Healthcare jobs to consider in 2025 based on your personality type

First introduced by Carl Jung, the theory of introverts, ambiverts and extroverts have helped us gain a better understanding of how different people interact with the world.

While introverts mainly gain energy from quiet reflection, extroverts are more social and thrive in group situations. Ambiverts on the other hand, have a mix of both introverted and extroverted tendencies.

If you’re thinking of pursuing a career in healthcare, understanding your personality type can offer valuable insights into the type of roles that may be suitable for you.

In this article, we’ll delve deeper into each of these personality types and suggest healthcare careers that may be fulfilling for introverts, ambiverts and extroverts.

Short quiz: What personality type are you?

Not sure of whether you’re an introvert, ambivert or extrovert? Take this short quiz to find out which personality type you align with.

1. How do you prefer recharging after a long week?
   A) Spending quiet time alone or doing a solo activity
   B) A mix of alone time and socialising
   C) Meeting up with friends or engaging in group activities

2. If you’re asked to lead a team meeting, how do you feel?
   A) I’d rather not. I work better behind the scenes or in smaller discussions
   B) I’m okay with it, especially if I know the group well and have time to prepare
   C) I love the opportunity to take charge and connect with everyone in the room

3. How do you approach new situations at work?
   A) I prefer to observe, take time to process and work independently to figure things out
   B) I balance observing and asking questions, adapting as needed
   C) I jump right in, actively engaging with others and seeking input

4. What’s your communication style at work?
   A) Thoughtful and measured, I prefer emails or one-on-one conversations
   B) Adaptive, I’m comfortable communicating in groups or privately, depending on the situation
   C) Expressive and engaging, I love group discussions and spontaneous brainstorming sessions

5. How do you typically behave during social gatherings?
   A) I stick to a few meaningful conversations and prefer not to stay too long
   B) I mingle a bit but take breaks to recharge when needed
   C) I actively meet as many people as possible

Results

Mostly A’s: You’re likely an introvert who prefers thoughtful, low-key interactions and independent roles.

Mostly B’s: You’re likely an ambivert who prefers a balance of both social and solitary tasks, thriving in flexible roles.

Mostly C’s: You’re likely an extrovert who enjoys social interactions and prefers people-facing roles.

What should introverts look for in a job?

According to SEEK, 43 per cent of Australian workers identify as introverts. If you enjoy spending time alone and prefer working independently in calm environments, you’re likely an introvert.

If you’re an introvert, consider looking for a job that:

1. Has a quiet work environment
   Research has found that introverts tend to show higher sensitivity to noise compared to extroverts. As a result, if you identify as an introvert, a hectic work environment may cause you to feel unfocused and overwhelmed.
   
   On the other hand, a quiet work environment with minimal distractions is often better suited for introverts and will allow you to concentrate effectively and work productively.

2. Allows you to work independently or with smaller groups of people
   While introverts tend to enjoy working independently as it allows them to process their thoughts and feelings and reflect on their ideas without distractions, they may also enjoy working in small groups.

   Contrary to popular belief, introverts aren’t necessarily shy and withdrawn individuals that don’t enjoy socialising. Introverts can, in fact, be highly sociable but in moderation. Working in smaller groups gives them an opportunity to be heard, have thoughtful discussions and form meaningful relationships without expending too much energy.

3. Leverages your qualities
   Each introvert is unique so it’s important to take the time to reflect on your own qualities and choose a career that aligns with your strengths.
   
   Some skills and qualities that introverted individuals often have include:
   • being a good listener and observer
   • being empathetic and attune to other people’s emotions
   • gathering and analysing information and uncovering insights
   • being reflective and thoughtful – taking time to think before making a decision

Healthcare jobs for introverts

If you’re an introvert seeking a fulfilling career, healthcare offers numerous roles that could be suitable for you.

Public health policy analyst

Why is being a public health policy analyst suitable for introverts?

A public health policy analyst assists with analysing and reviewing current policies, gathering and reviewing data and drafting reports or recommendations. This role could be well-suited for introverts as the role requires critical thinking, deep focus and extensive research.

While there may be some presentations or collaborative work, much of the role is mainly behind-the-scenes and consists of conducting detailed research and formulating evidence-based strategies.

Additionally, the opportunity to make a significant impact through thoughtful analysis and policy development can also be highly rewarding for introverts who value purpose-driven work.

How much do public health policy analysts make?

The average salary of a policy analyst is between $95,000 to $110,000 in Australia.

How to become a public health policy analyst?

1. Get a relevant degree
   Complete an undergraduate bachelor’s degree in public health or similar.

2. Gain additional qualifications
   A postgraduate qualification can help you develop specialist knowledge and skills in public health.
   
   For example, the Master of Public Health at University of Technology Sydney has electives such as Policy, Power and Politics in Healthcare and Fundamentals of Epidemiology that will deepen your understanding in areas such as health policy, data and promotion.

3. Apply for positions
   Once you’ve completed your qualifications, you can gain experience in public health policy by applying for an internship or entry-level position.

Nuclear medicine technologist

Why is being a nuclear medicine technologist suitable for introverts?

Nuclear medicine technologists are highly skilled medical experts who use radioactive substances to diagnose and treat diseases. They prepare and administer radiopharmaceuticals and perform imaging procedures.

This role is suitable for introverts as it’s a role that requires precision, focus and attention to detail. Nuclear medicine technologists also mostly work independently or within small teams. While there is patient interaction in the role, it’s typically limited to purposeful exchanges.

How much do nuclear medicine technologists make?

Nuclear medicine technologists usually make an average annual salary of $85,000 to $100,000 in Australia.

How to become a nuclear medicine technologist?

To become a nuclear medicine technologist you will need to:

1. Obtain a degree
   Complete a bachelor’s degree in medical radiation science (nuclear medicine). As a part of your degree, you will also undertake a clinical placement.

2. Register with the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia (MRPBA)
   Once you have graduated, you will need to register with the MRPBA.

3. Obtain a radiation use licence
   In addition to MRPBA registration, you must also obtain a radiation use licence in the state or territory that you’re practicing in.

4. Apply for jobs
   Once you have registered with the MRPBA, you can apply for entry-level nuclear medicine technologist positions. To expand your job prospects, it may also be helpful to obtain additional qualifications, such as a diagnostic CT in molecular imaging course or similar.

Sterilisation technician

Why is being a sterilisation technician suitable for introverts?

Sterilisation technicians are vital team members of the medical profession that play an important role in protecting against the spread of infection. They focus on ensuring that medical instruments are cleaned, sterilised and prepared for use and work in hospitals and clinics.

This role is suitable for introverts as it’s a behind-the-scenes role that requires precision and attention to detail without the need for extensive social interaction. Sterilisation technicians also typically work independently or in small teams and in a controlled, structured environment.

How much do sterilisation technicians make?

The average annual salary for a sterilisation technician in Australia ranges from $65,000 to $70,000.

How to become a sterilisation technician?

To become a sterilisation technician you will need to:

1. Complete a Certificate III in Sterilisation Services
   This is a nationally recognised qualification that will teach you the basics such as how to care for surgical instruments and work with infection control policies and procedures.

2. Gain experience
   After you’ve completed your certification, you can start working as an entry level sterilisation technician.

Rehabilitation counsellor

Why is being a rehabilitation counsellor suitable for introverts?

Being a rehabilitation counsellor offers a mix of meaningful one-on-one interactions and opportunities for independent work. Rehabilitation counsellors help individuals overcome physical, emotional or social challenges to regain their independence and the role requires active listening, empathy and problem-solving, qualities that many introverts excel in.

The focus on individual client sessions also allows introverts to engage in deeper, more meaningful conversations and much of the role involves developing tailored rehabilitation plans, conducting assessments and documenting progress.

How much do rehabilitation counsellors make?

Rehabilitation counsellors in Australia make an average annual salary of $85,000 to $100,000. Victorian rehabilitation counsellors earn the most with an average annual salary of $100,000.

How to become a rehabilitation counsellor?

1. Complete a bachelor’s degree
   Obtain an Australian Society of Rehabilitation Counsellors (ASORC) accredited bachelor’s degree in rehabilitation counselling.

2. Complete a postgraduate degree
   To be eligible for full membership in the ASORC, you would need to complete their professional supervision program and either a graduate diploma or master’s course in rehabilitation counselling.

3. Apply for jobs
   Once you have received your membership, you can apply for entry-level or graduate rehabilitation counselling positions on websites such as SEEK or Indeed.

Informatics nurse

Why is being an informatics nurse suitable for introverts?

Being an informatics nurse is suitable for introverts as it leverages their analytical and problem-solving skills in an independent and structured environment.

Unlike some other nursing roles that require a good amount of social interaction, the responsibilities of an informatics nurse mainly consists of independent tasks such as managing and analysing health data and optimising electronic health records.

Additionally, many informatic nursing roles provide opportunities for remote work and digital collaboration. This flexibility may be suitable for introverts as it allows them to work at their own pace and in an environment with fewer distractions and interruptions.

How much do informatics nurses make?

Informatics nurses make an average annual salary of $124,000. Entry-level positions start at $119,000 while informatics nurses with more experience can make up to $138,000 per year.

How to become an informatics nurse?

1. Complete a bachelor’s degree
   If you’re interested in becoming an informatics nurse, the first step is to complete a bachelor’s degree in nursing.

2. Register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board (NMBA)
   Upon completion of your bachelor’s degree, you must register with the NMBA.

3. Gain experience in nursing
   After registration, gaining hands-on experience in clinical nursing is crucial to understanding patient care and healthcare workflows. You can also use this opportunity to work with health technologies such as electronic health records or data management systems.

4. Pursue a postgraduate qualification
   To further enhance your expertise, consider pursuing a postgraduate qualification such as a Graduate Certificate in Nursing Informatics Leadership. In this course, you’ll develop specialised skills to advise on implementing nursing informatics systems and practices.

5. Apply for informatics nursing roles
   Once you’ve gained experience and completed your postgraduate studies, you can start applying for informatics nursing positions. These roles may also be advertised under various titles, including nursing informatics officer or clinical informatics nurse.

What should ambiverts look for in a job?

Ambiverts are individuals that are neither introverts or extroverts and may lean one way or another depending on the situation. If you’re an ambivert, you’ll likely thrive in a career that offers a good balance of people-facing tasks and behind-the-scenes work.

If you’re an ambivert, consider a job that:

1. Offers a mix of social and independent work
   As an ambivert, you’re likely to enjoy collaborating with a team while also doing independent work. Your versatility and adaptability allows you to excel in roles that balance social interaction and individual tasks.

2. Involves working with diverse groups of people
   Ambiverts have the ability to regulate their behaviour and adapt to different individuals and situations. This adaptability enables you to connect with a wide range of people, whether in one-on-one settings or group interactions.

3. Allows you to leverage your unique strengths
   Ambiverts possess a combination of traits that set them apart in the workplace, this may include:
   • strong listening and communication skills
   • empathy and emotional intelligence
   • the ability to balance and enhance social dynamics
   • adaptability to different scenarios and people
   • the ability to mediate and find common ground

Each ambivert is different so it’s important to find a career that aligns with your strengths.

Healthcare jobs for ambiverts

Here are some healthcare roles that may be suitable for ambiverts.

Organisational psychologist

Why is being an organisational psychologist suitable for ambiverts?

The responsibilities of an organisational psychologist can vary depending on the company but they typically focus on developing and implementing strategies and programs to enhance employee productivity and wellbeing.

Ambiverts may be suitable for this role as it offers a balance between independent tasks such as research and strategy development and interpersonal work such as team collaboration and engaging with employees.

Success in this role also requires strong communication, empathy and problem-solving skills, all of which aligns with the strengths of an ambivert.

How much do organisational psychologists make?

Organisational psychologists typically make an average annual salary of $115,000 in Australia.

How to become an organisational psychologist?

1. Complete an undergraduate degree
   To become an organisational psychologist, you will first need to complete a bachelor’s degree in psychology. The University of Canberra offers a Bachelor of Science in Psychology that will provide you with an understanding of the foundations of psychology.

   If you have a bachelor’s degree in a different discipline, you can consider studying a Graduate Certificate of Psychology from Edith Cowan University, Graduate Certificate of Psychology from James Cook University or a Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Bridging) from James Cook University.

2. Study an accredited fourth-year psychology course
   Thereafter, you will need to complete a fourth-year program. This can be an Australian Psychological Society (APS) accredited honours degree or a postgraduate diploma in psychology.

3. Pursue a master’s in psychology
   As a part of the higher degree pathway, you will need to study a postgraduate course such as a doctorate or master’s degree in psychology.

4. Apply for general registration
   Once you have completed your course, you can apply to become a registered psychologist through the Psychology Board of Australia.

5. Complete a registar program to be eligible for endorsement
   In order to obtain an area of practice endorsement, you will need to complete a registar program. The number of hours required for the registar program will be dependent on your postgraduate qualification.

6. Apply for jobs
   Once you have completed your registar program and received endorsement in organisational psychology, you can proceed to apply for jobs.

Outreach worker

Why is being an outreach worker suitable for ambiverts?

An outreach worker engages directly with individuals and groups to provide support while connecting them with vital resources.

Ambiverts may thrive in this role as it balances hands-on tasks such as offering practical assistance and advice with administrative responsibilities like maintaining records, coordinating services and planning outreach programs.

The role also involves building meaningful relationships with individuals and communities, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to empathise with diverse needs.

How much do outreach workers make?

Outreach workers make an average annual salary of between $70,000 and $85,000 in Australia.

How to become an outreach worker?

1. Obtain a degree in social work
   You can either choose to obtain a bachelor’s degree in social work or similar or complete a Certificate IV in Community Services.

2. Gain experience
   Once you’ve obtained a relevant qualification, you can apply for entry-level jobs in a variety of sectors from healthcare to social services and education.

3. Pursue further studies
   If you would like to further develop your skills, consider doing a master’s course such as the Master of Social Work (Qualifying) at the University of Canberra. During the course, you will undertake two field education placements and also study six coursework units and four intensive units.

Anaesthetist

Why is being an anaesthetist suitable for ambiverts?

Anaesthetists play a critical role in assessing patients before procedures and providing care throughout the surgical process, including preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative care.

Ambiverts can excel in this role as it involves meaningful patient interaction and also requires effective communication and collaboration with surgeons, nurses and other healthcare professionals to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes.

While there is a fair amount of interpersonal interaction in this role, it also involves technical and analytical tasks including monitoring vital signs, documenting details and conducting research to stay up-to-date in the field.

How much do anaesthetists make?

Anaesthetists make an average annual salary of $195,000 to $215,000 in Australia.

How to become an anaesthetist?

1. Complete a degree in medicine
   To become an anaesthetist, you would first need to complete an undergraduate degree in medicine followed by a Doctor of Medicine.

2. Undertake residency
   Upon completion of your degree, you will need to complete a residency program. For anaesthesia, residency is a minimum of two years.

3. Complete the necessary training at the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA)
   There are three rounds of training you will need to complete. The introductory and basic training, advanced training and provisional fellowship training. The training takes five years and upon completion you will be invited to become a fellow of the college.

4. Apply for jobs
   Once you have become a fellow of the college, you will be qualified to work as anaesthetist and can apply for jobs.

Occupational therapist

Why is being an occupational therapist suitable for ambiverts?

Occupational therapists work in diverse settings, helping individuals overcome physical, emotional or cognitive challenges to live independently and achieve their goals.

This role is well-suited for ambiverts because it combines interpersonal engagement with individual tasks.

Occupational therapists spend significant time interacting with clients and their families, collaborating with other healthcare professionals and providing hands-on support. At the same time, they also need to document progress, analyse assessment results and develop tailored treatment plans.

How much do occupational therapists make?

Occupational therapists make an average annual salary of between $85,000 to $100,000. Occupational therapists in Northern Territory make the most with an average annual salary of $95,000.

H4: How to become an occupational therapist?

1. Complete a relevant degree
   To become an occupational therapist, you will need to complete a bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy. Most degrees also come with clinical placements that will allow you to gain experience.

2. Register with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia
   Upon completion of your degree, you must obtain registration to practise as an occupational therapist.

3. Apply for jobs
   There are plenty of entry-level or graduate occupational therapist positions available on SEEK or Indeed that you can apply to.

What should extroverts look for in a job?

According to SEEK, an estimated 40 per cent of Australian workers identify as extroverts. As an extroverted individual, you draw energy from social interactions and likely enjoy spending time with others, collaborating, working in large teams, leading projects or providing direct support.

If you’re an extrovert, consider a job that:

1. Has frequent social interactions
   As an extrovert, it’s likely that you work well with others, thrive in teams and engage in conversations with ease. Roles that require regular interaction with clients, patients or the public are often a perfect fit.

2. A dynamic work environment
   Extroverts often thrive in fast-paced work environments where no two days are the same. Whether it’s managing multiple projects or juggling a variety of tasks, extroverts excel in roles that keep them engaged, energised and on their toes. They often enjoy opportunities to brainstorm, collaborate and problem solve in real time.

3. Plays to your strengths
   Each extrovert is unique so it’s important to find a role that plays to your strengths.

   Extroverts often possess the following skills and qualities:
   • outgoing and optimistic
   • open and approachable
   • persuasive and influential
   • excels at building relationships

Healthcare jobs for extroverts

Here are some healthcare jobs that extroverts may thrive in.

Registered nurse

Why is being a registered nurse suitable for extroverts?

Registered nurses play a vital role in planning and overseeing the care and management of patients. Their responsibilities may include performing treatments, managing care plans and supervising enrolled nurses. Additionally, registered nurses collaborate with a diverse range of healthcare professionals to ensure patients receive the best possible care.

This fast-paced, dynamic role is suitable for extroverts as it involves constant interaction with patients, families, colleagues and other healthcare professionals. The role also requires strong communication, collaboration and quick decision-making, qualities that extroverts typically have.

How much do registered nurses make?

Registered nurses in Australia make an average annual salary of between $85,000 and $95,000.

H4: How to become a registered nurse?

1. Get a bachelor’s degree in nursing
   To become a registered nurse, you will first need to get a bachelor’s degree in nursing. A course such as the Bachelor of Nursing at the University of Canberra will provide you with the skills required to become a registered nurse in Australia.

2. Register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board (NMBA)
   Once you’ve completed your degree, you can apply for registration with the NMBA.

3. Apply for jobs
   After you have registered with the NMBA, you can apply for graduate registered nurse positions on SEEK or Indeed to kickstart your career in nursing.

4. Pursue further studies
   Many nurses choose to continue pursuing additional postgraduate qualifications, especially if they’d like to specialise in a particular area. Some courses to consider include a Graduate Certificate in Child and Family Health, a Graduate Diploma of Nursing Majoring in Advanced Practice or a Master of Nursing (Chronic Disease and Ageing).

Health promotion officer

Why is being a health promotion officer suitable for extroverts?

A health promotion officer designs and implements programs aimed at educating communities about healthier lifestyles. This role may involve tasks such as collaborating with internal and external stakeholders, delivering presentations and creating promotional materials to support health initiatives.

Extroverts are likely to excel in this role due to their ability to connect with diverse audiences, allowing them to communicate complex health concepts in an engaging and relatable way. The role also offers a lot of variety, from public speaking and organising workshops to building relationships with diverse groups and creating impactful campaigns.

How much do health promotion officers make?

Health promotion officers in Australia make an average annual salary of $80,000 to $95,000.

How to become a health promotion officer?

1. Get a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
   To become a health promotion officer, you will need a bachelor’s degree in public health or similar.

2. Gain relevant work experience
   Once you’ve graduated, you can gain work experience by applying for graduate positions in health promotion or public health settings.

3. Pursue additional qualifications
   To build on your existing skills, you can consider studying a course like the Master of Public Health Specialising in Health Promotion from Victoria University. This course may also be suitable for individuals looking to switch to a career in health promotion.

   During this course, you’ll not only take core units such as Promoting Health in Policy but you’ll also undertake specialised units such as Public Health Program Management and Global Contexts of Health Promotion Practice with Diverse Populations.

Paramedic

Why is being a paramedic suitable for extroverts?

A paramedic’s main tasks and duties include attending to accidents and emergencies, providing care to patients and documenting their conditions.

This career may be particularly suited to extroverts due to the high level of interaction it involves from communicating with patients and their loved ones to collaborating with emergency teams. An extrovert’s natural confidence and energy may also make them the right fit when it comes to handling intense, stressful situations.

Extroverts may also thrive in the dynamic and fast-paced environment of the role where responsiveness and quick decision-making are crucial.

How much do paramedics make?

Paramedics make an average annual salary of between $155,000 to $175,000 in Australia. Paramedics in Queensland are paid the most and have an average annual salary of $164,000.

How to become a paramedic?

1. Pursue paramedic education
   To become a paramedic, you would need to get a bachelor’s degree in paramedicine or paramedic science. You can also develop your skills further by undertaking a postgraduate degree such as a Master of Paramedicine.t

2. Register with the Paramedicine Board of Australia
   Once you have graduated, you will need to register with the Paramedicine Board of Australia.

3. Apply for roles
   Once you have obtained your registration, you can proceed to apply for paramedic positions. If you would like to work in a specific field such as mining, you may need to gain further certifications such as a Certificate III in Mine Emergency Response and Rescue.

Clinical manager

Why is being a clinical manager suitable for extroverts?

Clinical managers oversee the day-to-day operations of healthcare facilities, ensuring that teams work efficiently and patients receive high-quality care.

This role may be suitable for extroverts as it requires frequent collaboration with staff, engaging with patients and coordinating with other healthcare professionals. In addition, the role also requires navigating fast-paced environments and addressing complex challenges, all of which require confidence, adaptability and a proactive approach.

For extroverts who enjoy leading diverse teams and influencing outcomes, the role of a clinical manager could be a great fit.

How much do clinical managers make?

Clinical managers make an average annual salary of between $115,000 to $135,000. Clinical managers based in Victoria make the highest average annual salary of $145,000.

How to become a clinical manager?

1. Obtain a bachelor’s degree
   To become a clinical manager, you would need to obtain a bachelor’s degree in nursing.

2. Register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board (NMBA)
   Once you’ve completed your degree, you can apply for registration with the NMBA.

3. Gain work experience
   Before becoming a clinical manager, you will need to gain relevant work experience. Some entry-level jobs to consider include working as a registered nurse or clinical care coordinator.

4. Complete a master’s degree
   Most organisations prefer hiring clinical managers with a postgraduate degree. The Master of Healthcare Leadership at Southern Cross University offers a variety of units such as Contemporary Health Leadership and Leading Change in Healthcare that are designed to help you develop interdisciplinary leadership skills.

Finding the right healthcare role for your personality type

Understanding whether you’re an introvert, ambivert or extrovert can provide valuable insight into which healthcare careers might best align with your strengths and preferences.

If you’re interested in pursuing a healthcare career in fields other than the ones mentioned above, our university partners offer a wide range of courses in fields such as counselling, mental health, nursing, psychology, public health and social work. If you have any queries or would like to learn more, select a course and enquire to speak with a Student Enrolment Advisor.