Unskilled, semi skilled or skilled work for SSDI?

For those who do not know, when a person applies for SSDI, in order to make a determination about the applicant's eligibility for SSDI benefits, the adjudicator must make certain determinations about the applicant's ability to work. One such determination is whether the applicant is able to do work that is relevant to her training and work experience, the kind of job she has done over the last decade or so. The SSA would not require a doctor (skilled worker) to work as a trash collector.  However, it is possible that, depending on the type of disability, a person's skills may be transferable to another type of job within the broad area of "skilled work."

The three broad categories you mentioned can be described in various ways.  An unskilled position might be considered a job that requires very little training.  The kind of thing that can be taught in a couple of hours or days, like dish washing, assembly work, farm worker, etc.

Semi-skilled work is more complex, requires more training, and may require the worker to exercise judgment.  A nurse's aid falls into this category, I believe.  Other examples might be carpentry or an administrative assistant.  Finally, skilled work is very complex and requires advanced education.  Abstract thinking related to the specific field may be required.  Examples would include, doctors, lawyers, engineers, etc.  Hope that helps.