistant
• Video Editor
Video Production/Art of Video
Career readiness for:
• Audio Operator • Camera Operator
• Videotape Editor • Video Operator
Web Design / Digital Arts /
Design for Web
Career readiness for:
• Web Developer
• Webmaster
• Web Page Designer
Building and Construction
Trades
Cabinetmaking
Career readiness for:
• Assembler • Cabinetmaker
• Furniture Finisher
• Layout Worker
Construction Technology
Career readiness for:
• Carpenter • Drywall Worker
• Painter • Roofer
Education, Child Development,
and Family Services
Careers with Children
Career readiness for:
• Child Care Attendant
• Day Care Center Aide
• Nursery School Aide
Careers in Teaching
Career readiness for:
• Elementary School Teacher
• Kindergarten Teacher
• Middle School Teacher
• Secondary School Teacher
Developmental Psychology of
Children
Career readiness for:
• Child Care Attendant
• Elementary School Teacher
• Preschool Teacher
• Teacher Assistant
Energy, Environment, and
Utilities
Renery Process Plant Operator
Career readiness for:
• Process Plant Operator
Industrial Maintenance
Mechanic
Career readiness for:
• Renery Mechanic
10 CTE/ROP
Engineering and
Architecture
Architectural Design / Advanced
Architectural Design / CAD
Career readiness for:
• Drafter, Architectural
• Drafter, Assistant
• Drafter, Civil • Drafter, Structural
Civil Engineering & Architecture
(PLTW)
Career readiness for:
• Architect • Architectural Drafter
• Civil Engineer
• Civil Engineer Technician
Electrical Engineering
Career readiness for:
• Electrical Engineer
• Electrical Technician
• Instrumentation Technician
Engineering Design &
Development (PLTW*)
Career readiness for:
• Civil Engineering Technician
• Mechanical Engineer
Introduction to Engineering
Career readiness for:
• Civil Engineering Technician
• Mechanical Engineer
Principles of Engineering
(PLTW)
Career readiness for:
• Civil Engineering Technician
• Mechanical Engineer
Principles of Engineering
Career readiness for:
• Civil Engineering Technician
• Mechanical Engineer
Business and Finance
Computerized Accounting
Career readiness for:
• Accounts Payable Clerk
• Accounts Receivable Clerk
• Bookkeeper Clerk
• Payroll Clerk
CTE/ROP Training Courses
Health Sciences and Medical
Technology
Biotechnology / Biotechnology
Accelerated Research /
Biological Sciences Lab
Research
Career readiness for:
• Biological Technician
• Clinical Laboratory Technician
Emergency Medical Careers
Career readiness for:
• Emergency Medical Technician
• First Responder
Hospital Health Services
Career readiness for:
• Admitting Ofce Guide
• Medical Records Clerk
• Pharmacy Clerk
Contra Costa County Ofce of Education 11
Culinary / Catering / Baking
Careers
Career readiness for:
• Baker
• Caterer Helper
• Chef / Cook
• Manager, Food Service / Caterer
Hotel Careers
Career readiness for:
• Cleaner, Housekeeping
• Laundry Worker • Groundskeeper
International Cuisine
Career readiness for:
• Baker • Cook • Chef / Head Cook
• Manager, Food Service / Caterer
Human Body Systems (PLTW)
Career readiness for:
• Biological Technician
• Medical Scientist
• Clinical Lab Technician
• Registered Nurse
Medical Interventions (PLTW)
Career readiness for:
• Biological Technician
• Medical Scientist
• Clinical Lab Technician
• Registered Nurse
Medical Technologies
Career readiness for:
• Biological Technician
• Medical Scientist
• Clinical Lab Technician
• Registered Nurse
Sports Medicine/Advanced
Sports Medicine
Career readiness for:
• Athletic Trainer • Coach
• Fitness Trainer
• Physical Therapist Aide
Hospitality, Tourism, and
Recreation
Commercial Food Service and
Nutrition and Wellness
Career readiness for:
• Chef / Head Cook
• Clinical Dietary Technician
• Dietary Assistant
• Nutritionist Assistant
* Project Lead The Way
12 CTE/ROP
Information and
Communication Technologies
Computer Applications /
Microsoft Ofce Certication
Career readiness for:
• Administrative Assistant
• Ofce Clerk • Secretary
Computer Science / AP
Computer Science
Career readiness for:
• Computer Programmer
Computer Systems
Maintenance / Management
Career readiness for:
• Computer Support Specialist
• Network and Computer Systems
Administrator
Desktop Publishing
Career readiness for:
• Desktop Publisher
• Graphic Designer
Information Systems Design and
Management
Career readiness for:
• Network and Computer Systems
Administrator
• Computer and User Support
Specialist
Manufacturing and Product
Development
Computer Integrated
Manufacturing (PLTW)
Career readiness for:
• Civil Engineering Technician
• Mechanical Engineer
Robotics Engineering
Technology
Career readiness for:
• Robotic Machine Operator
• Robotic Technician
Marketing, Sales, and Service
Cosmetology / Esthetician /
Manicuring
Career readiness for:
• Hair Stylist
• Esthetician
• Manicurist
Marketing/Merchandising
Career readiness for:
• Advertising Sales Agent
• Cashier
• Retail Sales Person
CTE/ROP Training Courses
Contra Costa County Ofce of Education 13
Public Services
Analytical Forensic Science
Career readiness for:
• Evidence Technician
• Forensic Science Technician
• Lab Technician
Community Services Professions
Career readiness for:
• Child, Family, and School Social
Worker
• Educational and School Counselor
• Social and Human Service
Assistant
Emergency Medical Careers
Career readiness for:
• Emergency Medical Technician
• First Responder
Emergency Medical Technician
Career readiness for:
• Emergency Medical Technician
Fire Science
Career readiness for:
• Fire Fighter
Introduction to Law
Career readiness for:
• Lawyer
• Legal Support Worker
• Paralegal and Legal Assistant
Journey for Justice in America
(UCCI)
Career readiness for:
• Lawyer
• Police Patrol Ofcer
• Probation Ofcer
• Paralegal and Legal Assistant
• Correction Ofcer
Law Enforcement Careers
Career readiness for:
• Dispatcher
• Police Clerk
• Police Patrol Ofcer
• Security Guard
Transportation
Automotive Technology (AYES /
NATEF)
Career readiness for:
• Automobile Accessories Installer
• Automobile Mechanic
• Automobile Mechanic Assistant
• Automotive Engineer
Automotive Technology /
Advanced Automotive
Technology
Career readiness for:
• Automotive Technician
• Maintenance Technician
14 CTE/ROP
Job Resources
Contact these resources for job listings
• High School Career Center Staff
• High School Work Experience Program
• High School Job Board and Library
• Community College Placement Center
• Classified Advertisements
• EASTBAY Works One-Stop Centers
Internet Contacts
City of Concord Parks & Recreation
www.ci.concord.ca.us
City of Richmond Arts & Leisure
www.ci.richmond.ca.us
City of Walnut Creek
www.ci.walnut-creek.org
Education Job Opportunities
www.edjoin.org
Contra Costa County Office of Education
www.cocoschools.org
Gaining Employment
Contra Costa County Ofce of Education 15
Job Application
This may be the most important form you complete. It is
used as a screening tool to limit the number of candidates to
be interviewed.
Tips for filling out your application:
• Create a master application to bring with you when
applying for jobs
• Bring your master application, résumé and list of
references with you to help you fill out the application
• Read through the entire application before you start to
fill it out
• Always print in blue or black ink, or type
• Be neat and clear
• Answer all questions or insert N/A if not applicable
• List jobs by most recent job first
• Concentrate on the skills that fit the particular job
• Before handing it in, read through all your answers
Develop a list of references. Think about parents of friends,
neighbors, teachers, past employers, and any other adults
who can give you a character or work reference. Be sure to
get permission from a potential reference before using him/
her as a reference.
Sample Job Application
Personal Information:
First Name: Susan Middle: Ann Last Name: Warren _
Street Address: 1234 Main Street, Apt. #4 City: Concord State: CA Zip: 94518__
Position/Availability:
Position applied for: Office clerk ___________________________
Days/Hours available: Sun. _ Mon. X Tues. X Wed. X Th. X Fri. X Sat. X
Hours available: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Date available to start: 06/21/2015
Education:
Name of School: Mt. Diablo High School Date Graduated: 06/15/2015
Skills and Qualifications: Type 40 words per minute. Basic understanding of Windows,
Microsoft Office, Internet and e-mail. Organized, self-motivated, creative and resourceful.
Work well with people, outgoing and friendly.
Employment History:
Present or Last Position: Clerk Employer: Goodwill Industries
Address: 990 Contra Costa Blvd., Pleasant Hill, CA Phone Number: 925-555-1111
Supervisor: Anne White E-mail: [email protected]
From: 06/14/ 2014 To: 09/15/ 2014 Salary: $9.00/hr.
Responsibilities: Greeted customers, cashiered, accepted donations from the public and
maintained inventory spreadsheets.
Reason for leaving: Summer position
References:
Ms. Mary White 925-555-1112 Store Manager
Mr. William Jones 925-555-0909 Leadership Teacher
Mr. Joseph Brown 925-555-0910 Computer Teacher
Signature: Susan Ann Warren Date: 6/20/2015 __________________
16 CTE/ROP
Cover Letter
Tips for writing your cover letter:
• Address it to a person and use his/her job title. Call and
ask the receptionist if you cannot find the information
elsewhere
• Demonstrate that you did your homework and are
educated about the company
• Sound enthusiastic and interested
• Be professional, warm, and friendly
• Distinguish yourself. Add something that is unique about
you
• Be sure to clarify the position for which you are applying
• Be brief – less than one full page
• Remember to sign your name
Sample Cover Letter
Gaining Employment
Your Name
Your Street Address
City, State, Zip
Date
Name of Contact Person
Contact Person’s Title
Company Name
Street Address
City, State, Zip
Dear ______________ ,
My personal customer service policy can be summed up in two words,
“Respect and Help.”
My school and work experience have required me to communicate
with a diverse array of people, some of whom represented difcult
challenges. I have rened my customer service skills to always offer
respect and I am normally able to smooth rufed feathers, solve
problems, and provide satisfaction.
These are exactly the skills that are vital for a successful sales
associate, and I am eager to apply my talents at your business. I will
call you Thursday to follow up.
Sincerely,
Your Signature
Your Name
Contra Costa County Ofce of Education 17
Résumé
Your résumé showcases you and your success in school, at
home, in your community, and at previous jobs.
Tips for writing your résumé:
• Limit your résumé to one page
• Change the job objective to fit the specific job description
• Use terms like “on-the-job” or “course accomplishments”
• Be honest
• Use action verbs to describe your skills and achievements
• Prepare a first draft
• Revise and rewrite
• Make it look good
• Do not include your references on your résumé
Standard résumé (Functional or Chronological):
• Use a common, easy-to-read font like Arial, Calibri, or
Times New Roman
• Use bullets for clarity
• Use proper formatting and good use of white space
• Use correct spelling and grammar
Electronic résumé – transmitted by e-mail
• Use a font that’s easy to read, like Arial or Times New
Roman
• Use MS Word if possible
• Use correct spelling and grammar
• Save in “Plain Text” format
Scannable résumé – scanned into computer by company
• Use a font that’s easy to read, like Arial or Times New
Roman
• Use 12-point type
• Use correct spelling and grammar
• Do not use bullets, italics, underlining, shadowing,
graphics, boxes, or columns
• Do not fold or staple
• Do not use all caps
• Align left
18 CTE/ROP
Sample Functional Résumé
This résumé emphasizes your skills, rather than your work history.
Gaining Employment
Your Name
Your Street Address
City, State, Zip
Your Phone Number
Your E-mail Address
OBJECTIVE:
To obtain a part-time sales associate position
SKILLS:
Communication
Completed a speech class and served as the leader of the Debate
Team, both of which have provided me outstanding verbal and
written communication skills.
Team Player
Experienced, dedicated team player, open-minded and willing to go
the extra mile.
Customer Service
Courteous and respectful associate with good listening and problem-
solving skills.
QUALIFICATIONS:
•
Excellent work ethic
•
Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint
•
Sales experience
WORK HISTORY:
Sales Associate - Forever 21 Antioch, CA 06/13 - 09/14
Babysitter Antioch, CA 01/10 - 01/12
EDUCATION:
Diploma - Antioch High School Antioch, CA 06/15
•
Communications • Computer Applications I & II
•
GPA 3.6 • Keyboarding
Contra Costa County Ofce of Education 19
Sample Chronological Résumé
This résumé is useful if you have a history of work experience.
Your Name
Your Street Address
City, State, Zip
Your Phone Number
Your E-mail Address
SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS
Experienced sales associate with proven customer service skills.
Awarded top sales award and earned employer praise for above average
accuracy. Excellent track record handling responsibility and learning
quickly
.
SKILLS
•
Communication
•
Team Player
•
Customer Service
QUALIFICATIONS
•
Excellent work ethic
•
Sales experience
•
Microsoft Word, Excel & PowerPoint
WORK HISTORY
Sales Associate
- Forever 21 Antioch, CA 06/13 - 09/14
•
Top Sales Award
•
Punctual
•
Performed closing duties
•
Mastered Point of Sales System
•
Balanced sales
•
Stocked and maintained inventory
Babysitter
- Antioch, CA 01/10 – 01/12
•
Emergency & safety responsibilities
•
Maintained a safe environment
•
Structured playtime
•
Prepared nutritious meals
•
CPR & First Aid Certications
EDUCATION
Diploma - Antioch High School Antioch, CA 06/15
•
Communications • Computer Applications I & II
•
GPA 3.6 • Keyboarding
20 CTE/ROP
Sample Scannable Résumé
Some companies might request a scannable résumé. Using
optical character recognition (OCR) software, employers
scan these résumés into their computer systems and search
for key words that match the skills needed. The scannable
résumé has minimal formatting, since bold type, italics,
bullets, etc., is often not recognized by the OCR software.
Gaining Employment
Your Name
Your Street Address
City, State, Zip
Your Phone Number
Your E-mail Address
Objective
To obtain a part-time sales associate position.
Skills
Communications – Speech class and serving as leader of the Debate
Team have given me outstanding communication skills, both verbal and
written.
Team Player – Experienced, enthusiastic team player, open-minded and
willing to go the extra mile.
Customer Service – Courteous and respectful associate with good
listening and problem-solving skills.
Qualications
Excellent work ethic, motivated, athletic with lots of energy, previous
sales associate experience. Flexible and available both evenings and
weekends.
Work History
Sales Associate, Forever 21, Antioch, CA 06/13 – 09/14
Babysitter, Antioch, CA 01/10 – 01/12
Education
Diploma, Antioch High School, Antioch, CA 06/15
Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint, communication classes
GPA 3.6, type 45 wpm
Contra Costa County Ofce of Education 21
Job Interview
Interviewing Do’s
Dress
• Do dress appropriately for the industry; your personal
grooming and cleanliness should be impeccable
• Do wear a tie or a collared shirt
• Do wear simple jewelry or no jewelry
Before the interview
• Do arrive early – come alone
• Do bring extra résumés to the interview
• Do bring your portfolio to the interview
• Do treat all people you encounter with courtesy and
respect; their opinions might be solicited during hiring
decisions
• Do your research about the employer and have questions
prepared to ask
• Do be prepared for typical interview questions
During the interview
• Do introduce yourself by first and last name
• Do look the person in the eye and shake hands firmly
• Do wait until you are offered a chair before sitting
• Do show manners, courtesy, and maturity at every
opportunity
• Do show willingness to start at the bottom and work up
• Do maintain good eye contact during the interview
• Do ask for clarification if you don’t understand a question
that is asked of you
• Do ask questions
• Do thank the interviewer
• Do get business cards from each person with whom you
interview
After the interview
• Do make notes about the interview right away
• Do write a thank you letter to your interviewers promptly
22 CTE/ROP
Job Interview
Interviewing Don’ts
Dress
• Don’t wear open-toed or backless shoes, sneakers,
mules, jeans, baggy clothes, short skirts, tight or revealing
clothing
During the interview
• Don’t rely on your application or résumé to do the selling
for you; you will need to sell yourself to the interviewer
• Don’t make negative comments about previous employers
or teachers
• Don’t treat the interview casually as if you are just
shopping around or doing the interview for practice
• Don’t give the impression you are only interested in salary;
don’t ask about salary and benefit issues unless your
interviewer brings up the subject
• Don’t go to extremes with your posture; don’t slouch, and
don’t sit rigidly on the edge of your chair
• Don’t be soft-spoken
• Don’t ever lie
• Don’t answer questions with just a “yes or no”; provide
examples whenever possible
• Don’t bring up or discuss personal issues or family
problems
• Don’t use poor language, slang and pause words such as
“like”, “uh”, “um” and “you know”
• Don’t use the word “fired” or mention that you didn’t get
along with a past supervisor
• Don’t panic if you trip, drop something or knock something
over; show how calm you are under pressure
• Don’t bring your cell phone or any electronic devices
Gaining Employment
Contra Costa County Ofce of Education 23
Sample Interview Questions
Tell me about yourself.
My last job and volunteer experience dealt with customer service. I particularly
enjoy helping people solve problems and working on a team.
Why are you leaving your current job?
I am looking for a position with increased responsibility.
Why do you want to work for this company?
I have researched the company and feel my qualications are a good match for
this position.
Have you ever been asked to leave a position?
Yes, my position changed and my available hours no longer matched those of
the position.
Why should we hire you?
I am reliable and will work hard. I am always punctual and ready to help where
needed. If you hire me, you will get someone who is not afraid to learn and is
willing to go the extra mile.
Tell me about a weakness you have.
I like to be busy all the time, so I am normally looking for extra work.
Tell me about a problem you had and how you solved it.
I once saw an employee stealing. This person was a friend of mine and I didn’t
want to lose that friendship, but I reported the situation to my boss anyway. It
was the right thing to do.
What would your past managers say about you?
My past managers would say that I was an outstanding employee and a
valuable team player.
What do you like best about school?
I especially like working on team projects. I was in charge of decorations for
our school dance. I organized the timeline for tasks and responsibilities, and
my team and I worked together to set up the gym. We nished on time and
under budget.
What do you think of your last boss?
My boss was fair and honest. He gave me many opportunities to learn.
Do you have any questions for me?
• How does an employee succeed on your team?
• What are some of the objectives you would like to see accomplished in
this job?
• What are some of the difcult problems one would face in this position?
• Describe your ideal employee.
• What are the next steps?
24 CTE/ROP
Sample Interview Questions
What is legal and what is illegal to ask
Employers cannot directly ask you about any of the
following, nor can they discriminate against you because of
your race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability,
or genetic information.
Legal
Religion
• Can you work weekends?
• Do you belong to any
professional or trade groups?
National Origin
• Are you authorized to work in the
United States?
• What languages do you speak,
read, or write uently?
Age
• Are you over the age of 18?
Disability
• Can you perform the specic
duties of the job? (OK question
if interviewer has described the
job duties)
Marital/family status
• Can you work overtime?
• Is there any reason you cannot
start at 7:30 a.m.?
Personal
• Are you able to lift a 50-pound
weight and carry it 100 yards as
part of the job?
Criminal Record
• Have you ever been convicted of
a crime?
Military
• What type of training or education
did you receive in the military?
Illegal
• What church do you belong to?
• Are you a United States citizen?
• How old are you?
• Do you have any disabilities?
• Tell me about your medical
history.
• Are you married?
• How many children do you have?
• Are you pregnant?
• How tall are you?
• How much do you weigh?
• Have you ever been arrested?
• Have you ever spent the night
in jail?
• Were you honorably discharged
from the military?
Gaining Employment
Contra Costa County Ofce of Education 25
Thank You Letter
A thank you letter should be sent after the interview to thank
the interviewer for the opportunity to interview and for his/her
time.
Thank you letters:
• Show the employer you will take the initiative to make
contact soon
• Add key information you may have forgotten in the
interview, clarify any points, or try to ease any reservations
the interviewer might have expressed
• Get your name in front of the interviewer once again
• One more chance to sell yourself
Tips for writing a thank you letter:
• Address it to the interviewer, using his/her job title
• Limit your letter to one page
• Proofread carefully
Sample Thank You Letter
Your Name
Your Street Address
City, State, Zip
Date
Interviewer’s Name, Job Title
Company Name
Street Address
City, State, Zip
Dear __________,
I appreciate the time you took to acquaint me with your company and the
available sales position.
After meeting with you, I know that I would be a great addition to
your team and that my skills and experience are a good match for
this position. Under your leadership, I have no doubt that I will be a
productive sales associate.
I am available to start work immediately and look forward to hearing from
you.
Sincerely,
Your Signature
Your Name
26 CTE/ROP
Self-Describing & Action Words
The following is a list of words that can help you when
you are filling out applications, writing your résumé, and
answering interview questions. Use these words to:
Describe your skills, talents, and strengths
acquainted
active
adaptable
articulate
artistic
assertive
attentive
broad-minded
capable
committed
competent
conscientious
consistent
creative
dependable
determined
disciplined
discreet
down-to-earth
effective
efcient
energetic
enthusiastic
fair
fair-minded
exible
focused
genuine
goal-oriented
good
communicator
honest
intelligent
knowledgeable
leader
logical
loyal
mature
motivated
objective
observant
open to ideas
open-minded
orderly
organized
original
outgoing
patient
people-oriented
personable
polite
practical
proactive
productive
quick
realistic
reliable
resourceful
responsible
sense of humor
sensible
sincere
stable
strong
tactful
talented
team player
thoughtful
trustworthy
unique
upbeat
versatile
vibrant
acted
encouraged
adapted
addressed
aided
answered
applied
approved
arranged
assembled
assisted
assured
enlarged
enlisted
estimated
examined
exceeded
excelled
expanded
experienced
explained
extended
observed
obtained
offered
operated
ordered
organized
oversaw
packaged
participated
perfected
performed
started
studied
supervised
supported
surpassed
taught
tested
trained
tutored
uncovered
understood
Describe your skills, talents, and strengths
Gaining Employment
Contra Costa County Ofce of Education 27
adapted
addressed
aided
answered
applied
approved
arranged
assembled
assisted
assured
attained
attended
awarded
balanced
brought
built
calculated
claried
coached
collected
communicated
compiled
conducted
connected
contributed
coordinated
created
decided
dened
delivered
demonstrated
determined
developed
discovered
dispensed
distributed
documented
edited
eliminated
enabled
led
nished
xed
formed
funded
gained
gathered
guided
handled
identied
illustrated
increased
introduced
invested
investigated
justied
learned
lifted
listened
located
logged
maintained
maximized
measured
memorized
merchandised
molded
motivated
negotiated
persuaded
planned
prepared
processed
produced
programmed
provided
qualied
realized
reassured
recommended
recruited
reduced
rened
reinforced
reported
researched
reshaped
resolved
responded
reviewed
revised
saved
scheduled
secured
served
simplied
solved
updated
verbalized
veried
volunteered
wrote
Key words to describe your experience
28 CTE/ROP
Working Youth
Getting ready to work - what you should know
Work Permits:
If you are under 18, you will need a work permit. Contact
your school or your school’s district office.
If you are under 18, you may not:
• Drive a motor vehicle on public streets as part of the job
• Drive a forklift
• Use power equipment
• Work in wrecking, demolition, excavation, or roofing
• Work in logging or sawmill operations
• Handle, serve, or sell alcoholic beverages
• Work where there is exposure to radiation
• Work on any job declared hazardous by the U.S. Dept.
of Labor
If you are 14 or 15 you may not:
• Bake or cook on the job
• Work in dry cleaning or a commercial laundry
• Build, construct, or do manufacturing work
• Work on a ladder or scaffold
Your employer must provide:
• A safe and healthful workplace
• Health and safety training, including information about
hazardous chemicals
• Protective clothing and equipment
• Payment for medical care if you get hurt or sick because of
your job; you may be entitled to lost wages
• Minimum hourly wage — In some cases, employer can
pay less than minimum wage; for example, during your
first 160 hours on the job if you have no previous similar
work experience
You have a right to:
• Report safety problems to Cal/OSHA without jeopardizing
your job
• Work without facing discrimination and/or sexual
harassment
• Refuse to work if the job is dangerous to your life or health
• Join or organize a union
Working Youth
Contra Costa County Ofce of Education 29
Your responsibilities are to:
• Know and follow all safety rules and instructions
• Use safety equipment and protective clothing when
needed
• Look out for the safety of co-workers
• Keep work areas clean and neat
• Know what to do in an emergency
• Report all health and safety hazards to your supervisor
What hours can I work?
Ages 14 and 15
• 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. from Labor Day to June 1
• 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. from June 1 to Labor Day
Maximum hours when school is in session
• No work during school hours
• 18 hours per week
• 3 hours a day on school days
• 8 hours a day on a non-school day
Maximum hours when school is not in session
• 8 hours a day
• 40 hours per week
Ages 16 and 17
• 5:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. when there is school the next day
• 5:00 a.m. – 12:30 a.m. when there is no school the next
day
Maximum hours when school is in session
• 4 hours a day on school days
• 8 hours a day on non-school days
Maximum hours when school is not in session
• 8 hours a day
• 48 hours a week (You will be paid overtime for any hours
you work over 40 per week)
Social Security
You need a Social Security Number to get a job.
Go to http://www.socialsecurity.gov to download an application,
or call 1-800-772-1213.
30 CTE/ROP
Helpful Work Related Websites
The Department of Labor
www.youthrules.dol.gov
Labor Occupational Health
Program
University of California
www.lohp.org
Resources
CalOSHA
Industrial Relations Dept.
www.dir.ca.gov
CTE/ROP Information
CTE/ROP is the primary source of career and technical
training for high school students. Students prepare for
advanced training and/or entry-level jobs. Classes are
located on 34 high school campuses in Contra Costa
County, Albany, Berkeley, Emeryville, and Piedmont.
Students earn high school graduation credit and/or college
units. Many classes are UC/CSU approved courses.
For more information contact:
• Albany, Berkeley, Emeryville, John Swett, Piedmont, and
West Contra Costa Districts
Cookie Teat ................................................... 510-758-4782
e-mail: [email protected]
• Antioch and Liberty Districts, and Delta Beauty College
Theresa Moodie-Banks ................................. 925-427-2404
e-mail: [email protected]
• Mt. Diablo and Acalanes Districts, and Clayton Valley
Charter
Christine Curiel .............................................. 925-942-3436
e-mail: [email protected]
• San Ramon District, Alhambra and Pittsburg High Schools,
Marchus School, and Paris Beauty College
Kim Owens .................................................... 925-942-3442
email: [email protected]
Sexual Harassment or Discrimination
Department of Fair Employment and
Housing
www.dfeh.ca.gov
1-800-884-1684
Contra Costa County Ofce of Education 31
Visit our Website
www.cocoschools.org/rop
Contra Costa County CTE/ROP is accredited by
Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Public Notice
The Contra Costa County Office of Education has a uniform complaint
process as required in Code of Regulation, Title 5, Section 4622, COE
Board Policy 1312.3(a). The Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources
is designated as compliance officer. A copy of the policy is available in
the CTE/ROP Administration Office. The policy provides for mediation or
investigation, presentation of additional relevant information, finding and
appeals as appropriate.
CTE/ROP, in compliance with federal law, does not discriminate on the
basis of race, religion, national origin, gender, or disability.
Rev. 6_2015 DM
Contra Costa County Ofce of Education
77 Santa Barbara Road, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
(925) 942-3368
www.cocoschools.org/rop
