5 High-Paying Careers for Introverts

Introverts often possess certain strengths and talents that can be directly applied to fulfilling and lucrative careers. Roles that require deep focus, creativity, analytical skills, and independent work are positions in which introverts can thrive. Today, we’re going to talk about some great careers that are tailored to the strengths and preferences of introverts. Let’s begin.

Librarian

Those who love reading or learning in general might enjoy a career as a librarian. As a librarian, you’ll be spending a lot of time creating and maintaining databases, curating huge literary collections, and researching new books and publishers. While there is some degree of human contact involved in this role, introverts will appreciate the amount of time they get to spend alone or surrounded by books.

In most cases, librarians are required to possess a master’s degree in library science; however, certain school libraries may only require a bachelor’s degree. To get more mileage out of your career, earn your degree from an American Library Association (ALA) accredited program. As a librarian, you can expect to make anywhere between $60,000 and $81,000 per year, with the average annual salary in the U.S.  being around $70,000.

Editor

If you’re a big fan of the written word, a career as an editor might suit you. Editors are responsible for planning and coordinating the release of written materials to be published in magazines, books, and websites, among other platforms. They ensure that a company’s written materials maintain a high degree of quality and adhere to brand guidelines, often working with writers or taking on writing responsibilities themselves. The best part is, you’ll get plenty of alone time as you work.

Creative people with excellent writing skills and who pay close attention to detail make great editors. To start a career as an editor, you’ll need to get yourself a bachelor’s degree in English, journalism, or a related field. As an editor, you’ll be making anywhere between $37,000 and $130,000 per year, depending on factors such as your level of experience and your employer. As of the present, the average salary for an editor in the U.S. is around $75,000 a year.

Veterinarian

Veterinarians are responsible for treating sick and injured animals. They prescribe medication, run diagnostic tests, educate pet owners on health and wellness, and ensure that their practices adhere to ethical standards. If you’re an introvert this career path might be particularly attractive because rather than dealing with human patients, you’ll be helping our four-legged friends stay healthy. Of course, there will be some human contact, but you’ll also have receptionists and medical assistants to help you.

Compassionate individuals with great problem-solving skills make the best veterinarians. In order to start your career, you’ll need a DVM or VMD (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine) degree. Keep in mind that admission to veterinarian programs can be somewhat competitive, so you’ll have to plan ahead if you’re serious about a career in the field. As a veterinarian, you can expect to make anywhere between $60,000 and $165,000 per year, with the average annual salary being around $97,000.

Radiologist

Introverts who are looking to get into the medical field might enjoy a career as a radiologist. Radiologists are responsible for diagnosing and treating patients through the analysis of medical imaging. These images include X-rays, CT (computer tomography) scans, MRIs (magnetic resonance imaging), and ultrasounds, among others. Once again, there will be some level of contact with your patients, but the greater portion of your time will be spent operating machinery, studying images, and creating reports.

Those who pay close attention to detail and who are committed to the well-being of others make great radiologists. Now, there’s no sugar-coating things—becoming a radiologist takes time. From the MCAT to completing medical school, all the way to passing the U.S. Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE) and completing a residency program, you’ll have your hands full for years. The benefit here is you’ll be well compensated, and you can expect to make anywhere between $124,000 and $440,000 a year. As of 2024, the average annual salary for a radiologist is $154,000.

Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists are doctors who specialize in improving and maintaining the mental health of their patients. They’re responsible for assessing their patients’ psychological issues and prescribing the appropriate medication and treatment schedule. This requires psychologists to gather information about their patients through various means, including medical records and family history. Along with this, psychiatrists have to be great listeners, making introverts perfect for the role.

Similar to our last entry, becoming a psychiatrist takes dedication. You’ll need to get through a bachelor’s program studying psychology or a related field, complete medical school and a residency, then pass the licensing exam. All of this could take up to 12 years, but the payoff is worth it if you’re in it for the long haul. As a psychiatrist, you’ll be making between $226,000 and $282,000 per year, with the average annual salary being around $252,000.

An argument can be made that the popular belief is that career success requires constant social interaction and extroverted qualities; however, this isn’t always the case. There are plenty of career opportunities out there for introverted individuals, where independent work, creativity, and analytical prowess are not only required, but rewarded.