a job shop's variable costs are higher than those of automated firms. its advantage over other firm is that it can operate at low levels and still be profitable. after a job shop's sales reach break-even, however, the huge variable costs as a percentage of total costs keep the profit per unit at a relatively low level. in terms of strategy, this firm should look for a niche in the marker place for which it can produce and sell a reasonably small quantity of custom-made goods