Your unique personality type is suited to particular kinds of roles in the workplace. INTJs – people with preferences for Introversion, Intuition, Thinking and Judging – seek work that allows them to implement innovative solutions to complex problems.

INTJs want a career that feels challenging from start to finish, and they can struggle to find it. While all careers require a certain amount of training and skills development, INTJs get frustrated if they get stuck in grunt work. 

Let’s look at what an INTJ needs in a job to reduce that frustration and some of the careers that meet those requirements. 

Watch our video on top careers for INFJs on Youtube.

What should an INTJ look for in a job?

INTJs are analytical problem solvers, eager to improve systems and processes with their innovative ideas.  They are logical, efficient, structured, and determined to implement their ideas for change. 

When looking for a career that fits your INTJ personality, consider roles where you can:

  • Organize information and resources 
  • Increase your knowledge
  • Understand systems
  • Develop strategy

When you think about your previous jobs or volunteer positions, how have they met these requirements? How have they missed the mark? 

What satisfies INTJs at work?

To feel satisfied in their work, INTJs need to fulfill at least three of the following factors. 

To do work that:

  1. Allows you to work independently and do things your way
  2. Enable you to create and develop innovative solutions to problems
  3. Provides you with a lot of control and autonomy
  4. Allows you to interact with people you respect 
  5. Reflects and meets your very high standards 

Let’s do a quick check in:

  • What does each factor look like for you in real life?
  • Which of these does your current job satisfy?
  • Which are not being satisfied and how might you change that?

What are the top careers for an INTJ?

INTJs appreciate careers where they can turn their ideas into reality. The world is filled with chunky problems to sink your teeth into, so it can be tricky to decide which way to go. As you look over the list, consider what appeals to you in each of the roles, and take those themes into your job search. 

In science that includes:

  • Biochemist
  • Geneticist
  • Astronomer
  • Microbiologist 

In business and math that includes:

  • Financial analyst
  • Accountant
  • Statistician
  • Actuary

In engineering that includes:

  • Electrical engineer
  • Mechanical engineer
  • Environmental engineer

In technology that includes:

  • Computer programmer
  • Software developer
  • Network administrator

In healthcare that includes:

  • Surgeon
  • Cardiologist 
  • Coroner
  • Pharmacist 

To see more top careers for INTJs, take a look at our detailed list here. In summary you are looking for jobs that allow you to be innovative, independent, autonomous, with work that comes with high standards and people you respect. 

What careers should an INTJ avoid?

Any personality type can be successful in any career. However, some occupations require INTJs to operate outside their natural preferences, which can be draining. 

Careers like nurse, teacher, dental hygienist, receptionist or social worker are generally not well-suited to an INTJ.

Next steps

Whether you are just starting on your career journey or thinking about a career change, it’s worth thinking about how to ensure your career needs are met. 

To learn more visit our INTJ personality overview or take our free test here.

Samantha Mackay
Samantha is a certified Enneagram coach at Individuo and educator at Truity. She has found knowing her personality type (ENTP / Enneagram 7) invaluable for recovering from burnout and for working with her anxiety, chronic illnesses and pain. To work with Samantha visit www.individuo.life