Finding careers for introverts may seem a daunting task, but lets make it a bit easier – shall we?
Introducing: Land Your Life’s mega guide of 42 careers especially-well suited for those with introverted personalities.
Introverts are some of the most misunderstood personality types around. It’s not that they are shy or dislike social interactions; they simply get overwhelmed easily and prefer the company of themselves. Where extroverts thrive on interactions with others, introverts recharge their batteries through a series of self-reflection.
Often misunderstood due to their abilities to get lost in their own thoughts, introverts can have a hard time getting ahead in a world built for extroverts.
Fortunately, there are no shortages of careers that, not only play to introverts strengths, but give them the opportunity to succeed in an otherwise socially-driven world seemingly built for the extroverted among us.
Animal Care Workers
- Expected Salary: $18,000 to $22,000 annually
- Education Required: On-the-job training; Vet Tech, Zoology & Aquarium Studies
- Best For: Animal lovers, pet owners
Animal care workers spend their days with nonfarm animals feeding, grooming, exercising, and bathing them. Although physically and emotionally demanding at times, a career as an animal caretaker is just as rewarding for the animal-loving introvert.
Most animal caretakers at kennels, stables, pet stores, and shelters receive on-the-job training that prepares them for working in close proximity with animals. For those wanting to work at a veterinary clinic, zoo (such as a zoo veterinarian career), or aquarium, formal education like a degree in Veterinary Technology or Zoo and Aquarium Studies is required.
Introverts will get a chance to spend plenty of time with their non-human friends and earn between $9.00 and $10.00 an hour.
Introverts may prefer the company of animals just as animals may respond best to the quiet-calmness of introverts, making the pair perfect coworkers.
Court Reporter
- Expected Salary: $42,000 to $48,000 annually
- Education Required: Postsecondary certificate
- Best For: Legal enthusiasts, quick typists, good listeners
Court reporters take down word for word what is being said during different legal proceedings. Sometimes, they may even provide real-time captioning services for television broadcasts and other live events.
Being able to type fast enough to transcribe every word that is being said requires plenty of practice and special training. Court reporters attend certificate programs at vocational schools and community colleges to prepare for this fast-paced career.
Introverts will appreciate the autonomy that goes into court reporting and the fact that they are solely responsible for getting their work done. Plus, those providing captioning services often have the ability to work from home, which just happens to be an introvert’s favorite office environment.
Most introverts are better listeners than they are talkers, which make them the perfect fit for a career that requires tuning-in for long stretches in order to catch everything that is being said.
Pay rates are very competitive in this field that requires little formal education. On average, court reporters can earn more than $20.00 an hour.
Astronomer
- Expected Salary: $85,000 to $100,000 annually
- Education Required: Ph.D.
- Best For: Star gazers, deep-thinkers
Is there ever a better time to get lost in one’s own thoughts than when gazing up at the stars? Introverts-turned-astronomers get to turn their heads to the sky to observe and research the quiet happenings of astronomical phenomena.
Astronomers spend much of their time in quiet office settings and laboratories studying some pretty intense theoretical concepts like time and origin.
With a career that blends theoretical concepts with real world observations, introverts get to put their deep-thinking abilities to good use every day.
To be an astronomer, a doctoral degree is necessary since this position requires a ton of heavy research using specialized equipment like lasers.
All of the hard work that goes into becoming an astronomer is awarded with a pay rate that averages more than $100,000 a year.
If you’re an introvert with intense focus, channel your pensiveness into a career that allows you to make a living studying the quiet happenings of astronomical phenomena.
Landscaper
- Expected Salary: $19,000 to $24,000 annually
- Education Required: On-the-job training
- Best For: Green thumbs, outdoorsmen/women
Landscapers help maintain an attractive presence to outdoor areas by keeping grass cut, plants healthy, and trees trimmed and in good shape.
Landscapers spend most of their time outside working on assignments on their own or as part of a small group. As a seasonal occupation in many places, landscapers get to enjoy their winters off pursuing their hobbies and interests while spending time indoors.
Introverts can appreciate the time spent outdoors away from the hustle and bustle of busy office settings and will earn about $11.50 an hour while doing so.
Landscapers receive on-the-job training that prepares them to take care of a variety of flowers, plants, trees, and also teaches them a thing or two about lawn equipment maintenance.
Most landscapers work on small teams making it the ideal working situation for introverts who are most productive and at ease when working alone or as part of a small group.
Small Engine Mechanic
- Expected Salary: $30,300 to $35,200 annually
- Education Required: On-the-job training; Postsecondary vocational programs
- Best For: Troubleshooters, tinkerers, problem-solvers
When a motorcycle, lawn mower, or motorboat needs service or repairs, the expertise of a small engine mechanic is called upon to diagnose the issue and make any necessary repairs. They also perform routine maintenance to make sure motorized equipment stay in tiptop shape.
With a noisy work environment and plenty of repair work to keep them busy, introverts are spared everyday small talk with others and are left to complete repairs on their own.
Most small engine mechanics enjoy working with their hands long before seeking employment. They receive on-the-job training to help further their self-taught skills.
As small motors become more sophisticated, preference is given to those entry-level candidates with some form of vocational training.
Introverts will thrive in this environment which calls upon their deep-thinking abilities to help troubleshoot mechanical issues all while working autonomously to get things done.
Read More: How to Become a Motorcycle Mechanic. In this guide, we discuss how to become a motorcycle mechanic and the steps to take!
Private Chef
- Expected Salary: $41,000 to $45,700 annually
- Education Required: On-the-job training; Culinary school
- Best For: Foodies
An environment where they get to put their talents on full display and discuss their passions with others is where introverts truly shine. As a private chef, introverts can spend their time conceptualizing menus and food pairings while sharing their dishes with others.
Private or personal chefs may work exclusively with one client or as part of a team offering culinary services at resorts or five-star hotels.
Some chefs go to culinary school while others work their way up the restaurant ladder receiving plenty of on-the-job training along the way. Either way, chefs can expect to earn about $20.00 an hour creating, conceptualizing, and cooking cuisine.
Although working as a private chef can be hectic and fast-paced at times, introverts will enjoy this line of work that allows their passions to take center stage. The time spent in the kitchen creating is just as invigorating to the introverted chef as are the quiet moments spent crafting menu ideas.
Forester
- Expected Salary: $57,900 to $62,400 annually
- Education Required: Bachelor’s degree in Forestry, Agriculture, Environmental Science
- Best For: Conservationists, outdoorsmen/women, nature lovers
Foresters are the protectors of habitats and negotiators of contract land-use. They also manage forest regeneration efforts and monitor tree-clearing projects.
Since many introverts are passionate by nature, working as a forester allows them to fight for a cause they believe in while educating others about the importance of conservation.
On days in the field, introverted foresters get a chance to enjoy quiet time outdoors allowing them the opportunity to refresh their own energy reserves.
If the idea of protecting land and giving a voice to trees sounds ideal, you will need to pursue a bachelor’s degree to be a competitive entry-level candidate. Candidates will need to have completed coursework in forestry, agricultural science, or environmental science to find work at various parks, preserves, and government agencies.
On average, foresters can earn about $60,000 a year while allowing their introverted strengths to shine through as a protector and advocate for nature.
Read our related article on How to Become a Forester for a more detailed look into this field!
Archivist
- Expected Salary: $44,400 to $52,200 annually
- Education Required: Master’s degree in history or library science
- Best For: History buffs, art lovers, explorers, researchers, treasure hunters
Introverts can spend hours combing through documents and conducting research if, that is, it’s a subject matter that interests them.
Working as an archivist for a museum, library, or university perfectly combines an introvert’s need for quiet time with their ability to engross themselves in things they’re passionate about.
In addition to researching archival materials, archivists are responsible for appraising items and keeping historically valuable documents safe. Archivists need to pursue master’s degrees and usually gain extensive practical experience through a series of internships.
With so much responsibility and higher level of education required, entry-level archivists can expect to earn about $50,000 annually working at government facilities, historical sites, museums, libraries, and universities.
The organized introvert can use their detail-oriented nature to maintain large databases and protect valuable information as an archivist.
Web Developer
- Expected Salary: $58,300 to $65,800 annually
- Education Required: Self-taught; Web Design associate’s degree
- Best For: Techies, graphic designers, artists
Introverts are universally thought of as creative types, but this isn’t always the case. For those who are, they can find great satisfaction in performing tasks that equally showcase their artistry and attention to detail.
Working as a web designer calls upon both of these skills while also tapping into an introvert’s technical side.
A web designer is responsible for the look and feel of a website and also takes into consideration a site’s performance capabilities. At times, they may also provide some basic content to get a functional website up and running.
Many web developers are self-taught, but an increasing number choose to complete an associate’s degree program in web design. With or without formal education, web developers can earn about $62,500 annually.
Introverts will appreciate the variety of work and flexibility in projects as a growing percentage of web developers are self-employed and work on a contract, per-project basis.
Fine Artist
- Expected Salary: $40,800 to $46,200 annually
- Education Required: None
- Best For: Artists, designers, painters, sculptors, creatives
Fine artists work with different mediums and use a variety of techniques to create artwork that is placed for sale or on display. This can include drawings, sculptures, and paintings that are valued for their aesthetic appeal rather than any functional use or purpose.
The often creative introvert can use their time spent alone to conceptualize new techniques and methods for creating their next masterpiece. Introverts can also use their artwork as an outlet to convey thoughts and feelings that are otherwise difficult for them to put into words.
Fine artists don’t necessarily need any formal education. Most have natural talent which they develop over years of on-the-job experience and practice.
About half of fine artists are self-employed, which gives the introverted artist the opportunity to work on those projects which best suit their interests all while working at a location or studio of their choosing.
The pay rates can vary quite a bit for fine artists as most are paid per piece they sell. On average, fine artists can expect to earn about $45,000 a year which is probably secondary to the fact that they are doing something they truly love.
Statistician
- Expected Salary: $72,000 to $81,800 annually
- Education Required: Master’s degree; Occasionally bachelor’s degree openings
- Best For: Data lovers, math whizzes, number crunchers
Statisticians are the deep-thinkers of the business world, analyzing data and coming up with real world solutions to common problems. To do this, they use sophisticated computer systems to help break down and display data into meaningful statistics.
Introverts will enjoy the complexity of this job which will frequently call upon their abilities to collect, analyze, and interpret even large amounts of data with an unmatched attention to detail.
Most entry-level statisticians will need a master’s degree in statistics or mathematics, but in recent years, there has been an increase in the number of jobs available for those candidates with bachelor’s degree.
This in-demand career is expected to grow faster than the national average and offers a competitive pay rate of $75,000 a year on average.
Introverts can choose a work environment that perfectly suits their interests making their data collection and analysis efforts all the more fascinating to them. Some common work environments include pharmaceutical companies, government agencies, and healthcare and social services systems.
Air Traffic Controller
- Expected Salary: $105,000 to $120,000 annually
- Education Required: On-the-job training; Associate’s degree
- Best For: Aviation buffs
Often capable of tuning out others and background noise, introverts can find success as air traffic controllers, a job that requires complete focus and concentration for long stretches of time.
Air traffic controllers ensure aircraft safety by monitoring and coordinating their movements while making certain they stay far apart from one another during their course of travel.
While working in routing centers, control towers, and airline approach facilities, air traffic controllers spend little time chatting with coworkers and instead apply their energy and efforts solely to their work.
Most air traffic controllers receive on-the-job training, but there are postsecondary programs of study available that can make entry-level candidates particularly attractive to employers post-graduation.
Due to the high-stress level that is common with this profession and the fact that it requires plenty of focus and commitment, air traffic controllers earn competitive salaries that average $112,000 a year.
Stock Clerks
- Expected Salary: $18,600 to $25,200 annually
- Education Required: On-the-job training
- Best For: Organization pros, quick thinkers
Store clerks spend their days receiving orders and large product shipments for retail stores or warehouses. It’s their job to keep shelves stocked, pack customer orders for shipping, and even keep product prices current.
For introverts, working as a store clerk gives them the opportunity to work independently for a portion of the day while keeping retail stores running behind the scenes. It also complements the organized introvert’s ability to process a lot of information and present it in a logical way that makes taking store inventory a breeze.
A store clerk receives on-the-job training to help them navigate the ins-and-outs of product management. Most store clerks earn about $11.00 an hour but, with hard work and dedication, can eventually move into a higher-paying distribution or management role.
Introverts can choose a retail environment that best suits their interests – pet store, grocer, hardware, etc. – and can even opt to work overnight hours at many locations, giving them plenty of quiet moments to renew their energy levels.
Floral Designer
- Expected Salary: $24,000 to $32,900 annually
- Education Required: On-the-job training; Associate’s degree
- Best For: Designers, artists, nature lovers
Floral designers use their knowledge of flowers and foliage combined with their artistic eye for design to create beautiful arrangements appropriate for the occasion. Florists also cut stems and leaves and choose accessories to perfectly complement a floral display, bouquet, or arrangement.
The creative introvert will thrive in an environment that shows off their artistry while also giving them plenty of quiet time used to create and conceptualize their next arrangement.
From time to time, florists are called upon to meet with clients to collaborate on design ideas which, even for the introvert, is a welcome change of pace that allows them to share their interests with others.
Florists can receive on-the-job training or give themselves a competitive edge by taking classes that teach them the basics of floral design.
On average, floral designers can earn about $12.00 an hour. Introverts will thrive in this environment which gives them the opportunity to create designs for events large and small, without ever having to attend them.
Assemblers
- Expected Salary: $25,000 to $30,000 annually
- Education Required: On-the-job training; Vocational training
- Best For: Tinkerers, builders
From engines and aircraft to computers and toys, assemblers are responsible for putting together parts and completing products. They often work with their hands and use tools and machinery to put the finishing touches on a variety of items and equipment.
Assemblers work long shifts on their feet in often noisy manufacturing plants. The methodical introvert will appreciate the routine and predictability of this job which requires a lot of repetitive movements and solo work.
Most assemblers learn their duties through on-the-job training. However, those assemblers working with high-tech or intricate electronic items will require vocational training to prepare them to handle specialized parts and equipment.
Assemblers earn nearly $14.00 an hour as an important part of the overall manufacturing process. Introverts will get to work with their hands while also using their eye for detail to conduct quality control checks on a daily basis.
Underwriter
- Expected Salary: $58,200 to $65,100 annually
- Education Required: Bachelor’s degree
- Best For: Investigators, critical thinkers, analysts
Underwriters are the analytical minds behind insurance policies. They are responsible for reviewing applications for insurance and using that information to issue policy terms and premium amounts.
Introverts will enjoy the autonomy that goes into underwriting and can use their investigative mind to systematically go through applications and evaluate them against set criteria.
Many underwriters receive long-term on-the-job training, but it is becoming increasingly popular for underwriters to have a bachelor’s degree in any number of subjects like business and communications.
Since underwriters determine the risks involved with insuring an individual, the rational introvert can methodically go through and determine an appropriate premium amount and coverages to offer insureds.
Entry-level underwriters with bachelor’s degrees can expect to earn about $30.00 an hour as they screen applicants seeking insurance.
The introverted underwriter will prove to be a valuable team member as they are able to sit for long stretches and objectively investigate candidates and make proper determinations for insurance.
Medical Transcriptionist
- Expected Salary: $30,000 to $36,000 annually
- Education Required: Postsecondary training
- Best For: Good listeners, fast typists
Listening to recordings of physicians and healthcare workers while typing out what is being said into written reports are the main responsibilities of medical transcriptionists. They may also edit transcripts, use speech recognition technology, and review notations in patients’ charts.
Introverts are often thought of as great listeners, so a job which requires doing just that for hours on end plays to their strengths of attending to the same task for long stretches.
It takes quite a bit of skill to be able to simultaneously listen to audio and type quickly enough to transcribe what is being said.
Most medical transcriptionists attend postsecondary institutions to arms themselves with these skills as well as take anatomy classes to boost their knowledge of medical terminology.
The introverted medical transcriptionist will enjoy the flexibility that often accompanies this career. In fact, many medical transcriptionists are self-employed earning about $16.00 an hour working from home as an independent contractor for doctor’s offices, insurance agencies, and large healthcare companies.
Baker
- Expected Salary: $20,900 to $26,500 annually
- Education Required: On-the-job training; Culinary school
- Best For: Foodies, artists
Bakers follow set recipes, mix ingredients, and decorate baked goods to make items that taste great and are visually appealing. They may also call upon their creativity to think up new ideas and baked creations.
Many bakers work at restaurants, grocery stores, and large manufacturing facilities. Often, they work the late-night or early-morning shift to prepare baked items well in advance of serving customers.
Introverts will enjoy this often quiet profession that combines creativity and precision into one. They can choose to work in a commercial setting using large equipment or take more of a hands-on approach while making goods to order in a retail establishment.
Bakers in commercial settings typically receive on-the-job training while those working for restaurants and specialty stores go to culinary school. On average, bakers earn $11.00 an hour while kneading, rolling, cutting, and shaping the foods we eat.
Computer Programmers
- Expected Salary: $72,000 to $78,000 annually
- Education Required: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science
- Best For: Technology lovers, computer buffs
With a career in computer programming, you will write instructions that computers can follow, known as code, which brings software programs to life. They are also responsible for fixing any bugs and updating existing programs.
Programs can range in complexity depending on where a programmer works. Simple mobile applications can be written in a matter of days while entire operating systems can take more than a year to get just right.
Many introverts are inherently observant and can use their intense focus to methodically check code and troubleshoot any issues they come across. Computer programmers frequently work alone while spending most of their time writing line after line of code with little to no interruptions.
This detail-oriented position requires a bachelor’s degree in computer science or similar field. On occasion, employers may hire those programmers with associate’s degree who can demonstrate their talent for coding.
Computer programmers can find work in the computer systems, software, and design industries. On average, they earn about $36.00 an hour.
The introverted computer programmer will enjoy the relative autonomy that goes into coding and can use their keen eye for detail to write and test the latest programs and software.
Geoscientist
- Expected Salary: $85,000 to $91,900 annually
- Education Required: Bachelor’s degree
- Best For: Explorers, earth lovers, investigators
Geoscientists spend their days studying the earth. They look at its composition and structure in order to understand all of the different earth processes.
Since geoscientists spend equal amounts of time in an office, at laboratories, and in the field, introverts will enjoy the varied surroundings while getting to study concepts that fascinate them. It also offers plenty of quiet time spent planning and organizing research efforts and analyzing findings.
Entry-level geoscientists require a bachelor’s degree with plenty of coursework in computers for data analysis and modeling purposes.
Introverts will enjoy the time spent out in the field as much as putting their critical thinking skills to use when observing the earth in its past, present, and future states.
Geoscientists can work for government agencies, oil and gas companies, and engineering services all while earning about $44.00 an hour.
Introverts can appreciate the frequent travel to remote locations and the heavy report writing involved in this career.
Film and Video Editor
- Expected Salary: $41,800 to $47,000 annually
- Education Required: Bachelor’s degree
- Best For: Movie lovers, artists, designers, creatives
Film and video editors organize raw footage and play a critical role in determining the overall direction a film takes. They manipulate video using sophisticated computer software to improve one scene at a time while keeping in mind a director’s vision.
Although introverts aren’t typically thought of as natural leaders, they often thrive in roles where they get to teach, guide, and direct others in pursuit of a common goal. Film and video editors typically collaborate with a team of assistants who keep track of the many shots and help load raw footage into computer programs.
To become an entry-level film editor, a bachelor’s degree is necessary with coursework that provides hands-on training with computer editing software as well as classes that discuss film theory. Film editors earn about $22.00 an hour working for studio, networks, and production companies.
The introverted editor can lose track of time as they sit in editing rooms for hours on end tasked with the painstaking process of perfecting each and every scene.
But in these methodical tasks, introverts shine as they have a reputation for being perfectionists who can produce truly polished finished products.
Financial Clerks
- Expected Salary: $31,000 to $37,000 annually
- Education Required: On-the-job training
- Best For: Number lovers, math whizzes
Financial clerks are tasked with the important job of keeping accurate financial records. They are also responsible for computing bills and carrying out financial transactions.
Depending on where they work, financial clerks can post bills, keep track of time for payroll purposes, and even write orders for stock purchases.
For introverts, working as a financial clerk plays to their strengths of being meticulous and systematic. They are able to carefully review numerous financial transactions without ever losing their tendency towards precision.
In most situations, on-the-job training is offered to financial clerks that prepares them for basic responsibilities. For those interested in brokerage, a bachelor’s degree in business or economics is typically required.
Introverts can choose a sector that best suits their interests like medical offices or government agencies, and earn about $17.00 an hour as they keep records and oversee transactions.
Multimedia Artists and Animators
- Expected Salary: $58,000 to $65,500 annually
- Education Required: Bachelor’s degree in arts or computer graphics
- Best For: Artists, moviegoers, gamers, designers
Animators are the creative minds that help bring movies, television shows, and video games to life. Their responsibilities include creating animation and graphics using computers, working on visual effects, and editing their work based on client feedback.
Since animators play a role in both developing and conceptualizing graphics and animations, introverts will enjoy the creativity that goes into writing a storyboard just as much as the precision involved in creating computer-generated images.
Employers look for animators who have bachelor’s degrees in art or computer graphics and an impressive portfolio of work that shows off their talents.
The introverted multimedia artist gets the opportunity to work on a portion of a project alone before bringing their work together with their peers to create one cohesive final product. When working with others, introverts thrive in an environment which gives them an opportunity to collaborate on one common goal.
Animators work for motion picture studios or video game studios while earning about $30.00 an hour. The multimedia artist who prefers their home office can opt for self-employment which allows them to work where they want and on projects of their choosing.
Curator and Museum Technician
- Expected Salary: $40,000 to $48,900 annually
- Education Required: Master’s degree; Occasionally doctoral degree
- Best For: History buffs, art lovers
Museum curators perform a variety of tasks as managers of museums, zoos, botanical gardens, aquariums, and other exhibit-based facilities. They acquire exhibits, clean ancient objects, and even plan special events and tours.
Given that curators are part researchers and part exhibit designers, introverts will enjoy the ability to be creative while using their intense focus and analytical skills to track down information.
Curators need a master’s degree related to the institution they work in. In some instances, like when working for a natural history or science museum, a doctoral degree is strongly preferred.
When an introvert gets talking about a subject matter they’re passionate about, they can be quite dynamic and even persuasive. For introverts, the opportunity to pursue a museum curator career gives them a chance to specialize in a field that interests them whether it is art, history, botany, or entomology.
On average, curators can earn $21.00 an hour all while collecting, cataloging, and displaying some of the things they are most enthusiastic about.
Tractor-trailer Truck Driver
- Expected Salary: $33,300 to $42,000 annually
- Education Required: Truck driving school
- Best For: Truck enthusiasts, travelers
Most tractor-trailer truck drivers transport goods across long distances from one location to another. They are often called long-haul drivers due to deliveries that require them to span several states over the course of a few days.
Long-haul drivers receive assignments and corresponding delivery dates with the freedom to largely decide how to get a load from Point A to Point B. Introverts will appreciate this autonomy and the ability to research a haul and strategize the best route to maximize their time and earning potential.
From mapping a route to scheduling legally required rest stops, introverts can use their planning abilities to ensure a successful haul.
Truck drivers need a commercial driver’s license and often attend truck driving school which teaches them about federal laws and other regulations that must be followed.
Sometimes truck drivers are paid per mile traveled and other times they are paid a flat-rate for each haul. On average, they can expect to earn about $18.00 an hour regardless of the miles logged.
For the introverted truck driver, time spent on the open road offers plenty of time to reflect and recharge all while taking in beautiful scenery along the way.
Security Guards
- Expected Salary: $19,300 to $26,000 annually
- Education Required: On-the-job training
- Best For: Protectors, watchers
Security guards are the quiet protectors of buildings, stores, and public locales working to keep others safe. They may monitor live-feeds from cameras or patrol areas on foot while keeping a watchful eye out for suspicious activity.
A number of facilities require the services of security guards which gives introverts the opportunity to choose a role that takes a more hands-off approach to security like monitoring closed-circuit cameras or guarding museum exhibits.
Plus, with the need for 24/7 surveillance, introverts can choose a shift that best suits their personality whether they be night owls or morning birds.
Unless they carry a firearm, security guards do not require any special education and will receive on-the-job training to prepare them for their post. Guards who are armed typically need to register with their state and attend a number of classes to teach them gun safety.
Most security guards can expect to earn about $12.00 an hour in their pursuit of individual safety. For introverts, this role plays well to their abilities to be compassionate to others while still keeping a watchful eye on surroundings.
File Clerk
- Expected Salary: $23,500 to $27,000 annually
- Education Required: On-the-job training
- Best For: Record keepers, organizational pros, data lovers
File clerks often work at large companies and corporations maintaining records and responding to information requests. It is their job to keep files organized and easily accessible for future reference.
Although advances in database technology have streamlined the recordkeeping process, file clerks are still needed at facilities that have paper-heavy transactions like those companies within the healthcare and financial industries.
Introverts will get the opportunity to work alone most of the time with most interactions with coworkers limited to record requests and retrievals. This position also showcases most introverts’ eye for detail since file clerks are often responsible for reviewing statistical reports.
No special training is required for file clerks. On-the-job training provides file clerks the instruction they need to maintain organized records and accurately interpret reports.
While helping keep company records safe, file clerks earn an average of $13.00 an hour with the opportunity to move up to higher-paying administrative positions.
Medical Records Technician
- Expected Salary: $30,000 to $35,500 annually
- Education Required: Postsecondary certificate
- Best For: Record keepers
Ensuring the quality, accuracy, and security of patients’ medical files are the main responsibilities of medical records technicians. They also play an important role in maintaining medical records for insurance companies and databases by using classification systems and codes to document medical treatments in patients’ charts.
For the often hyper-attentive introvert, working as a medical records technician gives them a chance to show off their detail-oriented nature while methodically combing through patient records for completeness and accuracy.
Most medical records technicians require a postsecondary certificate to work for various hospitals and physicians offices. Sometimes, an associate’s degree in health information technology is needed to work for some government facilities.
Introverts with a sense of compassion can use their benevolence to specialize as a medical coder or cancer registrar which focuses on tracking treatments, survival, and recoveries of cancer patients.
To be a medical records technician requires working with a sense of integrity to keep records strictly confidential. On average, medical technicians can earn about $16.50 an hour.
Chemists
- Expected Salary: $69,500 to $74,000 annually
- Education Required: Bachelor’s degree; Advanced degree for research roles
- Best For: Critical thinkers, problem solvers, math whizzes
Chemists spend their days studying substances and their reactions with one another. They conduct experiments at the atomic and molecular levels to develop new products and test existing ones.
Introverts are often analytical in nature and will thrive in a laboratory environment where they get to conduct experiments and analyze results. Working as a chemist also plays to their innovative side as they use creative problem solving to plan and carry out projects.
Chemists most often work in laboratories for pharmaceutical and engineering companies. They may also work for colleges and universities or government agencies.
Although chemists commonly work on research teams, introverts will enjoy working as part of a group with a common goal in mind. As they gain experience, chemists will gain more independence in the experiments they conduct and projects they work on.
Many chemists require just a bachelor’s degree to work within some of the common industries like manufacturing. Advanced degrees are needed for those chemists who work primarily as researchers for government agencies and universities.
The critical-thinking introvert can thrive in a setting where they get to evaluate their work and come to sound conclusions that are based on scientific facts while earning about $35.00 an hour.
Agricultural Engineer
- Expected Salary: $69,000 to $76,000 annually
- Education Required: Bachelor’s degree
- Best For: Analyzers, problem solvers, math whizzes, outdoor enthusiasts
In the world of agriculture, agricultural engineers are responsible for a wide variety of activities depending on where they work. Some common responsibilities include developing biofuels, raising food, land farming, and improving conservation efforts.
The numerous opportunities give introverts the chance to choose a field or industry that speaks to their own passions and interests.
For the animal lover, agricultural scientists can help design living environments that increase animals’ health and comfort. Or, for those with a passion for conservation, they can work on water projects with an aim at managing pollution and increasing water quality.
To become an agricultural engineer, a degree in agricultural or biological engineering is a must. Entry-level candidates with practical experience through cooperative-education programs are usually favored in the job market.
Agricultural engineers get to spend time in the office as well as onsite in the field. On average, they earn about $36.00 an hour helping to make improvements to forests, foods, animals, and lands.
Landscape Architect
- Expected Salary: $59,750 to $67,000 annually
- Education Required: Bachelor’s degree; State licensure
- Best For: Nature enthusiasts, designers, visionaries
Landscape architects design outdoor spaces making sure they are both functional and visually appealing. They also plan the locations of paths and roadways to make sure they fit in with surrounding nature without being too intrusive.
For introverts, working as a landscape architect combines two of their strong suits: creativity and critical thinking. When preparing a site, they must be able to visualize what the end product will look like while using computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) software to bring their ideas to life.
In addition to a bachelor’s degree, most entry-level candidates will need to seek licensure through their state before they can use the title landscape architect. On average, landscape architects with proper credentials can earn about $31.00 an hour.
The passionate introvert can use their knowledge as a landscape architect to enhance the natural beauty of greenspaces or restore wetlands, forests, and other areas that were disturbed by human activity.
Although landscape architects design outdoor spaces, they spend the majority of their time in an office setting planning and preparing projects. For the introverted landscape architect, this quiet working environment is just as welcome as the opportunity to visit worksites to check on the status and progression of jobs.
Newspaper Delivery
- Expected Salary: $19,500 to $23,000 annually
- Education Required: On-the-job training
- Best For: Coordinators, drivers, solitude seekers
Newspaper deliverers work late nights and into the early morning hours to get newspapers out to residents, businesses, and stands before the start of the day. They are assigned set routes and typically work every day on a part-time basis to make deliveries.
Many newspaper delivery persons are employed as independent contractors which gives the introvert plenty of freedom to determine how they get their work done. Plus, the regular routes and daily routine is ideal for most introverts who thrive when performing methodical and structured tasks.
No special training is necessary to work as a newspaper delivery driver. Instead, short-term on-the-job training is provided to prepare drivers for their daily routes and associated responsibilities.
For introverts, working as a delivery driver allows them to work alone while spending long stretches in the car. This gives plenty of quiet time that most introverts need for self-reflection sessions that help them renew their energy reserves.
Although many readers have turned to online and mobile platforms to consume their news, newspaper delivery drivers are still needed to deliver the daily news to stores and residences. On average, they get paid around $10.00 an hour.
Camera Operator
- Expected Salary: $39,500 to $44,000 annually
- Education Required: Bachelor’s degree in broadcasting
- Best For: Visual artists, steady hands, creative minds
Camera operators usually work on location shooting scenes and raw footage that are later used in movies, TVs, and other video campaigns. They may also work on-call for news stations to help capture live events and breaking news as it happens.
For introverts, stepping behind the camera gives them a chance to use their creativity to capture a scene while also relying upon their analytical nature to determine the best shooting angle in order to get the best shot possible.
Camera operators typically attend universities while studying programs in broadcasting or related fields. These bachelor’s degree programs often have coursework in camera operation and film theory that prepares them for work on site and in studios.
Most camera operators work in television broadcasting or video industries. Introverts can opt for self-employment which gives them an opportunity to work on projects they find interesting, whether it’s a documentary or music video.
Entry-level camera operators earn about $20.00 an hour as they work behind the lens to entertain and inform audiences.
Pest Control Worker
- Expected Salary: $27,000 to $32,400 annually
- Education Required: On-the-job training; State licensure
- Best For: Inspectors, planners
Pest control workers remove unwanted animals, including rodents, insects, termites, arachnids, and even wildlife, from houses, buildings, and public facilities. Their duties range from inspecting locations to using traps and dangerous chemicals to get rid of pests that have infested various sites.
For introverts, pest control work appeals to their detail-oriented nature as they spend their days meticulously examining buildings, crawl spaces, and other areas where pests commonly take up residence.
The job also offers plenty of solitude which, for the introverted, is a welcome opportunity to spend their workdays alone with their own thoughts.
Although no special education is required, pest control workers must be licensed. Since they work with hazardous pesticides and harmful chemicals, states issue exams that test workers’ knowledge regarding safety standards and best disposal practices when working with pesticides.
Pest control workers can find employment with large companies or even start their own business which gives them the most control over where and how they work. On average, pest control workers earn $15.00 an hour while helping homeowners and business owners remove unwanted critters and pests.
Fashion Designer
- Expected Salary: $58,500 to $67,000 annually
- Education Required: Bachelor’s degree
- Best For: Designers, visionaries, creative minds, fashion lovers
Fashion designers are the creative minds who come up with original designs for clothing, costumes, and footwear. They hand sketch ideas, use computer programs to outline outfits, and predict future fashion trends.
The introverted fashion designer will thrive in an environment that allows them to be endlessly creative with minimal restrictions on their design ideas and creations.
Although fashion designers frequently work with teams to collaborate on lines of clothing, introverts can’t hide their enthusiasm for things they’re passionate about and will flourish in a team environment that brings together unique viewpoints to conceptualize and create clothing designs.
An overwhelming number of fashion designers work in either New York or Los Angeles for large labels and major design houses.
To gain entry-level employment, fashion designers need a bachelor’s degree in merchandising or fashion design and can expect to earn about $30.00 an hour.
Introverts working in this high-profile industry can choose an area that takes a more behind-the-scenes approach to fashion, like e-commerce, sample sourcing, or digital designer.
Writer
- Expected Salary: $49,250 to $54,000 annually
- Education Required: Bachelor’s degree
- Best For: Storytellers, readers, book lovers
Writers develop a wide variety of content ranging from advertisements to television scripts and even lyrics for songs. They typically specialize in one area of writing like fiction, nonfiction, copy writing, or online publications.
The majority of writers are self-employed which gives introverts the opportunity to work on subject matter that interest them while keeping their own schedules. Writing, as a profession, plays to introverts’ strengths as creative critical thinkers.
For most full-time writers, a bachelor’s degree in English or journalism is required, especially if they want to write about a specialized subject matter or report the news. For those working on a freelance-basis, a genuine passion, natural talent, and portfolio of work may be enough to source a steady stream of projects.
Introverts will likely enjoy writing assignments that let their creativity take center stage. Many introverts make great screenwriters and novelists since, for them, storytelling is much easier when thoughts are put down in writing.
Although the projects they work on and places of employment vary, writers can expect to earn an average of $27.00 an hour as they develop stories, research details, and entertain readers with the written word.
Housekeeper
- Expected Salary: $17,500 to $22,300 annually
- Education Required: On-the-job training
- Best For: Organizers, order restorers
Housekeepers are responsible for light-cleaning tasks like vacuuming and bed making. They maintain order and give an overall tidy appearance to houses, rooms, and office buildings.
Housekeepers are often employed by hospitals and hotels and clean up after guests when they’re not presents. This allows introverts the opportunity to work quickly and quietly with very little interaction with others.
Short-term on-the-job training prepares housekeepers to perform their daily duties. On a day-to-day basis, housekeepers are given a list of tasks that need to be completed and are allowed to use their best judgment in determining how and when things get finished.
For introverts, the autonomy of housekeeping is appealing as is the ability to come and go freely. Given their often detail-oriented personalities, introverts can settle into the daily routine and methodical tasks housekeeping offers with ease.
Housekeepers can earn an average of $10.00 an hour as they work to maintain order to hotels, hospitals, and homes.
Prep Cook
- Expected Salary: $21,000 to $25,600 annually
- Education Required: On-the-job training
- Best For: Foodies
Prep cooks are tasked with preparing large amounts of ingredients for chefs. They work before restaurants open to help set up the kitchen team for a successful lunch or dinner service.
Weighing out portions, chopping up vegetables, cleaning meats, and par-baking breads and desserts are some of the tasks prep cooks can encounter on a daily basis. For introverts, working as a prep cook allows them to work quietly behind the scenes on repetitive and routine tasks.
No formal education is required to work as a prep cook. Short-term on-the-job training is provided to given prep cooks an opportunity to learn their way around the kitchen and hone their basic knife skills.
Many prep cooks know ahead of time which tasks need to be completed during their shift based on the day of the week and any menu specials. This predictable working environment is ideal for introverts who like to anticipate their responsibilities while avoiding any surprises in their schedule.
On average, prep cooks earn about $11.00 an hour while sharpening their knife skills and learning new culinary techniques in this behind-the-scenes kitchen job.
Editor
- Expected Salary: $47,800 to $55,000 annually
- Education Required: On-the-job training
- Best For: Writers, grammar pros, storytellers
Editors review written content and make revisions as they see fit. They check writing for spelling and grammar errors and also make changes for overall clarity, style, and tone.
Introverts are often detail-oriented and can put this skill to good use as an editor which requires meticulously checking content under tight deadlines.
In addition to reviewing writing, editors must also exercise good judgment when determining if a story that’s been reported on is both ethical and factual before going to press.
Most editors earn bachelor’s degrees in English or journalism and start their careers as writers. For introverts, working as an editor allows them to exercise creativity on a broad range of topics and engage an audience without ever having to step in front of one.
In this fast-paced environment with multiple projects going on at the same time, editors earn an average of $26.00 an hour with the opportunity to advance into senior editor roles.
Accountant
- Expected Salary: $60,750 to $65,000 annually
- Education Required: On-the-job training
- Best For: Record keepers, organizational pros
Accountants are the number-crunchers responsible for preparing and examining financial records. They also audit records for accuracy and may take responsibility for filing taxes on time for businesses and individuals.
Since accountants spend much of their time in quiet office settings working alone, introverts can appreciate the autonomy that accompanies combing through piles of paperwork and receipts to check financial reports for accuracy.
Entry-level accountants will need a bachelor’s degree to give them an understanding of basic bookkeeping practices. For the introvert who would prefer working with businesses rather than helping individuals file taxes, they can become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) which allows them to represent corporations and file reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
For the introvert with a knack for numbers and ability to manage a budget, working as an accountant gives them a chance to demonstrate their detail-oriented nature while earning an average of $31.00 an hour.
Data Entry
- Expected Salary: $20,400 to $25,800 annually
- Education Required: On-the-job training
- Best For: Record keepers, typists, quick readers
Corporations with large volumes of documents require the expertise of data entry keyers to review documents and locate relevant information within them. Often, they use multiple computer monitors to retrieve information from one source and use keypads to input it into another, usually a large reference database.
While special training isn’t required, data entry workers must be quick and accurate typists with the ability to work with both alpha and alphanumeric keying assignments. The meticulous introvert can get lost in the repetitive nature of this work without losing sight of accuracy.
Data entry keyers can find work at financial institutions, insurance companies, and any office environment that processes a lot of paperwork. On average, they earn about $12.00 an hour.
Often known for their intense focus, introverts can prove to be efficient data entry keyers.
Social Media Manager
- Expected Salary: $35,500 to $42,500 annually
- Education Required: Bachelor’s degree
- Best For: Social media butterflies, writers, creatives
Social media managers are the virtual presence that give brands a voice on various social media platforms. They craft content that engages an audience, moderate user-generated content, and work tirelessly to promote businesses and increase brand awareness.
Since introverts don’t dislike social interactions, but rather find direct one-on-one communication with others to be exhausting, working as a social media manager allows them the opportunity to create a sense of community without ever having to attend a public gathering.
Today’s social media managers often work odd hours from their home office since keeping up with social media is a 24/7 effort. For introverts, the varied schedule and remote location allows them to freely work in the environment they feel most comfortable in.
Social media managers should obtain degrees in marketing, communications, or public relations to be competitive in the entry-level market. As social media becomes the go-to place for businesses to connect with customers and promote their products, the need for skilled social media managers will continue to increase in years to come.
On average, social media managers can earn about $18.00 an hour while pinning, tweeting, posting, and snapping their way to an in-demand career.
Careers for Introverts: You Have Options
For introverts living, and more importantly working, in a mostly extroverted world, networking and solid communication skills are often the keys to success. And while introverts don’t necessarily dislike social interaction, they don’t exactly thrive in them either.
In general, introverts find the entire socializing process to be tedious and emotionally draining.
Fortunately, there are a number of diverse fields that offer introverts a chance at career success without having to force social interactions.
For the introverted, it’s important they find a career that plays to their strengths while giving them daily opportunities to replenish their energy reserves.
