The 8 Best Jobs for ISFP Personality Types

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Published on August 13, 2021
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Graphic Designer | Social Worker | Kindergarten and Elementary School Teacher | Veterinarian | Occupational Therapist | Forester | Interior Designer | Environmental Scientist


Known as the composer, artist, and adventurer, ISFPs live in a world of senses. They enjoy creating beauty in numerous forms and are typically drawn to careers in art, music, and photography. According to The Myers & Briggs Foundation, about 9% of the U.S. population belongs to the ISFP personality type.

ISFPs also enjoy service-oriented careers that allow them to make a positive impact on others, making them excellent teachers and counselors. These spontaneous, free-spirited individuals possess a strong core of inner values and tend to shy away from the rigid structure found in the corporate world.

The 8 Best Careers for ISFP Personality Types

Graphic Designer

Since they tend to be creative and artistic, ISFPs thrive as graphic designers. This hands-on, independent position gives ISFPs the freedom they need and fulfills their desire to see projects through to the end.

Through the use of computer software, a graphic designer creates digital marketing images. These professionals may design and produce logos, illustrations, and images for websites, brochures, magazines, advertisements, and reports. Their attention-grabbing images inspire, inform, and motivate consumers.

Job Outlook

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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), graphic designers earn a median annual wage of $52,110. Those who work in advertising or public relation firms earn slightly more, making a median annual salary of $54,320.

While they work in a competitive industry, graphic designers who keep current on the latest technologies and design trends can boost their job prospects. The BLS also projects increasing employment opportunities for professionals in computer systems design and related fields.

Educational Requirements

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Most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in graphic design or a related field; however, technical training in graphic design may prepare individuals with a bachelor's in a different field to enter this profession.

Some schools require applicants to submit samples of their artwork or complete art courses before entering a graphic design program. Programs that feature internships and portfolio development opportunities may provide candidates with a competitive advantage on the job market.

Social Worker

Many ISFPs want to make a positive impact on the lives of others; this desire, paired with their hands-on approach to solving problems, can serve them well in a role as a social worker.

Using community resources, social workers help individuals and families facing illnesses, unemployment, homelessness, and other challenges. Some also work with organizations and policymakers to improve a community's programs and services. Social workers may specialize in a particular area, such as helping children, and often support individuals with serious illnesses.

Job Outlook

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The BLS projects 13% job growth for social workers between 2019 and 2029, which is much faster than the average projected growth rate for all occupations (4%). Mental health and substance abuse social workers may see even greater demand, with a projected employment growth of 17% over that same time period.

Social worker salaries vary by specialty and employer. For example, healthcare social workers earn a median annual salary of $56,750, while child, family, and school social workers earn $47,390.

Some of the top employers of social workers include local and state government agencies, ambulatory healthcare services, and individual and family services.

Educational Requirements

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Most social worker roles require at least a bachelor's degree in social work or a related field. Those with only a bachelor's must work under a clinical supervisor. Social work programs include internships and/or practica experiences.

Some positions, such as clinical social worker, require a master of social work and at least two years of supervised clinical experience. Those who earn their master's usually take focused electives in specific areas of social work, such as substance abuse, mental health, or children and families. Most states require graduates to earn licensure before practicing as social workers.

Kindergarten and Elementary School Teacher

The creative and passionate nature of ISFPs makes them natural teachers. Relaxed and tolerant, with a flair for the unique and unconventional, many ISFPs enjoy a special bond with children. Individuals with this personality type may excel at developing creative lesson plans and hands-on activities.

Elementary school teachers work in public or private schools, instructing students in the fundamentals of reading, writing, science, and math. Elementary schools typically go up to fifth or sixth grade, though some districts continue through the eighth grade.

Read our teaching careers guide to learn more about career opportunities in primary education.

Job Outlook

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The BLS projects 4% job growth for kindergarten and elementary school teachers between 2019 and 2029. Kindergarten teachers earn a median annual salary of $56,850, while elementary school teachers earn $59,670 per year.

Although job opportunities for teachers vary by region, the rising number of students attending public schools should result in increased demand. Graduates who are willing to relocate can enhance their employment prospects by moving to an area with increased need -- many urban and rural school districts are experiencing teacher shortages.

Educational Requirements

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Kindergarten and elementary school teachers need a bachelor's degree in elementary education. All states require licensure for public school teachers. While requirements vary by state, most involve completing a student teaching program, passing an exam and a background check, and demonstrating knowledge related to their particular subject and/or age group.

Veterinarian

Many ISFPs feel a deep love for animals. Thanks to their caring and service-oriented nature, individuals who belong to this personality type can become gifted veterinarians.

Veterinarians examine, diagnose, and treat many different types of animals, from pets to horses and livestock. Most veterinarians specialize in treating companion animals or farm animals/livestock.

Job Outlook

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The BLS projects 16% job growth for veterinarians between 2019 and 2029. Many of today's veterinarians provide advanced, complicated treatments once only available to humans, leading to increased demand for these services.

Veterinarians earn a median annual salary of $97,010, with the top 10% of earners taking home more than $160,780 per year. Most veterinarians work at private clinics and veterinary hospitals.

Educational Requirements

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Aspiring veterinarians need a doctor of veterinary medicine degree from an accredited veterinary college. Admission into these colleges requires a bachelor's degree and prior coursework in biology, chemistry, and animal science.

Some programs prefer applicants with experience working with animals in veterinary clinics, farms, or animal shelters. Veterinary medicine programs typically take four years to complete, with the last year devoted to clinical rounds in a veterinary hospital or medical center.

To practice, states typically require these professionals to earn licensure after completing a veterinary program and passing the national exam; however, exact requirements vary by state.

Occupational Therapist

As creative problem-solvers who enjoy tackling real-world issues, ISFPs may find fulfillment working as occupational therapists.

Occupational therapists develop rehabilitation programs that help restore or build skills for those with disabilities or developmental delays. These programs may involve daily living skills or vocational skills that help clients live independently. Examples include helping children with disabilities participate in school activities and teaching patients affected by strokes to perform daily activities.

Students interested in working with an older population can learn about career opportunities in our gerontology careers guide. Alternatively, for those interested in the broader healthcare field, our careers in healthcare guide offers a comprehensive look into the many professional opportunities in this burgeoning field.

Job Outlook

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The BLS projects 16% job growth for occupational therapists between 2019 and 2029; this projection is largely influenced by the aging baby-boom generation. These therapists can help aging seniors remain in their homes by recommending home modifications and helping them adjust to common ailments like stroke and arthritis.

Occupational therapists earn a median annual salary of $84,950, with the top 10% of earners making more than $121,490 per year. The biggest employers for these professionals include nursing care facilities, home healthcare services, occupational therapy offices, hospitals, and schools.

Educational Requirements

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Occupational therapists need a master's degree in occupational therapy and state licensure. Admission into these graduate programs requires a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as physiology or biology. Programs include at least 24 weeks of supervised fieldwork, providing prospective occupational therapists with hands-on experience.

While exact licensure requirements vary by state, most states require candidates to earn a passing score on the national exam. Individuals must also pass a background check.

Forester

Foresters spend their days caring for and managing trees or forests. Depending on their employer, they may develop plans to protect trees from disease and wildfires, regenerate forested lands, and/or supervise the sustainable harvesting of trees. ISFPs who value conservation and nature may excel in these roles.

Most of these professionals work for local, state, and federal government agencies, managing forests through the prevention and suppression of wildfires. Some foresters also work for social advocacy organizations.

Job Outlook

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The BLS projects 4% job growth for foresters between 2019 and 2029. As the threat of forest fires continues to increase due to climate change and the encroachment of civilization upon forested lands, the need for foresters should increase.

Foresters earn a median annual salary of $61,790. Candidates with an understanding of computer modeling, like remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS) technology, may increase their job prospects.

Educational Requirements

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Most forestry positions require a bachelor's degree in forestry or a related field, such as environmental science, agricultural science, or rangeland management.

Forestry curricula cover forest resource management and ecology, as well as commonly used software and technical tools. Students may also learn about remote sensing, which uses satellites and aerial cameras to capture landscape imagery.

Some states require foresters to hold a license. Though not required, candidates may also obtain certification to improve their job prospects. Certification through the Society of American Foresters requires a bachelor's degree, professional experience, and a passing score on the certification exam.

Interior Designer

Many ISFPs relish a functional and beautiful environment. Colors, textures, and lighting can become works of art in the hands of this personality type. Their active listening skills and perceptive nature can help them bring a client's vision to life.

Interior designers create beautiful and functional living and working spaces. Homes, estates, hotels, offices, and even healthcare facilities may seek the experience of an interior designer to bring beauty, safety, and functionality to their unique space.

Job Outlook

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Interior designers typically work as independent contractors or for large design firms. Many specialize in a particular niche, like green spaces, corporate workspaces, the hospitality industry, or home design. This competitive industry also requires strong networking and marketing skills.

Designers who stay current with the latest design tools, including computer-aided design (CAD) software, can improve their job opportunities. Designers should also maintain an eye-catching professional portfolio.

Interior designers earn a median annual salary of $56,040, with the top 10% of earners making more than $96,470 per year. Those working in the architectural or engineering industries earn $60,910 per year.

Educational Requirements

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Most interior designers need a bachelor's degree in interior design or a related field with completed coursework in CAD and drawing.

Licensure for interior designers varies by state. Some states do not require a license, while others require passing a state-approved exam. To sit for the exam, applicants need a bachelor's degree in interior design and two years of work experience.

Students who graduate from programs that include a capstone experience and provide the opportunity to build a professional portfolio may be more appealing to employers.

Environmental Scientist

Many ISFPs love nature and prefer hands-on work, which makes them well-suited for a career as an environmental scientist. Spending time both in the lab and out in the field may appeal to an ISFP's love of freedom.

Environmental scientists research environmental problems and develop appropriate solutions. Using their knowledge of biological, social, and physical sciences, these professionals protect the environment and human health. Specific tasks may include working with a company to reduce pollution or creating a plan to clean up contaminated areas.

Job Outlook

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The BLS projects 8% job growth for environmental scientists between 2019 and 2029. Increasing public interest in environmental issues and growing pressure to develop solutions to address climate change may provide good job opportunities for these professionals.

Environmental scientists earn a median annual salary of $71,360. Those who work for the federal government earn even more, making a median annual wage of $102,910.

Candidates can improve their job prospects by completing internships and taking classes in computer modeling, GIS, and data analysis.

Educational Requirements

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Most entry-level positions require a bachelor's degree in environmental science or a science-related field, such as engineering, geosciences, biology, physics, or chemistry. Professionals seeking advancement in the field may need a master's.

Students should consider programs that offer hands-on internships. Coursework in GIS, which teaches learners to organize, analyze, and visualize environmental data, can help propel students toward success in this field.

Environmental scientists may earn certification through several institutions, including the Ecological Society of America. Though not required, certifications demonstrate proficiency and help set professionals apart in their field.

Additional ISFP Career Options

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    Police Officer
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    Flight Attendant
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    Photographer
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    Fashion Designer
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    Professional Chef
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    Nurse
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    Composer
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    Librarian
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    Writer
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    Naturalist
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    Physical Therapist
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    Marine Biologist
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    Recreational Therapist
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    Zoologist
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    ER Physician
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