Eight different careers are available in The Sims 4, and each career splits into two different branches so your Sims can select from a total of 16 different career paths. Some careers make more money than others. Certain careers have longer hours or require more days of work during the week. Each career has different requirements for promotion. Therefore, when you decide what careers your Sims should pursue, consider their traits and Aspirations and try to select a career that will correspond with the personality of your Sims. That will make their lives easier. However, if you are going for a challenge, pick a career that is the exact opposite of your Sims’ personalities.
Your Sims can choose from many different careers.
Getting a job is quite easy. Use a Sim’s cell phone and choose Find a Job from the menu. This opens a window listing all of the jobs that currently have openings. You’ll be able to choose one of the eight possible careers. You can also use a computer to find a job.
Once you select a job, you can click on the Briefcase icon in the screen’s lower right corner to bring up the Job window. This contains your work schedule including which days you work and the hours you will be on the job. It also shows your progress toward promotion and lists any additional requirements you must complete outside of work to earn a promotion. Check this window frequently to see how many hours or days until you have to go to work.
There are some extra things you can do to improve your career performance. If you really want to excel at your profession, your Sim should have the Ideal Emotion for that career before they leave for work each day. In addition, completing the specified Daily Task will provide them with boosted Performance! Hover the mouse over the Career Performance bar to reveal the Ideal Emotion and Daily Tasks for your Sim’s career.
Let’s take a look at the different careers available in The Sims 4.
Astronaut
Ideal Emotion: Focused
Daily Task: Work Out
The Astronaut career takes Sims from the earth out into space. This is a career for the adventurous Sim. It is quite demanding and requires a lot of work on different skills in order to be promoted. However, it is one of the two highest paying careers.
Astronaut Career
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Intern | M, T, W, TH, F | 8 AM | 9 hours | §26 | §234 | §1,170 | Successfully enthuse about space with 3 Sims | Astro Solar System Light |
| 2 | Module Cleaner | M, T, W, TH, F | 12 PM | 9 hours | §34 | §306 | §1,530 | Reach Level 2 Logic skill | Astro Model Rocket |
| 3 | Technician | T, W, TH, F | 1 PM | 8 hours | §54 | §432 | §1,728 | Reach Level 3 Logic skill, have 4 friends | Star Seeker Original Blueprints |
| 4 | Command Center Lead | M, T, W, F | 2 PM | 8 hours | §71 | §568 | §2,272 | Reach level 2 Fitness skill, work out on weight machine for 4 hours | Portable Galaxy Lightshow |
| 5 | Low-Orbit Specialist | M, W, F | 8 AM | 9 hours | §96 | §864 | §2,592 | Reach level 3 Fitness skill, win 2 chess games | Mission Control |
| 6 | Space Cadet | M, W, F | 6 AM | 10 hours | §104 | §1,040 | §3,120 | Reach level 4 Logic skill, reach level 5 Fitness skill, run on the treadmill for 12 hours | Salyut Aeronaut Chair |
| 7 | Astronaut | M, W, F | 8 AM | 10 hours | §119 | §1,190 | §3,570 | Reach level 6 Logic skill, reach level 6 Fitness skill, get the Starry Night moodlet from the Point out Constellation social | Build Your Own Rocket Kit or Monolith |
Astronaut Career—Space Ranger Branch
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | Planet Patrol | M, T, W, TH | 10 AM | 8 hours | §179 | §1,432 | §5,728 | Reach level 5 Charisma skill, have 7 friends, drink space energy drink | Astro-Bunny Beyond Infinity |
| 9 | Sheriff of the Stars | M, T, W, TH | 10 AM | 7 hours | §297 | §2,079 | §8,316 | Reach level 7 Charisma skill, reach level 7 Fitness skill, write a book | Apollo Rocketship |
| 10 | Space Ranger | M, T, W, TH | 10 AM | 7 hours | §445 | §3,115 | §12,460 | N/A | N/A |
Astronaut Career—Interstellar Smuggler Branch
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | Moon Mercenary | SU, M, W, S | 4 PM | 8 hours | §201 | §1,608 | §6,432 | Reach level 3 Mischief skill, reach level 3 Programming skill, earn §1,000 from hacking | Zero-G Training Bag |
| 9 | Alien Goods Trader | SU, M, TH, S | 4 PM | 7 hours | §299 | §2,093 | §8,372 | Reach level 5 Mischief skill, reach level 8 Fitness skill, collect 5 space rocks | Retro Rocketship |
| 10 | Interstellar Smuggler | SU, M, TH, S | 2 PM | 9 hours | §413 | §3,717 | §14,868 | N/A | N/A |
Astronauts really need to work on their Logic and Fitness skills for the early levels of this career. This career does not branch until level 8, so there is not much difference until the last few levels.
Space Ranger Branch
Ideal Emotion: Energized
Daily Task: Space Mission
When you go into this branch, you need to work on the Charisma skill. This is also the branch to choose if you want to get the Apollo Rocketship.
Interstellar Smuggler Branch
Ideal Emotion: Confident
Daily Task: Space Mission
This branch pays more in salary and gives you the chance to get the Retro Rocketship. The main difference is that you need to work on the Mischief skill to gain promotion.
Criminal
Ideal Emotion: Energized
Daily Task: Mischief Interactions
Criminal can be a tough career to begin with. You are working every day and almost always at night. Some Sims are better suited to crime than others. If you are considering this career, your Sim must work on the Mischief skill quite a bit.
Career
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tough Guy/Gal | SU, M, T, W, TH, F, S | 5 PM | 7 hours | §9 | §63 | §441 | Reach level 2 Mischief skill | Emblems of Espionage |
| 2 | Petty Thief | M, T, W, TH, F, S | 8 PM | 7 hours | §13 | §91 | §546 | Reach level 2 Fitness or Programming skill | Duffle o’ Cash |
| 3 | Ring Leader | T, W, TH, F, S | 8 PM | 8 hours | §17 | §136 | §680 | Reach level 3 Charisma skill, have 2 people despise your Sim | Vintage Baseball Bat Sculpture |
| 4 | Felonious Monk | T, W, TH, F, S | 7 PM | 7 hours | §23 | §161 | §805 | Reach level 4 Mischief skill, successfully pickpocket 5 Sims | N/A |
| 5 | Minor Crimelord | T, W, TH, F, S | 8 PM | 6 hours | §32 | §192 | §960 | Reach level 6 Mischief skill, reach level 4 Fitness or Programming skill | Stolen ATM or Spy Satellite |
Career—Boss Branch
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | The Muscle | W, F, S | 10 PM | 6 hours | §64 | §384 | §1,152 | Reach level 7 Mischief skill, reach level 4 Charisma skill, have 4 people despise your Sim | Bars of Gold |
| 7 | Getaway Driver | W, S | 8 PM | 8 hours | §107 | §856 | §1,712 | Reach level 8 Mischief skill, reach level 3 Logic skill | Stolen Necklace of the Late Duchess Pinky |
| 8 | Safe Cracker | SU, W, S | 7 PM | 5 hours | §199 | §995 | §2,985 | Reach level 6 Logic skill, win 3 chess games | N/A |
| 9 | The Brains | SU, M, TH | 5 PM | 6 hours | §332 | §1,660 | §4,980 | Max Mischief skill to level 10, reach level 6 Charisma skill, have 6 people despise your Sim | Fisticuffs Punching Bag |
| 10 | The Boss | SU, M, W, TH | 6 PM | 6 hours | §492 | §2,952 | §11,808 | N/A | N/A |
Career—Oracle Branch
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | DigiThief | SU, M, T, W, TH | 1 AM | 8 hours | §43 | §344 | §1,720 | Reach level 7 Mischief skill, reach level 5 Programming skill, hack 3 times | Hold & Cold Tech Spec Poster |
| 7 | Elite Hacker | SU, M, T, W, TH | 2 AM | 8 hours | §73 | §584 | §2,920 | Reach level 8 Mischief skill, successfully hack into the mainframe 3 times | The Indispensable |
| 8 | Anonymous Ghost | SU, M, T, TH | 1 AM | 9 hours | §130 | §1,170 | §4,680 | Reach level 7 Programming skill, hacked §2,500 | N/A |
| 9 | Net Demon | SU, M, T, TH | 1 AM | 7 hours | §234 | §1,638 | §6,552 | Max Mischief skill to level 10, reach level 8 Programming skill, create 10 viruses | Mayhem Portable Computer |
| 10 | The Oracle | SU, M, T, F | 12 AM | 7 hours | §316 | §2,212 | §8,848 | N/A | N/A |
While it is important to work on the Mischief skill, you also need to develop Charisma, Fitness, and Programming. You will need to get some sleep during the day, but that also leaves you time to be social and work on skills while the sun is still shining. Be sure to get a computer because you will need to learn to use it—plus you can start doing some hacks into accounts to make some extra money.
Boss Branch
Ideal Emotion: Confident
Daily Task: Mean Interactions
If you are planning on going into the Boss branch, start working on your Logic skill early on. By playing chess and reading books on logic, you can get a head start so that it is easier to advance through the Boss levels. Of the two branches, this one pays better—but only when you get to the final level.
Oracle Branch
Ideal Emotion: Focused
Daily Task: Hacking
The Oracle branch is focused on technological crimes and primarily involves the Programming skill—though you still need to continue to work on Mischief as well. As you progress through the levels in this branch, you actually make a higher salary than the Boss branch. However, the final level, Oracle, makes less than the Boss.
Culinary
Ideal Emotion: Inspired
Daily Task: Prepare Food
The Culinary career focuses entirely on food and drinks. You will be doing a lot of cooking and mixology. The hours are often long and involve working late afternoon and night. However, the skills you develop in this career can help in your Sims’ daily lives as they can prepare better meals and a greater variety of meals for their families and households.
Career
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Assistant Dishwasher | SU, M, W, F, S | 4 PM | 9 hours | §15 | §135 | §675 | Clean dishes 10 times | Cold Hard Steel Countertop |
| 2 | Head Dishwasher | SU, M, TH, F, S | 4 PM | 9 hours | §16 | §144 | §720 | Reach level 2 Mixology skill | Stainless Steel Auto-Pot |
| 3 | Caterer | SU, M, TH, F, S | 3 PM | 8 hours | §26 | §208 | §1,040 | Reach level 2 Cooking skill, cook an Outstanding grilled cheese | Umber Kitchen Sink |
| 4 | Mixologist | SU, M, F, S | 6 PM | 8 hours | §35 | §280 | §1,120 | Reach level 3 Mixology skill, reach level 3 Cooking skill | Corporate Chic Counter Island |
| 5 | Line Cook | SU, M, F, S | 2 PM | 8 hours | §43 | §344 | §1,376 | Reach level 4 Mixology skill, reach level 4 Cooking skill | Positronic Magnetic Knife Rack or Captain Rodrigo de Pablo Cask |
Career—Chef Branch
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | Head Caterer | SU, M, F, S | 3 PM | 9 hours | §52 | §468 | §1,872 | Reach level 6 Cooking skill, have 5 friends | Heavy Duty Pot Rack, Professional Ceiling-Mounted Pot Rack, and Ceiling Pot Rack-Oval |
| 7 | Pastry Chef | SU, M, TH, F, S | 12 PM | 5 hours | §104 | §520 | §2,600 | Reach level 3 Gourmet Cooking skill, cook 5 Outstanding gourmet dishes | Icebox of Steel |
| 8 | Sous Chef | SU, M, TH, F, S | 8 PM | 6 hours | §131 | §786 | §3,930 | Reach level 8 Cooking skill, reach level 5 Gourmet Cooking skill, cook 10 unique foods | N/A |
| 9 | Executive Chef | SU, M, F, S | 5 PM | 6 hours | §253 | §1,518 | §6,072 | Reach level 7 Gourmet Cooking skill, reach level 5 Charisma skill, write a cookbook | Discretion Stove Hood, Pro Performance Range Hood, the Obelisk, Pancake Pro Free-standing Griddle |
| 10 | Celebrity Chef | SU, M, F, S | 12 PM | 6 hours | §410 | §2,460 | §9,840 | N/A | N/A |
Career—Mixologist Branch
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | Head Mixologist | SU, M, TH, F, S | 6 PM | 8 hours | §40 | §320 | §1,600 | Reach level 5 Mixology skill, have 5 friends | N/A |
| 7 | Juice Boss | SU, M, TH, F, S | 7 PM | 7 hours | §64 | §448 | §2,240 | Reach level 7 Mixology skill, make 5 Outstanding drinks | Vinoteca Bottle Rack |
| 8 | Chief Drink Operator | SU, TH, F, S | 4 PM | 8 hours | §111 | §888 | §3,552 | Reach level 8 Mixology skill, reach level 5 Charisma skill, have 12 friends | Lemonade on a Sunny Day Torchiere |
| 9 | Drinkmaster | SU, TH, S | 2 PM | 10 hours | §166 | §1,660 | §4,980 | Max Mixology skill to level 10, reach level 7 Charisma skill, write bar guide | Bar Settlers Bar |
| 10 | Celebrity Mixologist | SU, TH, S | 12 PM | 10 hours | §197 | §1,970 | §5,910 | N/A | N/A |
When you begin this career, focus almost entirely on working on both Cooking and Mixology skills. If you are at the gym, watch the cooking channel while on the treadmill. Read books on cooking and mixology. When you go out to a nightclub with friends, get behind the bar and start making drinks. The more you focus on these skills, the faster you can advance through this career. Because both branches also require Charisma, start working on this skill early on so you can continue to develop it as you socialize.
Chef Branch
Ideal Emotion: Inspired
Daily Task: Prepare Food
When you choose the Chef branch, you need to continue working on Cooking skill, but you also need to start developing the Gourmet Cooking skill. The Chef branch makes a lot more money than the Mixologist branch, so if money is important, this is the branch to pursue.
Mixologist Branch
Ideal Emotion: Inspired
Daily Task: Mix Drinks
Sims choosing the Mixologist branch can now focus entirely on the Mixology skill and forget about cooking. You will also need to have a lot of friends because Sims tending bar need to have good Charisma skills. While this can be a fun career, you are always working at night. However, as you progress, you end up working only three days a week. The downside of this branch is that you make a lot less money than the Chef branch.
Entertainer
Ideal Emotion: Inspired
Daily Task: Write Jokes/Practice Music
Entertainers like to interact with other Sims and can’t be shy. They need to be able to get up in front of other Sims and perform. In addition to their salary, they can make money on the side by performing.
Career
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Amateur Entertainer | M, T, W, TH, F | 9 AM | 8 hours | §23 | §184 | §920 | Reach level 2 Charisma skill | Porcu-Pro Business Card Holder |
| 2 | Open Mic Seeker | SU, M, T, F, S | 5 PM | 6 hours | §36 | §216 | §1,080 | Have 4 friends | Sim Idol Rug |
| 3 | C-Lister | SU, M, TH, F, S | 5 PM | 6 hours | §40 | §240 | §1,200 | Reach level 2 of Guitar or Comedy skill | Rock of Ages Retro Stereo |
| 4 | Opening Act | M, T, W, F, S | 5 PM | 5 hours | §54 | §270 | §1,350 | Reach level 3 Charisma skill, earn §100 from comedy routine or playing instruments for tips | A Single Rose or I Otter Be a Star Pop Art |
Career—Musician Branch
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | Jingle Jammer | SU, M, TH, F | 2 PM | 6 hours | §67 | §402 | §1,608 | Reach level 3 Piano skill, reach level 4 of Guitar or Violin skill, write and sell 5 jingles | Off the Charts Music Award |
| 6 | Serious Musician | M, T, W, F, S | 3 PM | 6 hours | §78 | §468 | §2,340 | Reach level 4 Piano skill, reach level 5 of Guitar or Violin skill, have 7 friends | Classical Genius Antique Piano |
| 7 | Professional Pianist | M, T, TH, F, S | 2 PM | 7 hours | §87 | §609 | §3,045 | Reach level 5 Piano skill, play piano for 10 hours | N/A |
| 8 | Symphonic String Player | M, T, TH, F, S | 2 PM | 7 hours | §130 | §910 | §4,550 | Reach level 6 Piano skill, reach level 6 Guitar or Violin skill, have 10 friends | N/A |
| 9 | Instrumental Wonder | T, W, TH, F, S | 2 PM | 7 hours | §208 | §1,456 | §7,280 | Reach level 7 Piano skill, reach level 7 Guitar or Violin skill, write a song | Rock Legend Signed Guitar |
| 10 | Concert Virtuoso | W, TH, F, S | 2 PM | 7 hours | §340 | §2,380 | §9,520 | N/A | N/A |
Career
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | Jokesmith | SU, M, TH, F | 2 PM | 6 hours | §67 | §402 | §1,608 | Reach level 5 Comedy skill, try new material 3 times, compose a routine | You’ve Got Talent Award |
| 6 | Solid Storyteller | SU, TH, F | 5 PM | 7 hours | §115 | §805 | §2,415 | Reach level 7 Comedy skill, earn §250 from performing comedy routines | Studio Equity Track Lighting Kit |
| 7 | Rising Comedian | T, TH, F | 5 PM | 7 hours | §172 | §1,204 | §3,612 | Reach level 8 Comedy skill, reach level 4 Charisma skill, refine a comedy routine | What a Star You Are Wall Mirror |
| 8 | Roast Master | T, F, S | 4 PM | 7 hours | §258 | §1,806 | §5,418 | Reach level 9 Comedy skill, reach level 5 Charisma skill, write a comedy book | N/A |
| 9 | Stand Up Star | T, F, S | 5 PM | 7 hours | §310 | §2,170 | §6,510 | Reach level 10 Comedy skill, reach level 6 Charisma skill, perform 2long routines | N/A |
| 10 | Show Stopper | T, F, S | 5 PM | 6 hours | §401 | §2,406 | §7,218 | N/A | N/A |
The Entertainer career really diverges when you have to choose a branch. Once you get to level 3, C-lister, you need to decide whether you want to go into music or comedy. At levels 3 and 4, you can either work on the Comedy skill or pick up the Guitar skill. The Charisma skill also comes in handy no matter which branch you choose to follow.
Musician Branch
Ideal Emotion: Inspired
Daily Task: Play Instrument
The Musician branch ends up making more money. However, it is also more difficult because you have to develop the Piano skill as well as either Violin or Guitar. When your Sims hit the nightclub, try playing the piano for practice and later for tips. A little extra money never hurts.
Comedian Branch
Ideal Emotion: Playful
Daily Task: Write/Perform Routines
While it does not pay as much as the Musician branch, the Comedian branch focuses on both the Comedy and Charisma skills. You also need a computer to work on developing your skills and creating routines. Because you are only working three nights a week once you hit level 6 of this career, you have plenty of time to perform at various venues to make some extra money.
Painter
Ideal Emotion: Inspired
Daily Task: Create Paintings
Painter is one of the lowest paid careers. However, it focuses almost entirely on one skill and the products that you create while developing this skill and getting promoted can be sold for extra income. This is a good career if you want to stay focused on just a few things.
Career
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Palette Cleaner | M, T, W, TH, F | 9 AM | 8 hours | §21 | §168 | §840 | Reach level 2 Painting skill, admire 3 different works of art | Picture Perfect Art Lighting |
| 2 | Art Book Collator | M, T, W, TH, F | 9 AM | 8 hours | §23 | §184 | §920 | Reach level 3 Painting skill, successfully research art reference twice | Study of the Human Form |
| 3 | Hungry Artist | T, W, TH, F, S | 9 AM | 8 hours | §26 | §208 | §1,040 | Reach level 4 Painting skill, create 3 different sized paintings | Easy-Breezy Easel |
| 4 | Watercolor Dabbler | M, T, W, F, S | 9 AM | 8 hours | §29 | §232 | §1,160 | Reach level 5 Painting skill, create 1 Outstanding painting | Painting Canvas Storage Rack |
| 5 | Canvas Creator | SU, T, W, F, S | 9 AM | 8 hours | §35 | §280 | §1,400 | Reach level 6 Painting skill, sell 5 paintings to art gallery | Vase of Sunflowers |
| 6 | Imaginative Imagist | SU, W, TH, F, S | 9 AM | 7 hours | §44 | §308 | §1,540 | Reach level 7 Painting skill, create 3 different sized High Quality paintings | Artiste Supply Taboret |
Career—Master of the Real Branch
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | Artist en Residence | M, W, TH, S | 10 AM | 9 hours | §65 | §585 | §2,340 | Reach level 8 Painting skill, create 1 Masterpiece | Deluxe All-Season Easel |
| 8 | Professional Painter | SU, T, TH, F | 10 AM | 5 hours | §140 | §700 | §2,800 | Reach level 9 Painting skill, create an Outstanding painting in every genre | Premium Prima Ballerina |
| 9 | Illustrious Illustrator | M, W, F | 10 AM | 5 hours | §280 | §1,400 | §4,200 | Max Painting skill to level 10, create and sell 3 Masterpieces, describe aesthetics to a group of Sims | Flegel Studio Floor Lamp |
| 10 | Master of the Real | M, TH | 10 AM | 5 hours | §492 | §2,460 | §4,920 | N/A | N/A |
Career—Patron of the Arts Branch
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | Color Theory Critic | SU, T, W, TH, S | 9 AM | 6 hours | §70 | §420 | §2,100 | Reach level 8 Painting skill, admire 10 different works of art, discuss color theory with 2 other Sims | Stack of Canvases |
| 8 | Fine-Art Aficionado | SU, T, W, TH, S | 9 AM | 5 hours | §126 | §630 | §3,150 | Reach level 9 Painting skill, own 1 Masterpiece painting, describe aesthetics to 3 other Sims | Pre-Owned Painter’s Easel |
| 9 | Composition Curator | SU, W, S | 10 AM | 6 hours | §227 | §1,362 | §4,086 | Max Painting skill to level 10, reach level 3 Charisma skill, own 10 Masterpiece paintings | Rustic Dream Bed |
| 10 | Patron of the Arts | SU, M, W, S | 11 AM | 5 hours | §328 | §1,640 | §6,560 | N/A | N/A |
Painters work five days a week for the first 6 levels of their career. In addition, they need to focus almost entirely on developing the Painting skill. As you build this skill, start creating paintings to increase this skill, and also complete requirements for promotion. Don’t forget to sell some of your paintings or display them in your home.
Master of the Real Branch
Ideal Emotion: Inspired
Daily Task: Create Paintings
While this branch does not pay as much as the other, it focuses entirely on painting and creating Masterpiece paintings, which you can sell for quite a bit of money. The up side is that you don’t have to work very often or for long, so you can spend even more time painting.
Patron of the Arts Branch
Ideal Emotion: Inspired
Daily Task: View Paintings
When you choose to follow this branch, you also need to begin working on Charisma as well as your Painting skill. However, instead of creating Masterpieces, you only need to own them—though it does not mean you can’t paint them yourself instead of buying them.
Secret Agent
Ideal Emotion: Confident
Daily Task: Browse Intelligence
Not only is being a secret agent exciting, it is also one of the best paid careers. However, you can put in some long hours and have to develop a lot of different skills along the way.
Career
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Agency Clerk | M, T, W, TH, F | 7 AM | 8 hours | §17 | §136 | §680 | Browse intelligence database on a computer | The Swiveler |
| 2 | Intelligence Researcher | M, T, W, TH, F | 7 AM | 8 hours | §19 | §152 | §760 | Reach level 2 Programming skill | Reconnaissance Workstation |
| 3 | Agent Handler | M, T, W, TH, F | 8 AM | 8 hours | §21 | §168 | §840 | Reach level 2 Charisma skill, have 3 friends | N/A |
| 4 | Field Agent | M, T, W, TH | 10 AM | 8 hours | §37 | §296 | §1,184 | Reach level 3 Fitness skill, do intelligence research for 2 hours | Nerves of Steel Desk Lamp |
| 5 | Lead Detective | M, T, W, TH | 10 AM | 9 hours | §47 | §423 | §1,692 | Reach level 4 Charisma skill, have 5 friends | Tactical Map |
| 6 | Government Agent | M, T, W, TH | 10 AM | 9 hours | §52 | §468 | §1,872 | Reach level 5 Fitness skill, reach level 3 Programming skill | Hidden Bookcase Door |
| 7 | Secret Agent | SU, T, TH | 2 PM | 8 hours | §87 | §696 | §2,088 | Reach level 5 Charisma skill, investigate 3 Sims | Spy Satellite or Evil Am Eye Swiveler |
Career—Diamond Agent Branch
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | Spy Captain | SU, W, TH | 2 PM | 8 hours | §173 | §1,384 | §4,152 | Reach level 7 Fitness skill, reach level 7 Charisma skill | Information Database |
| 9 | Shadow Agent | SU, T, W, TH | 2 PM | 9 hours | §208 | §1,872 | §7,488 | Reach level 8 Charisma skill, reach level 8 Fitness skill, have 8 friends | N/A |
| 10 | Double Dia-mond Agent | SU, T, TH | 9 AM | 15 hours | §284 | §4,260 | §12,780 | N/A | N/A |
Career—Villain Branch
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | Double Agent | SU, T, F | 2 PM | 8 hours | §191 | §1,528 | §4,584 | Reach level 5 Mischief skill, reach level 6 Fitness skill | Commemorative Freeze Ray |
| 9 | Supreme Villain | SU, T, W, F | 2 PM | 6 hours | §278 | §1,668 | §6,672 | Max Mischief skill to level 10, reach level 6 Programming skill, expose 3 super villains | Our Founder Statue |
| 10 | Triple Agent | SU, M, T, W, F | 2 PM | 5 hours | §515 | §2,575 | §12,875 | N/A | N/A |
Secret agents definitely need a computer for their job. Not only do they need to develop the Programming skill and complete different tasks on the computer, they also need to develop both the Charisma and Fitness skills. As they socialize, they should work on creating friends.
Diamond Agent Branch
Ideal Emotion: Confident
Daily Task: Romance Interactions
There is not much difference in salary between the two branches. The Diamond Agent branch requires Sims to continue working on both Charisma and Fitness as well as making friends.
Villain Branch
Ideal Emotion: Focused
Daily Task: Mean Interactions
The Villain branch still requires some Fitness skills, but really focuses on the Mischief skill. In fact, if you are planning on going into this branch, start working on the Mischief skill well before you have to pick a path to follow. You also need to continue working on the Programming skill.
Tech Guru
Ideal Emotion: Focused
Daily Task: Use Computer
This career focuses almost entirely on a single skill and has decent pay. Your Sims in this career will definitely need a computer if they want to get promoted. This career is best for those Sims with traits such as Loner who do not require a lot of social interaction because they will be spending a lot of time on a computer.
Career
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Live Chat Support Agent | T, W, TH, F, S | 10 AM | 8 hours | §31 | §248 | §1,240 | Play video games for 4 hours | Stainless Steel Auto-Pot |
| 2 | Quality Assurance | M, T, W, TH, F | 10 AM | 9 hours | §38 | §342 | §1,710 | Reach level 2 Programming skill, practice programming for 4 hours | Computer Hard Drive |
| 3 | Code Monkey | M, T, W, TH, F | 10 AM | 9 hours | §47 | §423 | §2,115 | Reach level 3 Programming skill, make a plugin on the computer | The Sentinel |
| 4 | Ace Engineer | T, W, TH, F, S | 9 AM | 8 hours | §63 | §504 | §2,520 | Reach level 4 Programming skill, mod 2 games | The Hipster Hugger |
| 5 | Project Manager | M, T, W, TH, F | 9 AM | 8 hours | §73 | §584 | §2,920 | Reach level 5 Programming skill, make 3 plugins on the computer | Innovator’s Award for Excellence in Science |
| 6 | Development Captain | M, T, W, TH, F | 9 AM | 8 hours | §78 | §624 | §3,120 | Reach level 6 Programming skill, complete 2 freelance jobs | A Stroke of Genius or Stack of CDs |
Career—Start Up Entrepreneur Branch
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | The Next Big Thing | M, T, W, TH, F | 10 AM | 7 hours | §98 | §686 | §3,430 | Reach level 8 Programming skill, earned §250 from mobile apps | Minimalist Unplant |
| 8 | Independent Consultant | M, T, TH, S | 10 AM | 6 hours | §185 | §1,110 | §4,440 | Reach level 9 Programming skill, earned §2,000 from mobile apps | N/A |
| 9 | Dot-Com Pioneer | M, T, F | 10 AM | 7 hours | §318 | §2,226 | §6,678 | Reach level 10 Programming skill, make §2,000 from games | Plasmatron 3000 Flat Screen TV |
| 10 | Start Up Genius | M, T, F | 10 AM | 5 hours | §525 | §2,625 | §7,875 | N/A | N/A |
Career—eSport Gamer Branch
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | eSports Competitor | M, TH, F, S | 2 PM | 9 hours | §121 | §1,089 | §4,356 | Reach level 3 Video Gaming skill, place in a video game tournament | “Revanne” Poster |
| 8 | Pro Gamer | M, W, TH, F | 5 PM | 7 hours | §194 | §1,358 | §5,432 | Reach level 6 Video Gaming skill, place in 3 video game tournaments | Top Secret Computer |
| 9 | APM Queen/King | T, TH, F, S | 4 PM | 6 hours | §261 | §1,566 | §6,264 | Reach level 9 Video Gaming skill, have 30,000 fans from livestreaming | PriorPerfection Motion Sensor Game Mat |
| 10 | Champion Gamer | T, TH, F, S | 4 PM | 6 hours | §356 | §2,136 | §8,544 | N/A | N/A |
Tech Gurus need to develop the Programming skill and focus almost entirely on that skill and the different actions related to it. Invest in the best computer that you can as early as you can afford it. You want something reliable because you don’t want to have to repair or replace it when it breaks down. In addition to programming, video gaming can be a good way for these Sims to have fun.
Start Up Entrepreneur Branch
Ideal Emotion: Focused
Daily Task: Programming
This branch continues to focus on maxing out the Programming skill and doing all of the programming related actions. Many of these can earn your Sim some extra money while also developing the skill.
eSport Gamer Branch
Ideal Emotion: Focused
Daily Task: Play Video Games
For this branch, switch gears and focus entirely on the Video Gaming skill. In fact, if you are planning to go this route, start working on Video Gaming skills early on in the Tech Guru career. Also purchase some of the cool video game systems for your home.
Writer
Ideal Emotion: Inspired
Daily Task: Read Books
This is another career that does not pay as well and focuses on a single skill. However, this skill can allow your Sims to create things that can be sold for additional money. You definitely need a computer for this career.
Career
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Writer’s Assistant | SU, M, W, F | 11 AM | 8 hours | §25 | §200 | §800 | Practice writing for 3 hours | Milton Word Processor |
| 2 | Blogger | SU, M, W, F | 11 AM | 8 hours | §32 | §256 | §1,024 | Reach level 2 Writing skill, write a book | Still Life with Apple and Pitcher and Books and Bottles and Flowers |
| 3 | Freelance Article Writer | SU, M, T, TH | 9 AM | 8 hours | §38 | §304 | §1,216 | Reach level 3 Writing skill, self-publish 4 books | The Thinker |
| 4 | Advice Columnist | SU, M, T, TH | 9 AM | 8 hours | §44 | §352 | §1,408 | Reach level 4 Writing skill, write 3 books | An Open Book, Framed |
| 5 | Regular Contributor | M, T, W, F | 8 AM | 8 hours | §50 | §400 | §1,600 | Reach level 5 Writing skill, self-publish 2 books | Antique Tomes |
Career—Author Branch
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | Short Story Writer | SU, W, TH, F, S | 1 PM | 8 hours | §60 | §480 | §2,400 | Reach level 7 Writing skill, have earned §500 publishing books | N/A |
| 7 | Novelist | SU, W, TH, S | 1 PM | 7 hours | §115 | §805 | §3,220 | Reach level 8 Writing skill, write 5 books | Nom de Plume Quill Pen |
| 8 | Fan Favorite | SU, W, TH, S | 12 PM | 5 hours | §202 | §1,010 | §4,040 | Reach level 9 Writing skill, have earned §2,500 publishing books | The Muse |
| 9 | Bestselling Author | T, W, S | 12 PM | 5 hours | §296 | §1,480 | §4,440 | Max Writing skill to level 10, submit 5 books to literary digests | Door of Perception |
| 10 | Creator of Worlds | T, S | 12 PM | 6 hours | §465 | §2,790 | §5,580 | N/A | N/A |
Career—Journalist Branch
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | Page Two Journalist | M, T, W, TH, F | 8 AM | 8 hours | §56 | §448 | §2,240 | Reach level 7 Writing skill, reach level 2 Charisma skill, write 3 articles | Antique Writer’s Desk |
| 7 | Front Page Writer | M, T, W, TH, F | 8 AM | 7 hours | §83 | §581 | §2,905 | Reach level 8 Writing skill, reach level 3 Charisma skill, write 5 articles | The Where Should I Go? Ball |
| 8 | Investigative Journalist | M, T, W, TH | 9 AM | 7 hours | §145 | §1,015 | §4,060 | Reach level 9 Writing skill, reach level 4 Charisma skill, have earned §500 from articles | Antique Typewriter |
| 9 | Editor-In-Chief | M, T, W, TH | 9 AM | 7 hours | §189 | §1,323 | §5,292 | Max Writing skill to level 10, reach level 5 Charisma skill, have earned §2,500 from articles | Deep Thoughts Bookcase |
| 10 | Scribe of History | M, T, W, TH | 10 AM | 6 hours | §287 | §1,722 | §6,888 | N/A | N/A |
Writers need to work on the Writing skill non-stop because their entire career is based on this skill. As soon as you can afford it, purchase the best computer you can. You want one that is reliable because you will be using it a lot at home.
Author Branch
Ideal Emotion: Inspired
Daily Task: Write Books
This branch just continues requiring Sims to work on the Writing skill. When not at work, these Sims need to be writing and publishing books. These actions can take a lot of time, so you need to be efficient about taking care of the Sim’s needs and keeping them Happy or in other positive emotions.
Journalist Branch
Ideal Emotion: Inspired
Daily Task: Write Articles
The Journalist branch is a bit tougher than the Author branch because you need to continue working on the Writing skill, and add the Charisma skill. If you are planning on going this route, start socializing early on and building up this skill before the point when you branch off as a journalist. These Sims write articles instead of books, but will still be putting a lot of time on the computer.
School
While the rest of her family goes inside to watch television, this Sim is not content to be a C student and wants to raise her grade.
Ideal Emotion: Focused
Daily Task: Homework
Children and teens do not have careers. However, that does not mean they just lounge around at home all day long while the adults go off to work. Not a chance! Instead, children go off to grade school and teens attend high school. Just like careers, school has a schedule—which never changes—and requirements for promotion. All children and teens start off as C students. As they attend school, work hard while there, and complete their requirements at home—homework essentially—they can become B students and then eventually A students. Send students to school in the Focused mood to advance from a C to a B. Performing a Daily Task and heading to school with the Ideal Emotion will benefit students at school, too!
Grade School
| Level | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Requirements for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C Student | M, T, W, TH, F | 8AM | 7 hours | Get 2 skills to level 4, attend school while Focused |
| B Student | M, T, W, TH, F | 8 AM | 7 hours | Get 4 skills to level 4, do extra credit work 3 times |
| A Student | M, T, W, TH, F | 8 AM | 7 hours | N/A |
High School
| Level | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Requirements for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C Student | M, T, W, TH, F | 8 AM | 7 hours | Attend school while Focused |
| B Student | M, T, W, TH, F | 8 AM | 7 hours | Do extra credit work 3 times |
| A Student | M, T, W, TH, F | 8 AM | 7 hours | N/A |
Part-Time Jobs
Ideal Emotion: Ambitious
In addition to school, Teens can get part-time jobs to earn a little extra spending money. There are five part-time jobs available to any Sims that are Teen or older, and these will appear in the Find a Job menu. Each part-time job consists of three levels. Here are the part-time jobs that you can choose from:
Babysitter
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Baby Sitter | S, Su | 6PM | 6 hours | §33 | §198 | §396 | Reach Level 2 Charisma Skill | N/A |
| 2 | Nanny | S, Su | 6PM | 6 hours | §40 | §240 | §480 | Reach Level 4 Charisma Skill | N/A |
| 3 | Daycare Assistant | S, Su | 6PM | 6 hours | §48 | §288 | §576 | N/A | N/A |
Barista
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Coffee Stain Remover | M, T, W, TH, F | 5AM | 2 hours | §28 | §56 | §280 | Reach Level 2 Mixology Skill | N/A |
| 2 | Bean Blender | M, T, W, TH, F | 5AM | 2 hours | §41 | §82 | §410 | Reach Level 4 Mixology Skill | N/A |
| 3 | Latte Artiste | M, T, W, TH, F | 5AM | 2 hours | §62 | §124 | §620 | N/A | N/A |
Fast Food Employee
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Table Cleaner | Su, W, Th, F, S | 5PM | 4 hours | §16 | §64 | §320 | Reach Level 2 Cooking Skill | N/A |
| 2 | Fry Cook | T, W, Th, F, S | 5PM | 4 hours | §18 | §72 | §360 | Reach Level 2 Charisma Skill | N/A |
| 3 | Food Service Cashier | M, T, W, Th, F | 5PM | 4 hours | §20 | §80 | §400 | N/A | N/A |
Manual Labor
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lawn Mower | S, Su | 7AM | 5 hours | §45 | §225 | §450 | Achieve level 2 Gardening Skill | N/A |
| 2 | Landscaper | S, Su | 7AM | 5 hours | §59 | §295 | §590 | Achieve level 4 Gardening Skill | N/A |
| 3 | Backhoe Operator | S, Su | 7AM | 5 hours | §70 | §350 | §700 | N/A | N/A |
Retail Employee
| Level | Position | Workdays | Start Time | Length of Day | Average Hourly Pay | Daily Pay | Weekly Pay | Requirements for Promotion | Reward Items for Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shelf Stocker | T, W, Th, F, S | 6PM | 4 hours | §33 | §132 | §660 | Reach Level 2 Charisma Skill | N/A |
| 2 | Sales Floor Clerk | T, W, Th, F, S | 6PM | 4 hours | §40 | §160 | §800 | Reach Level 4 Charisma Skill | N/A |
| 3 | Customer Support | M, T, W, Th, F | 6PM | 4 hours | §48 | §192 | §960 | N/A | N/A |
Family and Work SchedulingWhile any career will work for a single Sim, when you have a family or household of Sims, it is important to select careers that allow for the Sims in the household to be together. If there are children or teens, their schedules are set and do not change. They go to school Monday through Friday from 8 AM until 3 PM. Therefore, you may want to have at least one of the parents work a similar schedule so someone is home when the kids are home. Maybe make sure that the family is home on the weekends together or can have dinner together most nights. Just as in real life, scheduling a family of Sims can be tough. Along those same lines, some Sims may really be into hobbies such as collecting or fishing. They may want to pick careers that don’t require a lot of time so they can spend more time on their hobbies. Some may need just enough work to pay the bills. Plus some hobbies can actually make money for Sims as they sell things that they collect or catch. Because most careers start out pretty busy, look at how many days a week some of the careers require as you get promoted. Authors (Writing) can get down to only two days a week while mixologists (Culinary) and comedians (Entertainer) only have to work three days a week once they get in the higher levels. These are good jobs with decent pay but lots of free time. |