(SOC) code summary table - UK Border Agency

Occupation codes of practice for Tier 2 Sponsors 

This document summarises the occupations in the codes of practice for Tier 2 of the 

points-based system. The information on related job titles is taken from Standard 

Occupational Classification (SOC) 2000 and may not be fully up-to-date. 

Lists of skilled occupations 

The codes of practice are split into sectors to help you find the information for your 

sector or occupation. 

If you already know the SOC code for the occupation you are looking for, or if you 

want to see which codes are available at which skill level, you may find these 

summary tables useful. 

If you are unsure what SOC code applies to your occupation, you may wish to 

check the coding index of job titles on the Office for National Statistics website. 

This index lists thousands of job titles alphabetically and shows which is the 

relevant SOC code for each job. 

The tables are in SOC code order and include the following information: 

� related job titles for each occupation 

� links to the relevant sector section that contains the code of practice 

� whether each occupation is skilled to National Qualifications Framework 

(NQF) level 3 or level 4. 

Please refer to the individual sections of the codes of practice for more information 

on each occupation, including which jobs are skilled (for borderline occupations), 

appropriate salary rates, and how to satisfy the Resident Labour Market Test. 

Click on the following links to jump to the relevant section: 

� Occupations skilled to NQF level 4 

� Occupations skilled to NQF level 3 

� Occupations below NQF level 3 

Tier 2 Occupational codes of practice version 04/2012: valid from 04/04/2012 

- Page 1 of 26 -

Occupations skilled to NQF level 4 and above 

Any Tier 2 applicants can be sponsored for jobs in these occupations. 

Some of these occupations are also skilled to PhD-level, where indicated. Jobs in 

these occupations are given additional points when allocating places in the Tier 2 

limit. Please refer to the Tier 2 and 5 Sponsor Guidance for more details. 

SOC 

Code 

SOC code description Related job titles Sector Skill level 

1 MANAGERS AND SENIOR OFFICIALS 

11 CORPORATE MANAGERS 

111 Corporate managers and senior officials 

1111 Senior officials in national Assistant secretary/Grade 5 Section O – public NQF 4 

government 

(government), Diplomat, Member administration and 

of European Parliament, Member defence, compulsory 

of Parliament, Permanent 

secretary (government) 

social security 

1112 Directors and chief executives Chief executive (major 

Section N – 

NQF 4 

of major organisations 

organisation), Company director administrative and 

(major organisation), Director support service 

(major organisation), General 

manager (major organisation), 

Managing director (major 

organisation) 

activities 

1113 Senior officials in local Chief executive (local 

Section O – public NQF 4 

government 

government), Town clerk 

administration and 

defence, compulsory 


1114 Senior officials of special General Secretary (trade union), Section O – public NQF 4 

interest organisations 

Manager (charitable 


organisation), National organiser defence, compulsory 

(charitable organisation), 

Ombudsman 


112 Production managers 

1121 Production, works and Engineering manager, Factory Section C – 

NQF 4 

maintenance managers manager, Production manager, 

Service manager, Shift manager, 

Works manager 

manufacturing 

1122 Managers in construction Clerk of works, Construction Section F – 

NQF 4 

manager, Contracts manager 

(building and contracting), Site 

manager 

construction 

1123 Managers in mining and Operations manager (mining, Section B – mining NQF 4 

energy 

water and energy), 

Overman/woman, Quarry 

manager 

and quarrying 

113 Functional managers 

1131 Financial managers and Company registrar, Company Section K – financial NQF 4 

chartered secretaries 

treasurer, Credit manager, and insurance 

Finance manager, Financial 

director, Merchant banker 

activities 

1132 Marketing and sales managers Business development manager, Section N – 

NQF 4 

Commercial manager, Export administrative and 

manager, Marketing manager, support service 

Product manager, Sales and 

marketing director, Sales 

activities 


- Page 2 of 26 -

manager 

1133 Purchasing managers Purchasing director, Purchasing 

1134 Advertising and public 

relations managers 

1135 Personnel, training and 

industrial relations managers 

1136 Information and 

communication technology 

managers 

1137 Research and development 

managers 

manager, Supplies manager 

Advertising manager, Media 

director, Public relations manager, 

Publicity manager 

Human resources manager, 

Industrial relations manager, 

Personnel manager, Training 

manager, Works study manager 

Computer manager, Computer 

operations manager, Data 

processing manager, IT manager, 

Systems manager, Telecom 

manager 

Director of research, Laboratory 

manager, Research manager 

114 Quality and customer care managers 

1141 Quality assurance managers Quality assurance manager, 

Quality control manager, Quality 

manager 

1142 Customer care managers Customer relations manager, 

Customer service manager, Help 

desk manager 

115 Financial institution and office managers 

1151 Financial institution managers Bank manager, Branch manager 

(bank, building society), Building 

society manager, Post Office 

manager, Sub-postmaster 

1152 Office managers Accounts manager, 

Administration manager, Office 

manager 

116 Managers in distribution, storage and retailing 

1161 Transport and distribution 

managers 

Harbour master, Station master, 

Traffic manager, Transport 

manager 

117 Protective service officers 

1171 Officers in armed forces Captain, Commissioned officer, 

Flight-Lieutenant, Lieutenant, 

Lieutenant-Commander, Major, 

1172 Police officers (inspectors and 

above) 

1173 Senior officers in fire, 

ambulance, prison and related 

services 

Squadron Leader 

Assistant chief constable, Chief 

constable, Chief inspector (police 

service), Chief superintendent 

(police service), Deputy chief 

constable 

Chief immigration officer, Chief 

preventive officer, Fire officer, 

Governor (prison service), 

Principal officer (prison service), 

Station officer (ambulance 

service) 

1174 Security managers Operations manager (security 

services), Owner (detective 

Section S – other 

service activities 



Section N – 

administrative and 

support service 

activities 

Section J – information 

and communication 

Section M – 

professional, scientific 

and technical activities 

Section N – 



activities 

Section N – 



activities 

Section K – financial 

and insurance 

activities 

Section N – 



activities 

Section H – 

transportation and 

storage 


- Page 3 of 26 - 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

(PhDlevel) 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

This occupation is not appropriate 

to Tier 2 applications as candidates 

must not be subject to immigration 

control. 

Section O – public 










NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4

118 Health and social services managers 

1181 Hospital and health service 

managers 

agency), Owner (security 

services), Security manager 

Clinical manager, Health service 

manager, Manager (hospital 

service) 

1182 Pharmacy managers Pharmacist’s manager, Shop 

manager (retail trade, 

pharmacists) 

1183 Healthcare practice managers Medical practice manager (health 

services) 

1184 Social services managers Social services manager, Team 

manager (social services) 

1185 Residential and day care 

managers 

Care manager, Manager (nursing 

home), Owner (retirement home), 

Residential manager 

Section Q – human 

health and social work 

activities 



activities 



activities 



activities 



activities 


- Page 4 of 26 - 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

12 MANAGERS AND PROPRIETORS IN AGRICULTURE AND SERVICES 

121 Managers in farming, horticulture, forestry and fishing 

1212 Natural environment and Conservation manager, 

Section A – 

NQF 4 

conservation managers Countryside manager, 

agriculture, forestry 

Environmental manager, National 

park manager 

and fishing 

1219 Managers in animal 

Cattery owner, Fish farm 

Section A – 

NQF 4 

husbandry, forestry and fishing manager, Kennels owner, Nursery agriculture, forestry 

not elsewhere classified manager (horticulture), 

Racehorse trainer 

and fishing 

122 Managers and proprietors in hospitality and leisure services 

1222 Conference and exhibition Conference manager, Exhibition Section N – 

NQF 4 

managers 

manager 



activities 

123 Managers and proprietors in other service industries 

1231 Property, housing and land Housing manager, Property Section L – real estate NQF 4 

managers 

manager, Shopping centre 

manager 

activities 

1235 Recycling and refuse disposal General dealer, Manager (refuse Section E – water NQF 4 

managers 

disposal), Recycling manager, supply, sewerage, 

Scrap metal merchant 

waste management 

and remediation 

activities 

1239 Managers and proprietors in Betting shop manager, Citizens Section N – 

NQF 4 

other services not elsewhere Advice Bureau manager, 


classified 

Crematorium manager, Domestic support service 

services manager, Hire shop 

manager, Library manager, Plant 

hire manager, Production 

manager (broadcasting), 

Publisher’s manager, Video shop 

owner 

activities 

2 PROFESSIONAL OCCUPATIONS 

21 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONALS 

211 Science professionals 

2111 Chemists Analytical chemist, Chemist, Section M – 

NQF 4 

Development chemist, Industrial 

chemist, Physical chemist, 

Research chemist 



(PhDlevel)

2112 Biological scientists and 

biochemists 

2113 Physicists, geologists and 

meteorologists 

Biochemist, Biologist, Botanist, 

Medical laboratory scientific 

officer, Microbiologist, Pathologist, 

Zoologist 

Geologist, Geophysicist, 

Mathematician, Meteorologist, 

Physicist, Seismologist 

212 Engineering professionals 

2121 Civil engineers City engineer, Civil engineer, 

Mining engineer, Municipal 

engineer, Petroleum engineer, 

Structural engineer 

2122 Mechanical engineers Aeronautical engineer 

(professional), Automobile 

engineer (professional), Hydraulic 

engineer (professional), Marine 

engineer (professional), 

Mechanical engineer 

(professional), Welding engineer 

(professional) 

2123 Electrical engineers Electrical engineer (professional), 

Generating engineer (electricity 

supplier), Power engineer, Power 

transmission engineer 

2124 Electronics engineers Broadcasting engineer 

(professional), Electronics 

engineer (professional), 

Microwave engineer, Radar 

engineer (research), Radio 

engineer (professional) 

2125 Chemical engineers Chemical engineer, Plastics 

engineer (professional) 

2126 Design and development Design consultant, Design 

engineers 

engineer, Development engineer 

2127 Production and process Process engineer, Production 

engineers 

consultant, Production engineer 

2128 Planning and quality control Industrial engineer, Planning 

engineers 

engineer, Production planner, 

Quality control engineer, Quality 

engineer 

2129 Engineering professionals not Agricultural engineer, Ceramics 

elsewhere classified 

engineer, Food technologist, Fuel 

engineer, Materials scientist, 

Metallurgist, Patent agent, Project 

engineer, Traffic engineer 

213 Information and communication technology professionals 

2131 IT strategy and planning Computer consultant, Software 

professionals 

consultant 

2132 Software professionals Analyst programmer, Computer 

programmer, Software engineer, 

Systems analyst, Systems 

designer 

22 HEALTH PROFESSIONALS 

221 Health professionals 

2211 Medical practitioners Anaesthetist, Consultant (hospital 

service), Doctor, General 

practitioner, Medical practitioner, 



activities 

Section M – 



Section F – 

construction 

Section M – 



Section M – 



Section M – 



Section M – 



Section C – 

manufacturing 

Section C – 

manufacturing 

Section M – 



Section M – 









activities 


- Page 5 of 26 - 

NQF 4 

(PhDlevel) 

NQF 4 

(PhDlevel) 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4

Physician, Psychiatrist, Psychoanalyst, 

Registrar (hospital 

service), Surgeon 

2212 Psychologists Clinical psychologist, 

Psychologist, Psychometrist 

2213 Pharmacists/pharmacologists Chemist (pharmaceutical/retail), 

Druggist, Pharmaceutical chemist, 

Pharmacist, Pharmacologist 



activities 



activities 

2214 Ophthalmic opticians Ophthalmic optician, Optometrist Section Q – human 


2215 Dental practitioners Dental surgeon, Dentist, 

Orthodontist, Periodontist 

activities 




- Page 6 of 26 - 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

2216 Veterinarians Veterinarian, Veterinary officer, 

activities 

Section S – other NQF 4 

Veterinary surgeon 


23 TEACHING AND RESEARCH PROFESSIONALS 

231 Teaching professionals 

2311 Higher education teaching Lecturer (higher education, Section P – education NQF 4 

professionals 

university), Polytechnic lecturer, 

Professor (university), Reader, 

University lecturer 

(PhDlevel) 

2312 Further education teaching College lecturer, Lecturer, Section P – education NQF 4 

professionals 

Lecturer (further education), 

Teacher (further education) 

2313 Education officers, school Curriculum development officer, Section P – education NQF 4 

inspectors 

Director of education, Education 

inspector, Education officer, HM 

Inspector of Schools 

2314 Secondary education teaching Head teacher (secondary school), Section P – education NQF 4 

professionals 

Secondary school teacher, 

Teacher (secondary school) 

2315 Primary and nursery education Head teacher (primary/middle Section P – education NQF 4 

teaching professionals school), Infant teacher, Junior 

school teacher, Nursery school 

teacher, Primary school teacher 

2316 Special needs education Head teacher (special school), Section P – education NQF 4 

teaching professionals Special needs teacher, Teacher 

(special school) 

2317 Registrars and senior 

Bursar, Registrar (educational Section P – education NQF 4 

administrators of educational 

establishments 

services), University administrator 

2319 Teaching professionals not Examiner (examination board), Section P – education NQF 4 


Nursery manager (day nursery), 

Owner (children’s nursery), 

Principal (dancing school/evening 

institute), Private tutor, Teacher of 

English as a foreign language 

(TEFL) 

232 Research professionals 

2321 Scientific researchers Research associate (medical), Section M – 

NQF 4 

Research scientist, Scientific 

officer, Scientist 



(PhDlevel) 

2322 Social science researchers Anthropologist, Archaeologist, Section M – 

NQF 4 

Geographer, Historian, 

Philologist, Sociologist 



(PhDlevel) 

2329 Researchers not elsewhere Research assistant (university), Section M – NQF 4

classified Research associate (university), 

Researcher (broadcasting), 

University research fellow 

24 BUSINESS AND PUBLIC SERVICE PROFESSIONALS 

241 Legal professionals 

2411 Solicitors and lawyers, judges 

and coroners 

2419 Legal professionals not 


242 Business and statistical professionals 

2421 Chartered and certified 

accountants 

Articled clerk, Barrister, Coroner, 

Judge, Solicitor 

Clerk of the court, Clerk to the 

justices, Legal advisor, Legal 

officer 

Accountant (qualified), Auditor 

(qualified), Certified accountant, 

Chartered accountant, Company 

accountant 

2422 Management accountants Cost accountant (qualified), Cost 

and management accountant 

(qualified), Management 

accountant (qualified), Works 

2423 Management consultants, 

actuaries, economists and 

statisticians 

accountant (qualified) 

Actuary, Business analyst, 

Economist, Management 

consultant, Management services 

officer, Statistician 

243 Architects, town planners, surveyors 

2431 Architects Architect, Architectural consultant, 

Chartered architect, Landscape 

architect 

2432 Town planners Planning officer (local 

government), Town planner, 

Town planning consultant 

2433 Quantity surveyors Quantity surveyor, Quantity 

surveyor’s assistant, Survey 

2434 Chartered surveyors (not 

quantity surveyors) 

244 Public service professionals 

2441 Public service administrative 

professionals 

technician (quantity surveying) 

Building surveyor, Chartered 

surveyor, Land surveyor, Mining 

surveyor, Surveyor, Surveyor and 

estimator 

Area officer (local government), 

Civil servant (grade 6,7), 

Divisional officer (local 

government), Principal/Grade 7 

(government), Registrar of births 

deaths and marriages, 

Superintendent registrar 

2442 Social workers Child care officer, Child protection 

officer, Social worker, Team 

leader (social work) 

2443 Probation officers Community service officer, 

Probation officer 

2444 Clergy Clergyman/woman, Clerk in holy 

orders, Deacon, Minister 

(religion), Priest, Vicar 



Section M – 



Section M – 




and insurance 

activities 


and insurance 

activities 


and insurance 

activities 

Section F – 

construction 

Section L – real estate 

activities 

Section M – 



Section F – 

construction 







activities 






- Page 7 of 26 - 

(PhDlevel) 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 


to Tier 2 (general) applications. If 

you wish to sponsor someone in 

this occupation, please see the

245 Librarians and related professionals 

2451 Librarians Assistant librarian, Branch 

librarian, Chartered librarian, 

Librarian 

code of practice for religious 

workers for further information. 

Section N – 



activities 

2452 Archivists and curators Archivist, Conservator, Curator Section M – 


3 ASSOCIATE PROFESSIONAL AND TECHNICAL OCCUPATIONS 

31 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ASSOCIATE PROFESSIONALS 

312 Draughtspersons and building inspectors 

3121 Architectural technologists and 

town planning technicians 

Architectural assistant, 

Architectural technician, 

Architectural technologist, 

Planning assistant (local 

government), Planning 

enforcement officer 


Section F – 

construction 


- Page 8 of 26 - 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

3123 Building inspectors Building control officer, Building Section F – 

NQF 4 

inspector, Inspector (NHBRC) construction 

313 IT service delivery occupations 

3131 IT operations technicians Computer operator, Database Section J – information NQF 4 

manager, IT technician, Network 

technician, Systems 

administrator, Web master 


32 HEALTH AND SOCIAL WELFARE ASSOCIATE PROFESSIONALS 

321 Health associate professionals 

3211 Nurses Health visitor, Nurse, Staff nurse, Section Q – human NQF 4 

State enrolled nurse, State health and social work 

registered nurse, Ward sister activities 

3212 Midwives Midwife, Midwifery sister Section Q – human 


activities 

NQF 4 

3213 Paramedics Ambulance paramedic, 

Section Q – human NQF 4 

Paramedic 


activities 

3214 Medical radiographers Diagnostic radiographer (medical Section Q – human NQF 4 

services), Medical radiographer, health and social work 

X-ray operator 

activities 

3215 Chiropodists Chiropodist, Chiropodist-podiatrist Section Q – human 


activities 

NQF 4 

3218 Medical and dental technicians Audiologist, Cardiographer, Section Q – human NQF 4 

Dental hygienist, Dental 


technician, Medical technical 

officer 

activities 

322 Therapists 

3221 Physiotherapists Chartered physiotherapist, Section Q – human NQF 4 

Physiotherapist, Superintendent health and social work 

physiotherapist 

activities 

3222 Occupational therapists Occupational therapist Section Q – human 


activities 

NQF 4 

3223 Speech and language 

Speech and language therapist, Section Q – human NQF 4 

therapists 

Speech therapist 


activities 

3229 Therapists not elsewhere Acupuncturist, Dietician, Masseur, Section Q – human NQF 4

classified Orthoptist, Osteopath, 

Psychotherapist 

33 PROTECTIVE SERVICE OCCUPATIONS 

331 Protective service occupations 

3319 Protective service associate Coastguard, Coastguard officer, 

professionals not elsewhere Customs and Excise officer, 

classified 

Emergency planning officer, 

Scenes of crime officer (civilian) 

34 CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORTS OCCUPATIONS 

341 Artistic and literary occupations 

3411 Artists Animator (cartoon films), Artist, 

Illustrator, Picture restorer, 

Sculptor 

3412 Authors, writers Author, Author (technical), Editor, 

Freelance writer, Interpreter, 

Script writer, Translator 

3413 Actors, entertainers Actor, Disc jockey, Entertainer, 

Singer (entertainment) 

3414 Dancers and choreographers Ballet dancer, Ballet teacher, 

Choreographer, Dance instructor, 

Dancer 

3415 Musicians Cellist, Composer (music), 

Musician, Organist, Pianist, 

3416 Arts officers, producers and 

directors 

342 Design associate professionals 

3422 Product, clothing and related 

designers 

343 Media associate professionals 

3431 Journalists, newspaper and 

periodical editors 

3432 Broadcasting associate 

professionals 

Violinist 

Arts development officer, Arts 

officer, Entertainment agent, 

Producer (entertainment), Stage 

manager (entertainment), Studio 

manager 

Clothing designer, Commercial 

designer, Fashion designer, 

Furniture designer, Industrial 

designer, Interior designer, Textile 

designer 

Journalist, News editor 

(newspaper), Reporter 

(newspaper), Sports writer, Sub- 

editor 

Broadcaster, News reporter 

(broadcasting), Production 

assistant (broadcasting), Radio 

journalist, Television producer, 

Video editor 

3433 Public relations officers Information officer, Press officer, 

Public relations consultant, 

Publicity assistant 


activities 



Section R – arts, 

entertainment and 

recreation 



recreation 



recreation 



recreation 



recreation 



recreation 

Section C – 

manufacturing 



recreation 



recreation 

Section N – 



activities 

35 BUSINESS AND PUBLIC SERVICE ASSOCIATE PROFESSIONALS 

351 Transport associate professionals 

3512 Aircraft pilots and flight Airline captain, Airline pilot, Section H – 

engineers 

Commercial pilot, Flight engineer, transportation and 

Flying instructor, Pilot 

storage 

3513 Ship and hovercraft officers Chief engineer (hovercraft), Section H – 

Master mariner, Navigator transportation and 

(shipping), Ship’s captain 

storage 


- Page 9 of 26 - 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4

(merchant navy), Ship’s officer 

(merchant navy) 

353 Business and finance associate professionals 

3531 Estimators, valuers and 

assessors 

Building estimator, Estimator, 

Insurance assessor, Plannerestimator, 

Surveyor and valuer, 

Valuation surveyor, Valuer 

3532 Brokers Commodity trader, Financial 

broker, Foreign exchange dealer 

(banking), Insurance broker, 

3534 Finance and investment 

analysts/advisers 

Shipbroker, Stockbroker 

Financial adviser, Financial 

consultant, Mortgage consultant, 

Pension adviser 

3535 Taxation experts Inspector of taxes, Tax 

consultant, Tax senior, Taxation 

3537 Financial and accounting 

technicians 

3539 Business and related 

associate professionals not 


adviser 

Accounting technician, Financial 

controller 

Conference co-ordinator, 

Exhibition officer, Management 

information officer, Work study 

engineer, Work study officer 

354 Sales and related associate professionals 

3541 Buyers and purchasing officers Assistant buyer, Buyer, Media 

3543 Marketing associate 

professionals 

355 Conservation associate professionals 

3551 Conservation and 

environmental protection 

officers 

buyer, Procurement officer 

Account representative 

(advertising), Commercial officer, 

Market researcher, Marketing 

consultant 

Conservation officer, 

Conservationist, Environmental 

protection officer, National park 

officer 

356 Public service and other associate professionals 

3561 Public service associate 

professionals 

3564 Careers advisers and 

vocational guidance specialists 

3565 Inspectors of factories, utilities 

and trading standards 

Higher executive officer 

(government), Principal officer 

(local government), Senior 

executive officer (government) 

Careers adviser, Careers officer, 

Placement co-ordinator, 

Placement officer 

Gas inspector, Inspector of 

factories (government), Inspector 

of weights and measures, 

Installation inspector (electricity, 

gas), Plumbing inspector, Trading 

standards officer 

3566 Statutory examiners Driving examiner (Dept of 

Transport), Fishery officer, Flight 

examiner, National Insurance 

inspector, Pollution control officer, 

3567 Occupational hygienists and 

safety officers (health and 

safety) 

RSPCA inspector, Water bailiff 

Health and Safety officer, 

Occupational hygienist, Safety 

adviser, Safety officer 


activities 


and insurance 

activities 


and insurance 

activities 


and insurance 

activities 


and insurance 

activities 

Section M – 





Section N – 



activities 

Section A – 


and fishing 


- Page 10 of 26 - 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

Section O – public NQF 4 




Section P – education NQF 4 

Section C – 

manufacturing 





activities 

NQF 4 

NQF 4 

NQF 4

3568 Environmental health officers Authorised meat inspector, 

Environmental health inspector, 

Environmental health officer, 

Public health officer 

Section I – 

accommodation and 

food service activities 


- Page 11 of 26 - 

NQF 4

Occupations skilled to NQF level 3 

All occupations which are skilled to NQF level 4 in the above table are also skilled to 

NQF level 3. 

In addition, the following table lists those occupations which are skilled to NQF level 

3 but not to NQF level 4. Tier 2 applicants can only be sponsored for jobs in these 

occupations if: 

� the job appears on the Shortage Occupation List, or 

� the applicant is currently in the UK under Tier 2, and has been in Tier 2 since 

before the changes made on 6 April 2011 came into force, or 

� the applicant is currently in the UK under an old immigration category that 

was replaced by Tier 2, such as work permit holders. 

Some of these occupations are described as borderline NQF 3. This means that 

only some jobs in the occupation are skilled to NQF level 3, and some jobs are 

below this level. You should refer to the code of practice for more information on 

which jobs in the SOC code are at NQF level 3. 

No migrants can be sponsored for jobs below NQF level 3 in these occupations 

(other than those sponsored under the specific arrangements for work permit 

holders who are senior care workers or established entertainers). 


Code 

SOC code description Related job titles Sector Skill level 

1 MANAGERS AND SENIOR OFFICIALS 

11 CORPORATE MANAGERS 

116 Managers in distribution, storage and retailing 

1162 Storage and warehouse Parts manager, Stock control Section H – 

NQF 3 

managers 

manager, Stores manager, transportation and 

Warehouse manager 

storage 

1163 Retail and wholesale 

Baker’s manager, Garden centre Section S – other NQF 3 

managers 

manager, Retail manager, Shop 

manager (retail trade), Showroom 

manager, Wholesale manager 


12 MANAGERS AND PROPRIETORS IN AGRICULTURE AND SERVICES 

121 Managers in farming, horticulture, forestry and fishing 

1211 Farm managers Farm manager, Manager 

Section A – 

NQF 3 

(agriculture), Manager 


(horticulture) 

and fishing 

122 Managers and proprietors in hospitality and leisure services 

1221 Hotel and accommodation Caravan park owner, Guest Section I – 

NQF 3 

managers 

house proprietor, Hotel manager, accommodation and 

Hotelier 


1223 Restaurant and catering Canteen manager, Catering Section I – 

Borderline 

managers 

manager, Fish and chip 

accommodation and NQF 3 

shopkeeper, Restaurant manager, 

Restaurateur 


1224 Publicans and managers of Club steward, Licensee, Public Section I – 


licensed premises 

house manager, Publican accommodation and 


NQF 3 

1225 Leisure and sports managers Leisure centre manager, Manager Section R – arts, NQF 3 


- Page 12 of 26 -

1226 Travel agency managers 

(snooker, billiards hall), Riding 

school owner, Sports centre 

manager 

Manager (travel agents), Travel 

manager 

123 Managers and proprietors in other service industries 

1232 Garage managers and 

proprietors 

1233 Hairdressing and beauty salon 

managers and proprietors 

Body shop manager (vehicle 

trades), Garage manager, Garage 

owner, Service manager (garage) 

Hairdresser’s manager, Manager 

(hairdressing), Owner (beauty 

salon) 

General store keeper, Newsagent 

1234 Shopkeepers and 

wholesale/retail dealers Off-licensee, Owner (butchers) 


31 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ASSOCIATE PROFESSIONALS 

311 Science and engineering technicians 

3111 Laboratory technicians Cytology screener, Health physics 

monitor, Laboratory technician, 

Scientific assistant 

3112 Electrical/electronics 

Electrical technician, Electronics 

technicians 

technician, Signals officer (MOD) 

3113 Engineering technicians Commissioning engineer, 

Contracts engineer, Engineering 

technician, Engineer’s assistant, 

3114 Building and civil engineering 

technicians 

Technician engineer 

Building technician, Civil 

engineering technician, Structural 

engineering technician 

3115 Quality assurance technicians NDT technician, QA co-ordinator, 

Quality assurance technician 

3119 Science and engineering 

technicians not elsewhere 

classified 

Materials technician, Technical 

assistant, Technical officer, 

Technician 

312 Draughtspersons and building inspectors 

3122 Draughtspersons Cartographer, Designer-detailer, 

Designer-draughtsman, 

Draughtsman/woman, 

Draughtsman-engineer, 

Engineering draughtsman 

313 IT service delivery occupations 

3132 IT user support technicians Help desk operator, Helpline 

operator (computing), IT helpline 

support officer, Support technician 

(computing), Systems support 

officer 


recreation 



Section G – wholesale 

and retail trade, repair 

of motor vehicles and 

motorcycles 





Section M – 



Section M – 



Section M – 



Section F – 

construction 

Section N – 



activities 

Section M – 



Section M – 





32 HEALTH AND SOCIAL WELFARE ASSOCIATE PROFESSIONALS 

321 Health associate professionals 

3216 Dispensing opticians Dispensing optician Section Q – human 


3217 Pharmaceutical dispensers Dispenser, Dispensing assistant, 

Pharmacy technician 

activities 



activities 


- Page 13 of 26 - 

NQF 3 

NQF 3 

NQF 3 

NQF 3 

NQF 3 

NQF 3 

NQF 3 

NQF 3 

NQF 3 

NQF 3 

NQF 3 


NQF 3 

NQF 3 


NQF 3

323 Social welfare associate Professionals 

3231 Youth and community workers Community worker, Day centre 

officer, Youth leader, Youth 

worker 

3232 Housing and welfare officers Advice worker, Care officer, 

Counsellor (welfare services), 

Education welfare officer, Housing 

officer, Welfare officer 

33 PROTECTIVE SERVICE OCCUPATIONS 

331 Protective service occupations 

3311 NCOs and other ranks Airman/woman, Corporal, Petty 

officer, Private, Sapper, Sergeant, 

Sergeant-Major 

3312 Police officers (sergeant and 

below) 

3313 Fire service officers (leading 

fire officer and below) 

3314 Prison service officers (below 

principal officer) 

Detective sergeant, Police 

constable, Police officer, 

Policeman 

Fire officer (coal mine), Fire 

fighter (fire service), Fireman (fire 

service) 

Prison officer, Warder (prison 

service) 

34 CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORTS OCCUPATIONS 

342 Design associate professionals 

3421 Graphic designers Commercial artist, Graphic artist, 

Graphic designer 

343 Media associate professionals 

3434 Photographers and audiovisual 

equipment operators 

Audio visual technician, Camera 

operator (film, television 

production), Film technician, 

Photographer, Press 

photographer, Projectionist, 

Sound recordist 

344 Sports and fitness occupations 

3441 Sports players Cricketer, Footballer, Golfer, 

3442 Sports coaches, instructors 

and officials 

Jockey 

Referee, Sports coach, Sports 

development officer, Steward 

(horse racing), Swimming 

teacher, Umpire 

3443 Fitness instructors Aerobics instructor, Fitness 

consultant, Keep fit teacher 

3449 Sports and fitness occupations 

not elsewhere classified 

Outdoor pursuits instructor, 

Outward bound tutor, Riding 

instructor 



3511 Air traffic controllers Air traffic controller, Controller of 

aircraft, Flight planner, Ground 



Section I – 




- Page 14 of 26 - 

NQF 3 

NQF 3 




control. 









NQF 3 

NQF 3 




control. 

Section N – 



activities 

Section M – 



NQF 3 


NQF 3 

These occupations are not 

appropriate to Tier 2 (general) 

applications. If you wish to sponsor 

someone in these occupations, 

please see the Tier 2 

(sportsperson) sponsor guidance 

and contact your governing body 

for further information. 



recreation 



recreation 

Section H – 


NQF 3 

NQF 3 

NQF 3

movement controller (airport) storage 

352 Legal associate professionals 

3520 Legal associate professionals Barrister’s clerk, Conveyancer, 

Data protection officer, Legal 

assistant, Legal executive 

353 Business and finance associate professionals 

3533 Insurance underwriters Insurance underwriter, 

Underwriter 

Section M – 




and insurance 

activities 

3536 Importers, exporters Export agent, Exporter, Importer Section H – 


354 Sales and related associate professionals 

3542 Sales representatives Manufacturer’s agent, 

Salesman/woman (wholesale), 

Technical representative 

3544 Estate agents, auctioneers Auctioneer, Estate agent, Land 

agent, Letting agent 

355 Conservation associate professionals 

3552 Countryside and park rangers Countryside ranger, Countryside 

warden, Environmental warden, 

Park ranger 

356 Public service and other associate professionals 

3562 Personnel and industrial 

relations officers 

3563 Vocational and industrial 

trainers and instructors 

Industrial relations officer, 

Personnel officer, Recruitment 

consultant 

Staff trainer, Technical instructor, 

Training consultant, Training 

instructor, Training officer 

4 ADMINISTRATIVE AND SECRETARIAL OCCUPATIONS 

41 ADMINISTRATIVE OCCUPATIONS 

411 Administrative occupations: government and related organisations 

4111 Civil Service executive officers Adviser (Job Centre), Executive 

officer (government), Revenue 

executive (government) 

4114 Officers of non-governmental 

organisations 

413 Administrative occupations: records 

4134 Transport and distribution 

clerks 

Branch secretary (charitable 

organisation), Charity 

administrator, Official (trade 

union), Organiser (trade union) 

Distribution co-ordinator, Fleet 

administrator, Fleet controller, 

Shipping clerk, Transport clerk 

4137 Market research interviewers Market research interviewer, 

Market researcher (interviewing), 

Telephone interviewer 

42 SECRETARIAL AND RELATED OCCUPATIONS 

421 Secretarial and related occupations 

4214 Company secretaries Club secretary, Company 

secretary 

4215 Personal assistants and other 

secretaries 

Bilingual secretary, Farm 

secretary, Manager’s personal 

assistant, Personal managerial 

storage 




activities 

Section A – 


and fishing 


- Page 15 of 26 - 

NQF 3 

NQF 3 

NQF 3 

NQF 3 

NQF 3 

NQF 3 

Section N – 

NQF 3 



activities 

Section P – education NQF 3 









Section H – 


storage 

Section N – 



activities 

Section N – 



activities 

Section N – 




NQF 3 


NQF 3 


NQF 3 


NQF 3 


NQF 3 


NQF 3

assistant, Secretary activities 

5 SKILLED TRADES OCCUPATIONS 

51 SKILLED AGRICULTURAL TRADES 

511 Agricultural trades 

5111 Farmers Agricultural contractor, Farmer, 

Herd manager, Small holder 

5112 Horticultural trades Horticulturist (market gardening), 

Market gardener 

5113 Gardeners and 

groundsmen/groundswomen 

5119 Agricultural and fishing trades 

not elsewhere classified 

Nurseryman, Propagator 

Gardener, Greenkeeper, 

Groundsman/groundswoman, 

Landscape gardener, Turf cutter 

Fisherman, Gamekeeper, 

Greyhound trainer, Stable 

manager, Tree surgeon 

52 SKILLED METAL AND ELECTRICAL TRADES 

521 Metal forming, welding and related trades 

5211 Smiths and forge workers Blacksmith, Farrier, Forger, Hot 

5212 Moulders, core makers, die 

casters 

brass stamper, Smith 

Coremaker (metal trades), Die 

caster, Floor moulder, Moulder 

and coremaker (foundry) 

5213 Sheet metal workers Coppersmith, Metal finisher, 

Panel beater (metal trades), 

Sheet metal fabricator, Sheet 

metal worker 

5214 Metal plate workers, 

Boilermaker, Caulker-burner 

Section A – 


and fishing 

Section A – 


and fishing 

Section A – 


and fishing 

Section A – 


and fishing 

Section C – 

manufacturing 

Section C – 

manufacturing 

Section C – 

manufacturing 


- Page 16 of 26 - 


NQF 3 


NQF 3 


NQF 3 


NQF 3 

NQF 3 


NQF 3 


NQF 3 

shipwrights, riveters 

Plater-welder, Shipwright 

Section C – 

manufacturing 


NQF 3 

5215 Welding trades Arc welder, Electric welder, Fitterwelder, 

Solderer (metal trades), 

Spot welder 

Welder 

Section C – 

manufacturing 


NQF 3 

5216 Pipe fitters Advanced pipe fitter, Pipe fitter Section F – 

construction 


NQF 3 

522 Metal machining, fitting and instrument making trades 

5221 Metal machining setters and Centre lathe turner, Machine Section C – 

NQF 3 

setter-operators 

setter (metal trades), Machine tool 

setter, Setter (metal trades), 

Setter-operator (metal trades), 

Tool setter-operator 

manufacturing 

5222 Tool makers, tool fitters and Die sinker (metal trades), Jig and Section C – 

NQF 3 

markers-out 

tool fitter, Marker-off 

(engineering), Tool maker (metal 

trades), Tool room fitter 

manufacturing 

5223 Metal working production and Aircraft engineer, Aircraft fitter, Section C – 


maintenance fitters 

Aircraft ground engineer, Bench 

fitter, Engineering fitter, Fitter and 

turner, Machine fitter, 

Maintenance fitter, Mechanicfitter, 

Millwright, Plant fitter 

manufacturing 

NQF 3 

5224 Precision instrument makers Clockmaker, Horologist, 

Section C – 

NQF 3 

and repairers 

Instrument maker, Instrument 

mechanic, Optical technician, 

Precision engineer, Watch and 

clock repairer, Watchmaker 

manufacturing 

523 Vehicle trades 

5231 Motor mechanics, auto Car mechanic, Diesel fitter, Section H – Borderline

engineers Garage mechanic, Motor fitter, 

Motor mechanic, Motor vehicle 

technician, Motorcycle mechanic, 

Vehicle mechanic, Vehicle 

5232 Vehicle body builders and 

repairers 

patrolman/woman 

Body builder (vehicles), Body 

maker (vehicles), Coach builder, 

Coach finisher, Panel beater 

(vehicle repair), Vehicle body 

repairer, Vehicle builder 

5233 Auto electricians Auto electrician, Automobile 

electrician 

5234 Vehicle spray painters Car paint sprayer, Coach painter, 

Vehicle refinisher 

524 Electrical trades 

5241 Electricians, electrical fitters Electrical contractor, Electrical 

fitter, Electrician, Maintenance 

5242 Telecommunications 

engineers 

5243 Lines repairers and cable 

jointers 

electrician 

Technical officer 

(telecommunications), Telecom 

engineer, Telecommunications 

engineer, Telephone engineer, 

Telephone installation engineer, 

Telephone technician 

Cable jointer, Cable repairer 

(electric), Overhead linesman 

5244 TV, video and audio engineers Radio and television engineer, 

Service engineer (radio and 

television), Television engineer, 

Television service engineer, 

Video engineer (service and 

5245 Computer engineers, 

installation and maintenance 

5249 Electrical/electronics 

engineers not elsewhere 

classified 

repair) 

Computer engineer, Computer 

maintenance engineer, Computer 

service engineer, Computer 

service technician 

Alarm engineer, Customer 

engineer (office machinery), 

Electronic engineer 

(maintenance), Office machinery 

mechanic, Service engineer, 

Signal technician (railways) 

53 SKILLED CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING TRADES 

531 Construction trades 

5311 Steel erectors Steel erector, Steel fabricator, 

Structural erector 

5312 Bricklayers, masons Bricklayer, Mason, Monumental 

mason, Stone mason 

5313 Roofers, roof tilers and slaters Felt roofer, Roof sheeter, Roof 

tiler, Roofer, Roofing contractor, 

5314 Plumbers, heating and 

ventilating engineers 

Slater, Slater and tiler, Thatcher 

Air conditioning engineer, Gas 

service engineer, Heating 


storage 




motorcycles 




motorcycles 




motorcycles 

Section D – electricity, 

gas, steam and air 

conditioning supply 






Section M – 





Section M – 



Section F – 

construction 

Section F – 

construction 

Section F – 

construction 

Section F – 

construction 


- Page 17 of 26 - 

NQF 3 


NQF 3 

NQF 3 


NQF 3 


NQF 3 

NQF 3 


NQF 3 


NQF 3 

NQF 3 

NQF 3 


NQF 3 


NQF 3 


NQF 3 

NQF 3

5319 Construction trades not 

engineer, Plumber, Plumbing and 

heating engineer 

Builder (building and contracting), Section F – 

NQF 3 


Builder and decorator, Building 

contractor, General builder, Steel 

fixer, Steeplejack 

construction 

54 TEXTILES, PRINTING AND OTHER SKILLED TRADES 

541 Textiles and garments trades 

5411 Weavers and knitters Carpet weaver, Knitter, Net 

maker, Textile weaver, Weaver 

Section C – 

manufacturing 


NQF 3 

5412 Upholsterers Coach trimmer, Curtain maker, 

Interior sprung mattress maker, 

Upholsterer 

Section C – 

manufacturing 


NQF 3 

5413 Leather and related trades Clicker (footwear mfr), Cobbler, 

Laster, Saddler, Shoe maker, 

Shoe repairer 

Section C – 

manufacturing 


NQF 3 

5414 Tailors and dressmakers Alteration hand, Dressmaker, 

Milliner, Tailoress 

Section C – 

manufacturing 


NQF 3 

5419 Textiles, garments and related 

trades not elsewhere classified 

Corsetiere, Cushion filler, Hat 

blocker, Sailmaker 

Section C – 

manufacturing 


NQF 3 

542 Printing trades 

5421 Originators, compositors and Compositor, Lithographic planner, Section M – 

NQF 3 

print preparers 

Lithographic plate maker, Paste- professional, scientific 

up artist, Stereotyper, Type setter and technical activities 

5422 Printers General printer, Master printer, Section C – 

NQF 3 

Printer 

manufacturing 

5423 Bookbinders and print finishers Binder’s assistant, Bookbinder, 

Collator (printing), Darkroom 

technician, Print finisher 

Section C – 

manufacturing 


NQF 3 

5424 Screen printers Block printer, Screen printer, Silk 

screen printer 

Section C – 

manufacturing 


NQF 3 

543 Food preparation trades 

5431 Butchers, meat cutters Butcher, Butcher’s cutter, Meat 

cutter, Slaughterer 

Section I – 




NQF 3 

5432 Bakers, flour confectioners Baker, Baker and confectioner, 

Cake decorator, Confectioner (not 

Section I – 



NQF 3 

retail trade) 


5433 Fishmongers, poultry dressers Filleter (fish), Fishmonger, Poultry 

dresser 

Section I – 




NQF 3 

5434 Chefs, cooks Caterer, Chef, Cook, Cook in 

charge, Head cook 

Section I – 




NQF 3 

549 Skilled trades not elsewhere classified 

5491 Glass and ceramics makers, 

decorators and finishers 

Brick maker, Caster (ceramics 

mfr), Ceramic artist, Glass blower, 

Glass cutter, Glass maker, 

Lithographer (ceramics mfr), 

Potter 

Section C – 

manufacturing 


NQF 3 

5492 Furniture makers, other craft 

woodworkers 

Antiques restorer, Cabinet maker, 

Coffin maker, Furniture fitter, 

Picture frame maker, Veneer 

preparer, Wood carver 

Section C – 

manufacturing 


NQF 3 

5493 Pattern makers (moulds) Engineer’s pattern maker, Model Section C – 

NQF 3 

maker (engineering), Pattern 

maker (metal trades), Wood 

pattern maker 

manufacturing 


- Page 18 of 26 -

5494 Musical instrument makers 

and tuners 

5495 Goldsmiths, silversmiths, 

precious stone workers 

Musical instrument maker, Organ 

builder, Piano tuner, Violin 

repairer 

Diamond mounter, Diamond 

polisher, Gem setter, Goldsmith, 

Manufacturing jeweller, 

Silversmith 

5496 Floral arrangers, florists Floral designer, Florist, Flower 

arranger 

5499 Hand craft occupations not Basket maker (not wire), Billiard 


table fitter, Blind maker, 

Lampshade maker, Toy maker, 

Wig maker 

6 PERSONAL SERVICE OCCUPATIONS 

61 CARING PERSONAL SERVICE OCCUPATIONS 

611 Healthcare and related personal services 

6111 Nursing auxiliaries and Assistant nurse, Nursing 

assistants 

assistant, Nursing auxiliary, 

Occupational therapy helper, 

Operating department assistant, 

Phlebotomist, Physiotherapy 

helper, Ward assistant, Ward 

orderly 

6113 Dental nurses Dental nurse, Dental surgery 

assistant 

6114 Houseparents and residential 

wardens 

6115 Care assistants and home 

carers 

Houseparent, Matron (residential 

home), Resident warden, Warden 

(sheltered housing) 

Care assistant, Home care 

assistant, Night care assistant, 

Residential social worker 

612 Childcare and related personal services 

6121 Nursery nurses Crèche assistant, Nursery 

assistant, Nursery nurse 

6123 Playgroup leaders/assistants Play leader, Playgroup assistant, 

Playgroup leader 

62 LEISURE AND OTHER PERSONAL SERVICE OCCUPATIONS 

621 Leisure and travel service occupations 

6214 Air travel assistants Air hostess, Air steward / 

stewardess, Aircraft purser, Cabin 

attendant, Passenger services 

agent 

6215 Rail travel assistants Conductor (railways), Revenue 

protection officer (railways), Ticket 

collector (railways), Train guard 

7 SALES AND CUSTOMER SERVICE OCCUPATIONS 

71 SALES OCCUPATIONS 

712 Sales related occupations 

7125 Merchandisers and window Display assistant (retail trade), 

dressers 

Merchandiser, Window dresser 

8 PROCESS, PLANT AND MACHINE OPERATIVES 


812 Plant and machine operatives 

8124 Energy plant operatives Auxiliary plant attendant, Boiler 

attendant, Boiler operator, Stoker, 

Substation attendant (electricity 

supplier), Unit operator 

Section C – 

manufacturing 

Section C – 

manufacturing 



Section C – 

manufacturing 



activities 



activities 

Section I – 





activities 


- Page 19 of 26 - 


NQF 3 

NQF 3 


NQF 3 


NQF 3 


NQF 3 


NQF 3 


NQF 3 


NQF 3 

Section P – education Borderline 

NQF 3 

Section P – education Borderline 

NQF 3 

Section H – 


storage 

Section H – 


storage 







NQF 3 


NQF 3 


NQF 3 


NQF 3

8126 Water and sewerage plant 

operatives 

Filter attendant (water works), 

Plant operator (sewage/water 

works), Sewerman, Turncock, 

Water treatment plant operator 

Section E – water 

supply, sewerage, 

waste management 

and remediation 

activities 

82 TRANSPORT AND MOBILE MACHINE DRIVERS AND OPERATIVES 

821 Transport drivers and operatives 

8215 Driving instructors Driving instructor, HGV instructor Section H – 


8217 Seafarers (merchant navy); 

barge, lighter and boat 

operatives 

Boatman/woman, Bo’sun, Deck 

hand (shipping), Merchant 

seaman/woman, Seaman/woman 

(shipping) 

storage 

Section H – 


storage 

9 ELEMENTARY OCCUPATIONS 

91 ELEMENTARY TRADES, PLANT AND STORAGE RELATED OCCUPATIONS 

911 Elementary agricultural occupations 

9119 Fishing and agriculture related 

occupations not elsewhere 

classified 

Artificial inseminator, Horticultural 

worker, Mushroom picker, 

Nursery worker, Sheep shearer 

92 ELEMENTARY ADMINISTRATION AND SERVICE OCCUPATIONS 

922 Elementary personal services occupations 

9224 Waiters, Waitresses Head waiter/waitress, 

Waiter/waitress 

Section A – 


and fishing 

Section I – 




- Page 20 of 26 - 


NQF 3 


NQF 3 


NQF 3 


NQF 3 


NQF 3

Occupations below NQF level 3 

Tier 2 applicants cannot be sponsored for jobs in these occupations. There are no 

codes of practice for these occupations. 


Code 

SOC code description Related job titles Skill level 




3514 Train drivers Engine driver (railways), Locomotive driver, Train driver Below NQF 3 

4 ADMINISTRATIVE AND SECRETARIAL OCCUPATIONS 

41 ADMINISTRATIVE OCCUPATIONS 

411 Administrative occupations: government and related organisations 

4112 Civil Service administrative Administrative assistant (government), Administrative Below NQF 3 

officers and assistants officer (government), Revenue assistant (government) 

4113 Local government clerical Administrative assistant (local government), Clerical Below NQF 3 

officers and assistants assistant (local government), Clerical officer (local 

government), Local government officer 

412 Administrative occupations: finance 

4121 Credit controllers Credit control clerk, Credit controller, Credit supervisor Below NQF 3 

4122 Accounts and wages clerks, Accounts assistant, Accounts clerk, Audit assistant, Below NQF 3 

book-keepers, other financial 

clerks 

Bookkeeper, Cost clerk, Ledger clerk, Wages clerk 

4123 Counter clerks Bank clerk, Box office clerk, Cashier (bank, building 

society), Cashier (bookmakers, turf accountants), Clerk 

(bank, building society), Post office clerk, Ticket seller 

Below NQF 3 

413 Administrative occupations: records 

4131 Filing and other records Filing clerk, Lottery assistant, Records clerk, Technical Below NQF 3 

assistants/clerks 

clerk 

4132 Pensions and insurance 

clerks 

Claims handler, Insurance clerk, Pensions administrator Below NQF 3 

4133 Stock control clerks Material controller, Progress chaser, Stock control clerk, 

Stock controller 

Below NQF 3 

4135 Library assistants/clerks Library assistant, Library clerk Below NQF 3 

4136 Database assistants/clerks Computer clerk, Data entry clerk, Data processor, VDU 

operator 

Below NQF 3 

414 Administrative occupations: communications 

4141 Telephonists Switchboard operator (telephone), Telephone operator, 

Telephonist 

Below NQF 3 

4142 Communication operators Communications operator, Control room operator 

(emergency services), Radio operator, 

Telecommunications officer, Telex operator 

Below NQF 3 

415 Administrative occupations: general 

4150 General office 

Clerical assistant, Clerical officer, Clerk, Clerk-typist, Below NQF 3 

assistants/clerks 

Office supervisor 

42 SECRETARIAL AND RELATED OCCUPATIONS 

421 Secretarial and related occupations 

4211 Medical secretaries Doctor’s secretary, Medical secretary Below NQF 3 

4212 Legal secretaries Legal secretary, Litigation secretary Below NQF 3 

4213 School secretaries School clerk, School secretary Below NQF 3 

4216 Receptionists Doctor’s receptionist, Receptionist, Secretaryreceptionist 

Below NQF 3 

4217 Typists Audio typist, Shorthand typist, Typist, Word processor 

operator 

Below NQF 3 

5 SKILLED TRADES OCCUPATIONS 

53 SKILLED CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING TRADES 


- Page 21 of 26 -

531 Construction trades 

5315 Carpenters and joiners Boat builder, Builder’s joiner, Carpenter, Carpenter and 

joiner, Shop fitter 

Below NQF 3 

5316 Glaziers, window fabricators Double glazing installer, Glass fitter, Glazier, Leaded Below NQF 3 

and fitters 

light maker, Window fabricator, Window fitter 

532 Building trades 

5321 Plasterers Plasterer, Plastering contractor Below NQF 3 

5322 Floorers and wall tilers Carpet fitter, Carpet planner, Floor layer, Floor tiler, Tile 

fixer, Wall tiler 

Below NQF 3 

5323 Painters and decorators Decorator, French polisher, House painter, Painter, 

Painter and decorator, Sign writer 

Below NQF 3 

6 PERSONAL SERVICE OCCUPATIONS 

61 CARING PERSONAL SERVICE OCCUPATIONS 

611 Healthcare and related personal services 

6112 Ambulance staff (excluding Ambulance driver, Ambulance technician, 

Below NQF 3 

paramedics) 

Ambulanceman/woman 

612 Childcare and related personal services 

6122 Childminders and related 

occupations 

Au pair, Child minder, Children’s nanny Below NQF 3 

6124 Educational assistants Classroom helper, Education care officer, Non-teaching 

assistant, School helper, Special needs helper 

Below NQF 3 

613 Animal care services 

6131 Veterinary nurses and 

assistants 

Animal technician, Veterinary assistant Below NQF 3 

6139 Animal care occupations not Canine beautician, Dog warden, Groom, Kennel maid, Below NQF 3 


Zoo keeper 

62 LEISURE AND OTHER PERSONAL SERVICE OCCUPATIONS 

621 Leisure and travel service occupations 

6211 Sports and leisure assistants Croupier, Lifeguard, Recreation assistant, Turf 

accountant, Wardrobe mistress 

Below NQF 3 

6212 Travel agents Booking clerk (travel agents), Reservations clerk (travel), 

Travel agency clerk, Travel agent, Travel sales 

executive 

Below NQF 3 

6213 Travel and tour guides Coach guide, Courier (tour operator), Escort, Guide, 

Representative (tour operator) 

Below NQF 3 

6219 Leisure and travel service 


classified 

Bus conductor, Ship’s steward Below NQF 3 

622 Hairdressers and related occupations 

6221 Hairdressers, barbers Barber, Hair stylist, Hairdresser Below NQF 3 

6222 Beauticians and related Beautician, Make-up artist, Manicurist, Slimming Below NQF 3 

occupations 

consultant 

623 Housekeeping occupations 

6231 Housekeepers and related 

occupations 

Butler, Cook-housekeeper, Housekeeper, Valet Below NQF 3 

6232 Caretakers Caretaker, Janitor, School caretaker Below NQF 3 

629 Personal services occupations not elsewhere classified 

6291 Undertakers and mortuary Bearer (funeral directors), Embalmer, Funeral director, Below NQF 3 

assistants 

Undertaker 

6292 Pest control officers Pest control officer, Pest controller Below NQF 3 

7 SALES AND CUSTOMER SERVICE OCCUPATIONS 

71 SALES OCCUPATIONS 

711 Sales assistants and retail cashiers 

7111 Sales and retail assistants Counter assistant, Retail assistant, Sales assistant, 

Shop assistant 

Below NQF 3 

7112 Retail cashiers and check- Cashier (retail trade), Check-out operator, Forecourt Below NQF 3 

out operators 

attendant, Petrol pump attendant, Restaurant cashier 


- Page 22 of 26 -

7113 Telephone salespersons Telephone canvasser, Telephone salesperson Below NQF 3 

712 Sales related occupations 

7121 Collector salespersons and Canvasser, Collector-salesperson, Credit agent, Door- Below NQF 3 

credit agents 

to-door salesman/woman, Insurance agent 

7122 Debt, rent and other cash Collector-agent, Debt collector, Meter reader, Rent Below NQF 3 

collectors 

collector, Vending machine operator 

7123 Roundsmen/women and van Driver-salesman/woman, Ice-cream salesman/woman, Below NQF 3 

salespersons 

Milkman/woman (milk retailing), Roundsman/woman, 

Van salesman/woman 

7124 Market and street traders Market assistant, Market trader, Stall holder, Street Below NQF 3 

and assistants 

trader 

7129 Sales related occupations Advertising representative, Demonstrator, Negotiator Below NQF 3 

not elsewhere classified (estate agents), Sales representative (retail trade), 

Wayleave officer 

72 CUSTOMER SERVICE OCCUPATIONS 

721 Customer service occupations 

7211 Call centre agents/operators Answer line operator, Sales order clerk, Telephone 

adviser 

Below NQF 3 

7212 Customer care occupations Commercial officer (telecommunications), Customer 

care adviser, Customer liaison officer, Customer 

services assistant 

Below NQF 3 



811 Process operatives 

8111 Food, drink and tobacco Bakery assistant, Brewery worker, Dairy worker, Below NQF 3 

process operatives 

Process worker (food products mfr) 

8112 Glass and ceramics process Glass furnace operator, Kiln burner (glass, ceramics Below NQF 3 

operatives 

mfr), Kiln placer, Kiln setter 

8113 Textile process operatives Creeler, Spinner (textile mfr), Stenter operator, Winder 

(textile mfr) 

Below NQF 3 

8114 Chemical and related Colour mixer, Dye house operative (textile mfr), Nylon Below NQF 3 


spinner, Paint maker, Process worker (chemical mfr) 

8115 Rubber process operatives Curer (rubber), Rubber moulder (moulds), Rubber 

worker, Tyre maker, Vulcaniser 

Below NQF 3 

8116 Plastics process operatives Extruder operator (plastics mfr), Fabricator (plastics mfr), 

Fibreglass laminator, Injection moulder (plastics goods 

mfr), Plastic moulder 

Below NQF 3 

8117 Metal making and treating Annealer, Furnaceman (metal trades), Heat treatment Below NQF 3 


operator (metal), Jigger (metal trades), Rolling mill 

operator, Wire drawer 

8118 Electroplaters Anodiser, Electroplater, Galvaniser Below NQF 3 

8119 Process operatives not Concrete worker (concrete products mfr), Process Below NQF 3 


worker (jewellery, plate mfr) 

812 Plant and machine operatives 

8121 Paper and wood machine Case maker, Guillotine operator (paper goods mfr), Below NQF 3 

operatives 

Sawyer (wood), Wood machinist 

8122 Coal mine operatives Coal miner, Miner (coal mine), Power loader (coal mine), 

Underground worker 

Below NQF 3 

8123 Quarry workers and related Miner (mine, not coal), Quarry worker, Roughneck, Below NQF 3 

operatives 

Washery operator, Well driller 

8125 Metal working machine Fettler (metal trades), Grinding machinist (metal trades), Below NQF 3 

operatives 

Metal polisher, Press operator (metal trades), Shot 

blaster, Tool room machinist 

8129 Plant and machine 

Duct erector, Guillotine operator (metal trades), 

Below NQF 3 

operatives not elsewhere Pumpsman, Saw doctor, Spring maker, Television aerial 

classified 

erector, Wire worker 

813 Assemblers and routine operatives 

8131 Assemblers (electrical Armature winder, Assembler (electrical, electronic Below NQF 3 


- Page 23 of 26 -

products) equipment), Coil winder, Wireman/woman 

8132 Assemblers (vehicles and Assembler (metal trades), Car assembler, Lineworker Below NQF 3 

metal goods) 

(vehicle mfr) 

8133 Routine inspectors and Engineering inspector, Examiner (manufacturing), Below NQF 3 

testers 

Passer (manufacturing), Quality control inspector 

(manufacturing), Test engineer, Viewer (electrical goods 

mfr) 

8134 Weighers, graders, sorters Egg grader, Fruit sorter, Selector (ceramics mfr), 

Weighbridge clerk, Weigher 

Below NQF 3 

8135 Tyre, exhaust and 

Exhaust fitter (vehicles), Tyre and exhaust fitter, Tyre Below NQF 3 

windscreen fitters 

fitter, Windscreen fitter 

8136 Clothing cutters Band knife cutter, Clothing cutter, Cutting machinist 

(clothing mfr), Marker (clothing mfr) 

Below NQF 3 

8137 Sewing machinists Burler, Clothing machinist, Lockstitch machinist, 

Overlocker, Seamstress, Sewing machinist (clothing mfr) 

Below NQF 3 

8138 Routine laboratory testers Laboratory assistant, Tester (paint mfr) Below NQF 3 

8139 Assemblers and routine Assembler, Dipper’s assistant, Enameller, Shoe 

Below NQF 3 

operatives not elsewhere 

classified 

machinist 

814 Construction operatives 

8141 Scaffolders, stagers, riggers Rigger, Scaffolder, Stager (shipbuilding), Rigger, 

Scaffolder, Stager (shipbuilding) 

Below NQF 3 

8142 Road construction operatives Asphalter, Paviour, Road worker Below NQF 3 

8143 Rail construction and Leading trackman/woman (railways), Plate layer, Below NQF 3 

maintenance operatives Trackman/woman (railways) 

8149 Construction operatives not Building site foreman, Ceiling fixer, Pipe layer, Thermal Below NQF 3 


insulation engineer 

82 TRANSPORT AND MOBILE MACHINE DRIVERS AND OPERATIVES 

821 Transport drivers and operatives 

8211 Heavy goods vehicle drivers Haulage contractor, HGV driver, Lorry driver, Tanker 

driver 

Below NQF 3 

8212 Van drivers Delivery driver, Van driver Below NQF 3 

8213 Bus and coach drivers Bus driver, Coach driver, PSV driver Below NQF 3 

8214 Taxi, cab drivers and 

chauffeurs 

Cab driver, Chauffeur, Private hire driver, Taxi driver Below NQF 3 

8216 Rail transport operatives Level crossing keeper, Railwayman, Shunter, Signalman 

(railways) 

Below NQF 3 

8218 Air transport operatives Aircraft handler, Airport hand, Baggage handler, Ramp 

agent 

Below NQF 3 

8219 Transport operatives not 


Bus inspector, Lock keeper, Transport supervisor Below NQF 3 

822 Mobile machine drivers and operatives 

8221 Crane drivers Banksman (coal mine), Crane driver/operator, Winding 

engine operator 

Below NQF 3 

8222 Fork-lift truck drivers Fork-lift driver, Fork-lift operator, Fork-lift truck driver, 

Stacker truck driver 

Below NQF 3 

8223 Agricultural machinery 

drivers 

Agricultural machinist, Tractor driver (agriculture) Below NQF 3 

8229 Mobile machine drivers and Digger driver, Excavator driver, Heavy plant operator, Below NQF 3 

operatives not elsewhere 

classified 

JCB driver, Plant operator (building and contracting) 

9 ELEMENTARY OCCUPATIONS 

91 ELEMENTARY TRADES, PLANT AND STORAGE RELATED OCCUPATIONS 

911 Elementary agricultural occupations 

9111 Farm workers Agricultural worker, Farm labourer, Farm worker, 

Herdsman, Shepherd 

Below NQF 3 

9112 Forestry workers Forestry contractor, Forestry worker, Lumberjack, 

Timber feller 

Below NQF 3 


- Page 24 of 26 -

912 Elementary construction occupations 

9121 Labourers in building and Builder’s labourer, Building worker, Handyman, Hod Below NQF 3 

woodworking trades 

carrier 

9129 Labourers in other 

Drainage worker, Fence erector, Grave digger, Marquee Below NQF 3 

construction trades not 


erector, Reservoir attendant 

913 Elementary process plant occupations 

9131 Labourers in foundries Foundry labourer, Foundry worker Below NQF 3 

9132 Industrial cleaning process 

occupations 

Cleaner (metal goods mfr), Hygiene operative Below NQF 3 

9133 Printing machine minders Lithographic machine operator, Printer’s assistant, Below NQF 3 

and assistants 

Printing machine operator 

9134 Packers, bottlers, canners, 

fillers 

Bottle filler, Packer, Packing machine operator, Wrapper Below NQF 3 

9139 Labourers in process and Electrician’s mate, Factory hand (engineering), Fitter’s Below NQF 3 

plant operations not 


mate, Labourer (engineering), Material handler 

914 Elementary goods storage occupations 

9141 Stevedores, dockers and Dock labourer, Dock worker, Docker, Port operator, Below NQF 3 

slingers 

Slinger, Stevedore 

9149 Other goods handling and Store keeper, Storeman, Warehouse assistant, 

Below NQF 3 

storage occupations not 


Warehouseman 

92 ELEMENTARY ADMINISTRATION AND SERVICE OCCUPATIONS 

921 Elementary administration occupations 

9211 Postal workers, mail sorters, Courier, Dispatch rider, Messenger, Postal worker, Below NQF 3 

messengers, couriers Postman/woman 

9219 Elementary office 


classified 

Office junior, Office worker, Paper keeper Below NQF 3 

922 Elementary personal services occupations 

9221 Hospital porters Domestic porter (hospital service), Hospital porter Below NQF 3 

9222 Hotel porters Hall porter, Hotel porter, House porter Below NQF 3 

9223 Kitchen and catering 

Canteen assistant, Catering assistant, Counterhand, Below NQF 3 

assistants 

Dining room assistant, Kitchen assistant, Kitchen porter, 

Washer-up (hotels, catering, public houses) 

9225 Bar staff Bar assistant, Bar steward/stewardess, 

Barman/maid/person 

Below NQF 3 

9226 Leisure and theme park Arcade attendant, Fairground worker, Funfair attendant, Below NQF 3 

attendants 

Usher/usherette 

9229 Elementary personal 

Bingo caller, Bingo operative, Stage hand 

Below NQF 3 

services occupations not 


(entertainment) 

923 Elementary cleaning occupations 

9231 Window cleaners Window cleaner Below NQF 3 

9232 Road sweepers Chimney sweep, Road sweeper, Street cleaner Below NQF 3 

9233 Cleaners, domestics Car valeter, Chambermaid, Cleaner, Domestic, 

Domestic cleaner 

Below NQF 3 

9234 Launderers, dry cleaners, Carpet cleaner, Dry cleaner, Garment presser, Hoffman Below NQF 3 

pressers 

presser, Laundry assistant, Laundry worker 

9235 Refuse and salvage 

Binman/woman (refuse collection), Dustman/woman, Below NQF 3 

occupations 

Recycling operative, Refuse collector 

9239 Elementary cleaning 


classified 

Hygiene cleaner, Toilet cleaner, Wash room attendant Below NQF 3 

924 Elementary security occupations 

9241 Security guards and related CCTV operator, Door keeper, Night watcher, Private Below NQF 3 

occupations 

detective, Security officer, Store detective 


- Page 25 of 26 -

9242 Traffic wardens Parking meter attendant, Traffic warden, Wheel clamper Below NQF 3 

9243 School crossing patrol 

attendants 

Lollipop man/lady, School crossing patrol officer Below NQF 3 

9244 School mid-day assistants Dinner supervisor, Lunchtime supervisor, Midday 

assistant (schools), Supervisory assistant (school meals) 

Below NQF 3 

9245 Car park attendants Car park attendant, Lift attendant, Parking attendant Below NQF 3 

9249 Elementary security 

Commissionaire, Court bailiff, Court usher, Museum Below NQF 3 


classified 

attendant 

925 Elementary sales occupations 

9251 Shelf fillers Display assistant (shelf filling), Shelf filler, Stock handler Below NQF 3 

9259 Elementary sales 

Bill poster, Ticket checker (wholesale, retail trade), Below NQF 3 


classified 

Trolley collector (wholesale, retail trade) 


- Page 26 of 26 -

(SOC) code summary table - UK Border Agency

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