Compendium of Modern Jobs

I’ve been neck deep in data for a few weeks. Processing, converting, formatting to fit the needs of the pointy haired boss guy. Not a drop of it related to gaming. I’ve built a dozen software tools to import, export, convert and publish the data. So why not find a strange data source for RPG inspiration? I came across one data set over at the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The BLS publishes a lot of data. Most of it arcane and strange. If you toss out the excess information, something useful for role playing lies underneath.

Ever wondered what the guy walking down the street did as a career? Or got asked what some random NPC that meant nothing to a campaign did for a living? Wondered what some fellow did before he was trapped in his current, mind numbing job? All reasonable questions in a modern or post-modern/apocalypse games. Generally, any answer works but occasionally you want something specific. Maybe as a hook. Perhaps just to not tread down a well worn path yet again. Maybe you just need a little inspiration for a few key NPC’s who will be part of a larger plot but are struggling for a little history.

Jobs. Occupations. The BLS data covers it well. Go figure. With minimal formatting and zero data correction, I give you the Compendium of Modern Occupations. Covering 24 occupation categories and over six thousand individual job titles, the compendium should get ideas flowing on jobs and careers.

At first, I was going to convert the data into a random generator. Occasionally, its nice just to have a huge, voluminous list to page through until something hits you. The random generator can come later. Perhaps tomorrow.

Drop me a comment if you find it of use. I might be motivated to edit the data if you do.

Tags: Inspiration, Modern, Ramblings of Mark