Disclosure: We scrutinize our research, ratings and reviews using strict editorial integrity. In full transparency, this site may receive compensation from partners listed through affiliate partnerships, though this does not affect our ratings. Learn more about how we make money by visiting our advertiser disclosure.

The job market is largely an extrovert’s world. Not only does the interview process favor those with more outgoing personalities, but most jobs involve some to a lot of interpersonal communication. That’s especially true for high-paying jobs—doctors, business officers, lawyers, and other well-to-do professionals frequently deal with external customers, colleagues, or both.

But that doesn’t mean introverts are doomed to choose between forced socialization or a life of dead-end careers.

If you have more energy when you’re alone and prefer to work with, ahem, minimal human distractions, you’re in luck. There are plenty of high-paying jobs for introverts. So by developing the right skills and obtaining the proper credentials, you can earn a lucrative job that you can do largely independently.

Today, I’m going to go over some of the highest-paying jobs that introverts enjoy, what those careers entail, and how to enter each field.

 

High-Pay, Low-Contact Jobs


high pay low contact job laptop headphones
DepositPhotos

OK. Let’s get real for a second. It’s extremely unlikely you’ll ever find a job where you’ll work 100% alone all of the time.

That said, there are many roles that require far fewer face-to-face interactions than your average position. And those are the jobs that we’ll home in on today.

Every one of these jobs pays a mean annual wage of $100,000 annually, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. These jobs are listed in reverse order of mean annual wage (from lowest to highest).

10. Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers


computer information research scientist occupation
DepositPhotos

— 2023 mean annual wage: $108,460

— 2023 employment: 203,040

Software quality assurance analysts and testers check out software before it reaches consumers in an effort to find any defects and their causes. These workers document any issues they discover and report them to software or web developers. Sometimes, they also participate in software design reviews.

Much of software quality assurance analysts’ and testers’ work is done independently. They do have interactions with developers, programmers, and possibly customers, but this is often through written reports.

Usually, to get one of these positions, you need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, computer programming, or a related field. However, some people instead qualify through boot camps or online courses. To gain relevant experience, some first work in IT positions or as programmers.

Related: 5 Best Fidelity Retirement Funds [Low-Cost + Long-Term]

9. Statisticians


statistician occupation graphs
DepositPhotos

— 2023 mean annual wage: $109,190

— 2023 employment: 29,950

Statisticians collect, analyze, interpret, and summarize numerical data to solve problems. Some specialize in fields such as biostatistics, business statistics, or economic statistics. This employment category includes mathematical and survey statisticians, but excludes survey researchers.

Typically, this job is done in offices, and the majority of this work is done solitarily. (Though if you’re a bit more extroverted, you might occasionally attend conferences and seminars.)

People interested in a career as a statistician start by earning a bachelor’s degree in statistics. Those interested in a specialization might also want to take courses related to that field (e.g., someone interested in biostatistics might want to take biology courses). Within the private industry, some employers prefer candidates to have a master’s degree. 

Related: 10 Best Vanguard Index Funds to Buy

8. Special Effects Artists and Animators


jobs for introverts special effects animator
DepositPhotos

— 2023 mean annual wage: $109,630

— 2023 employment: 29,940

Special effects artists and animators make special effects or animations for media such as movies, commercials, and computer games. Says the BLS: “Special effects artists and animators often work in a specific medium. Some focus on creating animated movies or video games. Others create visual effects for movies and television shows.” Some of these workers mainly use computer software, while others prefer to draw or paint by hand before translating their work into computer programs, and still others work in physical mediums where their work is never digitized.

Many people in this line of work do so in offices or from home, usually on a computer or at a drawing table. Usually, there is a regular schedule, but nights or weekends may need to be worked if deadlines are quickly approaching. And this work can be largely independent, though every job is different—some positions require a high level of collaboration, others don’t.

These creatives usually need a bachelor’s degree in animation, computer graphics, fine arts, or a related field. Some schools offer specialized degrees in topics such as game design or interactive media. Additionally, candidates should have a strong portfolio, which can be developed while earning a degree.

Related: 7 Best Schwab Index Funds to Buy

7. Mathematicians


math equation example 640
DepositPhotos

— 2023 mean annual wage: $119,770

— 2023 employment: 2,220

Mathematicians research mathematics and use mathematical techniques to solve problems in business, the sciences, engineering, and other fields. They may create surveys or experiments, develop mathematical models to analyze data, and communicate their analyses to others.

It’s standard for mathematicians to work in offices and use computers frequently. The majority of work is done alone, which allows for deep focus.

Anyone interested in a career as a mathematician will need to take a lot of math classes. Federal government jobs usually ask for a bachelor’s degree in math or at least a substantial amount of math coursework. Private industry mathematicians typically need a master’s or doctoral degree.

Related: Federal Tax Brackets and Rates

6. Economists


accountant bookkeeper laptop office desk
DepositPhotos

— 2023 mean annual wage: $132,650

— 2023 employment: 16,420

The government, consulting firms, and other organizations hire economists to research a variety of economic issues, often related to the labor force, education, or international trade. These professionals collect and analyze data, interpret forecast trends, present research, and advise their employers on issues related to fiscal policy or other economic topics.

Economists typically work under the glow of office fluorescents. However, depending on the position, some may be asked to attend conferences or travel for other reasons. And while most work is performed independently, occasionally, these economists might need to collaborate with statisticians, data scientists, or other specialists.

Higher education is necessary for anyone who wants to be an economist. At minimum, you need a bachelor’s degree. Research, business, or international organizations often require a master’s degree or Ph.D. and relevant work experience.

 

Related: 12 Annoying Banking + Credit Card Fees [Can You Avoid Them?]

5. Computer Network Architects


jobs for introverts network architect
DepositPhotos

— 2023 mean annual wage: $133,930

— 2023 employment: 174,100

Computer network architects, also referred to as network engineers, design and implement an organization’s data communication networks. Some of the common duties include deploying planned networks, documenting processes, upgrading hardware, and researching new technologies.

This job is typically done in an office setting, though computer network architects sometimes work in server rooms so they can access the hardware. And while this role occasionally requires a little teamwork, much of these professionals’ work can be done solo.

Often, employers want a computer network architect to have a bachelor’s degree in computer and information technology, engineering, or a similar field. However, this isn’t a requirement for every company. Regardless of formal education, several years of working with information technology systems is expected. Some people start their careers as network and computer system administrators or in a related role.

Related: 7 Best Wealth + Net Worth Tracker Apps [View All Your Assets]

4. Database Architects


financial manager computer office mac desktop
DepositPhotos

— 2023 mean annual wage: $137,030

— 2023 employment: 59,920

Database architects develop and build databases for systems and applications. To do this, they need to know an organization’s technical requirements, create models, and code new data architecture that integrates with existing infrastructure. Some of their tasks overlap with those of database administrators.

These workers frequently work independently, though some companies might have them collaborate with technicians, hardware engineers, and others. Database architects often work in offices, though some are able to work remotely

The path to becoming a database administrator usually starts with a bachelor’s degree in computer and information technology or a related field. Some companies prefer applicants who have a master’s degree. 

Related: Federal Tax Brackets and Rates

3. Software Developers


software developer occupation
DepositPhotos

— 2023 mean annual wage: $138,110

— 2023 employment: 1,656,880

As you could likely guess, software developers develop computer and network software. But that isn’t all they do. They also analyze user needs, update software, and enhance current software capabilities. Some developers maintain databases within an application area.

Depending on the organization, software developers either work alone or in very small groups. For smaller companies, independent work is more common, whereas larger businesses tend to have teams tackling complex tasks.

Typically, software developers have a bachelor’s degree in computer and information technology or a related field, but some employers prioritize hiring people with a master’s degree. It’s an advantage to complete a software development internship. 

Related: 50+ Best Money-Making Apps That Pay You Real Money

2. Physicists


jobs for introverts physicist
DepositPhotos

— 2023 mean annual wage: $158,270

— 2023 employment: 18,350

Physicists research the fundamental properties that govern time, space, energy, and matter. Some conduct experiments and study theory to increase the world’s knowledge about physics. Others use what they know about the topic to develop new technologies or solve problems.

It’s very common for physicists to work at universities. Those that do typically split up their time between teaching, researching, and writing scientific articles. Some physicists work as part of a team in laboratories. Others work independently solving problems, which is the best fit for introverts.

Physicists start by earning a bachelor’s degree in physics. Some choose to also get a master’s degree in the subject. Those who want to be a professor or work in the most prestigious research positions obtain a Ph.D. As a general rule, the more research a person has conducted, the better.

Related: 15 Best Investing Research & Stock Analysis Websites

1. Computer and Information Systems Managers


young man on laptop looking up information
DepositPhotos

— 2023 mean annual wage: $180,720

— 2023 employment: 592,600

Technologically savvy computer and information systems managers, aka information technology (IT) managers, plan and coordinate a company’s computer-related activities. A few of their duties often include directing the installation of computer software and hardware, staying up to date on new technology, managing the work of other IT professionals, and negotiating with vendors.

Usually, these employees work in offices near computer rooms. A lot of their work is done independently, making this a good role for introverts. 

These are most commonly full-time positions that have an expectation to work additional hours if an issue arises or an important deadline is quickly approaching.

To become a computer and information systems manager, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer and information technology or a similar field. Some organizations also require a graduate degree. Additionally, most jobs ask for several years of relevant experience. It’s common to begin as a lower-level manager before advancing to a more advanced position.

 

Related: 6 Best Stock Recommendation Services [Stock Picking + Tips]

best stock recommendation services
DepositPhotos

Stock recommendation services are popular shortcuts that help millions of investors make educated decisions without having to spend hours of time doing research. But just like, say, a driving shortcut, the quality of stock recommendations can vary widely—and who you’re willing to listen to largely boils down to track record and trust.

The natural question, then, is “Which services are worth a shot?” We explore some of the best (and best-known) stock recommendation services.

 

Related: 12 Best Long-Term Stocks to Buy and Hold Forever

best long term stocks to buy and hold forever

As even novice investors probably know, funds—whether they’re mutual funds or exchange-traded funds (ETFs)—are the simplest and easiest ways to invest in the stock market. But the best long-term stocks also offer many investors a way to stay “invested” intellectually—by following companies they believe in. They also provide investors with the potential for outperformance.

So if your’e looking for a starting point for your own portfolio, look no further. Check out our list of the best long-term stocks for buy-and-hold investors.

 

Related: 9 Best Monthly Dividend Stocks for Frequent, Regular Income

monthly dividend stocks frequent regular income checks
DepositPhotos

The vast majority of American dividend stocks pay regular, reliable payouts—and they do so at a more frequent clip (quarterly) than dividend stocks in most other countries (typically every six months or year).

Still, if you’ve ever thought to yourself, “it’d sure be nice to collect these dividends more often,” you don’t have to look far. While they’re not terribly common, American exchanges boast dozens of monthly dividend stocks.

 

Please Don’t Forget to Like, Follow and Comment

Young and the Invested MSN closing slide instructions
Young and the Invested

Did you find this article helpful? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a comment with the box on the left-hand side of the screen and share your thoughts.

Also, do you want to stay up-to-date on our latest content?

1. Follow us by clicking the [+ Follow] button above,

2. Subscribe to The Weekend Tea, our weekly newsletter to read more about investing, spending, taxes, and more, and

3. Give the article a Thumbs Up on the top-left side of the screen.

4. And lastly, if you think this information would benefit your friends and family, don’t hesitate to share it with them!

Hannah Kowalczyk-Harper has been a professional writer since 2016 and has worked with WealthUp (formerly Young & the Invested) since 2019.

Prior to becoming a full-time writer, she was still immersed in words through previous roles as a library specialist and teacher. Her background in education helps her take complex topics and turn them into easy-to-understand text.

Hannah holds a degree in Elementary Education from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. When she isn’t writing, Hannah is usually found playing with her niece and nephew, traveling, or brewing more coffee.