White collar worker definition
/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.
Related AccountingTools Courses
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
There are several essential differences between white collar workers and blue collar workers, which are as follows:
Compensation systems. White collar workers are more likely to be paid a salary, while blue collar workers are usually paid an hourly wage. In addition, white collar workers are not paid overtime (since they are compensated with salaries), while blue collar workers are paid overtime for excess hours worked.
Education. White collar workers have usually received an advanced education, perhaps including one or more college degrees. In comparison, blue collar workers may receive advanced training through an apprenticeship program, but are generally less well-educated than white collar workers.
Job types. White collar workers are more likely to be involved in management, innovation, or analysis tasks, while blue collar workers are usually involved in manual labor, such as the operation of tools, machinery, or vehicles.
Work environment. White collar workers usually work in an office or from a home office, while blue collar workers are usually employed in manual labor settings, such as construction, warehouses, production lines, and outdoors.
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.