Best Careers for ISTP Type
Introduction
When it comes to career choices, understanding your Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) can be an invaluable asset. For those who identify as ISTP, a type characterized by their logical reasoning and hands-on approach to life, the right career can make all the difference. This article draws inspiration from Charles Martin, Ph.D.’s seminal work, “Looking at Type and Careers,” to guide ISTPs in making career decisions that align with their unique skills and interests.
Core Traits of ISTP Types
ISTPs are often described by the following core traits:
- Practical: They prefer straightforward solutions and are often hands-on.
- Observant: They are highly aware of their surroundings and notice details others may overlook.
- Logical: They approach problems with a rational mindset, valuing facts over emotions.
- Independent: They value their autonomy and prefer to work at their own pace.
- Adaptable: They are flexible and can adjust to new situations quickly.
The ISTP at Work
ISTPs thrive in careers that allow them to use their analytical skills and offer a degree of autonomy. They are excellent in crisis situations, thanks to their ability to think quickly and come up with effective solutions.
The Significance of Career Choices for ISTP Types
The careers listed in the “Careers Selected Most Often” column represent those where ISTP behaviors are not just welcomed but are actually the behaviors needed to excel in those roles. Conversely, the careers listed under “Careers Selected Least Often” are those that ISTPs tend to avoid, as they often require behaviors and skills that are not naturally aligned with the ISTP personality type.
Career Choices for ISTP Types
The following table provides a comprehensive list of the 50 careers most often chosen by ISTP types, as well as the 20 careers least often chosen. This data serves as a valuable resource for ISTPs contemplating their career paths.
| Careers Selected Most Often | Careers Selected Least Often |
|---|---|
| 1. Farmer | 1. Police Detective |
| 2. Military Officer or Enlistee | 2. Director of Religious Education |
| 3. Engineer: Electrical or Electronic | 3. Administrator: Student Personnel |
| 4. Electrical or Electronic Engineering Technician | 4. Journalist |
| 5. Coal Miner | 5. Consultant: Education |
| 6. Transportation Operator | 6. Engineer: Aeronautical |
| 7. Dental Hygienist | 7. Clerical Supervisor |
| 8. Construction, Warehouse, Groundskeepers, and Other Laborers | 8. Scientist: Biology |
| 9. Mechanic | 9. Actor |
| 10. Legal Secretary | 10. Research Assistant |
| 11. Cleaning Service Worker | 11. Nursing: Public Health |
| 12. Surveyor | 12. Dentist |
| 13. Corrections Officer or Probation Officer | 13. Receptionist |
| 14. Carpenter | 14. Teacher: Pre-School |
| 15. Construction Worker | 15. Fine Artist |
| 16. Steelworker | 16. Architect |
| 17. Cook | 17. Psychodrama Therapist |
| 18. Small Business Manager | 18. Suicide or Crisis Counselor |
| 19. Physician: Pathology | 19. Occupational Therapist |
| 20. Engineer: Mechanical | 20. Religious Order: Lay Member |
| 21. Craft Worker | |
| 22. Computer Programmer | |
| 23. Law Enforcement, Corrections, Park Rangers, and Guards | |
| 24. Lawyer | |
| 25. Engineering or Science Technician | |
| 26. Optometrist | |
| 27. City Works Technician | |
| 28. Media Specialist | |
| 29. Dental Assistant | |
| 30. Manager: Federal Executive | |
| 31. Machine Worker | |
| 32. Manager: Regional Utilities | |
| 33. Computer Professional | |
| 34. Physical Therapist | |
| 35. Manager: Fire | |
| 36. Engineer: All Categories | |
| 37. Administrator: Social Services | |
| 38. Lawyer or Judge | |
| 39. Manager: Public | |
| 40. Accountant | |
| 41. Manager: City, County, or State Government | |
| 42. Typist | |
| 43. Guard or Watch Keeper | |
| 44. Respiratory Therapist | |
| 45. Computer Operations, Systems Researcher, or Analyst | |
| 46. School Bus Driver | |
| 47. Storekeeper | |
| 48. Manager: Corporate Executive | |
| 49. Teacher: Adult Education | |
| 50. Teacher: Coaching |
The table above is provided courtesy of ‘Looking at Type and Careers” by Charles Martin, Ph.D.
Ken Meyer
Myers Briggs Master Practitioner and Retired Senior Career Coach at Eastern Michigan University
