So you want to be a ... surgeon

JOB DESCRIPTION: Surgeons are physicians who specialize in the treatment of injury, disease, and deformity through operations. Using a variety of instruments, and with patients under general or local anesthesia, a surgeon corrects physical deformities, repairs bone and tissue after injuries, or performs preventive surgeries on patients with debilitating diseases or disorders.

EDUCATION NEEDED: Degree as doctor of medicine (M.D.). This requires at least two academic years of work prior to entrance and a total of at least six academic years of work to complete the degree program, including both prior-required college work and the professional program itself.

CONTINUING EDUCATION: Most surgeons must complete the doctorate education plus one to seven years in residency training or graduate medical education. Also licensing and certification is required.

PAY OPTIONS: The West Virginia average is $180,000.

HOW TO APPLY: Application to group medical practices, hospitals or health networks is recommended. Hospitals post openings and place advertisements frequently.

Source: www.jobbankusa.com, West Virginia Bureau of Employment Programs