- Database Architect. (Median annual salary: $134,870). Responsible for managing and organizing data systems within organizations. Number of jobs (2022): 149,300. Estimated job growth (2022–2032): 8%. Typical educational requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer or information technology
- Software developer. Natural problem-solvers who design, test, and refine software to meet user needs. (Median annual salary: $127,260). Number of jobs (2022): 1,795,300. Estimated job growth (2022–2032): 25%. Typical educational requirements: Bachelor's degree or self-taught with experience
- Actuary. Responsible for helping businesses create strategies to minimize financial risks, mainly in the insurance sector. (Median annual salary: $113,990). Number of jobs (2022): 30,000. Estimated job growth (2022–2032): 23%. Typical educational requirements: Bachelor's degree in mathematics, actuarial science, statistics, or an analytical field
- Information security analyst. Develops and implements security measures with the responsibility of protecting an organization’s computer networks and systems. (Median annual salary: $112,000). Number of jobs (2022): 168,900. Estimated job Growth (2022–2032): 32%. Typical educational requirements: Bachelor’s degree in a computer science field, some jobs need an additional certification
- Data scientist. Analyzes complex datasets and uses advanced techniques to identify trends, patterns, and correlations within data to help organizations solve problems and optimize current strategies. (Median annual salary: $103,500). Number of jobs (2022): 168,900. Estimated job growth (2022–2032): 35%. Typical educational requirements: Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, computer science, or a related field
- Computer systems analyst. Studies an organization’s current computer systems and procedures and designs improvements to help companies operate more efficiently. (Median annual salary: $102,240). Number of jobs (2022): 531,400. Estimated job growth (2022–2032): 10%. Typical educational requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Mechanical engineer. Creates, designs and tests machinery, equipment and mechanical systems to ensure they meet technical standards and perform as expected. (Median annual salary: $96,310). Number of jobs (2022): 286,100. Estimated job growth (2022–2032): 10%. Typical educational requirements: Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or mechanical engineering technology, plus licensure
- Web developer and digital designer. Focuses on front-end design elements of a website or app—including layouts, graphics, and user interfaces—to enhance users’ experiences on them. (Median annual salary: $83,240). Number of jobs (2022): 216,700. Estimated job growth (2022–2032): 16%. Typical educational requirements: Bachelor’s degree or self-taught with experience
- Technical writer. Creates documents and instructional materials to help users understand complex technical information. (Median annual salary: $79,960). Number of jobs (2022): 53,300. Estimated job growth (2022–2032): 7%. Typical Educational Requirements: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience
- Occupational health and safety specialist. Conducts assessments and analyzes data related to workplace safety. (Median annual salary: $78,570). Number of jobs (2022): 138,400. Estimated job growth (2022–2032): 13%. Typical educational requirements: Bachelor’s degree in occupational health and safety or a related field
As job seekers look for high-paying positions with low stress and a requirement of only an associate degree, there is now support for individuals who identify as introverts and face significant career challenges. The fact that 78% of employers base hiring decisions on a job seeker's social media presence creates an additional obstacle for the 40% of the U.S. population who are introverts, as maintaining a social media presence can be overwhelming for them. In 2024, introverts are 25% less likely to secure top jobs, according to a YouGov survey, which shows that extroverts are widely perceived to have an advantage over introverts in most professions and hiring scenarios.
Geoffrey Scott, a senior hiring manager at Resume Genius, believes that there is a misconception that extroverts have an edge in job hunting and career development. However, he emphasizes that introverts possess a unique set of marketable skills, making them equally valuable in today's workforce. By understanding and embracing these skills, introverts can thrive as professionals without burning out. The good news is that introverted qualities contribute to success in certain high-paying roles, and there are actionable strategies for introverts to thrive in their careers.
Soft skills associated with introverts, such as analytical thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to work independently, are increasingly prized by employers in various high-paying fields. Understanding the significance of pursuing a career that aligns with one's personality, Resume Genius researchers analyzed data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and O*NET Online. Their report presents a list of the 10 best high-paying jobs tailored to introverts in 2024, aiming to empower introverted job seekers who struggle with the job hunt to find positions that suit their personalities.
Introverts naturally seek roles with independent work, deep focus and opportunities for creative problem-solving. “We're seeing a notable shift towards recognizing and valuing the strengths of introverted workers,” says Eva Chan, career expert at Resume Genius. “Industries such as technology, finance and data analysis not only offer lucrative salaries and promising career growth but also provide environments conducive to introverted tendencies, such as independent thinking, creative problem-solving and analytical prowess—making them ideal for individuals who thrive in places that prioritize thoughtful, individual work," Chan concludes. "As the demand for skilled professionals in these fields continues to rise, introverts are well-positioned to excel and emerge as leaders.”