Choosing a career in the Holland Realistic field can be a fulfilling journey for those who enjoy hands-on work, solving practical problems, and working with tools, machinery, or the outdoors. If you like building, repairing, or working with your hands in tangible, physical ways, a Realistic career might be the perfect fit. This guide will walk you through what it means to be a Realistic type, key skills and traits, popular career paths, and how to make a practical career choice.
Understanding Holland’s RIASEC Model
The Holland Codes, also known as the RIASEC model, categorize people into six personality types based on their interests and preferred work environments:
- Realistic (R) – The Doers: Prefer physical activities that require skill, strength, and coordination. They enjoy working with tools, machines, or animals, and often appreciate being outdoors.
- Investigative (I) – The Thinkers: Enjoy working with ideas and concepts, analyzing data, and solving complex problems.
- Artistic (A) – The Creators: Value creativity and self-expression, often drawn to unstructured environments.
- Social (S) – The Helpers: Enjoy working with people, helping others, and teaching.
- Enterprising (E) – The Persuaders: Thrive in leadership roles, enjoy influencing others, and are often entrepreneurial.
- Conventional (C) – The Organizers: Prefer structured tasks, working with data, and following established procedures.
Most individuals have a combination of two or three dominant types. For example, someone with a Realistic-Investigative-Conventional (RIC) profile might excel in technical or mechanical careers, such as engineering or computer repair. You can learn your three-letter Holland type with the Premium Report of the Career Fit Test™.
What is the Realistic Holland Type?
The Realistic personality type, often referred to as “Doers,” is a practical, physical, and action-oriented individual. They prefer working with their hands, operating tools or machines, and solving mechanical or physical problems. If you’re a Realistic type, you probably enjoy building, fixing, maintaining, or working outdoors rather than sitting at a desk all day.
Common Characteristics of Realistic Individuals:
- Hands-On Orientation: Enjoy working with tools, machines, or animals.
- Practical Problem-Solving: Prefer tangible tasks over abstract thinking.
- Physical Activity: Comfortable with physically demanding work.
- Independence: Often prefer working alone or with minimal supervision.
- Direct Communication: Value straightforwardness and clarity.
How a Career Test Can Help You Choose a Realistic Career
Taking a career test, such as the Career Fit Test™, can provide valuable insights into your Holland Code and help identify careers that align with your strengths and interests.
What the Career Aptitude Test Measures:
Career tests are also known as career aptitude tests. The Career Fit Test™ includes:
- Holland Code: Determines your dominant personality types.
- Transferable Skills: Highlights abilities like mechanical aptitude, physical coordination, and practical problem-solving.
- Interests: Identifies preferences for activities like building, repairing, or working outdoors.
- Personality Traits: Assesses characteristics such as dependability, persistence, and attention to detail.
Using your Career Fit Test™ results, you can explore Realistic careers that match your profile, leading to greater job satisfaction and success.
Realistic Careers
Realistic careers often involve using tools, working outdoors, operating machinery, or performing hands-on physical tasks. Many careers in the Realistic field require technical training, apprenticeships, certifications, or associate degrees, though some require bachelor’s degrees or more advanced education.
Categories of Realistic Careers
Skilled Trades:
- Electrician: Install and maintain electrical systems in homes, businesses, and factories.
- Plumber: Install and repair piping systems for water, gas, and waste.
- Carpenter: Construct and repair building frameworks and structures.
- Welder: Join metal parts using high-heat applications.
- HVAC Technician: Install and maintain heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
Engineering and Technical Fields:
- Mechanical Engineer: Design and develop mechanical systems and devices.
- Civil Engineer: Plans and oversees construction projects like roads and bridges.
- Automotive Technician: Diagnose and repair vehicle issues.
- Aircraft Mechanic: Maintain and repair aircraft systems.
Agriculture and Natural Resources:
- Farmer: Manage agricultural operations for crop and livestock production.
- Agricultural Technician: Assist in agricultural research and production.
- Forester: Manage forested lands for conservation and resource extraction.
- Landscaper: Design and maintain outdoor spaces.
Protective Services:
- Firefighter: Respond to emergencies and extinguish fires.
- Police Officer: Enforce laws and protect public safety.
- Security Guard: Monitor premises to prevent theft and ensure safety.
Manufacturing and Production:
- Machinist: Operate machine tools to produce precision metal parts.
- Assembler: Assembles components to create finished products.
- Quality Control Inspector: Examine products for defects and ensure standards are met.
Transportation:
- Truck Driver: Transport goods over long distances.
- Heavy Equipment Operator: Operate machinery used in construction and mining.
- Pilot: Fly aircraft for commercial or private purposes.
Healthcare Support:
- Dental Assistant: Assist dentists with patient care and administrative tasks.
- Physical Therapy Assistant: Assist patients in recovering from injuries under the supervision of physical therapists.
- Veterinary Technician: Assist veterinarians in caring for animals.
Other Realistic Careers:
- Chef: Prepare meals in restaurants and other establishments.
- Athletic Trainer: Prevent and treat athletic injuries.
- Construction Manager: Oversee construction projects from start to finish.
Extensive List of Realistic Careers
Here is an extensive list of Realistic Careers (remember that any career emphasises two or three Holland types):
• Adapted Physical Education Specialists
• Machine Operators
• Aerospace Engineering & Operations Technologists & Technicians
• Agricultural Equipment Operators
• Agricultural Inspectors
• Agricultural Technicians
• Aircraft Mechanics & Service Technicians
• Aircraft Service Attendants
• Aircraft Assemblers
• Airline Pilots, Copilots, & Flight Engineers
• Ambulance Drivers & Attendants
• Animal Breeders
• Animal Caretakers
• Animal Control Workers
• Animal Trainers
• Anthropologists & Archeologists
• Architects
• Architectural & Civil Drafters
• Astronomers
• Athletes & Sports Competitors
• Athletic Trainers
• Audio & Video Technicians
• Audiovisual Equipment Installers & Repairers
• Automotive & Watercraft Service Attendants
• Automotive Body Repairers
• Automotive Engineering Technicians
• Automotive Engineers
• Automotive Glass Installers & Repairers
• Automotive Service Technicians & Mechanics
• Avionics Technicians
• Bailiffs
• Bakers
• Barbers
• Baristas
• Bartenders
• Bicycle Repairers
• Biofuels Processing Technicians
• Biological Technicians
• Biomass Plant Technicians
• Boilermakers
• Brickmasons & Blockmasons
• Bridge & Lock Tenders
• Bus & Truck Mechanics
• Bus Drivers
• Butchers & Meat Cutters
• Calibration Technologists & Technicians
• Camera & Photographic Equipment Repairers
• Captains, Mates, & Pilots of Water Vessels
• Cardiovascular Technologists & Technicians
• Carpenters
• Carpet Installers
• Cement Masons & Concrete Finishers
• Chemical Engineers
• Chemical Equipment Operators & Tenders
• Chemical Plant & System Operators
• Chiropractors
• Civil Engineering Technologists & Technicians
• Civil Engineers
• Commercial Divers
• Commercial Pilots
• Computer Hardware Engineers
• Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators
• Construction & Building Inspectors
• Construction Laborers
• Cooks
• Correctional Officers & Jailers
• Crane & Tower Operators
• Crematory Operators
• Crossing Guards & Flaggers
• Cytotechnologists
• Dental Laboratory Technicians
• Dentists
• Dermatologists
• Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
• Drywall & Ceiling Tile Installers
• Earth Drillers
• Electrical & Electronic Engineering Technologists & Technicians
• Electrical & Electronic Equipment Assemblers
• Electrical & Electronics Drafters
• Electrical & Electronics Repairers
• Electrical Engineers
• Electrical Power-Line Installers & Repairers
• Electricians
• Electro-Mechanical & Mechatronics Technologists & Technicians
• Electromechanical Equipment Assemblers
• Electronic Equipment Installers & Repairers
• Electronics Engineers
• Elevator & Escalator Installers & Repairers
• Embalmers
• Endoscopy Technicians
• Energy Engineers
• Environmental Engineering Technologists & Technicians
• Environmental Restoration Planners
• Equipment Operators
• Etchers & Engravers
• Exercise Physiologists
• Explosives Workers
• Fabric & Apparel Patternmakers
• Farm Equipment Mechanics
• Farmworkers & Laborers
• Farmworkers, Farm, Ranch, & Aquacultural Animals
• Fiberglass Laminators & Fabricators
• Fire Inspectors & Investigators
• Fire-Prevention & Protection Engineers
• Firefighters
• Fish & Game Wardens
• Fishing & Hunting Workers
• Floor Layers
• Floral Designers
• Food Science Technicians
• Forest & Conservation Technicians
• Forest & Conservation Workers
• Forest Fire Inspectors & Prevention Specialists
• Foresters
• Fuel Cell Engineers
• Furniture Finishers
• Geodetic Surveyors
• Geological Technicians
• Geoscientists
• Geothermal Production Managers
• Geothermal Technicians
• Glass Blowers, Molders, Benders, & Finishers
• Glaziers
• Hairdressers, Hairstylists, & Cosmetologists
• Hazardous Materials Removal Workers
• Heating, Air Conditioning, & Refrigeration Mechanics & Installers
• Truck Drivers
• Highway Maintenance Workers
• Histology Technicians
• Hoist & Winch Operators
• Home Appliance Repairers
• Human Factors Engineers & Ergonomists
• Hydroelectric Plant Technicians
• Hydroelectric Production Managers
• Hydrologic Technicians
• Industrial Engineering Technologists & Technicians
• Industrial Machinery Mechanics
• Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, & Weighers
• Janitors & Cleaners
• Jewelers & Precious Stone & Metal Workers
• Landscape Architects
• Landscaping & Groundskeeping Workers
• Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, & Other Recreational Protective Service Workers
• Lighting Technicians
• Locksmiths & Safe Repairers
• Locomotive Engineers
• Machine Servicers & Repairers
• Machine Operators
• Machinists
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists
• Maids & Housekeeping Cleaners
• Manicurists & Pedicurists
• Manufacturing Engineers
• Marine Engineers & Naval Architects
• Materials Engineers
• Mechanical Drafters
• Mechanical Engineering Technologists & Technicians
• Mechanical Engineers
• Mechatronics Engineers
• Medical & Clinical Laboratory Technicians
• Medical Appliance Technicians
• Medical Equipment Repairers
• Microsystems Engineers
• Millwrights
• Mining & Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers
• Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics
• Model Makers
• Motorboat Mechanics & Service Technicians
• Motorboat Operators
• Motorcycle Mechanics
• Machine Tool Setters, Operators, & Tenders
• Museum Technicians & Conservators
• Musical Instrument Repairers & Tuners
• Nanotechnology Engineering Technologists & Technicians
• Nuclear Medicine Technologists
• Nuclear Monitoring Technicians
• Nuclear Power Reactor Operators
• Nuclear Technicians
• Nurse Anesthetists
• Occupational Health & Safety Technicians
• Operating Engineers
• Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians
• Ophthalmic Medical Technicians
• Ophthalmic Medical Technologists
• Orderlies
• Orthodontists
• Orthopedic Surgeons
• Orthotists & Prosthetists
• Painters, Construction & Maintenance
• Paperhangers
• Patternmakers
• Pest Control Workers
• Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, & Applicators
• Petroleum Engineers
• Phlebotomists
• Photographers
• Photographic Process Workers
• Photonics Technicians
• Pile Driver Operators
• Pipelayers
• Plasterers & Stucco Masons
• Plumbers
• Police & Sheriff’s Patrol Officers
• Power Distributors & Dispatchers
• Power Plant Operators
• Precision Agriculture Technicians
• Prosthodontists
• Radiation Therapists
• Radiologic Technologists & Technicians
• Railroad Conductors & Yardmasters
• Range Managers
• Recycling & Reclamation Workers
• Remote Sensing Technicians
• Riggers
• Robotics Engineers
• Robotics Technicians
• Roofers
• Rotary Drill Operators, Oil & Gas
• Sailors & Marine Oilers
• Security & Fire Alarm Systems Installers
• Security Guards
• Semiconductor Processing Technicians
• Sewers, Hand
• Sewing Machine Operators
• Ship Engineers
• Shoe & Leather Workers & Repairers
• Shuttle Drivers & Chauffeurs
• Skincare Specialists
• Soil & Plant Scientists
• Solar Energy Installation Managers
• Solar Energy Systems Engineers
• Solar Photovoltaic Installers
• Solar Thermal Installers & Technicians
• Sound Engineering Technicians
• Stationary Engineers & Boiler Operators
• Stone Cutters & Carvers, Manufacturing
• Stonemasons
• Structural Iron & Steel Workers
• Surgical Assistants
• Surgical Technologists
• Surveying & Mapping Technicians
• Tailors, Dressmakers, & Custom Sewers
• Taxi Drivers
• Telecommunications Equipment Installers & Repairers
• Telecommunications Line Installers & Repairers
• Terrazzo Workers & Finishers
• Tile & Stone Setters
• Tire Repairers & Changers
• Tool & Die Makers
• Traffic Technicians
• Transportation Engineers
• Transportation Vehicle, Equipment & Systems Inspectors
• Tree Trimmers & Pruners
• Upholsterers
• Veterinarians
• Veterinary Assistants & Laboratory Animal Caretakers
• Veterinary Technologists & Technicians
• Watch & Clock Repairers
• Water & Wastewater Treatment Plant & System Operators
• Water/Wastewater Engineers
• Weatherization Installers & Technicians
• Welders, Cutters, Solderers, & Brazers
• Wind Energy Engineers
• Wind Turbine Service Technicians
Key Skills for Realistic Careers
To succeed in a Realistic career, you need a blend of physical ability, technical know-how, and practical problem-solving skills.
Essential Realistic Skills:
- Mechanical Aptitude: Understanding how machines and tools work.
- Physical Stamina: Enduring physically demanding tasks.
- Problem-Solving: Diagnosing and fixing issues efficiently.
- Attention to Detail: Ensuring precision in tasks like measurements and assembly.
- Technical Proficiency: Operating specialized equipment and tools.
- Safety Awareness: Following protocols to prevent accidents.
Interests and Personality Traits of Realistic Individuals
If the following interests and personality traits describe you, a Realistic career may be a great fit.
Common Interests:
- Working Outdoors: Enjoying nature and open environments.
- Building and Repairing: Taking pride in creating or fixing tangible items.
- Operating Machinery: Comfort with using tools and equipment.
- Physical Activity: Preferring active work over sedentary tasks.
Personality Traits:
- Dependable: Reliable and consistent in work habits.
- Practical: Focused on realistic and achievable outcomes.
- Independent: Comfortable working alone or with minimal supervision.
- Persistent: Determined to complete tasks despite challenges.
- Detail-Oriented: Attentive to specifics and accuracy.
Education and Training for Realistic Careers
Many Realistic careers value practical experience, technical training, or certifications over traditional four-year degrees. However, some paths do require associate’s or bachelor’s degrees, especially in engineering, advanced technical fields, or management positions.
Common Educational Pathways:
- High School Diploma/GED: Entry-level jobs in landscaping, maintenance, construction labor, or truck driving may only require a high school diploma, combined with on-the-job training or licensing.
- Apprenticeships: Skilled trades like electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, and welders often require a state-registered apprenticeship program, which combines paid work experience with classroom instruction.
- Technical or Vocational School: Programs typically last from 6 months to 2 years and lead to certifications or diplomas in fields such as welding, auto repair, or machining.
- Associate Degree (2 years): Required for many technician roles (e.g., veterinary tech, physical therapy assistant, HVAC technology, or construction management).
- Bachelor’s Degree (4 years): Needed for careers like mechanical engineering, construction management, aviation (pilot), and forestry science.
- Licensing and Certification: Many Realistic careers require industry certification or state licensure to practice legally. Examples include electrician licenses, CDL (Commercial Driver’s License), OSHA safety certifications, or ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certifications.
Tips for Success in Realistic Training Programs:
- Learn by doing. Look for programs with lots of hands-on labs and projects.
- Seek out internships, apprenticeships, or co-op programs to build real-world experience.
- Develop your communication and teamwork skills alongside technical skills, especially if you want to advance to supervisor or management roles.
- Stay updated on technology and safety regulations in your field.
Matching Realistic Careers with Your Unique Profile
While most Realistic individuals share common preferences, your exact career fit depends on your unique combination of interests, skills, and personality traits. Use your CareerFitTest.com results to identify your top transferable skills (e.g., repairing, operating equipment, troubleshooting), personal traits (e.g., analytical, dependable, hands-on), and content knowledge areas (e.g., construction, automotive repair, wildlife, or emergency response).
Examples of Different Realistic Profiles and Career Matches:
- Realistic + Investigative (R-I)
- You enjoy working with your hands but also like problem-solving and understanding how systems work.
- Possible careers: Aircraft mechanic, computer technician, marine biologist technician, agricultural inspector.
- Realistic + Social (R-S)
- You’re hands-on but also enjoy helping or caring for others.
- Possible careers: Physical therapy assistant, firefighter, personal trainer, EMT, veterinary assistant.
- Realistic + Enterprising (R-E)
- You like working with tools and machines, but also have leadership or entrepreneurial tendencies.
- Possible careers: Construction manager, landscape business owner, auto shop owner, HVAC contractor.
- Realistic + Artistic (R-A)
- You enjoy the creative or aesthetic aspects of physical work.
- Possible careers: Chef, furniture maker, landscape designer, tattoo artist, fashion production specialist.
- Realistic + Conventional (R-C)
- You prefer structure, organization, and working with systems, tools, or procedures.
- Possible careers: Inventory control specialist, quality assurance technician, logistics technician.
Tip:
Your top 3 Holland codes can help you zero in on careers that not only match your interest in hands-on work but also align with your secondary traits, such as analysis, caregiving, creativity, or business. Discover your Holland code.
How to Explore and Test-Drive Realistic Careers
Before committing to a career, it’s smart to “test-drive” options to see what truly fits you. Here are practical steps to explore Realistic fields:
1. Job Shadowing and Informational Interviews
Reach out to people working in Realistic careers and ask if you can shadow them or chat about their daily work. Ask questions like:
- What do you like most and least about your job?
- What does a typical day look like?
- What skills or certifications are most valuable?
- How did you get started in this career?
2. Internships and Volunteering
Even short-term experiences in construction, landscaping, automotive, or emergency services can help you figure out what fits—and give you a valuable edge when applying for jobs.
3. Part-Time or Gig Work
Consider seasonal or part-time work in areas like delivery driving, warehouse operations, farming, or equipment repair to get your feet wet.
4. Online Courses and Certifications
Try introductory courses on platforms like Coursera, Skillshare, or Udemy in areas such as welding, small engine repair, blueprint reading, or electronics to test your interest and build a basic skill set.
5. Trade Fairs and Career Days
Local community colleges, unions, and trade organizations often hold events where you can meet employers and learn about different career options in the skilled trades and technical fields.
Common Misconceptions About Realistic Careers
Myth 1: “You don’t need any education.”
Many Realistic careers require specific training, certifications, or ongoing learning. While you may not need a four-year degree, employers still value skilled and knowledgeable workers.
Myth 2: “Realistic jobs don’t pay well.”
Many Realistic careers pay well, especially in skilled trades, transportation, and technical fields. For example, elevator installers, power plant operators, and industrial mechanics often earn between $60,000 and $ 90,000 annually with experience.
Myth 3: “There’s no room for growth.”
Quite the opposite! Many Realistic professionals move into supervisory roles, start their businesses, or become trainers and consultants. With leadership skills and continuing education, growth is very possible.
Realistic Career Success Stories
Meet Alex – The Former Mechanic Turned Aviation Technician
Alex always loved tinkering with cars, but didn’t want to be in an auto shop forever. After taking a career test that revealed a Realistic-Investigative profile, he pursued an associate’s degree in Aviation Maintenance. Today, he works on commercial jets at a regional airport and loves the combination of mechanics and technology.
Meet Maria – From Landscape Worker to Business Owner
Maria started as a crew member for a landscaping company in high school. Her Realistic-Enterprising profile pointed to business ownership, and after gaining experience, she started her own landscape design company. She now manages three crews and is expanding into outdoor lighting and water features.
Meet Chris – Welding to Pipefitting
Chris took a career assessment while working a retail job and realized he was better suited for hands-on, high-skill work. After completing a welding certificate and apprenticeship, he became a certified pipefitter and earns over $75,000/year working in industrial construction.
Next Steps: How to Take Action
If you think the Realistic field is right for you, here’s a step-by-step action plan to help you move forward:
Step 1: Take a Career Test
Start with a proven tool like CareerFitTest.com to identify your Holland Code and top skills. This will give you a personalized list of career paths, as well as insight into your most marketable and developmental skills.
Step 2: Explore Career Matches
Use your test results to explore detailed career profiles, including required training, salary ranges, job outlook, and advancement opportunities.
Step 3: Build a Skills Map
Identify your strongest transferable skills (e.g., repairing, supervising, installing), personal traits (e.g., dependable, practical), and areas of interest (e.g., animals, construction, health).
Step 4: Create a Career Plan
Set short- and long-term SMART goals for education, training, networking, and job search. Include steps like attending a trade school, gaining certification, or applying for apprenticeships.
Step 5: Develop Job-Ready Tools
Prepare a tailored resume and cover letter that emphasize your hands-on experience and practical skills. Build a LinkedIn profile that highlights your work ethic, projects, and certifications.
Conclusion
Realistic careers offer rewarding paths for individuals who enjoy building, fixing, operating, or exploring the physical world. Whether you’re interested in skilled trades, technical roles, agriculture, protective services, or transportation, there’s a wide variety of opportunities to choose from. By taking a career test, exploring your strengths, and gaining practical experience, you can find a career that’s not just a good match, but one that energizes and fulfills you.
If you’re ready to get started, head over to CareerFitTest.com and discover the Realistic careers that match your unique personality, skills, and passions.