Jobs for INTPs
INTPs (the Introverted, iNtuitive, Thinking, and Perceiving Myers-Briggs type) are sharp critical thinkers and thrive when solving big-picture problems. They are creative and inventive, working tirelessly to logically address questions that come their way. INTPs are often found utilizing these skills in science, engineering, and social science fields.
Ideal jobs for INTPs require innovation, analytical thinking, and a drive to achieve goals. The rankings below are determined by how important those three traits are to a job, based on ratings from occupational experts. Jobs that require extremely high 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 INTPs By Industry:
Best Business Jobs for INTPs
These four jobs are the best business jobs for INTPs. All are heavily analytics-focused, requiring INTPs to utilize their naturally analytical minds to discover trends and discrepancies in business data. Business positions allow for less innovation than some INTPs may be comfortable with, but others may be satisfied with the high projected growth numbers and salaries on this list. All of these positions require a bachelor's degree at minimum.
1. Management Analyst
Management analysts collect information about companies and organizations to come up with innovative solutions to improve an organization's efficiency. Management analysts help companies draft plans to increase overall profits while cutting down on costs. Their day-to-day tasks include gathering organizational performance information, conducting studies, evaluating design systems and procedures, and preparing procedures manuals.
A career as a management analyst is a strong choice for INTPs who enjoy analytical examination. The typical educational requirement for this job is a bachelor's degree in business, management, or a related field. Additional knowledge in human resource management principles is a strong asset.
2. Financial Analyst
A financial analyst's job is to analyze financial data by collecting, monitoring, and creating financial models for companies and organizations. Successful analysts enjoy analyzing data and identifying trends and patterns. A typical day for a financial analyst begins with a brief check on the latest news in international trade and markets and is followed by meetings with colleagues or clients, to whom they present their new investment ideas. Financial analysts feel most satisfied when business models and strategies they develop yield positive feedback from clients.
To become a financial analyst, one must usually have at least bachelor's degree in finance, business, or a related field. For INTPs interested in working in finance, a career as a financial analyst is a strong choice.
3. Market Research Analyst and Marketing Specialist
Market research analysts and marketing specialists perform research and gather data on consumer needs to help companies market their products and services. Day-to-day tasks include developing, coordinating, and implementing promotions to market their clients' products. Individuals with strong analytical minds excel in this position. For this reason, INTPs are strong marketing candidates.
The qualifications required for both of these professions are a bachelor's in market research, market business or a related field along with a strong knowledge of media channels and marketing strategies.
4. Investment Fund Manager
Investment fund managers provide financial advice and services to clients to help them make reasonable and cost-effective investments. Investment fund managers also spend time reading, interpreting, and assessing financial briefings. They also regularly meet with investment analysts to create innovative solutions for their clients.
INTPs are a strong fit for this career because they are goal-driven and insightful. The entry-level educational requirement for this professional position is a bachelor's degree in business studies or management. However, some companies also recognize relevant paid or volunteer experiences or apprenticeships.
Best Healthcare Jobs for INTPs
The healthcare field is a strong option for INTPs, particularly because the steps required to become a doctor are very intensive. While other personality types may get discouraged in the process of becoming a doctor, INTPs' goal-driven personality makes them prime candidates for attaining these positions. These jobs all have projected growth rates over 10%, with orthotist and prosthetist (#2) the highest at 21.9%.
1. Ophthalmologist
Ophthalmologists are doctors who treat illnesses, diseases, and conditions that affect the eye. Their days are spent examining patients to diagnose conditions and establish treatment plans. Ophthalmologists must have strong analytical skills to be successful performing surgeries and treating patients. They must also be goal-driven to manage the hard work associated with being a doctor.
INTPs interested in medicine should consider a career as an ophthalmologist. To become an ophthalmologist, one must complete a medical school degree with three to eight years of internship work followed by a residency and state licensure.
2. Orthotist and Prosthetist
Orthotists and prosthetists, also known as O&P professionals, design medical support devices such as artificial limbs or braces. At work, O&P professionals evaluate and analyze patients’ needs in order to fit them with the proper prosthetic or orthotic device. Because these professionals are driven by a desire to improve patients' quality of life, this line of work is a good fit for INTPs interested in working in the medical field.
The work and educational requirements to attain this job include a master's degree in orthotics and prosthetics, along with a year long residency followed by a national certification exam.
3. Preventive Medicine Physician
Physicians who work in the field of preventive medicine focus on the promotion, protection, and maintenance of the health of individuals and communities. Their day-to-day tasks include supervising a medical team and identifying groups at risk for specific preventable diseases. Preventive medicine physicians must have strong analytical skills and a goal-driven mindset - two of INTPs' strongest traits.
The recommended qualifications for this job include four years of medical school, followed by three to eight years in internship and residency programs.
4. Podiatrist
Podiatrists are medical professionals who specialize in conditions of the foot and ankle. Similar to other medical professions, podiatrists must be logical, analytically-minded, and fact-driven. A podiatrist's responsibilities include performing physical examinations of patients to diagnose and treat health problems related to the foot and ankle. After diagnosing a problem, podiatrists may prescribe medications, perform medical procedures, or refer a patient to other specialists if needed.
To become a podiatrist, one must have a bachelor's degree and a doctorate in podiatric medicine from an accredited college. INTPs interested in working in the medical field might consider a career as a podiatrist.
Best Education & Social Science Jobs for INTPs
The jobs on this list offer INTPs the opportunity to provide innovative solutions for a variety of topics, from teaching to anthropology. All of these jobs value analytical thought and require INTPs to work toward goals large and small. These positions require master's degrees or PhDs.
1. Physics Teacher, Postsecondary
Post-secondary physics teachers give lessons and conduct research at higher education institutions. Course topics include basic mechanics, physical computing, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics, among others. Post-secondary physics teachers must have strong analytical skills to succeed in conducting research. INTPs interested in physics may consider a career as a post-secondary physics teacher.
The majority of post-secondary physics teachers hold a doctorate in physics or related field. At least a master's degree is required.
2. Sociologist
Sociologists are professionals who study society and social behavior by examining the dynamics of groups, cultures, organizations, and social institutions. Most sociologists involved in research spend their days collecting and analyzing data. When this process is complete, sociologists write about their findings and publish their work as reports or articles.
To become a sociologist, a master's degree in sociology is required. Enrollment in a Ph.D. program is highly recommended. Goal-driven INTPs with a strong work ethic and an interest in studying human social behavior are a strong fit for this career path.
3. Instructional Designer and Technologist
Instructional designers and technologists work to improve learning and performance in a variety of educational institutions and workplaces. This involves systematic analysis of learning and performance problems in addition to the development, implementation, and management of instructional processes. As goal-driven individuals, INTPs interested in education might consider careers as instructional designers.
The educational requirements for this job vary, but most employers look for a master's degree. To work in a public school, instructional designers and technologists must also have a teaching license or an educational administrator license.
4. Anthropologist
Anthropologists study the development and behaviors of human beings across the world to better understand humanity as a whole. They examine biological, archeological, linguistic or sociocultural traditions, depending on their area of expertise. Anthropologists must use analytical skills when collecting data from observations, interviews, or document review.
INTPs, known for their analytical minds, may be interested in following this career path. The necessary qualifications for this profession include a master's degree in anthropology and work towards a doctorate in a specialized field of anthropology.
Best Science & Engineering Jobs for INTPs
Analytical thinking is critical in science and engineering fields, making INTPs strong candidates for these four positions. The jobs on this list have high median salaries, with three over $100,000 per year. These career paths allow INTPs the freedom to solve complex problems in an innovative and creative way.
1. Astronomer
Astronomers study the universe, including stars, planets, and other objects in the solar system. Their main objective is to observe, record, and analyze their findings to understand the composition of outer space. An astronomer's daily responsibilities include analyzing data, writing research proposals, developing and testing scientific theories, and presenting findings. INTPs interested in studying astronomy and hoping to apply their analytical skills in an innovative field are strong candidates for this career path.
The majority of astronomers have completed a PhD and post-doctoral training. Extensive skill and research experience is necessary to enter this profession.
2. Mathematician
Mathematicians conduct research and expand knowledge in mathematical areas by developing new rules, theories, and concepts. Some mathematicians work to find scientific innovations in their field, while others work to solve practical problems in business or engineering by applying math theories and techniques.
INTPs are strong analytical thinkers by nature and are strong candidates for careers as mathematicians. To become a mathematician, one must earn a bachelor's in mathematics and then enroll in a Ph.D. program.
3. Operations Research Analyst
Operations research analysts are mathematical experts who use their knowledge to help businesses and organizations solve problems and make decisions. They identify problems, collect and examine information, and use simulations to analyze data and develop solutions. Their daily work involves problem-solving. This requires an analytical mind and a knack for developing insightful solutions.
Operations research analysts define and analyze specific problems in addition to evaluating the effectiveness of support systems. An aptitude for analytical thinking makes INTPs ideal for this career path. The educational requirements for a career as an operations research analyst include a bachelor's or master's in math, science, physics or a related subject.
4. Environmental Economist
Environmental economists study the economic impacts of natural resource extraction and waste. They also study how economic incentives hurt or help the environment and how can they be used to create sustainable policies and solutions. They collect and analyze data, prepare scientific and technical reports and presentations, prepare grant applications, and create and design environmental research models. The innovation required for this career makes INTPs ideal candidates.
The entry-level educational requirement for this profession is a bachelor's degree. Some advanced positions in this field require a background in advanced mathematics and statistics.
Best Trade Jobs for INTPs
INTPs who prefer to work with their hands will find the careers on this list that suit their personality type. Repairing electronics, patternmaking, and mold making all require the analytical thinking and creativity possessed by INTPs. The jobs on this list require high school diplomas and certificates, making them strong choices for INTPs not interested in pursuing an undergraduate degree.
1. Electrical and Electronics Repairer
Electrical and electronics repairers are both practical and creative. They thrive doing technical work. These professionals install and repair a variety of electrical equipment used in many industries, including telecommunications, transportation, and utilities. Their everyday work involves evaluating electric equipment, building or calibrating instrumentation, and installing new equipment or replacing old equipment. The innovation required in this line of work makes INTPs ideal candidates.
To do this job, at least a high school education is necessary. However, numerous specializations require additional education and preparation through apprenticeship.
2. Model Makers, Metal and Plastic
Model makers set-up and operate machines such as lathes, milling and engraving machines, and jig borers to make models of metal or plastic objects. In addition to the complex and precise work of cutting, shaping, forming, and joining metal parts using bolts and screws, these workers must also skillfully and analytically inspect and test products. They also study blueprints, drawings, and sketches to determine what materials and equipment are required to make each model.
An aptitude for analytical thinking makes INTPs ideal for this career path. A high school diploma is necessary for employment, but job opportunities improve with higher levels of education.
3. Fabric and Apparel Pattern-Makers
Fabric and apparel pattern-makers play a pivotal role in both the fashion and manufacturing industries. They use their extensive knowledge of fabrics to create patterns, either free-hand or with computer-aided drafting software. INTPs enjoy detailed work, and those interested in entering the fashion industry might consider a career in pattern-making. Day-to-day tasks include designing templates of patterns, examining and analyzing sketches, and positioning patterns on equipment.
Educational requirements include a two-year degree, sewing skills, free-hand drawings skills, and familiarity with computer illustration programs.
References
- Management Analyst Overview, U.S. News and World Report.com, U.S. News & World Report L.P., 2008. https://money.usnews.com/careers/best-jobs/management-analyst.
- Management Analyst, Career Planner.com, CAREERPLANNER.COM, 1997-2018. https://job-descriptions.careerplanner.com/Management-Analysts-5.cfm.
- Investment Fund Manager, targetjobs.co.uk, Media Ltd. https://targetjobs.co.uk/careers-advice/job-descriptions/279911-investment-fund-manager-job-description.
- A Day in the Life of Market Researchers and Marketing Specialists, owlguru.com. http://www.owlguru.com/day-in-life-of-market-research-analysts-and-marketing-specialists/.
- Ophthalmologist: Employment Info & Requirements, Study.com, 2003-2018. https://study.com/articles/Ophthalmologist_Employment_Info_and_Requirements_for_Becoming_an_Ophthalmologist.html.
- Orthotist or Prosthetist, truity.com, TRUITY, 2017. https://www.truity.com/career-profile/orthotist-or-prosthetist.
- Marketing Specialist job description, resources.workable.com, Workable, 2018. https://resources.workable.com/marketing-specialist-job-description.
- Preventive Medicine, American College of Preventive Medicine-physicians dedicated to prevention, American College of Preventive Medicine. http://www.acpm.org/page/preventivemedicine.
- Physics Teachers, Postsecondary, myplan.com, MyPlan.com L.L.C, 2004-2018. http://www.myplan.com/careers/physics-teachers-postsecondary/description-25-1054.00.html.
- Sociologist, truity.com, TRUITY, 2017. https://www.truity.com/career-profile/sociologist.
- What Instructional Designers Do-Is this a Career for You?, theelearningcoach.com, Connie Malamed, 2016. http://theelearningcoach.com/elearning_design/is-this-instructional-design/.
- Anthropologist, Career Planner.com, CAREERPLANNER.COM, 1997-2008. https://job-descriptions.careerplanner.com/Anthropologists.cfm.
- Anthropologist: Job Description, Duties and Requirements, study.com, Study.com, 2003-2018. https://study.com/articles/Anthropologist_Job_Description_Duties_and_Requirements.html.
- Sciences Astronomer, allaboutcarrers.com, All About Careers Ltd., 2017. https://www.allaboutcareers.com/careers/job-profile/astronomer.
- What Do Mathematicians Do: Job Description, Responsibilities and Duties, owlguru.com. http://www.owlguru.com/career/mathematicians/job-description/.
- Dawn Roseberg Mc Kay, Operations Research Analyst, thebalance.com, 2018. https://www.thebalance.com/operations-research-analyst-526092.
- What is an Environmental Economist?, environmetalscience.org, EnvironmentalScience.org, 2018. https://www.environmentalscience.org/career/environmental-economist.
- Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2018. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/electrical-and-electronics-installers-and-repairers.htm.
- Nursery and Greenhouse Managers, MyPlan.com, MyPlan.com, L.L.C., 2004-2018. https://job-descriptions.careerplanner.com/Nursery-and-Greenhouse-Manager.cfm.
- Model Makers, Metal and Plastic Career, MyMajors, Positive SSL Certified. https://www.mymajors.com/career/model-makers-metal-and-plastic/skills/.
- Model Maker, Metal and Plastic, CareerPlanner.com, CAREERPLANNER.COM, 2007-2018. https://job-descriptions.careerplanner.com/Model-Makers-Metal-and-Plastic.cfm.
- Patternmaker: Career Information About Becoming a Patternmaker, study.com, Study.com, 2003-2018. https://study.com/articles/Patternmaker_Career_Information_About_Becoming_a_Patternmaker.html.