15 high-paying jobs for introverts

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For people who identify as introverts, finding a job that plays to their strengths — while giving them plenty of time to socially recharge — can help them find career satisfaction on their own terms.

Introverts are typically known for favoring more limited social interactions both in and out of work than their extroverted counterparts. It's estimated that anywhere from 25-50% of the U.S. population are introverts, and luckily, many of today's available professions cater to this personality style, especially now that hybrid and remote options have increased in popularity. 

 "[There is] a broader recognition of roles that can be performed outside the traditional office setting, which has opened up more opportunities for introverts," says Eva Chan, a career expert with Resume Genius. "The qualities often associated with introversion, such as deep focus, analytical prowess and creativity are beneficial and even considered essential for success in many high-paying roles." 

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To steer introverted job seekers in the right direction when it comes to their search, Resume Genius used information from the Bureau of Labor and Statistics to put together a list of 15 jobs that are likely to meet their financial needs, as well as their personality-related work preferences. 

Tech-related positions made up the majority of Resume Genius's list, though introverts also find success in areas of design, writing, research and product development — roles that require active listening, giving thoughtful input and creative and analytical skills, says Chan. 

"Individuals with introverted tendencies often excel in environments that require significant independent work, as well as in roles that demand complex problem-solving and critical thinking skills, such as data analysis and IT," Chan says. "The current job market presents an especially favorable environment for introverts." 

Finding a position that aligns with their personality increases an employee's chance at personal fulfillment and professional longevity, important factors to preventing the damaging effects of  job dissatisfaction and burnout. Fortunately, today's job market is ripe with opportunity, Chan says. 

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Check out Resume Genius's list of 15 ideal roles for  introverts, along with average annual salary, number of jobs as of 2022, projected job growth over the next decade and typical education requirements. 

Database architect

Average annual salary: $134,870
Number of jobs: 149,000
Projected job growth in the next decade: 8%
Typical education requirements: Bachelor's degree in computer or information technology

Software developer

Average annual salary: $127,260
Number of jobs: 1,795,300
Projected job growth in the next decade: 25%
Typical education requirements: Bachelor's degree or self-taught with experience

Actuary

Average annual salary: $113,990
Number of jobs: 30,000
Projected job growth in the next decade: 23%
Typical education requirements: Bachelor's degree in mathematics, actuarial science, statistics, or an analytical field

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Information security analyst

Average annual salary: $112,000
Number of jobs: 168,900
Projected job growth in the next decade:  32%
Typical education requirements: Bachelor's degree in a computer science field, some jobs need an additional certification

Data scientist

Average annual salary: $103,500
Number of jobs: 168,900
Projected job growth in the next decade: 35%
Typical education requirements: Bachelor's degree in mathematics, statistics, computer science, or a related field

Computer systems analyst

Average annual salary: $102,240
Number of jobs: 531,400
Projected job growth in the next decade: 10%
Typical education requirements: Bachelor's degree 

Mechanical engineer

Average annual salary: $96,310
Number of jobs: 286,100
Projected job growth in the next decade: 10%
Typical education requirements: Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or mechanical engineering technology, plus licensure

Digital designer

Average annual salary: $83,240
Number of jobs: 216,700
Projected job growth in the next decade:  16%
Typical education requirements: Bachelor's degree or self-taught with experience

Technical writer

Average annual salary: $79,960
Number of jobs: 53,000
Projected job growth in the next decade: 7%
Typical education requirements: Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience

Occupational health and safety specialist

Average annual salary: $78,570
Number of jobs: 138,400
Projected job growth in the next decade: 13%
Typical education requirements: Bachelor's degree in occupational health and safety or a related field

Accountant and auditor

Average annual salary: $78,000
Number of jobs: 1,538,400
Projected job growth in the next decade: 4%
Typical education requirements: Bachelor's degree in accounting or related field, plus certifications (e.g., Certified Public Accountant license)

Market research analyst

Average annual salary: $68,230
Number of jobs: 868,600
Projected job growth in the next decade: 13%
Typical education requirements: Bachelor's degree

Film and video editor

Average annual salary: $63,520
Number of jobs: 87,500
Projected job growth in the next decade: 7%
Typical education requirements: Bachelor's degree or technical/vocational program

Millwright

Average annual salary: $59,470
Number of jobs: 507,900
Projected job growth in the next decade: 13%
Typical education requirements: High school diploma

Graphic designer

Average annual salary: $57,990
Number of jobs: 270,900
Projected job growth in the next decade: 3%
Typical education requirements: Bachelor's degree, technical/vocation program, or self-taught with experience

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