The purpose of the study is to begin a detailed investigation of the low-paid work force and to focus attention on the determinants of low-wage employment, by dissecting the various forces that contribute to the determination of wage levels for full-time full-year workers. The question is whether low-wage poverty can be eliminated by upgrading the health, skill, and education of the poor, or whether more fundamental changes in the social and economic environment are necessary. The study is divided into ten chapters in three broad categories. Part One examines poverty strategies and wage theory. Part Two, the longest section of the study, explores the dimensions of the problem and puts forth findings on its correlates: education level as it relates to wage rate across occupational groups and its effect on earnings between occupational categories and between industries; geographical location; and migration and health. Part Three summarizes the findings presented in Part Two, and discusses implications for new policy directions. Appended are supplementary data tables, definitions, and data sources. (Author/AJ)