Project Zomboid

Project Zomboid Traits & Occupations (Build 42)

81 traits to pick49 positive · 32 negative25 occupationsGame files 42.21

Your occupation sets your starting points; positive traits spend them and negative traits give them back. Below are all 81 traits you can pick and the 25 occupations, read from the game's Build 42.21 files: what each costs or gives, which traits rule each other out, and the skill levels each one starts you with. Plan a build in the planner and share it as a link.

Build planner

Pick an occupation, then traits. Traits that clash with your picks or with a trait your build already gets for free are greyed out. The link in your address bar always holds the current build.

Custom Occupation · 0 traits8 left ↓

1 · Occupation

The number is the budget the occupation starts you with.

2 · Positive traits — cost points

3 · Negative traits — give points

How trait points work

  1. 1 · The occupation sets the budget

    Custom Occupation starts with 8 points and no skills; Veteran starts 8 points in debt. The other 23 sit between, trading points for skill levels.

  2. 2 · Positive traits cost points

    From 1 to 10 points each — Athletic costs 10.

  3. 3 · Negative traits give points

    From 1 to 12 points each — Deaf gives 12. A build is finished when you have 0 points or more left.

Why other lists show “−10” for Athletic

The game stores a trait's price as the points it takes (Athletic: 10), but the character screen prints it with the sign flipped, as the change to your budget: −10. PZwiki copies the screen. It is the same number either way, so this page says “costs” or “gives” instead of a sign. Occupations are stored the other way round: their number is the budget they start you with.

Free points from the sandbox settings are 0 in every preset the game ships, so the planner starts from the occupation alone.

All 25 occupations

Sorted by starting points. Each skill chip is the starting level the occupation gives; free traits come on top, and their own skill levels add to the occupation's.

  • Custom Occupation

    starts with 8 points

    “Use free trait points to make a custom build for your character.”

    No skill levelsPlan this build →

  • Burger Flipper

    starts with 2 points
    Free trait: Keen Cook
    1.5 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Tailor

    starts with 2 points
    Knows 59 recipes from the start

    Knit Open-Face Balaclava · Knit Full Balaclava · Knit Beanie · Knit Doily · Knit Legwarmers · Knit Scarf · Knit Socks · Knit Sweater Vest · Knit Wool Hat · Sew Small Leather Backpack · Sew Hide Boots · Sew Hide Pants · Sew Hide Sleeping Bag · Sew Hide Coat · Sew Hide Hoodie · Sew Hide Jacket · Sew Hide Robe · Sew Hide Hat · Make Tarp Chest Rig · Assemble Small Simple Framepack · Assemble Simple Framepack · Assemble Framepack · Assemble Large Framepack · Make Garbage Bag Tank Top · Make Tarp Tank Tops · Make Garbage Bag Dress · Make Tarp Dresses · Weave Twine Shoes · Sew Leather Codpiece · Sew Leather Neck Guard · Sew Holster · Sew Double Holster · Make Western Boots · Sew Belt · Sew Leather Tool Roll · Sew Sandals · Sew Leather Gloves · Sew Leather Water Bag · Sew Bandolier · Sew Shells Bandolier · Sew Hide Wallet · Sew Furred Hide Coat · Sew Furred Hide Jacket · Sew Leather Gaiter · Sew Leather Vambrace · Sew Elbow Pads · Sew Knee Pads · Sew Leather Pants · Sew Hide Fanny Pack · Sew Cloth Satchel · Sew Knee-Length Dress · Sew Long Johns · Sew Shirt · Sew Knee-Length Skirt · Sew Pants · Sew Long Dress · Sew Long Johns Bottom · Sew Sleeveless Shirt · Sew Long Skirt

    1.5 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Doctor

    starts at 0 points
    1.14 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Farmer

    starts at 0 points
    Knows 63 recipes from the start

    Make Mildew Cure · Make Flies Cure from Cigarettes · Make Flies Cure from Loose Tobacco · Make Flies Cure from Chewing Tobacco · Make Aphids Cure · Make Scarecrow · Make Barbed Wire from Wire · Carrot growing season · Broccoli growing season · Radish growing season · Strawberry growing season · Tomato growing season · Potato growing season · Cabbage growing season · Corn growing season · Kale growing season · Sweet potato growing season · Green pea growing season · Onion growing season · Garlic growing season · Soybean growing season · Wheat growing season · Basil growing season · Chives growing season · Cilantro growing season · Oregano growing season · Parsley growing season · Sage growing season · Rosemary growing season · Thyme growing season · Barley growing season · Flax growing season · Hops growing season · Rye growing season · Sugar beet growing season · Tobacco growing season · Bell pepper growing season · Cauliflower growing season · Cucumber growing season · Habanero growing season · Jalapeno growing season · Leek growing season · Lettuce growing season · Pumpkin growing season · Spinach growing season · Sunflower growing season · Turnip growing season · Watermelon growing season · Zucchini growing season · Chamomile growing season · Lemongrass growing season · Marigold growing season · Mint growing season · Rose growing season · Poppy growing season · Hemp growing season · Lavender growing season · Comfrey growing season · Common mallow growing season · Broadleaf plantain growing season · Black sage growing season · Wild garlic growing season · Make Jar of Preserved Food

    1.33 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Firefighter

    starts at 0 points
    2 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Lumberjack

    starts at 0 points

    “Slightly faster movement through forests and woodland. Less muscle strain from chopping trees.”

    Free trait: Ax-pert
    2 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Nurse

    starts at 0 points
    Free trait: Night Owl
    1.6 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Rancher

    starts at 0 points
    Knows 1 recipe from the start

    Make Barbed Wire from Wire

    1 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Carpenter

    starts 2 points in debt
    Knows 19 recipes from the start

    Make Brake Disc Weapon · Can-Reinforce Long Weapon · Can-Reinforce Short Weapon · Can-Reinforce Weapon · Make Garden Fork Head Weapon · Make Railspike Baseball Bat · Make Railspike Cudgel · Make Railspike Large Handle · Make Rake-Head-Spiked Weapon · Make Plank with Saw · Make Sawblade Cudgel · Make Sawblade Large Handle · Make Sawblade Plank · Make Sawblade Table Leg · Make Sawblade Wooden Bat · Sheet Metal-Reinforce Weapon · Make Spade Head Cudgel · Make Advanced Framepack Frame · Make Advanced Large Framepack Frame

    1.25 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Chef

    starts 2 points in debt
    Free trait: Keen Cook
    Knows 20 recipes from the start

    Make Cake Batter · Prepare Pie Dough · Prepare Bread Dough · Prepare Baguette · Prepare Biscuits · Prepare Chocolate Cookies · Prepare Chocolate Chip Cookies · Prepare Oatmeal Cookies · Prepare Shortbread Cookies · Prepare Sugar Cookies · Prepare Pizza · Prepare 2 Breaded Onion Rings · Prepare Breaded Shrimp · Prepare Sushi · Prepare Onigiri · Prepare Maki · Make 4 Cabbage Rolls · Prepare Muffins · Make Guacamole · Make Jar of Preserved Food

    1.25 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Construction Worker

    starts 2 points in debt
    1.43 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • DIY Expert

    starts 2 points in debt
    Free trait: Inventive
    Knows 24 recipes from the start

    Barbed-Wire Wrap Weapon · Make Bolt Metal Bat · Make Brake Disc Weapon · Make Bucket Maul · Can-Reinforce Long Weapon · Can-Reinforce Short Weapon · Can-Reinforce Weapon · Make Garden Fork Head Weapon · Make Kettle Maul · Make Railspike Baseball Bat · Make Railspike Cudgel · Make Railspike Iron Pipe · Make Railspike Large Handle · Make Railspike Weapon · Make Rake-Head-Spiked Weapon · Make Plank with Saw · Make Sawblade Cudgel · Make Sawblade Large Handle · Make Sawblade Plank · Make Sawblade Table Leg · Make Sawblade Wooden Bat · Sheet Metal-Reinforce Weapon · Make Spade Head Cudgel · Make Improvised Screwdriver

    2 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Electrician

    starts 2 points in debt

    “Can operate generators.”

    Knows 12 recipes from the start

    Generator Maintenance · Make Remote Controller (Short-Range) · Make Remote Controller (Medium-Range) · Make Remote Controller (Long-Range) · Make Remote Trigger · Make Timer · Make Makeshift Radio · Make Makeshift Ham Radio · Make Makeshift Walkie Talkie · Make Improvised Flashlight · Make Improvised Lantern · Make Improvised Lighter

    2 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Fishing Guide

    starts 2 points in debt
    Knows 5 recipes from the start

    Make Fishing Rod · Fix Fishing Rod · Dismantle Fishing Net · Make Fishing Net · Make Chum Base

    2 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Security Guard

    starts 2 points in debt
    Free trait: Night Owl
    2.5 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Engineer

    starts 4 points in debt

    “Can make traps and explosives. Can operate generators.”

    Knows 13 recipes from the start

    Make Aerosol Bomb · Make Fire Bomb · Make Pipe Bomb · Make Noise Maker · Make Smoke Bomb · Make Firecracker · Make Gas Mask Filter · Make Improvised Gas Mask · Recharge Filters · Make Improvised Flashlight · Make Improvised Lantern · Make Improvised Lighter · Generator Maintenance

    4 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Mechanic

    starts 4 points in debt

    “Familiar with the maintenance and repair of all vehicle models on the roads of Kentucky.”

    Free trait: Vehicle Knowledge
    Knows 3 recipes from the start

    Basic Mechanics · Intermediate Mechanics · Advanced Mechanics

    2.4 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Park Ranger

    starts 4 points in debt

    “Much faster movement through forests and woodland.”

    Free trait: Herbalist
    Knows 5 recipes from the start

    Make Stick Trap · Make Snare Trap · Make Crate Trap · Make Box Trap · Make Cage Trap

    2.4 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Police Officer

    starts 4 points in debt
    2 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Welder

    starts 4 points in debt

    “Can weld foraged metal to create items and barricades.”

    Knows 36 recipes from the start

    Make Metal Sheet · Cut 4 Small Metal Sheets · Make Scrap Metal Helmet · Make Scrap Metal Shoulder Armor · Make Scrap Metal Thigh Armor · Make Scrap Metal Body Armor · Weld Spikes On Metal Armor · Drill Draw Plate · Drill Heading Tool · Metal Wall (Basic) · Metal Wall (Advanced) · Metal Door Frame · Metal Window Frame · Metal Wall Frame · Metal Stairs · Metal Counter Lvl 1 · Metal Counter Lvl 2 · Metal Counter Corner Lvl 1 · Metal Counter Corner Lvl 2 · Metal Crate Lvl 1 · Metal Crate Lvl 2 · Metal Locker Big Lvl 1 · Metal Locker Big Lvl 2 · Metal Locker Small Lvl 1 · Metal Locker Small Lvl 2 · Metal Shelves · Metal Big Pole Fence Gate · Metal Pole Fence Gate · Big Wire Fence Gate · Metal Wire Fence Gate · Metal Fence · Metal Fence Lvl 2 · Metal Wire Fence

    3 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Blacksmith

    starts 6 points in debt

    “Can build a stone furnace and work metal.”

    Free trait: Blacksmith Knowledge
    Knows 81 recipes from the start

    Barbed-Wire Wrap Weapon · Construct Advanced Forge · Construct Blast Furnace · Charcoal Burner · Charcoal Burning Pile · Dome Kiln · Simple Forge · Construct Smelting Furnace · Construct Primitive Forge · Construct Primitive Furnace · Forge Baking Pan · Forge Baking Tray · Forge Bucket · Forge Ball-peen Hammer Head · Forge Claw Hammer Head · Forge Cooking Pot · Forge Corkscrew · Forge Crowbar · Forge Simple Shortsword Blade · Forge Crude Sword Blade · Forge Doorknob · Forge Fine Butter Knives · Forge Fine Forks · Forge Fine Spoons · Forge 4 Fishing Hooks · Forge Forceps · Forge Forks · Forge Frying Pan · Forge Gardening Hoe Head · Forge Gardening Trowel · Forge Hand Scythe Head · Forge Hinge · Forge Hunting Knife Blade · Forge Kettle · Forge Kitchen Knife Blade · Forge Large Knife Blade · Forge Machete Blade · Forge Masonry Chisel · Forge Masonry Trowel · Forge Meat Cleaver Blade · Forge Metalworking Chisel · Forge Metalworking Pliers · Forge Metalworking Punch · Forge File · Forge Drill · Forge 10 Nails · Forge Needle · Forge Pick Axe Head · Forge Roasting Pan · Forge Saucepan · Forge Saw · Forge Scissors · Forge Scythe Head · Forge Spade Head · Forge Sheep Shears · Forge Sledgehammer Head · Forge Small Knife · Forge Small Steel Sheet · Forge Smithing Hammer Head · Forge 2 Spoons · Forge Steel Sheet · Forge Straight Razor · Forge Sword Blade · Forge Tongs · Forge Tweezers · Make Improvised Whetstone · Forge Heading Tool · Forge Draw Plate · Forge Mace Head · Make Spiked Club · Forge Spear Head · Forge Long Spear Head · Forge Wood Axe Head · Forge Axe Head · Forge Hatchet Head · Forge Fleshing Tool · Forge Cup · Forge Buckle · Forge Lantern · Forge Carpentry Chisel · Forge Wrench

    2.33 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Burglar

    starts 6 points in debt
    • +2 Nimble
    • +2 Sneaking
    • +2 Lightfooted
    Free trait: Burglar
    Knows 14 recipes from the start

    Make Magazine Limb Armor · Make Magazine Body Armor · Make Glass Shiv · Make Shiv · Make Toothbrush Shiv · Copy Building Key · Hollow Out Book · Make Bulletproof Forearm Armor · Make Bulletproof Shin Armor · Make Bulletproof Thigh Armor · Hemp growing season · Make Improvised Screwdriver · Make Blank ID · Make Improvised Lighter

    2.33 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Fitness Instructor

    starts 6 points in debt
    Free trait: Nutritionist
    2.33 points per skill levelPlan this build →

  • Veteran

    starts 8 points in debt
    Free trait: Desensitized
    Knows 1 recipe from the start

    Make Tarp Chest Rig

    4 points per skill levelPlan this build →

Positive traits (49)

Most expensive first. Descriptions are the game's own tooltips.

  • Athletic

    costs 10 points2.5 per skill level
    • Faster running speed.
    • Can run for longer without tiring.
    • +4 Fitness
    Can't be taken withFitVery High WeightOut of ShapeHigh WeightSmokerUnfitVery Low Weight

  • Strong

    costs 10 points2.5 per skill level
    • Extra knockback from melee weapons.
    • Increased carrying weight.
    Can't be taken withWeakStoutPuny

  • Bushcrafter

    costs 8 points2 per skill level
    • Can find medicinal herbs and craft medicines and poultices from them, and make simple stone and bone tools.
    • Start fires faster.
    Knows 29 recipes from the start

    Herbal Remedies · Knap Stone Blade · Remake Long Stone Blade · Knap Long Stone Blade · Knap Stone Blade Scythe · Fire Harden Spear · Grind Up Plantain · Grind Up Comfrey · Grind Up Wild Garlic · Bind Spear Head · Bind Spear Head With Wire · Sharpen Long Bone · Carve Bone Fishing Hook · Carve Bone Sewing Needle · Carve Bone Awl · Knap Stone Awl · Knap Stone Chisel · Knap Stone Drill · Knap Large Stone Axe Head · Knap Stone Maul Head · Make Bone Club · Carve Bone War Hatchet Head · Make Jawbone Axe · Make Fishing Rod · Make Snare Trap · Knapp Flint Saw · Carve Bucket · Carve Fleshing Tool · Make Improvised Whetstone

  • Handy

    costs 8 points2 per skill level
    • Faster and stronger constructions.
    Knows 24 recipes from the start

    Barbed-Wire Wrap Weapon · Make Bolt Metal Bat · Make Brake Disc Weapon · Make Bucket Maul · Can-Reinforce Long Weapon · Can-Reinforce Short Weapon · Can-Reinforce Weapon · Make Garden Fork Head Weapon · Make Kettle Maul · Make Railspike Baseball Bat · Make Railspike Cudgel · Make Railspike Iron Pipe · Make Railspike Large Handle · Make Railspike Weapon · Make Rake-Head-Spiked Weapon · Make Plank with Saw · Make Sawblade Cudgel · Make Sawblade Large Handle · Make Sawblade Plank · Make Sawblade Table Leg · Make Sawblade Wooden Bat · Sheet Metal-Reinforce Weapon · Make Spade Head Cudgel · Make Improvised Screwdriver

  • Hunter

    costs 8 points1.6 per skill level
    Knows 6 recipes from the start

    Make Stick Trap · Make Snare Trap · Make Crate Trap · Make Box Trap · Make Cage Trap · Make Stag Head Trophy

  • Thick-skinned

    costs 8 points
    • Lower chance of being scratched or bitten.
    Can't be taken withThin-skinned

  • Blacksmith Knowledge

    costs 6 points2 per skill level
    • Can use an anvil to create metal items.
    Can't be taken withBlacksmith Knowledge
    Knows 80 recipes from the start

    Construct Advanced Forge · Construct Blast Furnace · Charcoal Burner · Charcoal Burning Pile · Dome Kiln · Simple Forge · Construct Smelting Furnace · Construct Primitive Forge · Construct Primitive Furnace · Forge Baking Pan · Forge Baking Tray · Forge Bucket · Forge Ball-peen Hammer Head · Forge Claw Hammer Head · Forge Cooking Pot · Forge Corkscrew · Forge Crowbar · Forge Simple Shortsword Blade · Forge Crude Sword Blade · Forge Doorknob · Forge Fine Butter Knives · Forge Fine Forks · Forge Fine Spoons · Forge 4 Fishing Hooks · Forge Forceps · Forge Forks · Forge Frying Pan · Forge Gardening Hoe Head · Forge Gardening Trowel · Forge Hand Scythe Head · Forge Hinge · Forge Hunting Knife Blade · Forge Kettle · Forge Kitchen Knife Blade · Forge Large Knife Blade · Forge Machete Blade · Forge Masonry Chisel · Forge Masonry Trowel · Forge Meat Cleaver Blade · Forge Metalworking Chisel · Forge Metalworking Pliers · Forge Metalworking Punch · Forge File · Forge Drill · Forge 10 Nails · Forge Needle · Forge Pick Axe Head · Forge Roasting Pan · Forge Saucepan · Forge Saw · Forge Scissors · Forge Scythe Head · Forge Spade Head · Forge Sheep Shears · Forge Sledgehammer Head · Forge Small Knife · Forge Small Steel Sheet · Forge Smithing Hammer Head · Forge 2 Spoons · Forge Steel Sheet · Forge Straight Razor · Forge Sword Blade · Forge Tongs · Forge Tweezers · Make Improvised Whetstone · Forge Heading Tool · Forge Draw Plate · Forge Mace Head · Make Spiked Club · Forge Spear Head · Forge Long Spear Head · Forge Wood Axe Head · Forge Axe Head · Forge Hatchet Head · Forge Fleshing Tool · Forge Cup · Forge Buckle · Forge Lantern · Forge Carpentry Chisel · Forge Wrench

  • Brawler

    costs 6 points3 per skill level
    Knows 6 recipes from the start

    Barbed-Wire Wrap Weapon · Make Bolt Metal Bat · Can-Reinforce Long Weapon · Can-Reinforce Short Weapon · Can-Reinforce Weapon · Sheet Metal-Reinforce Weapon

  • Fast Healer

    costs 6 points
    • Recovers quickly from injuries and illness.
    Can't be taken withSlow Healer

  • Fast Learner

    costs 6 points
    • Increased XP gains.
    Can't be taken withCraftySlow Learner

  • Fit

    costs 6 points3 per skill level
    • +2 Fitness
    Can't be taken withAthleticVery High WeightOut of ShapeHigh WeightUnfit

  • Former Scout

    costs 6 points2 per skill level
    • Start fires faster.
    Knows 3 recipes from the start

    Make Fishing Rod · Fix Fishing Rod · Make Chum Base

  • Keen Hearing

    costs 6 points
    • Larger perception radius.
    Can't be taken withDeafHard of Hearing

  • Stout

    costs 6 points3 per skill level
    • Extra knockback from melee weapons.
    • Increased carrying weight.
    Can't be taken withWeakStrongPuny

  • Gymnast

    costs 5 points2.5 per skill level
    • +1 Lightfooted
    • +1 Nimble

  • Hiker

    costs 5 points2.5 per skill level
    Knows 3 recipes from the start

    Make Stick Trap · Make Snare Trap · Make Crate Trap

  • Target Shooter

    costs 5 points5 per skill level

  • Adrenaline Junkie

    costs 4 points
    • Moves faster when highly panicked.
    Can't be taken withAgoraphobicClaustrophobicCowardlyDesensitized

  • Angler

    costs 4 points4 per skill level
    Knows 3 recipes from the start

    Make Fishing Rod · Fix Fishing Rod · Make Chum Base

  • Baseball Player

    costs 4 points4 per skill level
    Knows 1 recipe from the start

    Carve Bat

  • Brave

    costs 4 points
    • Less prone to becoming panicked.
    Can't be taken withAgoraphobicClaustrophobicCowardlyDesensitized

  • Eagle Eyed

    costs 4 points
    • Faster visibility fade.
    • Higher visibility arc.
    • Weapon sights more effective at long range.
    Can't be taken withShort Sighted

  • Graceful

    costs 4 points
    • Makes less noise when moving.
    Can't be taken withClumsy

  • Herbalist

    costs 4 points4 per skill level
    • Can find medicinal herbs and craft medicines and poultices from them.
    Can't be taken withHerbalist
    Knows 9 recipes from the start

    Herbal Remedies · Grind Up Plantain · Grind Up Comfrey · Grind Up Wild Garlic · Black sage growing season · Broadleaf plantain growing season · Comfrey growing season · Common mallow growing season · Wild garlic growing season

  • Inconspicuous

    costs 4 points
    • Less likely to be spotted by zombies.
    Can't be taken withConspicuous

  • Organized

    costs 4 points
    • Increased container inventory capacity.
    Can't be taken withDisorganized

  • Resilient

    costs 4 points
    • Less prone to disease.
    • Slower rate of zombification.
    Can't be taken withProne to Illness

  • Runner

    costs 4 points4 per skill level
    • +1 Running

  • Sewer

    costs 4 points4 per skill level
    Knows 59 recipes from the start

    Knit Open-Face Balaclava · Knit Full Balaclava · Knit Beanie · Knit Doily · Knit Legwarmers · Knit Scarf · Knit Socks · Knit Sweater Vest · Knit Wool Hat · Sew Small Leather Backpack · Sew Hide Boots · Sew Hide Pants · Sew Hide Sleeping Bag · Sew Hide Coat · Sew Hide Hoodie · Sew Hide Jacket · Sew Hide Robe · Sew Hide Hat · Make Tarp Chest Rig · Assemble Small Simple Framepack · Assemble Simple Framepack · Assemble Framepack · Assemble Large Framepack · Make Garbage Bag Tank Top · Make Tarp Tank Tops · Make Garbage Bag Dress · Make Tarp Dresses · Weave Twine Shoes · Sew Leather Codpiece · Sew Leather Neck Guard · Sew Holster · Sew Double Holster · Make Western Boots · Sew Belt · Sew Leather Tool Roll · Sew Sandals · Sew Leather Gloves · Sew Leather Water Bag · Sew Bandolier · Sew Shells Bandolier · Sew Hide Wallet · Sew Furred Hide Coat · Sew Furred Hide Jacket · Sew Leather Gaiter · Sew Leather Vambrace · Sew Elbow Pads · Sew Knee Pads · Sew Leather Pants · Sew Hide Fanny Pack · Sew Cloth Satchel · Sew Knee-Length Dress · Sew Long Johns · Sew Shirt · Sew Knee-Length Skirt · Sew Pants · Sew Long Dress · Sew Long Johns Bottom · Sew Sleeveless Shirt · Sew Long Skirt

  • Tinkerer

    costs 4 points4 per skill level

  • Cat's Eyes

    costs 3 points
    • Better vision at night.

  • Crafty

    costs 3 points
    • Increased XP gains for Crafting skills.
    Can't be taken withFast LearnerSlow Learner

  • Keen Cook

    costs 3 points1 per skill level
    • Knows cooking recipes.
    Can't be taken withKeen Cook
    Knows 15 recipes from the start

    Make Cake Batter · Prepare Pie Dough · Prepare Bread Dough · Prepare Baguette · Prepare Biscuits · Prepare Chocolate Chip Cookies · Prepare Oatmeal Cookies · Prepare Shortbread Cookies · Prepare Sugar Cookies · Prepare Pizza · Prepare 2 Breaded Onion Rings · Prepare Breaded Shrimp · Make 4 Cabbage Rolls · Make Jar of Preserved Food · Make Guacamole

  • Vehicle Knowledge

    costs 3 points3 per skill level
    • Has knowledge of common and commercial vehicle models, and repairs.
    Can't be taken withVehicle Knowledge
    Knows 2 recipes from the start

    Basic Mechanics · Intermediate Mechanics

  • Wakeful

    costs 3 points
    • Needs less sleep.
    Can't be taken withSleepyhead

  • Artisan

    costs 2 points1 per skill level
    • Better at pottery and glass crafts.
    Knows 6 recipes from the start

    Make Glass Jar · Make Glass Bottle · Make Drinking Glass · Make Wine Glass · Make Glass Pane · Make Lantern Glass

  • Dextrous

    costs 2 points
    • Transfers inventory items quickly.
    • Faster rope climbing speed, and less chance of falling.
    • Faster weapon shouldering time.
    Can't be taken withAll Thumbs

  • Fast Reader

    costs 2 points
    • Takes less time to read books.
    Can't be taken withIlliterateSlow Reader

  • First Aider

    costs 2 points2 per skill level

  • Gardener

    costs 2 points2 per skill level
    Knows 56 recipes from the start

    Make Flies Cure from Cigarettes · Make Flies Cure from Loose Tobacco · Make Flies Cure from Chewing Tobacco · Make Mildew Cure · Make Aphids Cure · Make Scarecrow · Carrot growing season · Broccoli growing season · Radish growing season · Strawberry growing season · Tomato growing season · Potato growing season · Cabbage growing season · Corn growing season · Kale growing season · Sweet potato growing season · Green pea growing season · Onion growing season · Garlic growing season · Soybean growing season · Basil growing season · Chives growing season · Cilantro growing season · Oregano growing season · Parsley growing season · Sage growing season · Rosemary growing season · Thyme growing season · Hops growing season · Sugar beet growing season · Bell pepper growing season · Cauliflower growing season · Cucumber growing season · Habanero growing season · Jalapeno growing season · Leek growing season · Lettuce growing season · Pumpkin growing season · Spinach growing season · Sunflower growing season · Turnip growing season · Watermelon growing season · Zucchini growing season · Chamomile growing season · Lemongrass growing season · Marigold growing season · Mint growing season · Black sage growing season · Broadleaf plantain growing season · Comfrey growing season · Common mallow growing season · Wild garlic growing season · Rose growing season · Poppy growing season · Lavender growing season · Make Jar of Preserved Food

  • Inventive

    costs 2 points
    • Has lower skill level requirements to research recipes from items or auto learn recipes.
    Can't be taken withInventive

  • Iron Gut

    costs 2 points
    • Less chance to have food illness.
    Can't be taken withWeak Stomach

  • Light Eater

    costs 2 points
    • Needs to eat less regularly.
    Can't be taken withHearty AppetiteVery High Weight

  • Low Thirst

    costs 2 points
    • Needs less water to survive.
    Can't be taken withHigh Thirst

  • Mason

    costs 2 points1 per skill level
    • Better at building stone and brick constructions.
    Knows 7 recipes from the start

    Construct Advanced Forge · Construct Blast Furnace · Dome Kiln · Simple Forge · Construct Smelting Furnace · Construct Primitive Forge · Construct Primitive Furnace

  • Nutritionist

    costs 2 points
    • Can see the nutritional values of any food.
    Can't be taken withNutritionist

  • Outdoorsy

    costs 2 points
    • Less affected by harsh weather conditions.

  • Whittler

    costs 2 points1 per skill level
    • Can carve wood and bone items.
    Knows 19 recipes from the start

    Sharpen Bone · Sharpen Long Bone · Sharpen Jawbone · Carve Bone Fishing Hook · Carve Bone Sewing Needle · Carve Knitting Needles · Carve Bat · Carve Bone War Hatchet Head · Carve Bone Awl · Carve Large Bone Bead · Carve 4 Large Bone Beads · Carve Wooden Fork · Carve Bone Fork · Carve Wooden Spade · Carve Goblets · Carve Bucket · Carve Fleshing Tool · Carve Short Bat · Carve Whistle

  • Speed Demon

    costs 1 point
    • Drives very fast.
    Can't be taken withSunday Driver

Negative traits (32)

Most points first.

  • Deaf

    gives 12 points
    • Can't hear sound.
    Can't be taken withHard of HearingKeen Hearing

  • Illiterate

    gives 10 points
    • Cannot read any books or in-world text.
    Can't be taken withFast ReaderSlow Reader

  • Puny

    gives 10 points
    • Far less knockback from melee weapons.
    • Extremely small carrying weight.
    Can't be taken withWeakStoutStrong

  • Unfit

    gives 10 points
    • Very low endurance and endurance regeneration.
    • −4 Fitness
    Can't be taken withAthleticFitOut of Shape

  • Thin-skinned

    gives 8 points
    • Higher chance of being scratched or bitten by zombies.
    Can't be taken withThick-skinned

  • Disorganized

    gives 6 points
    • Decreased container inventory capacity.
    • Affects world containers and bags, but not your main inventory.
    Can't be taken withOrganized

  • Out of Shape

    gives 6 points
    • Low endurance, low endurance regeneration.
    • −2 Fitness
    Can't be taken withAthleticFitUnfit

  • Restless Sleeper

    gives 6 points
    • Slow loss of tiredness while sleeping.

  • Slow Learner

    gives 6 points
    • Decreased XP gains.
    Can't be taken withCraftyFast Learner

  • Weak

    gives 6 points
    • Less knockback from melee weapons.
    • Decreased carrying weight.
    Can't be taken withStoutStrongPuny

  • Fear of Blood

    gives 5 points
    • Panic when performing first aid on self.
    • Cannot perform first aid on others.
    • Gets stressed when bloody.
    Can't be taken withDesensitized

  • Reluctant Fighter

    gives 5 points
    • Decreased combat XP gains.

  • Short of Breath

    gives 5 points
    • Faster endurance loss.

  • Agoraphobic

    gives 4 points
    • Gets panicked when outdoors.
    Can't be taken withAdrenaline JunkieBraveClaustrophobicDesensitized

  • Claustrophobic

    gives 4 points
    • Gets panicked when in small indoor rooms.
    Can't be taken withAdrenaline JunkieAgoraphobicBraveDesensitized

  • Conspicuous

    gives 4 points
    • More likely to be spotted by zombies.
    Can't be taken withInconspicuous

  • Hard of Hearing

    gives 4 points
    • Smaller perception radius.
    • Smaller hearing range.
    Can't be taken withDeafKeen Hearing

  • Hearty Appetite

    gives 4 points
    • Needs to eat more regularly.
    Can't be taken withLight EaterVery Low Weight

  • Prone to Illness

    gives 4 points
    • More prone to disease.
    • Faster rate of zombification.
    Can't be taken withResilient

  • Sleepyhead

    gives 4 points
    • Needs more sleep.
    Can't be taken withWakeful

  • Slow Healer

    gives 3 points
    • Recovers slowly from injuries and illness.
    Can't be taken withFast Healer

  • Smoker

    gives 3 points
    • Unhappiness rises when tobacco is not smoked.
    • Stress and unhappiness decrease after smoking tobacco.
    Can't be taken withAthletic

  • All Thumbs

    gives 2 points
    • Transfers inventory items slowly. Can't craft anything while walking.
    • Slower rope climbing speed, and higher chance of falling.
    • Slower weapon shouldering time.
    Can't be taken withDextrous

  • Clumsy

    gives 2 points
    • Makes more noise when moving.
    Can't be taken withGraceful

  • Cowardly

    gives 2 points
    • Especially prone to becoming panicked.
    Can't be taken withAdrenaline JunkieBraveDesensitized

  • Fast Metabolism

    gives 2 points
    • Permanent tendency to lose weight. Starts with Low Weight trait.
    Starts you with Low Weight
    Can't be taken withSlow Metabolism

  • High Thirst

    gives 2 points
    • Needs more water to survive.
    Can't be taken withLow Thirst

  • Short Sighted

    gives 2 points
    • Smaller view distance.
    • Slower visibility fade.
    • Weapon sights less effective.
    Can't be taken withEagle Eyed

  • Slow Metabolism

    gives 2 points
    • Permanent tendency to gain weight. Starts with High Weight trait.
    Starts you with High Weight
    Can't be taken withFast Metabolism

  • Slow Reader

    gives 2 points
    • Takes longer to read books and other literature.
    Can't be taken withFast ReaderIlliterate

  • Weak Stomach

    gives 2 points
    • Higher chance to have food illness.
    Can't be taken withIron Gut

  • Sunday Driver

    gives 1 point
    • Drives very slow.
    Can't be taken withSpeed Demon

Traits you can't pick (16)

The game files flag these as granted only: they are not in the trait list. 10 come free with an occupation; the weight traits come from Slow and Fast Metabolism or, by PZwiki's account, from the character's body weight. PZwiki (page last updated for 42.14) lists Very High Weight as a trait you can pick for 10 points; in the 42.21 files it is granted only and priced at 0, so the planner leaves it out.

  • Ax-pertBetter at chopping trees. Faster axe swing.
    From Lumberjack
  • Blacksmith KnowledgeCan use an anvil to create metal items.
    From Blacksmith
  • BurglarCan hotwire vehicles. Less chance of breaking window locks.
    From Burglar
  • DesensitizedFar less prone to panic. Ignore discomfort.
    From Veteran
  • EmaciatedLow strength, low endurance and prone to injury.
    Granted by no occupation or trait in the files
  • HerbalistCan find medicinal herbs and craft medicines and poultices from them.
    From Park Ranger
  • High WeightReduced running speed, low endurance and prone to injury.
    • −1 Fitness
    From Slow Metabolism
  • InventiveHas lower skill level requirements to research recipes from items or auto learn recipes.
    From DIY Expert
  • Keen CookKnows cooking recipes.
    From Burger Flipper, Chef
  • Low WeightLow strength, low endurance and prone to injury.
    • −1 Fitness
    From Fast Metabolism
  • MarksmanImproved gun accuracy and damage. Quicker reload.
    Granted by no occupation or trait in the files
  • Night OwlRequires little sleep. Stays extra alert even when sleeping.
    From Nurse, Security Guard
  • NutritionistCan see the nutritional values of any food.
    From Fitness Instructor
  • Vehicle KnowledgeHas knowledge of common and commercial vehicle models, and repairs.
    From Mechanic
  • Very High WeightReduced running speed, very low endurance and prone to injury.
    • −2 Fitness
    Granted by no occupation or trait in the files
  • Very Low WeightVery low strength, very low endurance and prone to injury.
    • −2 Fitness
    Granted by no occupation or trait in the files

Points per skill level

One derived number for comparing what skill levels cost — not a ranking of what is good. For an occupation it is the points it gives up against Custom Occupation (8) divided by the levels it grants; for a trait, its cost divided by its levels. Free traits, recipes and every non-skill effect are left out, and only levels gained count (a −2 Fitness is not a level bought). Lower means cheaper levels.

Occupations

  1. 1
    Rancher
    1 pts/level8 pts / 8 levels
  2. 2
    Doctor
    1.14 pts/level8 pts / 7 levels
  3. 3
    Carpenter
    1.25 pts/level10 pts / 8 levels
  4. 4
    Chef
    1.25 pts/level10 pts / 8 levels
  5. 5
    Farmer
    1.33 pts/level8 pts / 6 levels
  6. 6
    Construction Worker
    1.43 pts/level10 pts / 7 levels
  7. 7
    Burger Flipper
    1.5 pts/level6 pts / 4 levels
  8. 8
    Tailor
    1.5 pts/level6 pts / 4 levels
  9. 9
    Nurse
    1.6 pts/level8 pts / 5 levels
  10. 10
    DIY Expert
    2 pts/level10 pts / 5 levels
  11. 11
    Electrician
    2 pts/level10 pts / 5 levels
  12. 12
    Firefighter
    2 pts/level8 pts / 4 levels
  13. 13
    Fishing Guide
    2 pts/level10 pts / 5 levels
  14. 14
    Lumberjack
    2 pts/level8 pts / 4 levels
  15. 15
    Police Officer
    2 pts/level12 pts / 6 levels
  16. 16
    Blacksmith
    2.33 pts/level14 pts / 6 levels
  17. 17
    Burglar
    2.33 pts/level14 pts / 6 levels
  18. 18
    Fitness Instructor
    2.33 pts/level14 pts / 6 levels
  19. 19
    Mechanic
    2.4 pts/level12 pts / 5 levels
  20. 20
    Park Ranger
    2.4 pts/level12 pts / 5 levels
  21. 21
    Security Guard
    2.5 pts/level10 pts / 4 levels
  22. 22
    Welder
    3 pts/level12 pts / 4 levels
  23. 23
    Engineer
    4 pts/level12 pts / 3 levels
  24. 24
    Veteran
    4 pts/level16 pts / 4 levels

Traits with skill levels

  1. 1
    Artisan
    1 pts/level2 pts / 2 levels
  2. 2
    Keen Cook
    1 pts/level3 pts / 3 levels
  3. 3
    Mason
    1 pts/level2 pts / 2 levels
  4. 4
    Whittler
    1 pts/level2 pts / 2 levels
  5. 5
    Hunter
    1.6 pts/level8 pts / 5 levels
  6. 6
    Blacksmith Knowledge
    2 pts/level6 pts / 3 levels
  7. 7
    Bushcrafter
    2 pts/level8 pts / 4 levels
  8. 8
    First Aider
    2 pts/level2 pts / 1 levels
  9. 9
    Former Scout
    2 pts/level6 pts / 3 levels
  10. 10
    Gardener
    2 pts/level2 pts / 1 levels
  11. 11
    Handy
    2 pts/level8 pts / 4 levels
  12. 12
    Athletic
    2.5 pts/level10 pts / 4 levels
  13. 13
    Gymnast
    2.5 pts/level5 pts / 2 levels
  14. 14
    Hiker
    2.5 pts/level5 pts / 2 levels
  15. 15
    Strong
    2.5 pts/level10 pts / 4 levels
  16. 16
    Brawler
    3 pts/level6 pts / 2 levels
  17. 17
    Fit
    3 pts/level6 pts / 2 levels
  18. 18
    Stout
    3 pts/level6 pts / 2 levels
  19. 19
    Vehicle Knowledge
    3 pts/level3 pts / 1 levels
  20. 20
    Angler
    4 pts/level4 pts / 1 levels
  21. 21
    Baseball Player
    4 pts/level4 pts / 1 levels
  22. 22
    Herbalist
    4 pts/level4 pts / 1 levels
  23. 23
    Runner
    4 pts/level4 pts / 1 levels
  24. 24
    Sewer
    4 pts/level4 pts / 1 levels
  25. 25
    Tinkerer
    4 pts/level4 pts / 1 levels
  26. 26
    Target Shooter
    5 pts/level5 pts / 1 levels

Sources

Costs, exclusions, skill levels, free traits, recipes, names and tooltips: the Project Zomboid dedicated server's character scripts and English text files, game version 42.21 (depot manifest of 23 Sept 2026). Where a script lists an exclusion one way only, the game adds it both ways when it loads the traits, and so does this page.

That a build must not end below 0 points, and that a free trait's skill levels add to the occupation's, are adapted from PZwiki, Occupation (CC BY-NC-SA 3.0); see also PZwiki, Traits. Two of PZwiki's prices predate the current files: it lists Light Eater at 4 points (page from 41.78) and Target Shooter at 4 (42.19); the 42.21 files say 2 and 5.

Trait and occupation icons © The Indie Stone, from the game's textures.

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