This competency-based instructional guide on the economic and societal factors involved in finding and holding a job was developed for Occupational Orientation programs in Texas with the aim of giving students the practical information and understanding they need to participate successfully in the world of work. It includes nine instructional units. Each unit includes the following basic components: performance objectives, notes to the instructor (outline of steps to follow in accomplishing specific objectives), answers to activity sheets and tests, information sheets (content essential for meeting the cognitive objectives), transparency masters, activity sheets (for directed study and application and reinforcement of cognitive objectives), and tests. Each unit is planned to cover more than one lesson or period of instruction. Units cover the following topics: job acquisition, on-the-job relations, communications, understanding the paycheck, personal money management, completing government-regulated work tasks, laws affecting the worker, changing jobs, and free enterprise. (YLB)