Backed by psychology, career science, and local success stories — designed to help you take the next big step with confidence.
Class of 2025–2026 | Pocatello, Idaho Edition
Hello, student! The next few years of your life are an exciting adventure. You're standing at the edge of something big, and it's normal to feel a mix of excitement and uncertainty. This workbook is your first step forward, a guide to help you find your way. We believe in you, and we hope this helps you build a life you love right here at home in Pocatello, and beyond.
Remember, you don't have to leave home for success—you can find success right here.
This workbook is your personal guide to life after high school. We'll start with the 12-question **Career Quiz**. This quiz is designed to help you discover what kind of work might make you feel most happy and fulfilled. Your answers will map to different personality types and job categories.
Once you have your results, you'll be able to explore **Job Cards** that are tailored just for you. These cards are packed with details to help you get a real-world idea of each job. You can even filter jobs to see **Pocatello Hot Jobs**—a list of high-demand careers right here in our community.
This isn’t a complete list of all jobs in the world — it’s a stepping stone to get you thinking in the right direction.
Use this to spark conversations, explore options, and connect students with real local resources. Links in the **Resources** section open new tabs.
Hands-on problem-solver who follows codes and safety.
Install, maintain, and repair electrical systems.
$55k-$74k
$50k-$95k
Apprenticeship: A paid apprenticeship (usually 4-5 years) combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. You'll also need to obtain a state license. **To get started:** Look for local electrical unions or contractors offering apprenticeships. The Idaho Department of Labor is a great resource.
Homes, businesses, and construction sites around Pocatello.
For Idaho Power, apply through their career website. You can also search for local contractors and apply directly. **Idaho Power:** P.O. Box 70, Boise, ID 83707 | Phone: (208) 388-2965 | Email: jobs@idahopower.com | Website: careers.idahopower.com. **Pocatello Chamber of Commerce:** 324 S Main, Pocatello, ID 83204 | Phone: (208) 233-1525 | Website: pocatelloidaho.com.
Morning wiring a new build; afternoon troubleshooting an outage.
Logical, curious builder who likes turning ideas into apps.
Design, code, and ship software.
$88k-$127k
$100k-$170k
Bachelor's or portfolio: A Bachelor's of Science in Computer Science or a specialized coding bootcamp can get you the skills you need. Building a portfolio of personal projects is key to getting hired. **To get started:** Explore online bootcamps or a degree from Idaho State University. Build a strong portfolio on GitHub.
Offices or remote; local firms and startups.
Apply via company sites or LinkedIn, showing off your portfolio. **Idaho State University Career Center:** Museum Building 12, 4th Floor, Room 418, 921 S 8th Ave, Stop 8108, Pocatello, ID 83209 | Phone: (208) 282-2380 | Email: careers@isu.edu | Website: isu.edu/career.
Standup → code → review → ship.
Calm, compassionate clinician; decisive and thorough.
Diagnose, treat, and prescribe under state scope.
$91k-$121k
$95k-$150k
Master's (NP): The path is an RN, then a BSN, and finally a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN) for an NP license. **To get started:** Start with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, which is offered at Idaho State University.
Clinics and hospitals. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Portneuf Medical Center, Idaho State University Health Center.
Check the careers sections on the hospital and university websites. **Portneuf Medical Center:** 777 Hospital Way, Pocatello, ID 83201 | Phone: (208) 239-2057 (Recruiter Amy Kimmel-Sanchez) | Email: amy.kimmelsanchez@portmed.org | Website: www.portneuf.org/careers. **Idaho State University Health Center:** 990 Cesar Chavez Avenue, Pocatello, ID 83209 | Phone: (208) 282-2330 | Email: healthcenter@health.isu.edu | Website: www.isu.edu/healthcenter.
Assess patients, order tests, develop treatment plans.
Pattern-spotter who loves spreadsheets and SQL.
Turn raw data into decisions using reports and dashboards.
$61k-$95k
$60k-$110k
Bachelor's or portfolio: A Bachelor's degree in a quantitative field like Statistics or Economics, or a data analytics certificate. Learn SQL, Excel, and a business intelligence tool like Tableau. **To get started:** Build a portfolio of projects. Many companies hire based on skills and portfolio over just a degree. You can find free courses online.
Any industry; local employers and remote.
Apply via company websites or LinkedIn, and be ready to showcase your work.
Pull data, clean, analyze, present findings.
Detail‑oriented planner who cares about safe infrastructure.
Design roads, bridges, and water systems.
$66k-$96k
$61k-$114k
Bachelor's (PE later): Earn a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from an ABET-accredited program, pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, and then gain four years of experience before you can get your Professional Engineer (PE) license. **To get started:** Focus on math and science courses in high school.
Offices and job sites. **Where to work in Pocatello:** City of Pocatello Public Works, Idaho Transportation Department (District 5).
Check their careers sections online or contact them directly. You can also explore job boards from national organizations like the **American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)**. **Idaho Transportation Department, District 5:** 5151 S. 5th Ave, Pocatello, ID 83204 | Phone: (208) 239-3300 | Website: itd.idaho.gov/careers. **City of Pocatello Public Works:** 210 E. Center St., Pocatello, ID 83201 | Phone: (208) 234-6250. **ASCE Career Connections:** Website: careers.asce.org.
Morning CAD work; afternoon site inspection.
Fast, organized, loves food quality.
Prep, cook, and plate; support head chef.
$23k-$39k
$45k-$61k
Experience/Certificate: Experience is key. A culinary certificate from a local community college or trade school can also help. **To get started:** You can often find a job by walking in with a resume and a good attitude. Getting on-the-job training is a great way to start.
Restaurants and hotels; local kitchens.
Search for local restaurants online or simply walk in with your resume during non-peak hours. You can also check career pages for the **American Culinary Federation**. **ACF:** Website: acfchefs.org/ACF/Membership/Join.
Prep → service rush → clean-down.
Reliable, focused driver comfortable with long hours.
Move freight safely and efficiently.
$37k-$78k
$40k-$80k
CDL Training: You'll need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), which requires training from an accredited school and a state exam. **To get started:** Look for a local CDL training program. Many companies offer to pay for your training.
Regional and interstate routes. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Lamb Weston, J.R. Simplot Company, Costco, Onsemi.
Check their websites for job openings. **Lamb Weston:** 1102 S. 1st St., American Falls, ID 83211 (Nearby location) | Website: careers.lambweston.com. **J.R. Simplot Company:** 6360 S Federal Way, Boise, ID 83716 | Phone: (208) 384-8000 | Website: simplot.com/careers. **Costco:** 4505 Pineridge Dr, Pocatello, ID 83201 | Phone: (208) 238-4040 | Website: www.costco.com/job-search.html. **Onsemi:** 2300 Buckskin Rd, Pocatello, ID 83201 | Phone: (208) 233-4690 | Website: onsemi.com/careers. You can also contact the **Logistics and Transportation National Association** for resources. **LTNA:** P.O. Box 426, Union, WA 98592 | Phone: (360) 898-3344.
Pre‑trip check → route → deliveries.
Practical fixer comfortable with tools and tight spaces.
Install and repair piping and fixtures.
$45k-$90k
$55k-$100k
Apprenticeship: An apprenticeship is a great way to learn on the job. You'll also need a state license to work on your own. **To get started:** Look for local shops or union halls offering apprenticeships.
Homes, businesses, and construction sites.
Check with the **Idaho Department of Labor** or search for local plumbing companies and contact them directly. You can also explore national union resources, such as the **United Association** for apprenticeships. **United Association:** Three Park Place, Annapolis, MD 21401 | Phone: (410) 269-2000 | Website: ua.org/join. **Idaho Department of Labor:** 430 N 5th Ave, Pocatello, ID 83201 | Phone: (208) 236-6710 | Website: labor.idaho.gov.
Rough‑in at a new build; afternoon drain repair.
Mechanical/electrical troubleshooter.
Install and repair heating, AC, and refrigeration systems.
$45k-$85k
$50k-$90k
Certificate/Apprenticeship: A certificate from a tech school or an apprenticeship. You will also need an EPA certification to handle refrigerants. **To get started:** Contact local HVAC companies to see if they offer apprenticeships.
Homes, commercial roofs, plants.
Search for local HVAC companies in Pocatello and apply directly on their websites or by contacting their main office. You can also find certified programs and resources through **HVAC Excellence**. **HVAC Excellence:** P.O. Box 491, Mount Prospect, IL 60056 | Phone: (800) 394-5268 | Website: hvacexcellence.org.
AM furnace diag; PM rooftop unit install.
Steady hand, precision, safety‑first.
Join metals (MIG/TIG/Stick).
$40k-$75k
$45k-$85k
Certificate/Apprenticeship: A trade school certificate or an apprenticeship. You'll also want to get certified by the American Welding Society (AWS) to show your skills. **To get started:** Check out the welding program at a local college or trade school.
Fabrication shops; construction. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Onsemi (formerly AMI Semiconductor), and other local fabrication shops.
You can find job listings on their websites or by contacting them directly. **Onsemi:** 2300 Buckskin Rd, Pocatello, ID 83201 | Phone: (208) 233-4690 | Website: onsemi.com/careers. Apply to fabrication companies or construction firms. Local fabrication shops may also accept resumes in person.
Shop fab morning; on‑site structural weld afternoon.
Builder who likes seeing plans become reality.
Frame and install structures and finish work.
$40k-$70k
$45k-$75k
Apprenticeship: An apprenticeship is the most common path. **To get started:** Look for local builders who are hiring apprentices or check with trade organizations.
Residential and commercial sites.
Apply to construction companies and home builders in the Pocatello area. You can also search the **Idaho Department of Labor** website for apprenticeship programs. **Idaho Department of Labor:** 430 N 5th Ave, Pocatello, ID 83201 | Phone: (208) 236-6710 | Website: labor.idaho.gov.
Frame walls AM; trim doors PM.
Comfortable on roofs; eco‑minded.
Install and maintain PV systems.
$40k-$60k
$45k-$70k
Certificate: A certificate in solar technology. Some companies offer on-the-job training. **To get started:** Look for a program at a local college or trade school.
Rooftops and solar fields. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Big Dog Solar, Intermountain Wind & Solar, Greentech Renewables Pocatello.
Search for solar companies in the Pocatello area and apply directly. **Big Dog Solar:** 620 Pheasant Ridge Dr, Chubbuck, ID 83202 | Phone: (800) 291-7652 | Email: support@bigdogsolar.com | Website: bigdogsolar.com/pocatello. **Greentech Renewables Pocatello:** 190 Southside Way, Suites 1-3, Chubbuck, ID 83202 | Phone: (208) 962-6369 | Email: connect.pocatello@greentechrenewables.com | Website: greentechrenewables.com/pocatello-id. **Intermountain Wind & Solar:** 1041 North 950 West Suite 500, Pocatello, ID | Email: info@imwindandsolar.com | Website: intermtnwindandsolar.com.
Racking install → wiring → commissioning.
Strong, heights‑ok, safety‑driven.
Build and maintain transmission and distribution lines.
$60k-$100k
$70k-$110k
Apprenticeship: A specialized lineman school followed by a paid apprenticeship. You'll also need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). **To get started:** Search for lineman training programs and then apply to an apprenticeship.
Utility corridors; bucket trucks. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Idaho Power.
Check Idaho Power's career website for job openings. **Idaho Power:** P.O. Box 70, Boise, ID 83707 | Phone: (208) 388-2965 | Email: jobs@idahopower.com | Website: careers.idahopower.com.
Restore outage after storm; preventive maintenance.
Patient helper, good communicator.
Troubleshoot hardware/software and users.
$40k-$70k
$45k-$75k
Certificate/Associate: A certificate like CompTIA A+ can help you get started. Some companies also offer on-the-job training. **To get started:** Get certified and then look for entry-level positions.
Helpdesk/on‑site/remote.
Look for job postings on sites like Indeed or LinkedIn. You can also contact local companies, schools, or hospitals directly to see if they have openings.
AM tickets; PM device rollouts.
Analytical, vigilant, ethical.
Monitor and defend networks and systems.
$80k-$130k
$95k-$150k
Bachelor's + certs: A Bachelor's degree and professional certifications like CompTIA Security+ are a good starting point. **To get started:** Look for a degree program and then start working on certifications.
SOC, enterprise IT, gov.
Apply on company websites or through professional networking sites. Consider contacting the **Idaho Department of Labor** for leads on government jobs. For national resources, check organizations like the **National Cybersecurity Society (NCSS)**. **NCSS:** Website: nationalcybersecuritysociety.org.
Log review → incident triage → patch/brief.
Leader with strong tech chops.
Plan and run IT operations.
$90k-$150k
$100k-$170k
Bachelor's: Years of experience in IT followed by management skills. **To get started:** Start as an IT Support Specialist and work your way up.
Mid/large orgs.
Internal promotion is common, but you can also look for openings at mid- to large-sized companies in Pocatello.
Roadmap, budgets, vendor mtgs.
Compassionate multitasker.
Direct patient care; meds; education.
$70k-$100k
$75k-$110k
ADN/BSN: Complete a nursing program (ADN or BSN) and pass the NCLEX exam. **To get started:** Look for a nursing program at a local college like Idaho State University.
Hospitals, clinics, long‑term care.
Check the careers sections on the hospital and clinic websites. **Portneuf Medical Center:** 777 Hospital Way, Pocatello, ID 83201 | Phone: (208) 239-2057 (Recruiter Amy Kimmel-Sanchez) | Email: amy.kimmelsanchez@portmed.org | Website: www.portneuf.org/careers. **Idaho State University:** 921 S. 8th Ave., Pocatello, ID 83209 | Phone: (208) 282-4411 | Website: isu.edu/hr/jobs.
Rounds, meds, charting, coordination.
Patient coach; movement expert.
Rehab plans and therapy.
$80k-$110k
$85k-$120k
Doctorate (DPT): A Bachelor's degree followed by a Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. **To get started:** Focus on science and health-related courses in high school and college.
Clinics and hospitals. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Portneuf Medical Center, Idaho State University clinics.
Check the careers sections on the hospital and university websites. **Portneuf Medical Center:** 777 Hospital Way, Pocatello, ID 83201 | Phone: (208) 239-2057 (Recruiter Amy Kimmel-Sanchez) | Email: amy.kimmelsanchez@portmed.org | Website: www.portneuf.org/careers. **Idaho State University Health Center:** 990 Cesar Chavez Avenue, Pocatello, ID 83209 | Phone: (208) 282-2330 | Email: healthcenter@health.isu.edu | Website: www.isu.edu/healthcenter.
1:1 sessions; progress notes.
Detail‑oriented; friendly.
Cleanings, x‑rays, oral health education.
$60k-$90k
$70k-$100k
Associate: Complete an accredited dental hygiene program and pass the state boards. **To get started:** Find a dental hygiene program at a local college.
Dental practices.
Search for local dental offices in Pocatello and apply directly, often by sending your resume and cover letter to their office manager.
Patient schedule; charting; hygiene.
Animal‑loving, calm under pressure.
Assist vets, surgeries, labs.
$35k-$55k
$40k-$60k
Associate/Certificate: Complete a vet tech program and pass the state exam. **To get started:** Look for a vet tech program at a local college or trade school.
Vet clinics, shelters.
Search for local veterinary clinics and animal shelters in the Pocatello area. You can often apply in person or send your resume via email.
Prep surgery; client education.
Organized, people‑friendly.
Vitals, rooming, admin tasks.
$30k-$50k
$35k-$55k
Certificate/Associate: Complete a medical assistant program. **To get started:** Look for a program at a local community college or trade school.
Clinics/physician offices. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Portneuf Medical Center, Idaho State University Health Center.
Check the careers pages on the hospital and clinic websites. **Portneuf Medical Center:** 777 Hospital Way, Pocatello, ID 83201 | Phone: (208) 239-2057 (Recruiter Amy Kimmel-Sanchez) | Email: amy.kimmelsanchez@portmed.org | Website: www.portneuf.org/careers. **Idaho State University Health Center:** 990 Cesar Chavez Avenue, Pocatello, ID 83209 | Phone: (208) 282-2330 | Email: healthcenter@health.isu.edu | Website: www.isu.edu/healthcenter.
Room patients; assist provider.
Patient, creative, organized.
Plan lessons; teach; grade; support.
$45k-$75k
$50k-$85k
Bachelor's + license: Earn a Bachelor's degree in Education and get a state teaching license. **To get started:** Explore the education program at Idaho State University.
K‑12 schools. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25.
Check the school district's website for job openings and contact their human resources department. You can also use national job boards for educators like **EDJOIN**. **Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25:** 3115 Pole Line Road, Pocatello, ID 83201 | Phone: (208) 232-3563 | Email: communications@sd25.us | Website: www.sd25.us/human-resources. **EDJOIN:** Website: edjoin.org.
Teach classes; parent comms.
Info‑finder; community‑minded.
Manage collections; help patrons.
$45k-$75k
$50k-$80k
Master's (MLS): A Master's in Library Science (MLS) is required. **To get started:** Earn a Bachelor's degree and then apply to an MLS program.
Public and school libraries. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Marshall Public Library, school libraries in the Pocatello/Chubbuck School District.
Check their websites for job openings. **Marshall Public Library:** 113 S Garfield Ave, Pocatello, ID 83204 | Phone: (208) 232-1263 | Email: libraryadmin@marshallpl.org | Website: marshallpl.org/jobs. For schools, refer to the Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 information.
Reference desk; programs.
Empathetic guide; organized.
Academic/career advising; support.
$50k-$80k
$60k-$90k
Master's: A Master's degree in School Counseling. **To get started:** Look for a counseling program at a local university.
Local high schools. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Pocatello High School, Century High School, Highland High School.
Check the school district's website for job openings. **Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25:** 3115 Pole Line Road, Pocatello, ID 83201 | Phone: (208) 232-3563 | Email: communications@sd25.us | Website: www.sd25.us/human-resources. Specific schools can also be contacted directly.
Student meetings; workshops.
Advocate; resource‑connector.
Case management; counseling; services.
$40k-$70k
$50k-$80k
BSW/MSW: A Bachelor's in Social Work (BSW) or a Master's in Social Work (MSW) is required. You'll also need a license, which varies by state. **To get started:** Look for a BSW program at a local university.
Agencies, hospitals, schools. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, Portneuf Medical Center, local non-profits.
Check their career pages for openings. You can also find national resources from the **National Association of Social Workers (NASW)**. **Idaho Department of Health and Welfare:** 1070 E. Horizon Plaza, Pocatello, ID 83201 | Phone: (208) 235-4600 | Email: dhwjobs@dhw.idaho.gov | Website: healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/careers. **Portneuf Medical Center:** 777 Hospital Way, Pocatello, ID 83201 | Phone: (208) 239-2057 | Email: amy.kimmelsanchez@portmed.org | Website: www.portneuf.org/careers. **NASW:** 750 First Street, NE – Suite 800, Washington, DC 20002 | Phone: (202) 408-8600 | Website: socialworkers.org.
Client visits; case notes.
Trustworthy, good listener, numbers‑savvy.
Plans for investing and retirement.
$50k-$150k
$60k-$175k
Bachelor's + licenses: A Bachelor's degree and professional licenses like the Series 7 and Series 66. **To get started:** Get a degree and then study for the licensing exams. A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation can be earned later.
Firms or independent.
Check with local financial firms in Pocatello or search for independent advisor roles on job boards. You can also apply to major national firms like Merrill, Morgan Stanley, or Charles Schwab.
Client reviews; market checks.
Detail‑driven; ethical.
Financials, taxes, and compliance.
$60k-$100k
$70k-$115k
Bachelor's (CPA+): A Bachelor's degree and then you can work towards becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). **To get started:** Get a degree in accounting.
Firms; companies; government. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Onsemi, J.R. Simplot Company, and many other businesses with in-house accounting departments.
Check their careers sections online. **Onsemi:** 2300 Buckskin Rd, Pocatello, ID 83201 | Phone: (208) 233-4690 | Website: onsemi.com/careers. **J.R. Simplot Company:** 6360 S Federal Way, Boise, ID 83716 | Phone: (208) 384-8000 | Website: simplot.com/careers.
Close books; filings.
Self‑starter; great communicator.
Help clients buy and sell homes.
$30k-$100k+
$40k-$120k+
State license: You'll need a state license, which requires pre-licensing education and a state exam. **To get started:** Find a local real estate school and then join a brokerage once you're licensed.
Brokerages; local market.
Contact local real estate brokerages directly to inquire about opportunities. You can also get resources from the **National Association of REALTORS® (NAR)**. **NAR:** Website: nar.realtor/careers.
Showings; offers; closings.
Storyteller; relationship‑builder.
Manage reputation and media.
$60k-$90k
$70k-$100k
Bachelor's: A Bachelor's degree in PR, Communications, or a related field. **To get started:** Build a portfolio of writing and media projects.
Agencies; in‑house.
Look for job openings at local agencies or companies with a dedicated communications department. You can also check career pages for the **Public Relations Society of America (PRSA)**. **PRSA:** 120 Wall Street, 21st Floor, New York, NY 10005 | Phone: (212) 460-1400 | Website: prsa.org.
Press releases; events.
Sociable, organized leader.
Run staff/ops; guest experience.
$50k-$85k
$60k-$95k
Associate/Bachelor's: Experience in the hospitality industry. An Associate's or Bachelor's degree in hospitality management is a great start. **To get started:** Look for entry-level jobs at hotels to get experience.
Hotels and resorts.
Check the careers pages of major hotel chains or apply in person at local hotels in Pocatello.
Team mtg; guest issue; budgets.
Visual thinker; detail‑oriented.
Logos, ads, web, and brand.
$45k-$80k
$50k-$90k
Associate/Bachelor's: A portfolio is the most important thing. A degree or certificate in graphic design can help. **To get started:** Learn design software like Adobe Creative Suite or Figma and build a portfolio of your work.
Agencies, in‑house, freelance.
Create a professional portfolio website and use it to apply for jobs at local marketing agencies or companies with in-house design teams.
Concept → comps → revisions.
Self‑motivated wordsmith.
Books, articles, and copy.
Varies
$45k-$90k
Experience/Degree: You can get a degree in English or Creative Writing, but the most important thing is to write and publish. **To get started:** Start writing and submitting your work to magazines, blogs, and other publications.
Anywhere.
Pitch editors and clients directly. You can also build an online portfolio of your work.
Draft → edit → submit.
Eye for light/composition.
Portraits, events, commercial.
$30k-$70k
$35k-$80k
Experience/Certificate: A strong portfolio is key. You can get a certificate in photography or be self-taught. **To get started:** Start taking photos and building a portfolio. You'll also need to learn business skills to run your own studio.
Studios; on‑location.
Create a professional website and social media presence to showcase your work. Network with other photographers and businesses to find clients.
Shoot; cull; edit; deliver.
Timing/story sense; software.
Assemble and polish video.
$40k-$70k
$50k-$85k
Certificate/Experience: A portfolio of your work. You can get a certificate in video editing. **To get started:** Learn video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve and build a portfolio of your work.
Studios; remote.
Create a reel of your best work and apply to local production companies or marketing agencies.
Rough cut → fine cut → export.
Curious, meticulous experimenter.
Study materials; develop products.
$70k-$115k
$80k-$130k
Bachelor's/Master's: A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry is required. **To get started:** Focus on chemistry and math courses in high school and college.
Labs; manufacturing R&D.
Search for R&D roles at local manufacturing companies like Onsemi or at Idaho State University. You can also explore career resources from the **American Chemical Society (ACS)**. **ACS:** Website: acs.org/careers.html.
Run assays; analyze; report.
Outdoorsy data‑lover.
Study earth; resources/risks.
$70k-$120k
$80k-$140k
Master's/PhD: A Master's or PhD in Geology is required. **To get started:** Get a Bachelor's degree and then apply to a graduate program.
Energy, env, gov.
Apply to federal and state government agencies (like the Idaho Department of Lands), as well as private consulting firms. You can also use career resources from the **American Geosciences Institute (AGI)**. **AGI:** Website: americangeosciences.org.
Field samples; lab; maps.
Calm, responsible, systems‑minded.
Operate and monitor turbines and generators.
$65k-$95k
$70k-$110k
Apprentice/Associate: An apprenticeship or an Associate's degree in power operations. **To get started:** Look for a program at a local college or trade school and then apply for an apprenticeship.
Local hydro facility. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Idaho Power.
Check Idaho Power's career website for job openings. **Idaho Power:** P.O. Box 70, Boise, ID 83707 | Phone: (208) 388-2965 | Email: jobs@idahopower.com | Website: careers.idahopower.com.
Shift handoff; rounds; alarm response.
Curious, publication‑driven.
Conduct funded research; mentor.
$55k-$120k
$60k-$130k
Master's/PhD: A Master's or PhD is required. **To get started:** Earn a Bachelor's degree and then apply to a graduate program.
ISU labs. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Idaho State University.
Check the ISU career website for job openings. **Idaho State University:** 921 S. 8th Ave., Pocatello, ID 83209 | Phone: (208) 282-4411 | Website: isu.edu/hr/jobs.
Experiment; analyze; write.
Team‑oriented, fit, calm.
Fire, medical, and rescue responses.
$45k-$75k
$50k-$80k
Academy/EMT: Complete a fire academy and get your EMT certification. **To get started:** Look for a fire academy and then apply to the fire department.
Stations; field. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Pocatello Fire Department.
Check the City of Pocatello's career website for job openings. **Pocatello Fire Department:** 408 E Whitman St, Pocatello, ID 83201 | Phone: (208) 234-6201 | Website: pocatello.gov/Fire.
Drills; calls; equipment checks.
Service‑minded; resilient communicator.
Patrol, investigations, community safety.
$45k-$80k
$50k-$90k
Police Academy: You'll need to complete a police academy. **To get started:** Apply to the police department and they will send you to the academy.
City precincts. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Pocatello Police Department.
Check the City of Pocatello's career website for job openings. **Pocatello Police Department:** 911 N 7th Ave, Pocatello, ID 83201 | Phone: (208) 234-6100 | Website: pocatello.gov/Police.
Patrol; calls; reports.
Quick, compassionate responder.
Prehospital care and transport.
$30k-$50k
$35k-$55k
Certificate: A certificate from a local college or trade school. You'll also need to pass the NREMT exam. **To get started:** Look for a program at a local college.
Ambulances; events.
Apply to local ambulance services (EMS providers) or hospitals that have their own transport teams.
911 calls; patient handoffs.
Calm, multi‑tasking leader.
Ops, staff, guest experience.
$40k-$75k
$50k-$85k
Experience/Degree: Experience in the food and beverage industry. A degree in hospitality management is a great start. **To get started:** Work in a restaurant and show your leadership skills to get promoted.
Restaurants; venues.
Check the careers pages of major restaurant groups or apply in person at local restaurants in Pocatello.
Pre‑open; lunch rush; reports.
Creative, resilient, quality‑obsessed.
Lead kitchen; menu; safety.
$35k-$65k
$40k-$75k
Culinary/Apprentice: A culinary school degree or an apprenticeship. **To get started:** Work in a restaurant and learn from a head chef.
Local restaurants and caterers.
Apply to restaurants or catering companies directly. Local culinary jobs are often filled by word of mouth, so networking is key.
Prep; service; menu planning.
Organized creative; good with vendors.
Plan weddings and conferences.
$40k-$70k
$45k-$75k
Certificate/Experience: A certificate in event planning or experience. **To get started:** Get experience by volunteering to help plan events and build a portfolio.
Venues; freelance.
You can apply to local venues or start your own business. Having a strong portfolio and a network of vendors is crucial.
Client mtg; vendor wrangling.
Tech‑minded problem‑solver.
Irrigation, machinery, sustainability.
$70k-$110k
$80k-$120k
Bachelor's: A Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering. **To get started:** Focus on math and science courses in high school and college.
Farms; manufacturers.
Apply to agricultural firms or consulting companies. Also check the websites of major agribusinesses in the region, such as J.R. Simplot Company. **J.R. Simplot Company:** 6360 S Federal Way, Boise, ID 83716 | Phone: (208) 384-8000 | Website: simplot.com/careers.
CAD designs; field tests.
Outdoors leader; conservation‑focused.
Manage forests; conservation.
$60k-$90k
$65k-$100k
Bachelor's: A Bachelor's degree in Forestry. **To get started:** Look for a forestry program at a local university.
Public lands; private timber.
Apply to state or federal agencies like the Bureau of Land Management or the **U.S. Forest Service**. **U.S. Forest Service:** Website: usajobs.gov/forest-service-careers.
Plot surveys; thinning plans.
Hands‑on leader; business‑minded.
Crops/animals; budgets; crews.
$40k-$80k
$50k-$90k
Experience/Degree: Experience and a degree in a related field. **To get started:** Start as a farm hand and work your way up to a management position.
Local farms/ranches. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Lamb Weston, J.R. Simplot Company, and many local farms.
Check their websites for job openings. **Lamb Weston:** 1102 S. 1st St., American Falls, ID 83211 | Website: careers.lambweston.com. **J.R. Simplot Company:** 6360 S Federal Way, Boise, ID 83716 | Phone: (208) 384-8000 | Website: simplot.com/careers.
Morning checks; crew tasks; vendors.
Organized; detail‑driven.
Receive/pick/ship; inventory.
$40k-$60k
$45k-$65k
HS Diploma: A high school diploma is all you need. You can get a forklift certification on the job. **To get started:** Apply for a warehouse or logistics position.
Warehouses; DCs. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Costco, Onsemi, Lamb Weston, and J.R. Simplot Company.
3PLs; retailers.
Pick waves; reconcile counts.
Systems thinker; negotiator.
Source → make → move → deliver.
$70k-$120k
$80k-$130k
Bachelor's: A Bachelor's degree and experience in logistics or operations. **To get started:** Look for entry-level jobs in logistics and work your way up.
Any industry.
Check the career websites of major companies in Pocatello that rely on supply chain management, like Onsemi and Lamb Weston.
Vendor calls; KPI reviews.
Calm; precise; great judgment.
Fly people/cargo.
$80k-$200k+
$100k-$250k+
Training/License: You'll need a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license. You'll also need to log a lot of hours. **To get started:** Find a flight school and start flying.
Airlines; cargo; charter.
Apply to airlines or cargo carriers after you have the required licenses and flight hours. Check career pages for major airlines like Delta, United, and American.
Preflight; route; landing.
These jobs are considered "Hot" because they are currently in high demand right here in our community. Pocatello is a growing city with a need for skilled professionals in key industries like manufacturing, healthcare, trades, and public service. These careers often offer great pay and stability, making them excellent local options for building a successful future.
Hands-on problem-solver who follows codes and safety.
Install, maintain, and repair electrical systems.
$55k-$74k
$50k-$95k
Apprenticeship: A paid apprenticeship (usually 4-5 years) combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. You'll also need to obtain a state license. **To get started:** Look for local electrical unions or contractors offering apprenticeships. The Idaho Department of Labor is a great resource.
Homes, businesses, and construction sites around Pocatello.
For Idaho Power, apply through their career website. You can also search for local contractors and apply directly. **Idaho Power:** P.O. Box 70, Boise, ID 83707 | Phone: (208) 388-2965 | Email: jobs@idahopower.com | Website: careers.idahopower.com. **Pocatello Chamber of Commerce:** 324 S Main, Pocatello, ID 83204 | Phone: (208) 233-1525 | Website: pocatelloidaho.com.
Morning wiring a new build; afternoon troubleshooting an outage.
Calm, compassionate clinician; decisive and thorough.
Diagnose, treat, and prescribe under state scope.
$91k-$121k
$95k-$150k
Master's (NP): The path is an RN, then a BSN, and finally a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN) for an NP license. **To get started:** Start with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, which is offered at Idaho State University.
Clinics and hospitals. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Portneuf Medical Center, Idaho State University Health Center.
Check the careers sections on the hospital and university websites. **Portneuf Medical Center:** 777 Hospital Way, Pocatello, ID 83201 | Phone: (208) 239-2057 (Recruiter Amy Kimmel-Sanchez) | Email: amy.kimmelsanchez@portmed.org | Website: www.portneuf.org/careers. **Idaho State University Health Center:** 990 Cesar Chavez Avenue, Pocatello, ID 83209 | Phone: (208) 282-2330 | Email: healthcenter@health.isu.edu | Website: www.isu.edu/healthcenter.
Assess patients, order tests, develop treatment plans.
Detail‑oriented planner who cares about safe infrastructure.
Design roads, bridges, and water systems.
$66k-$96k
$61k-$114k
Bachelor's (PE later): Earn a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from an ABET-accredited program, pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, and then gain four years of experience before you can get your Professional Engineer (PE) license. **To get started:** Focus on math and science courses in high school.
Offices and job sites. **Where to work in Pocatello:** City of Pocatello Public Works, Idaho Transportation Department (District 5).
Check their careers sections online or contact them directly. You can also explore job boards from national organizations like the **American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)**. **Idaho Transportation Department, District 5:** 5151 S. 5th Ave, Pocatello, ID 83204 | Phone: (208) 239-3300 | Website: itd.idaho.gov/careers. **City of Pocatello Public Works:** 210 E. Center St., Pocatello, ID 83201 | Phone: (208) 234-6250. **ASCE Career Connections:** Website: careers.asce.org.
Morning CAD work; afternoon site inspection.
Reliable, focused driver comfortable with long hours.
Move freight safely and efficiently.
$37k-$78k
$40k-$80k
CDL Training: You'll need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), which requires training from an accredited school and a state exam. **To get started:** Look for a local CDL training program. Many companies offer to pay for your training.
Regional and interstate routes. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Lamb Weston, J.R. Simplot Company, Costco, Onsemi.
Check their websites for job openings. **Lamb Weston:** 1102 S. 1st St., American Falls, ID 83211 (Nearby location) | Website: careers.lambweston.com. **J.R. Simplot Company:** 6360 S Federal Way, Boise, ID 83716 | Phone: (208) 384-8000 | Website: simplot.com/careers. **Costco:** 4505 Pineridge Dr, Pocatello, ID 83201 | Phone: (208) 238-4040 | Website: www.costco.com/job-search.html. **Onsemi:** 2300 Buckskin Rd, Pocatello, ID 83201 | Phone: (208) 233-4690 | Website: onsemi.com/careers. You can also contact the **Logistics and Transportation National Association** for resources. **LTNA:** P.O. Box 426, Union, WA 98592 | Phone: (360) 898-3344.
Pre‑trip check → route → deliveries.
Comfortable on roofs; eco‑minded.
Install and maintain PV systems.
$40k-$60k
$45k-$70k
Certificate: A certificate in solar technology. Some companies offer on-the-job training. **To get started:** Look for a program at a local college or trade school.
Rooftops and solar fields. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Big Dog Solar, Intermountain Wind & Solar, Greentech Renewables Pocatello.
Search for solar companies in the Pocatello area and apply directly. **Big Dog Solar:** 620 Pheasant Ridge Dr, Chubbuck, ID 83202 | Phone: (800) 291-7652 | Email: support@bigdogsolar.com | Website: bigdogsolar.com/pocatello. **Greentech Renewables Pocatello:** 190 Southside Way, Suites 1-3, Chubbuck, ID 83202 | Phone: (208) 962-6369 | Email: connect.pocatello@greentechrenewables.com | Website: greentechrenewables.com/pocatello-id. **Intermountain Wind & Solar:** 1041 North 950 West Suite 500, Pocatello, ID | Email: info@imwindandsolar.com | Website: intermtnwindandsolar.com.
Racking install → wiring → commissioning.
Strong, heights‑ok, safety‑driven.
Build and maintain transmission and distribution lines.
$60k-$100k
$70k-$110k
Apprenticeship: A specialized lineman school followed by a paid apprenticeship. You'll also need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). **To get started:** Search for lineman training programs and then apply to an apprenticeship.
Utility corridors; bucket trucks. **Where to work in Pocatello:** Idaho Power.
Check Idaho Power's career website for job openings. **Idaho Power:** P.O. Box 70, Boise, ID 83707 | Phone: (208) 388-2965 | Email: jobs@idahopower.com | Website: careers.idahopower.com.
Restore outage after storm; preventive maintenance.
Total Expenses: $0
Net Monthly: $0
Total Expenses: $0
Net Monthly: $0
Your net income is the same in both scenarios.
Click any item — it will **open a new tab** with more information.
This workbook was born from a personal journey. As our son approached his high school graduation, we saw firsthand the questions and uncertainties that come with finding your path. We wanted to give him a compass—a practical, encouraging tool to help him navigate his next adventure. We gathered everything we wished we had known, from career quizzes to real-world job details right here in our community.
We poured our hearts into this guide, and our hope is that it helps you just like it helped him. Whether you choose to stay close to home or explore the world, we want you to feel confident and prepared to build a life of purpose and success.