What is a White Collar Worker?
A white collar worker is a person who does non-routine work in an administrative or professional position, and does not perform manual labor. A higher level of training is typically demanded for a white collar position; a college degree is a common requirement. This group of workers tends to earn a higher wage than manual laborers, and is more likely to be paid a salary than an hourly wage. The dress code associated with a white collar position may be somewhat higher than for other positions.
Those performing routine support work, such as clerks, nurses, and laboratory technicians, are not considered to be white collar workers.
White collar workers may have improved working conditions and benefits packages, so this type of labor is considered quite desirable. However, the stress level can also be quite high, and there is downward pressure on white collar pay levels as more of these positions face competition from lower-wage countries.
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Examples of White Collar Workers
Examples of white collar jobs are accountants, attorneys, bankers, consultants, doctors, engineers, managers, and scientists.
White Collar Workers vs. Blue Collar Workers
Blue collar workers generally perform manual labor. People involved in activities such as mining operations, farming, and production assembly lines are all considered to be blue collar workers. Thus, a key difference between blue collar and white collar workers is that only blue collar workers engage in manual labor. Also, blue collar workers tend to have a reduced education level in comparison to white collar workers, and are generally paid less than white collar workers.
Origination of the White Collar Worker Designation
The white collar worker term originates from an early requirement that people in these positions wear white shirts while on the job.
