For a 1979 study of occupational division of labor in rural areas, in-depth interviews conducted with 541 randomly selected respondents from 4 Virginia counties examined socio-demographic parameters (age, sex, race, and occupation); degree of involvement in multiple job holding; economic and social-psychological motives for participation in multiple job structures; and the impact on the rural occupational structure. Data indicated a diversified occupational structure, with rural workers participating in relatively even numbers across all occupational categories. Farming was a secondary consideration of the rural dweller, who was more likely to travel great distances to work in a factory than to farm. There was a considerable emphasis on craft industries (including vehicle and equipment repair as well as traditional crafts) and some indication that crafts were becoming a major rural occupation or second occupation. Approximately one-third of the labor force held more than one job, either for extra income or to develop new creative and productive outlets. Job satisfaction among respondents was high, with little difference between males and females; whites appeared to be more satisfied with their jobs than non-whites. Most individuals were willing to commute to work so they could enjoy the advantages of living in a rural area. (CM)