IT careers: with only a high-school diploma, which role listed below is least likely to be attainable without further specialized education or training?

Introduction / Context:
Entry requirements vary across information-related roles. Some jobs emphasize accuracy and procedures, while others demand formal training in algorithms, software design, and systems thinking. Understanding typical prerequisites helps learners plan appropriate education pathways.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The candidate has only a high-school diploma.
• We compare likelihood of employment across the listed roles in typical organizations.
• We assume no exceptional portfolio or certifications beyond secondary education.

Concept / Approach:
Programming positions generally require specialized education or demonstrable skill (degree, bootcamp, certifications, or substantial portfolio). Data-entry and basic operations roles may accept high-school graduates with on-the-job training. Librarian roles often require tertiary education in library/information science. Therefore, “programmer” is the least likely without further training, as it usually demands deeper technical competencies and problem-solving skills.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Job postings commonly request degrees or equivalent experience for programming roles, whereas data-entry and some operations positions list lower formal education thresholds.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Data-entry operator: often accessible with high school and training.
• Computer operator: sometimes accessible with high school plus vendor training.
• Librarian: typically requires a degree; however, compared with programmer, listings for librarian roles also require higher education—yet “programmer” demands specialized technical proficiency that is least likely without added training in most IT paths.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming rare self-taught exceptions define the norm; while possible, they are not typical hiring baselines.

Final Answer:
programmer