INTP Best Careers
Introduction
The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) serves as a valuable tool for identifying innate strengths and preferences, making it an instrumental aid in career planning. The INTP—Introverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Perceiving—is one such fascinating personality type that we will examine closely today. This inquiry relies heavily on the work of Charles Martin, Ph.D., particularly his book “Looking at Type and Careers.
Core Traits of the INTP Personality Type
INTPs are characterized by a set of unique attributes:
- Introverted: Enjoy solitude and small-group interactions, often producing their best work when alone.
- Intuitive: Focus on future possibilities, often displaying exceptional strategic thinking capabilities.
- Thinking: Approach challenges with logic and objectivity, and excel in analytical reasoning.
- Perceiving: Are adaptable, flexible, and prefer open-ended circumstances that allow for improvisation.
Natural Career Fits According to Charles Martin, Ph.D.
Martin’s thesis revolves around the idea that career satisfaction is likely when one’s job aligns closely with their natural behavioral tendencies. Therefore, the careers most often chosen by INTPs are generally those where their inherent traits are not just an asset but essential for excellent job performance. In contrast, careers least often chosen by INTPs typically offer fewer opportunities to express these natural behaviors.
Table of Most and Least Often Chosen Careers for INTPs
| Careers Selected Most Often (by INTPs) | Careers Selected Least Often (by INTPs) |
|---|---|
| 1. Scientist (Chemistry) | 1. Director of Religious Education |
| 2. Computer Professional | 2. Consultant (Education) |
| 3. Architect | 3. Home Management Advisor or Home Economist |
| 4. Research Assistant | 4. Dental Hygienist |
| 5. Fine Artist | 5. Manager (Fire) |
| 6. Computer Programmer | 6. Cleaning Service Worker |
| 7. Systems Analyst or Support Representative | 7. Military Officer or Enlistee |
| 8. Lawyer | 8. Religious Educator (All Denominations) |
| 9. Food Service Worker | 9. Corrections Officer |
| 10. Surveyor | 10. Typist |
| 11. Manager (Federal Executive) | 11. Small Business Manager |
| 12. Social Scientist | 12. Teacher Aide |
| 13. Electronic Technician | 13. Priest |
| 14. Scientist (Biology) | 14. Hairdresser or Cosmetologist |
| 15. Writer or Journalist | 15. Teacher (Reading) |
| 16. Photographer | 16. School Principal |
| 17. Psychologist | 17. Health Education Practitioner |
| 18. Scientist (Life or Physical) | 18. Library Attendant |
| 19. Actor | 19. Sales Manager |
| 20. Computer Operations or Systems Researcher | 20. Marketing Professional |
| 21. Pharmacist | |
| 22. Respiratory Therapist | |
| 23. Editor | |
| 24. Judge | |
| 25. Business (General or Self-Employed) | |
| 26. Physician (Pathology) | |
| 27. Suicide or Crisis Counselor | |
| 28. Legal Secretary | |
| 29. Engineering or Science Technician | |
| 30. Engineer (All Categories) | |
| 31. Counselor (Runaway Youth) | |
| 32. Allied Health or Health Practitioner | |
| 33. Storekeeper | |
| 34. Attorney (Administrator, Non-Practicing) | |
| 35. Dentist | |
| 36. Physician (Psychiatrist) | |
| 37. Physician (All Specialties) | |
| 38. Factory or Site Supervisor | |
| 39. Electrician | |
| 40. Management Consultant | |
| 41. Public Relations Worker or Publicity Writer | |
| 42. Engineer (Electrical or Electronic) | |
| 43. Engineer (Aeronautical) | |
| 44. University Professor | |
| 45. City Works Technician | |
| 46. Laboratory Technologist | |
| 47. Machine Operator | |
| 48. Occupational Therapist | |
| 49. Artist or Entertainer | |
| 50. Administrator (College or Technical Institute) |
The table above is provided courtesy of ‘Looking at Type and Careers” by Charles Martin, Ph.D.
The careers on the “most often” side predominantly require analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and a high degree of autonomy—all traits that INTPs naturally possess. Conversely, the careers on the “least often” side usually involve significant social interactions, repetitive tasks, or a structured environment, which are less compatible with the INTP’s preferred style.
By understanding these career tendencies, INTPs can make more informed decisions in their professional lives, playing to their inherent strengths and avoiding potential areas of dissatisfaction.
For further reading and personalized career advice, you might consider scheduling a consultation with Ken Meyer a Myers-Briggs master practitioner and creator of this blog site.
Ken Meyer
Myers Briggs Master Practitioner and Retired Senior Career Coach at Eastern Michigan University
