Industrial-Organizational Psychologists

O*NET 19-3032.00 · SOC 19-3032

Industrial-Organizational Psychologist is a solid career choice. Median pay is $194k a year with +6.5% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 300 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.

Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27

Projected Growth
+6.5%
2025–2035
Median Salary
$194k
BLS OEWS, May 2025
Annual Openings
0k
positions/year
Education Level
Zone 5
Extensive preparation needed (graduate degree)

What You'd Actually Do

  • →Assess workplace dynamics and employee satisfaction
  • →Design selection and hiring assessment tools
  • →Develop leadership training programs
  • →Analyze organizational data and survey results
  • →Consult with management on culture and performance

Education & How to Get In

🔬
Job Zone 5
Extensive preparation needed (graduate degree)

Industrial-Organizational Psychologist roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.

Get Started Learning

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Work Environment

Primary Setting

Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote

Work Style

Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins

A Day in the Life

While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as an Industrial-Organizational Psychologist involves a mix of core responsibilities:

MorningAssess workplace dynamics and employee satisfaction
MiddayDesign selection and hiring assessment tools
AfternoonDevelop leadership training programs

Personality Fit (RIASEC)

Investigative (Thinkers)5.3
Enterprising (Persuaders)4.7
Conventional (Organizers)4.3
Social (Helpers)4.0
Artistic (Creators)3.1
Realistic (Doers)1.1

Who Thrives as Industrial-Organizational Psychologist?

Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.

ENTJThe CommanderINTJThe StrategistENTPThe InnovatorENFJThe Mentor

Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →

See Open Industrial-Organizational Psychologist Roles

Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.

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Job Outlook

Employment of Industrial-Organizational Psychologists is projected to grow 6.5% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.

Will AI Replace This Job?

30/100Moderate, likely AI-complementary
  • ·36% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace
  • ·37% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace

Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.

Common Questions

How much does an Industrial-Organizational Psychologist make?

The median Industrial-Organizational Psychologist earns $194k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.

Will AI replace Industrial-Organizational Psychologist jobs?

Our model puts Industrial-Organizational Psychologist at 30 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 36% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace; 37% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace.

Is Industrial-Organizational Psychologist a growing field?

Employment is projected to grow 6.5% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 300 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.

What degree do you need to be an Industrial-Organizational Psychologist?

Industrial-Organizational Psychologist roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.

How long does it take to become an Industrial-Organizational Psychologist?

Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.

Is an Industrial-Organizational Psychologist career right for you?

Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.

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