Industrial-Organizational Psychologists
Industrial-organizational psychologists apply psychological research and methods to workplace challenges in hiring, training, management, and organizational structure. They work in corporate human resources departments, consulting firms, government agencies, and other organizations seeking to improve employee performance and organizational effectiveness.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against industrial-organizational psychologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week might include designing and administering employee selection tests, analyzing survey data on workplace culture, facilitating management training sessions, and consulting with executives on organizational restructuring. Tasks vary between desk work analyzing assessment results, meeting with department heads to understand staffing needs, and presenting findings and recommendations to leadership on talent development strategies.
Who this work suits
Holland code IEC. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to enjoy investigating human behavior and systems through data analysis and research. You also pursue business goals and influencing organizational decisions, combining analytical rigor with strategic thinking to solve practical workplace problems.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a master’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oregon | $106,190 | $174,980 | $174,980 | 60 |
| Texas | $88,240 | $139,520 | $152,330 | 40 |
All 2 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Board Certified Specialist in Organizational and Business Consulting — American Board of Professional Psychology
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against industrial-organizational psychologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-3032.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.