This guide, based on a survey of more than 100 New York City employers, lists the qualifications needed for 20 entry-level positions. The occupations profiled are as follows: bookkeeper, carpenter, child care worker, computer data entry/programmer, food service aide, home attendant, janitor/cleaner, legal assistant/paralegal, licensed practical nurse, mail clerk, mechanic, nurse's aide, office clerk, receptionist, retail salesperson, secretary, switchboard operator, teacher aide, teller, and waiter/waitress. Each occupational profile provides the following information: (1) description; (2) requirements (education, reading/writing, mathematics, interpersonal/communication, advancement opportunity, and other); and (3) job and skill requirement matrix listing the relative importance of a high school diploma, postsecondary education, and a variety of skills (reading, writing, math, arithmetic, algebra, algebra plus, communications, interpersonal, typing, word processing, filing, computer literacy, and bilingual). An appendix describes five essential work skills: punctuality, attendance, ability to communicate, positive attitude, and teamwork. (KC)