Jobs for ESTPs
ESTPs (the Extroverted, Sensing, Thinking, Perceiving Myers-Briggs type) are spontaneous, energetic, and thrive when working with others. ESTPs are able to make quick decisions in unexpected situations, and are always looking for the next adventure. For that reason, ESTPs can often be found in creative jobs and high stress business positions.
Jobs requiring cooperation, innovation, and stress tolerance are the best jobs for ESTPs. These rankings are determined by how important all three of those traits are to a job, based on ratings from occupational experts. Jobs that require extremely low amounts of social interaction have been removed. All data displayed on this page is from the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Information Network and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. See our methodology.
Best Jobs for ESTPs By Industry:
Best Business Jobs for ESTPs
All of these business positions are very client-focused, making them ideal for ESTPs, who thrive on social interaction. These positions require ESTPs to work under the pressure of tight deadlines and manage conflict when it arises. Three of these jobs require bachelor's degrees and the last option, real estate broker (#4), requires only a high school diploma.
1. Meeting, Convention, and Event Planner
Meeting, convention and event planners are responsible for coordinating a range of events including weddings, academic conferences, and workshops. Strong communication and cooperation skills are important because planners typically work with a range of clients and event staff in fast-paced environments. Planners ensure that events flow with efficiency. Solving problems as they arise requires innovative thinking. Regular duties might include organizing venues, gathering attendance figures, preparing technological equipment, and catering.
Degrees in hospitality and tourism and a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) qualification are desirable. Experience using social media platforms or virtual meeting software is also advantageous.
2. Sales Agent, Financial Services
Financial services sales agents bring together buyers and sellers in financial markets. They stay informed about current financial trends and advise clients on the best financial choices. A typical day might include selling securities to individual clients, providing guidance to clients about investments or stocks, processing insurance policies, and securing loans for clients. Customer service skills are fundamental to this job because agents work closely with clients. Strong listening and communication skills, which many ESTPs possess, are also highly important in this position, as these skills help financial services sales agents provide well-articulated and useful financial advice.
A bachelor’s degree in economics, business, finance or accounting is often required. Summer internships are also a good way to get experience and secure future work with a company.
3. Agent or Business Manager of Artists, Performers, and Athletes
Agents and business managers for artists, performers, and athletes represent their clients in communications and transactions with current and prospective employers. Typical day-to-day duties include negotiating business contracts, helping clients plan their careers, scheduling performances or promotional events, providing guidance on financial and legal matters, and staying up-to-date with industry trends.
Strong interpersonal skills are essential for managing conflicts, maintaining solid working partnerships, and negotiating fees. This makes ESTPs strong candidates for this profession. A significant amount of work-experience and training is often required for these roles. A bachelor’s degree is advantageous, but not always essential.
4. Real Estate Broker
Real estate brokers specialize in the sale of residential and commercial properties. They are licensed to manage their own real estate businesses. They are responsible for the valuation and marketing of properties. This job requires regular contact with banks, mortgage brokers, surveyors, and solicitors. Skills in negotiation and customer service are key to securing the best deals for clients. Exceptional written and oral communication skills are also important. ESTP personality types are known for their concern for others and strong communication abilities, making them great candidates for this type of work.
A bachelor’s degree is not always required to be a real estate broker. However, qualifications in estate management, business studies, or property development are advantageous in an increasingly competitive field. Experience in a customer service role is also beneficial.
Best Creative Jobs for ESTPs
ESTPs are naturally creative and charismatic, making jobs in the creative industry a strong fit for them. The positions on this list particularly emphasize innovative thinking, as ESTPs in these jobs will be encouraged to think outside the box while delivering their projects. The average median salary for jobs on this list is around $50,000 per year.
1. Actor
Actors portray characters in film, television, theater, and other media. Their role is to interpret a director’s vision or a writer’s script and provide entertainment to an audience. Actors often subsidize their income in other ways because it can be hard to find consistent work. Creative thinking is an important quality for actors. This trait can be found in many ESTP personality types.
Training and practice are lifelong processes for actors as they continue to build and refine their skill set. Many take small acting roles early in their careers to gain experience.
2. Choreographer
Choreographers teach movement routines or dances to dancers and actors. They also work with directors, producers, and designers to plan, create, and implement these routines. Choreographers must have physical stamina and a thorough knowledge of dance. Generating new ideas for routines is a large part of the job. Therefore, the ability to think creatively is very important. Additionally, working closely with other people requires excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
ESTPs who are innovative, creative, and enjoy dancing are strong candidates for jobs as choreographers. To be a choreographer, one must be a trained dancer. Full-time specialized choreographer training is available for people 16 and over.
3. Set and Exhibit Designer
Set and exhibit designers create specific props and sets for film, television, and theater productions. They often conduct research to understand the best architectural style. Designers tend to work alongside script writers and directors to implement their visions for pieces. Working with clients and staff to gather information about the venue, themes, content, budget, and materials also requires strong communication skills.
The ESTP traits of creativity and innovation are key for designing set models within a budget. Employers often require a graduate degree and extensive skills acquired through industry experience.
4. Interior Designer
Interior designers work to improve interior spaces based on the needs and preferences of clients. Interior design projects can be in hospitals, homes, restaurants, and theaters. Designers assess their clients’ needs, develop detailed design plans, and oversee projects to ensure timely completion. Carefully considering clients’ needs and providing excellent customer service requires strong interpersonal skills.
ESTPs are a good fit for this role because they are creative and have innate concern for others. A bachelor’s degree is generally necessary for this profession. Passing the National Council for Interior Design Qualification exam is also required in some states.
Best Healthcare Jobs for ESTPs
For ESTPs interested in working in healthcare, the following positions are strong options. All four of the following positions require individuals to be able to work closely with others in stressful environments. A career as either a recreational therapist (#1) or respiratory therapist (#3) is a good choice for ESTPs who express sincere concern for others and enjoy working directly with patients.
1. Recreational Therapist
Recreational therapists work with people with disabilities, injuries, and illnesses to plan, facilitate, and coordinate recreation-based treatment programs. Recreational treatment plans are designed to support and improve patients’ physical health, social functioning, and emotional well-being. Recreational therapists help clients using activities such as sports and exercise, music, dance, arts and crafts, and community excursions.
The therapeutic and personal nature of this work requires genuine concern for others and strong interpersonal skills. These traits, found in ESTPs, are essential to providing the best possible care for patients. A bachelor’s degree in recreational therapy or a related field is often required. Employers may also require the Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) credential.
2. Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse
Advanced practice psychiatric nurses deliver care to patients with psychiatric disorders. They may also provide psycho-therapeutic interventions under the supervision of a psychiatrist. This work requires a caring nature and sensitivity to the needs of others. Nurses have a range of responsibilities including prescribing and providing medication, analyzing patient data and medical observations, monitoring and evaluating patient behavior, and explaining psychiatric conditions and disorders to family members.
ESTPs are a strong fit for this type of work because they are able to problem solve in a fast-paced environment and work cooperatively with others as part of a interdisciplinary team. Post-graduate qualifications in psychiatric nursing and at least five years of specialized medical experience are required to become an advanced practice psychiatric nurse.
3. Respiratory Therapist
Respiratory therapists provide care for patients with breathing problems, such as those diagnosed with respiratory diseases like asthma and emphysema. They may also deliver emergency care for patients who have experienced a heart attack, drowning, or shock. Respiratory therapists work with patients and other professionals to develop a treatment plan that often incorporates technical equipment.
This role suits ESTPs who enjoy helping others during a time of need. Strong communication skills are important for clearly and sensitively providing information to patients and their families. Working collaboratively with other professionals is also an important part of this role. An associate degree is typically required to become a respiratory therapist.
4. Clinical Nurse Specialist
Clinical nurse specialists (CNS) are registered nurses with advanced knowledge about a specific patient population or area of nursing. For example, clinical nurse specialists may work in pediatrics or oncology. CNSs provide patient care and implement treatment plans. They also mentor other nurses, take on policy making roles, and contribute data to medical research.
Becoming a CNS requires a strong motivation to help and care for others in addition to the ability to develop innovative solutions to support the improvement of the healthcare system. These required qualities make ESTPs strong candidates for this profession. A master’s degree is typically the minimum requirement for a CNS.
Best Science & Engineering Jobs for ESTPs
Science and engineering professions suit ESTPs well, as they thrive when they’re working in high-stress, yet creative, environments. ESTPs who work well on teams and enjoy creating and innovating may be interested in a career as a video game designer (#1). A career as a computer network support specialist (#4) may be preferable for individuals who are pursuing or hold an associate degree rather than a bachelor’s.
1. Video Game Designer
Video game designers imagine and develop the content and game-play of video games. They are responsible for defining every feature of a game's architecture including structure, setting, game rules, story, characters, objects, interface, and modes of play. Game designers communicate their ideas to development teams who build the computer code and assets for the game. Game designers often develop games based on a predefined premise, budget, and timeline. This requires strong problem-solving and creative thinking skills.
The innovation required to succeed in this field makes ESTPs a strong fit for this role. Being able to communicate ideas effectively and work collaboratively with a team is also important. Many game designers have a college degree, but no specific qualifications are required. However, a knowledge and understanding of programming languages is essential.
2. Geothermal Plant Manager
Geothermal plant managers are responsible for overseeing and managing operations at geothermal power generation plants. Plant managers monitor and maintain green energy production and equipment to ensure processes run safely and effectively. Plant managers may also need to solve problems quickly to direct the repair of equipment.
Teamwork and strong interpersonal skills are very important for this job. Plant managers must communicate operational information to colleagues and delegate tasks to employees. A genuine concern for the safety of staff is also a priority. These traits are found in ESTPs. Becoming a geothermal plant manager typically requires a diploma or associate degree in supply chain management, industrial engineering, or business administration.
3. Urban and Regional Planner
Urban and regional planners create land-use plans. They work to build communities, develop facilities in towns and cities, and accommodate increases in population. Urban and regional planners work with the public, developers, and local officials to identify the needs and goals of communities. They also support communities to manage the economic, social, and environmental repercussions associated with development.
Strong communication and listening skills are very important for this job, because planners must meet with many people to gather and present information. Analytical and innovative decision-making skills, found in many ESTPs, are also advantageous when it comes to formulating data-driven solutions. A master’s degree is typically required for this role.
4. Computer Network Support Specialist
Computer Network Support Specialists are responsible for analyzing, testing, troubleshooting, and evaluating computer network and internet systems. They ensure systems are running efficiently and effectively. Network support specialists communicate with end-users to understand their needs, analyze workflow and security requirements of networks, troubleshoot issues in networks, and conduct routine network maintenance.
Creative problem-solving and customer service skills - ESTP traits - are assets in this role, as specialists gather and analyze information from users and generate solutions. Most employers expect a bachelor’s degree in computer science, networking systems, or computer information systems. Further education or experience in analysis, programming, and e-Security are a bonus.
Best Service & Personal Care Jobs for ESTPs
These three jobs are strong service and personal care professions for ESTPs who enjoy working in an energetic, customer-facing position. For ESTPs who are quick on their feet and work well in high stress environments and situations, a career as a flight attendant (#2) is a strong choice. These three positions are also suited for individuals without a college degree, as only a certificate or high school diploma is required.
1. Skincare Specialist
Skincare specialists provide cleansing and beautifying skin treatments for the face and body. They typically work in beauty salons and health spas. Skincare specialists assess clients’ needs and suggest treatments. They may also recommend skin care products, provide guidance on makeup application, and make referrals to other skincare specialists for more serious skin problems. Customer service skills are key to ensuring repeat business and providing a pleasant and welcoming experience for clients.
Finding innovative ways to attract new clients is very important for building a business, making ESTPs a strong fit for this profession. To become a licensed skincare specialist, individuals must complete a state-approved cosmetology or esthetician program and pass an exam. Salon experience is also advantageous.
2. Flight Attendant
Flight attendants support airline passengers during flights and ensure customers are comfortable and safe. Responsibilities include making sure all passengers understand and adhere to safety guidelines, preparing and delivering food and drinks, and working with the flight crew to guarantee a smooth flight experience.
To become a flight attendant, individuals need at least a high school diploma. Employers tend to prefer candidates with customer service experience. ESTPs are strong candidates for this profession because of their ability to work with teams and in stressful environments.
3. Spa Manager
Spa managers direct and oversee spa facilities. They are responsible for training and managing staff members, planning and organizing spa programs, and dealing with finances. Day-to-day tasks include checking the spa equipment to ensure it is working properly, monitoring and coordinating facility schedules to maximize usage, and managing cash flow and accounting. Spa managers must have strong interpersonal and communication skills because they are in regular contact with spa personnel, vendors, and clients.
ESTPs who enjoy developing customer relationships - which is critical to ensure repeat business and client satisfaction - are strong candidates for this profession. Employers often require at least a bachelor’s degree in business administration, business management, or hospitality management. Experience with spa therapies is also advantageous.
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References
- Meeting or Convention Planner. Truity. Accessed February 19, 2018. https://www.truity.com/career-profile/meeting-or-convention-planner
- Meetings and Convention Planners. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Accessed February 19, 2018. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/meeting-convention-and-event-planners.htm
- Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Accessed February 19, 2018. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/sales/securities-commodities-and-financial-services-sales-agents.htm
- Financial Services Representative. Career Builder. Accessed February 20, 2018. https://www.careerbuilder.com/insights/financial-services-representative
- Choreographer, Job Role. Creative Skillset. Accessed February 20, 2018. http://creativeskillset.org/job_roles/292_choreographer
- Set and Exhibit Designers. Bureau for Labor Statistics. Accessed February 20, 2018. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes271027.htm
- Recreational Therapists. Bureau for Labor Statistics. Accessed February 20, 2018. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/recreational-therapists.htm
- What do Psychiatric Nurses Do? APNA. Accessed February 20, 2018. https://www.apna.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=3292
- American Association for Respiratory Care. Accessed February 20, 2018. http://www.aarc.org
- What Do Geothermal Plant Managers Do: Job Description, Responsibilities and Duties. Owl Guru. Accessed February 21, 2018. http://www.owlguru.com/career/geothermal-production-managers/job-description/
- Network Specialist Job Description. Job Hero. Accessed February 21, 2018. http://www.jobhero.com/network-specialist-job-description
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- Cycle Mechanic. National Careers Service. February 21, 2018. https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/job-profiles/cycle-mechanic#skills-required
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