An industrial-organizational psychologist studies the behavior of human beings in the work environment. To become one, an individual needs to have at least at master’s degree in psychology from an accredited program, although a doctorate will provide better job prospects. Salaries for industrial-organizational psychology careers start at about $40,000 and can go up to a six figure income if you work in the private sector and have a doctorate degree.
These individuals help increase productivity in a workplace by providing management with performance appraisals, leadership training or assistance in human resources. There are several job prospects for an industrial-organizational psychology graduate. If you want to study psychology in the workplace, you’ll need to meet the necessary educational requirements; for example, if you decide to pursue a psychology degree online, it's critical to ensure that the program you select is properly accredited. Use these tips to get your psychology training. Here’s more information about these industrial-organizational psychology jobs.
- Human Resources Personnel: Most jobs as an industrial-organizational psychologist will be in the human resources department of a private corporation, school or government office. Your job will be to screen and train job applicants. You will need to assess the competency levels of applicants and employees and make sure they will fit in the workplace. You may also be asked to diffuse workplace tensions and ensure workplace diversity and anti-discrimination laws and policies. It is your job to make sure employment retention is good.
- Consultant: You may work for a private management consultancy company or set up your own practice and specialize in trouble shooting employee-management problems. Usually, companies hire the services of an I/O psychologist during stressful times such as a company take over or merger. You may also be asked to develop programs or steps to help management to increase employee retention and overall job productivity.
- Community Welfare Assistant: There are federal government positions that allow you to practice with a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree. You can work in a vocational rehab center or a correctional facility.
- Career Counselor: You can assist students in determining their career path given their personality assessment results and skill levels. You can work either in a high school or college or university counseling office. If you want to work in a school environment, get certified by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP).
- Researcher: You will study, research, analyze and develop effective workplace strategies that can be employed to increase employee loyalty and productivity. You can get a grant, get published and your work may be used by major corporations.
- Educator: You can teach high school or college level psychology classes, though you will need work experience to be more effective in these jobs in psychology.
- Psychologist’s Assistant: If you are still working on your MA and just have a bachelor’s degree, you can work as an assistant in a psychologist’s office. You may be asked to assist in his research project, or work in a mental health center facility to assist with case studies.
To become an industrial-organizational psychologist, you will need to have effective communication skills, and genuinely like working with and being around people. You must be observant and have an analytical mind. It is an interesting and constantly evolving field so you must stay current with the industry. Employment prospects are good so consider these psychology careers for you!