Factor analysis was used to derive four relatively independent factors or general dimensions of the work experience of economically disadvantaged, urban youth. The factors were named and interpreted as follows: (1) supportive context of job: characteristics referring to supportive aspects of the job, such as friendliness of boss, friendliness of coworkers, perceived fairness of pay, and the consequences of interest and satisfaction; (2) state of job and field mobility: characteristics related to rate of mobility with respect to jobs and occupational fields; (3) job achievement: characteristics related to achievement oriented standards; and (4) persistence: characteristics indicating persistent, steady work. The factors were analyzed in relation to another set of work variables and to a set of social background variables. They appear to provide a basis for the selection of criteria with which to assess the effect of community work training programs for disadvantaged. (KJ)