All player characters will begin as "ordinary" mortals. Here is a list of different archetypes to consider at character creation:
Soldier/militia/peacekeeper
Merchant/business owner
Scavenger
Messenger/mail carrier
Doctor
Veterinarian (small &/or large animals)
Mechanic
Farmer (crops)
Rancher (cattle, horses, sheep, etc.)
Hunter
Cook
Maintenance worker/custodian
Teacher
Contractor/builder
Bookkeeper
Entertainer (performing arts)
Artist (visual arts)
Tailor/seamstress