Some people thrive in high-energy jobs with constant interaction and an emphasis on teamwork. But, for some introverts, roles that require a lot of socializing can feel exhausting. Luckily, there are plenty of career opportunities that allow introverts space to recharge their social batteries.
While every person is unique, extroverts often gain energy through social interactions, while those same situations can be incredibly draining for more introverted individuals. Many introverts prefer quieter environments, more solitude and small groups over large crowds. They also tend to be self-aware, detail-oriented, creative and reflective — all skills that make them prime candidates for a variety of roles. In particular, many introverts thrive in careers that involve independent work and written communication.
Does this sound like you? Check out some of the best jobs for introverts below.
Accountant
If you prefer numbers to people, you’re in luck. Accountants are in high demand across industries. An accountant keeps track of a person or organization’s financial records, making sure everything makes sense money-wise. That includes keeping track of financial statements, crafting budget plans, preparing for taxes, running audits, managing payroll and more. It’s quiet, independent work where being detail-oriented pays off — making it one of the best jobs for introverts.
Those who are interested in an accounting role should get a degree related to finance or business. If you’d like to pursue a career in accounting, consider an online graduate degree such as the Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Science in Financial Engineering or Master of Business Taxation for Working Professionals.
Software Engineer
Software engineers keep computer systems and apps running. They design, test, refine and update the codes that make everything work without a hitch. This role is in demand across industries, especially as more and more companies launch their own apps or run internal tech servers. It’s also a role that largely takes place behind a computer, making this one of the best jobs for introverts who want to avoid too many face-to-face interactions.
To become a software engineer, you’ll likely need a bachelor’s degree in computer science. Alternatively, you might consider participating in a coding boot camp to learn the necessary programming languages. Many people also pursue a master’s degree in computer science, like USC’s Master of Science in Computer Science online program, to stand out in a competitive job market.
IT Analyst
There are also many other tech roles out there besides being a software engineer. Being an IT analyst is another one of the best jobs for introverts who enjoy working with computers. IT analysts keep a company’s computer systems running, regularly looking for ways to update them and make them operate more efficiently. IT analysts are often tasked with troubleshooting, which does involve interacting with coworkers, but this is typically via written communication.
The path to becoming an IT analyst is similar to being a software engineer. People usually get an undergraduate or graduate degree in computer science.
Librarian
Generations of introverts have fantasized about becoming librarians. After all, librarians work in a quiet place where books outnumber people. But there’s more to being a librarian than just checking out or sorting books. Librarians gather, classify and preserve knowledge, while also helping others access and understand it.
This fascinating position with a wide-ranging scope requires you to get a master’s degree, typically in library science. If you’d like to complete such a degree entirely online, USC’s Master of Management in Library and Information Science online program is worth checking out (no pun intended)!
Social Worker
It may sound counterintuitive, since this position is all about working directly with people, but being a social worker can be a great career option for introverts. For example, even though social work requires in-person communication, social workers typically work one-on-one with an individual or in a small group, as opposed to operating on a large team. This individual focus can be a happy medium for introverts who enjoy social interaction in small doses. Plus, it’s a role that plays to introverts’ strengths: Social workers help individuals or families overcome challenges by connecting them to resources and support. This service-oriented role requires a lot of research, listening and reflection.
There are multiple pathways to becoming a social worker. For some roles, just a bachelor’s degree in social work is enough, but you’ll likely want a graduate degree to land a more advanced role. Consider USC’s online Master of Social Work and Doctor of Social Work programs based on your aspirations.
Social Media Manager
Yes, social media manager may seem like another counterintuitive career option for introverts — the word “social” is even in the title! But social media managers communicate primarily online, making it perfect for those who prefer writing to speaking. Social media managers are the anonymous faces behind companies’ accounts on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, using their creativity to craft fun and engaging posts and interact with other users. In short, this is one of the best jobs for introverts to express their creative side.
Most social media manager roles only require a bachelor’s degree, but if you want to stand out, a master’s degree can help. USC’s online Master of Science in Digital Media Management program, for example, can set you up with the media skills needed to thrive in this role.
Health Care Administrator
Just because introverts find it tiring to interact with people all day, doesn’t mean they don’t want to help others. Many introverts are deeply compassionate and care about making the world a better place — that’s why many are suited for the health care field.
Of course, working with patients all day or in high-intensity environments may not be ideal for introverts, which is why health care administration may be a better fit than roles like nursing. Health care administrators work behind the scenes, overseeing the daily operations of a hospital or health center. They deal with things like budgets, schedules, records and compliance — all tasks well-suited for someone with an eye for details,
To become a health care administrator, you’ll first need a bachelor’s degree. From there, consider a graduate degree like the Executive Master of Health Administration online program, which many USC students use to gain leadership skills and level up in their careers.
Biomedical Engineer
If administration isn’t quite what you’re passionate about, there are other health care-adjacent fields well-suited to introverts. For example, many use their tech skills and interest in innovation to become biomedical engineers. Biomedical engineers create technology focused on improving health care. This can include designing prosthetics, implants and wearable devices or building systems to improve diagnosis and treatment plans. It’s a largely independent job focusing on problem-solving and analysis, making it ideal for introverts.
Most biomedical engineers have a graduate degree. USC offers an online Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering program, which will equip you with the tools you need to be a leader in this field and excel in a competitive job market.
Learn more about USC Online graduate programs today.