7 Best Jobs for Introverts

As an introvert — someone who gets their energy from spending time alone — it might seem really tough to find a meaningful career or job that is suited to your unique personality and skillset. It might feel like society tends to favor those who are bold, outspoken, and assertive — traits which probably don’t align with your introverted tendencies.

But being an introvert doesn’t need to hold you back from pursuing a rewarding career path. In fact, it can be a huge asset in the workplace! You just need to find a job that allows you to put your natural abilities to good use, often thriving in careers that allow you to work quietly and independently. It’s important to note that introversion is not the same thing as being shy or socially inept — it’s simply a preference for how you recharge and process information.

To help you in your job search, we’ve made a list of the best jobs for introverts (along with their annual median salaries in 2023*) that are best suited for your personality.

*Salary Source: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

1. Biological Technician ($51,430) – If “people-ing” isn’t your thing, working in a lab is a pretty safe bet for an introvert. As a biological technician, you’ll work with biological and medical scientists, conducting lab tests and experiments. To become a biological technician, you’ll need to earn a bachelor’s degree and gain laboratory experience in school through job shadowing or an internship opportunity. Helpful but totally optional: having a really great “mad scientist” laugh.

Thinking about earning your bachelor’s degree? Discover more bachelor’s degree jobs on the Tallo blog.

2. Drafter ($62,530) – Love computers and art? Combine your two special talents by becoming a drafter. Drafters use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create and store technical drawings that can be used to plan projects. This is a great job for introverts because you could easily spend most of your time drawing or reading technical documents, depending on the company you work for. (You’ll probably work with other engineering staff on occasion.) For this position, you’ll need to complete a drafting program through a vocational school or community college.

3. Airline Pilot ($171,210) – If you’re interested in a career in aviation, consider becoming an airline pilot. Once you’ve reached cruising altitude and are on your course heading, there’s little conversation that’s required from you. And with a mean salary of over $170K, it’s among the highest-paying jobs for introverts. To become an airline pilot, you’ll likely need to earn your bachelor’s degree. You also need to have a pilot’s license issued from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

4. Web Developer ($92,750) – A career in web development is a solid career option for introverts. Since many web developers are introverts, there’s a good chance that you’ll be surrounded by like-minded people who prefer to work in peace and quiet. Plus, you can score a web development gig in less than two years with an associate’s degree.

Interested in earning an associate’s degree? Discover more associate’s degree jobs on the Tallo blog.

5. Writer/Author ($73,690) – Author John Green said it best: “Writing is something you do alone. It’s a profession for introverts who want to tell you a story but don’t want to make eye contact while doing it.” Of course, you don’t need to be a novelist to kickstart a career as a writer. For instance, you could be a copywriter for an advertising agency, a blogger, or maybe even a speech writer. While the job might not be a good fit for some anxious introverts (tight deadlines = writer’s anxiety), it definitely appeals to those who prefer to work remotely and independently.

6. Paralegal ($60,970) – Making the big bucks as a lawyer sounds amazing — until you realize that they do a ton of public speaking, which is a huge nope for most introverts. So, how about being a paralegal instead? Paralegals assist lawyers by conducting research, drafting legal documents, and investigating the facts of a case. And for a job that only requires an associate’s degree, you stand to make a relatively decent wage.

7. Welder ($48,940) – Welding is a fantastic job for introverts. Don’t want to talk to your coworkers? NBD, just put your helmet on and start making sparks fly. Granted, welding isn’t for everyone, given that it can be physically tough on the body. But if you’re serious about welding, consider looking for a welding apprenticeship to help launch your career. P.S. – Don’t count out other trade school jobs, such as HVAC and electrical work. There are many lucrative trades that can be a great match for introverts!

Introversion Is an Asset

Believe it or not, your introverted tendencies can be a major asset to the workplace — you just need to know how to choose a career that allows your personality and unique skillset to shine. Chances are you’ll be much happier in the long-term!

Image Credits