10 High Paying Careers For Introverts

Introverts find themselves in a world dominated by extroverts and extrovert values. Most top paying professions promote the attributes of an entrepreneur; competitive, attention-seeking with a hunger to succeed and get ahead. A willingness to hobnob and play the social song and dance is often necessary. Fortunately for introverts, there are many alternate careers that not only obviate the need for excessively extroverting themselves, but also provide a lucrative source of income as well. Here is a list of some introvert-friendly jobs that pay really well.

1. Massage Therapist

$37,180 AVG. SALARY
3.9% UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

Massage therapists treat clients by using touch to relieve tension in body and facilitate healing and pain reduction. They use their hands, fingers, forearms, elbows, and sometimes feet to knead muscles and soft tissues of the body.With their touch, therapists help heal injuries, improve circulation, relieve stress, increase relaxation, and aid in the general wellness of clients. A massage can be as short as 5–10 minutes or could last more than an hour. Massage therapists work in a range of settings, such as spas, physicians’ offices, hotels, and fitness centers. Some therapists will also travel to meet clients’ at their homes or offices.

Tasks performed by a massage therapist include:

Talk with clients about their symptoms, medical history, and desired results
Evaluate clients to locate painful or tense areas of the body
Manipulate muscles and other soft tissues of the body
Provide clients with guidance on stretching, strengthening, overall relaxation, and how to improve their posture
Document clients’ conditions and progress

Facts About Massage Therapy

There are more than 300 accredited massage therapy schools and programs in the United States.
In July 2015, 19 percent of women and 16 percent of men reported having a massage in the past twelve months.
According to the AMTA 2015 consumer survey, an average of 18 percent of adult Americans received at least one massage between July 2014 and July 2015, and an average of 27 percent of adult Americans received a massage in the previous five years.
Massage therapists have an average of 671 hours of initial training.
The median age of massage therapists is 45 years old. Twenty-one percent were younger than 35 in 2015.
Eighty-two percent of massage therapists started practicing massage therapy as a second career.

Schooling to be a therapist

For those wondering how to get a masseuse license, the massage therapist education typically consists of a postsecondary education program of 500 to 1000+ hours of study and experience. Upon graduation, a prospective masseuse must meet the state requirements or that of the municipality (such as obtaining a license or other credential, if you practice in an area where massage therapy is regulated). This will most likely require passing the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx). Standards and requirements vary by state or other jurisdictions but most states require massage therapists to have a license or certification.

Massage therapists may also need to have liability insurance, pass a background check, , and become certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Many states require massage therapists to complete additional education credits and to renew their license periodically. Those wishing to practice massage therapy should look into legal requirements for the state and locality in which they intend to practice.

Therapist School list offering masseuse certification

TOP 5 BEST PAYING STATES FOR MASSAGE THERAPISTS

Alaska – Avg. salary $84,150
New York – Avg. salary $62,980
Washington – Avg. salary $53,780
Vermont – Avg. salary $52,910
Oregon – Avg. salary $52,630

2. Medical Equipment Repairer

$46,340 AVG. SALARY
4.4% UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

Medical repair technicians, also known as biomedical equipment technicians (BMET) install, maintain, and repair patient care equipment. They may work on defibrillators, ventilators, anesthesia machines, and other life-supporting equipment. They also may work on medical imaging equipment such as x ray machines, CAT scanners, and ultrasound equipment, voice-controlled operating tables, and electric wheelchairs. Medical equipment repairers usually work during the day, but are sometimes expected to be on call, including evenings and weekends. Due to the urgent nature of repairing vital medical equipment, the work is sometimes stressful. Those who work in a patient-caring environment are potentially exposed to diseases and other health risks.

Tasks performed by Medical Equipment Repairers include:

Install medical equipment
Test and calibrate parts and equipment
Repair and replace parts
Perform preventive maintenance and service
Keep records of maintenance and repairs
Review technical manuals and regularly attend training sessions
Explain and demonstrate how to operate medical equipment
Manage replacement of medical equipment

Medical instrument technician certification

To become a certified biomedical equipment technician, applicants need an associate degree in biomedical equipment technology or engineering. A bachelor’s degree may be required for some specializations and is essential for advancement. Repairers must learn how to use and troubleshoot each component of medical equipment, often through technical training provided by medical device manufacturers. With the fast advancement of technology, additional education will be required as new technologies are introduced. The U.S. bureau of Labor Statistics estimates job growth in the medical equipment repair field at 31 percent between 2010 and 2020, much faster than the overall average of 14 percent for all jobs.

Top medical repair technician schools

Miami Dade College
Riverside Community College
City College of San Francisco
American River College
Broward College

Top-paying States for this occupation:

Alaska – Avg. salary $65,970
Hawaii – Avg. salary $58,290
New York – Avg. salary $57,690
New Jersey – Avg. salary $57,670
Minnesota – Avg. salary $57,130

3. Cartographer

$60,930 AVG. SALARY
3.0% UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

Cartography is the science of drawing maps. Maps are used in newspapers, on your smartphone, and with today’s technology have become more interactive and easy to use. Cartographers or photogrammetrists are surveying and mapping technicians. The discipline is a perfect intersection of design and data analysis. There’s an analytical part of the job, which involves pouring over data to find trends and patterns. And there’s also an artistic part of the job, which involves visualizing that data in a design. Although cartographers and photogrammetrists spend much of their time in offices, certain jobs require extensive travel to locations that are being mapped.

Tasks performed by cartographers:

Collect geographic data
Create visual representations of data, such as annual precipitation patterns
Examine and compile data from ground surveys, reports, aerial photographs, and satellite images
Prepare maps in digital or graphic form for environmental and educational purposes
Update and revise existing maps and charts

Cartography and geographic information science training

Most cartography hopefuls will get a bachelor’s degree in cartography, geography, civil engineering or another similar field. There are many colleges with cartography degree programs and online cartography courses are often available through master’s degree or certificate programs in geographic information science. While in school, students should develop a familiarity and become comfortable with GIS (geographic information system) technology, but not at the expense of a comprehensive cartography education. Some states and municipalities require cartographers and photogrammetrists to be licensed as surveyors, and some states have specific licenses for photogrammetrists. Employment of cartographers and photogrammetrists is projected to grow 29 percent from 2014 to 2024, significantly faster than the average for all occupations. The increasing use of maps for government planning should fuel employment growth. For this reason, job prospects are likely to be excellent.

Top cartography schools and colleges

Brigham Young University
Ohio State University
University of Minnesota
University of Oklahoma
Kennesaw State University
South Dakota State University

TOP 5 BEST PAYING CITIES FOR CARTOGRAPHERS

Trenton, New Jersey – Avg. salary $91,780
District of Columbia – Avg. salary $89,920
Las Vegas – Avg. salary $88,270
Boston – Avg. salary$81,4 50
Santa Barbara, California – Avg. salary $80,240

4. Radiation Therapist

$80,090 AVG. SALARY
2.1% UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

Radiation therapists treat patients with diseases such as cancer by administering radiation treatments. Radiation therapists work in hospitals, physician clinics, and outpatient centers. Most radiation therapists work full time. Radiation therapy is preceded with CAT scans, X-rays and Cone beam computed tomography before actual radiation is even administered. These technologies enable them to accurately position cancer patients, so that the radiation is administered precisely. Radiation Therapists are experts on computer technologies, who will appropriate the correct doses of radiation to the radiation machine. They constantly monitor their patients, and they detail their treatment. They work closely with Radiation Oncologists and Dosimetrists, who create the radiation treatment plan, whereas radiation therapists carry out these plans.

Obtaining a Radiology therapy degree

Regarding radiation therapist school requirements, most radiation therapists will complete programs that lead to an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy. In most states, radiation therapists must be licensed or certified. Requirements vary by state, but often include passing a national certification exam. Becoming licensed usually involves graduating from an accredited program from radiation therapist accredited schools and becoming certified through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Certification also involves agreeing to and abiding by ethical standards in addition to passing a certification exam.

Colleges with radiation therapy programs

Radiography schools in Florida

TOP 5 BEST PAYING CITIES FOR RADIATION THERAPISTS

Tampa, Florida $114,920
San Jose, California $114,900
San Diego $114,720
New Haven, Connecticut $112,240
San Francisco $111,890

5. Veterinarian

$87,590 AVG. SALARY
2.1%UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

A veterinary physician examines, diagnoses and treats animals. They may deal with common household pets in a general practice, or they may specialize in livestock, zoo-based animals or racing animals. Veterinarians can also conduct surgeries, care for wounds, vaccinate against diseases and prescribe medications. In worst case scenarios, vets are also qualified to euthanize sick or dying animals. Other veterinarians promote public health by fighting animal-borne diseases and help cultivate healthier relationships between people and their animal companions.

Most vets work in a veterinary clinic, but they will interact with people just as much as animals, which is why good communication skills are also important. A typical day can include everything from surgeries (spaying and neutering procedures are some of the most common), prescribing heartworm medication, setting a broken bone, animal checkups, administering innoculations and more.

Education needed to become a veterinarian

What education is required to become a veterinarian? Although a bachelor’s degree isn’t a requirement for getting into a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.) program, most candidates end up having one. Because veterinary medicine is very competitive, it’s important to acquire a solid science education, excellent grades and develop good study habits as an undergraduate student. As of 2014, there were just 30 colleges with accredited D.V.M. programs. These degrees typically take around four years to complete, with the last year reserved for clinical rotations. All states and the District of Columbia require that vets be licensed. Veterinarians can get their license by graduating from an accredited program and passing the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination. States might also require vets to sit for an additional state-required exam. More information about veterinarians can be found at the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) website.

Best colleges for vets and DVM schools

TOP 5 BEST PAYING CITIES FOR VETERINARIANS

Santa Barbara, California – Avg. salary $175,260
Ann Arbor, Michigan – Avg. salary $164,200
Honolulu – Avg. salary $153,300
Palm Coast, Florida – Avg. salary $146,790
Oxnard, California – Avg. salary $146,000

6. Astronomer

$104,100 AVG. SALARY
1.4% UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

Physicists and astronomers study the ways in which matter and energy interact. Both theoretical physicists and astronomers may study the nature of time or the origin of the cosmos. Astronomers work in a highly specialized field that explores the nature of celestial objects, the earth’s atmosphere and a number of theories about the development of the universe. They study celestial phenomena, using a variety of ground-based and space-borne telescopes and scientific instruments and analyze research data to determine its significance, using computers. They also measure radio, infrared, gamma, and x-ray emissions from extraterrestrial sources. Astronomers develop theories based on personal observations or that of other astronomers and they may also work to raise funds for scientific research. Physicists and astronomers spend much of their time working in offices, but they also conduct research in laboratories and observatories. Most physicists and astronomers work full time.

Education requirements for astronomers

Physicists and astronomers typically need a Ph.D. for jobs in research and academia. It is possible to acquire an online degree in astronomy and astronomer/physicist jobs in the federal government typically require a bachelor’s degree in physics. After receiving a Ph.D. in physics or astronomy, many researchers seeking careers in academia begin in temporary postdoctoral research positions. Those with a master’s degree in physics may qualify for other positions in applied research and development for manufacturing and healthcare companies. Many master’s degree programs specialize in prepping students for physics-related r&d (research-and-development) positions that do not require a Ph.D.

Many physics and astronomy Ph.D. holders who seek employment as full-time researchers begin their careers in a temporary postdoctoral research position, which typically lasts 2 to 3 years. During their postdoctoral appointment, they work with experienced scientists and continue to learn about their specialties or develop a broader understanding of related areas of research. Senior scientists may carefully supervise their initial work, but as these postdoctoral staffers gain experience, they usually perform more complex tasks and have greater independence in the work they do.

Universities for astronomy

Distance Learning astrology degree programs

Northern Arizona University
American Public University
University of North Dakota
University of Florida

Top paying metropolitan areas for this occupation:

Washington D.C. – Avg. salary $131,320
Los Angeles, California – Avg. salary $118,750
Houston, Texas – Avg. salary $117,590
Boulder, CO – Avg. salary $115,400
Tucson, AZ – Avg. salary $91,020

7. Airline and Commercial Pilot

$117,290 AVG. SALARY
2.0% UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

Both airline and commercial pilots fly and navigate airplanes, helicopters, and other aircraft. Airline pilots fly for airlines that transport people and cargo on fixed schedules. Commercial pilots fly aircraft for other purposes, such as charter flights, rescue operations, firefighting, aerial photography, and aerial application, also known as crop dusting. They may spend a substantial portion of their time away from home because of delays and overnight layovers. Many pilots have schedules that vary.

Most airline pilots begin their careers as commercial pilots. Commercial pilots typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Airline pilots typically need a bachelor’s degree. All pilots who are paid to fly must have at least a commercial pilot’s license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In addition, airline pilots must have Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certification. Pilots may need to achieve an instrument rating and other ratings.

Pilot tasks and responsibilities include:

Check the overall condition of the aircraft before and after every flight
Ensure that the aircraft is balanced and below its weight limit
Ensure that the fuel supply is adequate and that weather conditions are acceptable, and submit flight plans to air traffic control
Communicate with air traffic control over the aircraft’s radio system
Operate and control aircraft along planned routes and during takeoffs and landings
Monitor engines, fuel consumption, and other aircraft systems during flight
Respond to changing conditions, such as weather events and emergencies (for example, an engine failure)
Navigate the aircraft by using cockpit instruments and visual references

How to become commercial airline pilot

The requirements to be a commercial airline pilot include a bachelor’s degree in any subject, along with a commercial pilot’s license and an ATP certificate from the FAA. Airline pilots typically start their careers in flying as commercial pilots. Pilots typically accrue thousands of hours of flight experience to get a job with regional or major airlines.

The military has customarily been an important source of experienced pilots because of the extensive training it provides. However, increased duty requirements have reduced the incentives for these pilots to transfer out of military aviation and into civilian aviation. Most military pilots who transfer to civilian aviation are able to transfer directly into the airlines rather than working in commercial aviation.

Required certifications for pilots include:

Student Pilot Certificate
Private Pilot License
Instrument Rating
Commercial Pilot License
Multi-Engine Rating
Airline Transport Pilot Certificate

Top aviation schools and Accredited flight schools

Top paying States for this occupation:

Connecticut – Avg. salary $116,960
Delaware – Avg. salary $103,020
Illinois – Avg. salary $102,760
California – Avg. salary $100,230
Pennsylvania – Avg. salary $100,150

8. Water Resource Specialist

$136,570 AVG. SALARY
1.2% UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

A water resource specialist or hydrologist job description would be an expert in the field of hydrology and water resource technologies. They work to study specific issues related to the management of water in the community. While drinking water is the conspicuous area of concentration, things like water runoff, water tables, and even local freshwater conservation may be included in the realm of responsibility of a water resource specialist.

Water Resource Specialists are responsible for directing programs to protect water resources and the public’s health. They are employed primarily at the county level in state health departments. Water Resource Specialists may focus on regulating drinking water supplies or responding to water supply emergencies. Common assignments include developing and implementing water quality monitoring plans, providing technical assistance, and providing hydrologic expertise to other county departments. They conduct public water supply inspections to determine compliance with the Public Health Law and the State Sanitary Codes. Water Resource Specialists often work closely with State Health staff to solve drinking water problems.

Hydrologist education requirements

Minimum qualifications required for the water resource specialist include a bachelor’s degree in engineering, geology, and a degree in hydrology or other related field. At least 40 semester credit hours in hydrology, geoscience, chemistry, engineering or water resource courses are required. In addition, two years of related post baccalaureate experience as an engineer, hydrologist, or geologist is required. Usually, employers will also require completion of at least two to five years of work experience in the field in order to better refine and develop skills. Some employers may actually require a master’s degree, though a bachelor’s is usually enough to gain entry into the profession.

Schools with hydrology graduate programs

Top Paying states for Hydrologists

New York – Avg. salary $67,000
Massachusetts – Avg. salary $65,000
DC – Avg. salary $66,000
Connecticut – Avg. salary $63,000
Georgia – Avg. salary $63,000

9. Psychiatrist

$181,880 AVG. SALARY
1.8%UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

Psychiatrists diagnose, treat and work to prevent disorders relating to the mind and mental health. They are also trained to evaluate the full spectrum of a patient’s health, make a diagnosis and devise a treatment plan. Patients may suffer from mental health conditions, such as, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and depression, and receive a form of treatment known as psychotherapy. Psychiatrists can also prescribe various drugs or even recommend hospitalizations.

Psychiatrists examine and evaluate patients using both medical and psychological tests. They analyze test results, assess medical histories and interview patients to determine a diagnosis using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). After completing their residency, Psychiatrists can choose to train for another year or two in a subspecialty. These include addiction, forensic psychiatry, geriatric psychiatry, clinical neurophysiology, pain management and psychosomatic medicine.

On the whole, psychiatric physicians suffer from burnout more than other professions in the U.S. and according to a national survey printed in the Archives of Internal Medicine in 2015, 38 percent of psychiatrists experienced burnout. Psychiatrists need to take care of themselves before they can take care of their patients.

How to get a psychiatry degree

The educational requirements for psychiatrist professions entail a minimum of 12 years of schooling. Prospective psychiatrists will have to work their way through an undergraduate program, take the Medical College Admission Test and complete four years of medical school. After medical school, psychiatrists must complete a residency program, in which they work directly with patients under the supervision of licensed psychiatrists. To become licensed, these professionals must take the multi-step U.S. Medical Licensing Exam and also receive board certification through the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Even with a psychology masters degree, there are many government jobs to qualify for such as:

Vocational rehabilitation provider
Drug and alcohol specialist
Parole officers
Psychology program manager
Self-reliance specialist
Child protection worker
Behavioral counselor

Best colleges to become a psychiatrist

Here is a list of online schools with Psychiatry programs.

TOP 5 BEST PAYING CITIES FOR PSYCHIATRISTS

Birmingham, Alabama Avg. salary $265,770.
Vallejo, California Avg. salary $255,290
Indianapolis Avg. salary $245,760
Lexington, Kentucky $245,380
Fargo, North Dakota $249,310

10. Anesthesiologist

$246,320 AVG. SALARY
0.4%UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

Anesthesiologists and nurse anesthetist assistants are the physicians responsible for administering general or regional anesthesia, which allows surgeons and other physicians to complete invasive procedures with little to no discomfort to the patient. Anesthesiologists also closely monitor a patient’s vital signs and critical life functions before, during and after a surgery – making rapid decisions on limited data when required. To say that the profession is stressful is an understatement.

The type and level of anesthesia administered by these physicians depends on the surgical process. While some patients needing general anesthesia, others may only need a regional anesthesia that numbs a certain part of the body. Anesthesiologists can also help patients outside of surgery; for example, they might work with patients who suffer from chronic pain or pain caused by cancer.

Schooling for a nurse anesthetist

For those interested in how to become a nurse anesthesiologist, becoming an anesthetist nurse is like most specialized physician professions. Schooling for a nurse anesthetist requires attending medical school after completing a pre-med undergraduate course of study. After obtaining an undergraduate degree, prospective anesthesiologists will need to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Upon their medical school graduation, they will then have to pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) to undergo a one-year internship followed by a three-year residency in anesthesiology. Following the residency, you have the option to engage in a fellowship, where you can acquire more in-depth skills and knowledge in the field of anesthesia.

List of crna schools and schools with anesthesiologist degree programs

TOP 5 BEST PAYING CITIES FOR ANESTHESIOLOGISTS

Detroit Avg. salary $269,890
Worcester, Massachusetts Avg. salary $266,320
Richmond, Virginia Avg. salary $263,600
Dallas Avg. salary $260,000
Los Angeles Avg. salary $258,530

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Jetta Moon

Jetta Moon is an artist, writer and astrology blogger with a passion for creativity and psychology. He is also an enthusiast of MBTI theory and loves to research and write about what he learns. Jetta's background in creative writing has helped develop a unique and insightful perspective on the zodiac, which he shares with readers of this blog.