Top 14 ESTP Careers

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Individuals with an ESTP personality type excel in fast-paced, action-oriented settings that require quick decision-making, adaptability, and hands-on problem-solving. Their practical and results-driven approach makes them well-suited for careers that demand action and a focus on tangible outcomes.

In this article, we explore the top 14 ESTP careers, offering insights into how individuals with this personality type can leverage their unique traits to thrive professionally. 

ESTP is one of the 16 personality types in the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) personality assessment.

It stands for:

• Extraverted (E): ESTPs are oriented toward the external world and are energized by interacting with people and their environment. They are outgoing and enjoy social activities.
• Sensing (S): ESTPs enjoy concrete, practical information. They focus on the details of the present moment and rely on their five senses to gather information.
• Thinking (T): ESTPs make decisions based on logic and objective analysis. They are rational and are more likely to prioritize facts and reason over emotions.
• Perceiving (P): ESTPs are flexible and adaptable. They are spontaneous and open to new information and experiences rather than planning things out rigidly.

ESTPs bring unique strengths and characteristics to the workplace.

Here’s a look at how an ESTP might approach work and contribute to their job:

• Action-Oriented: ESTPs are known for their hands-on, action-oriented approach to work. They prefer to dive right into tasks and projects, often excelling in jobs that require quick decision-making and adaptability.
• Problem Solvers: ESTPs have a natural ability to solve practical, real-world problems. They rely on their logic and a focus on tangible, immediate solutions to address workplace challenges.
• Adaptable: ESTPs are highly adaptable, making them valuable assets in rapidly changing or unpredictable work environments. They can quickly shift gears and adjust to new situations.
• Energetic: These individuals are full of energy and thrive in dynamic workplaces. They can handle high-pressure situations and enjoy a fast-paced work environment.
• Risk-Takers: ESTPs are not afraid to take calculated risks, which can be an asset in roles that involve innovation or entrepreneurship. They have the confidence to pursue new opportunities.

An ESTP brings a unique set of qualities and characteristics to the workplace.

Here’s what it’s like to work alongside an ESTP:

• Effective Communicators: ESTPs are proactive communicators and initiate conversations, offer assistance, and create a positive and open atmosphere for discussion. They enjoy networking and connecting with colleagues, which fosters a sense of camaraderie and team spirit.
• Leadership Qualities: ESTPs exhibit leadership qualities by taking charge and setting a proactive example for their colleagues. They are not hesitant to lead by action, whether it’s in taking on challenging tasks, making quick decisions, or motivating their team members.
• Pragmatic Approach: ESTPs pragmatic approach enhances efficiency and problem-solving within the team. Their ability to cut through complexity and make practical decisions can streamline processes, reduce confusion, and inspire a results-driven work environment.
• Conflict Resolution: ESTP colleagues often have a direct approach to resolving conflicts. They tackle issues head-on, aiming for practical solutions. Their willingness to address problems openly leads to quicker resolutions and smoother team dynamics.

Food and Hospitality

In the food and hospitality industry, strong interpersonal skills are essential for providing excellent customer service and building relationships with guests, which aligns well with the outgoing and social nature of ESTPs.

Here are some Food and Hospitality careers ESTPs can pursue:

1. Bartender

Bartending is an ideal career for ESTPs as their outgoing and friendly nature allows them to thrive in social environments where they can connect with others.

Primary Duties:

• Mix and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages according to established recipes and customer preferences.
• Monitor and manage the bar’s inventory of spirits, mixers, garnishes, glassware, and other supplies.
• Ensure responsible alcohol service by checking IDs, recognizing signs of intoxication, and refusing service when necessary.
• Set up the bar area before service and ensure it is clean and organized.

Skills Required:

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to provide top-notch customer service and make guests feel welcome.
• Meticulous attention to detail in preparing drinks, garnishing them, and maintaining a clean and organized bar.
• Problem-solving skills to resolve issues or conflicts with customers or within the bar environment.
• Ability to adapt to changing customer preferences, busy shifts, and unexpected situations.

Average Salary: $38,918 per year

2. Caterer

The role of a Caterer involves frequent interaction with clients and event attendees, which suits ESTPs’ desire to work in a social and outgoing environment, enabling them to engage with people and build rapport effectively.

Primary Duties:

• Oversee food preparation, including cooking, baking, and assembling dishes, often in large quantities, to serve multiple guests.
• Organize and manage various aspects of catering events, such as setup, serving, and cleanup.
• Ensure that the food is not only delicious but also visually appealing by carefully arranging dishes and maintaining food presentation standards.
• Interact with clients and event attendees to provide excellent customer service, address their needs, and handle special requests.

Skills Required:

• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple aspects of an event, from planning to execution.
• Time management skills to ensure that all tasks, from food preparation to set up and service, are completed on schedule.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to build rapport with clients.
• Problem-solving skills to resolve issues that may arise during events, such as last-minute changes or unexpected challenges.

Average Salary: $36,849 per year

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Aviation

ESTPs’ decisive nature gravitates toward careers in aviation, where quick decision-making and the ability to respond promptly to changing conditions are essential.

Here are some careers ESTP can pursue:

3. Aircraft Mechanic

The role of an Aircraft Mechanic is a natural fit for ESTPs as this position involves tasks such as inspecting, repairing, and maintaining aircraft, aligning with their preference for tactile work.

Primary Duties:

• Conduct routine inspections to assess the condition of the aircraft, including its engines, systems, and structures.
• Perform maintenance tasks and repairs to ensure that the aircraft remains in safe and operational condition, including fixing mechanical and technical issues.
• Replace and install aircraft components and parts, such as engines, landing gear, avionics, and other systems.

Skills Required:

• Strong problem-solving skills to diagnose and address complex mechanical and technical issues.
• Keen attention to detail to conduct inspections and maintain records.
• Communication skills to interact with other team members, engineers, and supervisors.
• Analytical thinking skills to analyze complex technical data and diagnostic information.

Average Salary: $74,640 per year

4. Flight Attendant

The role of a Flight Attendant suits ESTPs because it brings unexpected challenges and surprises, appealing to ESTPs who enjoy spontaneous and unpredictable situations.

Primary Duties:

• Address passenger requests for food, beverages, blankets, and other amenities during the flight.
• Ensure the safety of passengers and crew by conducting pre-flight safety briefings, demonstrating the use of safety equipment, and providing instructions during emergencies.
• Prepare the cabin for the flight, including checking and securing equipment, and ensuring seats and overhead bins are organized.
• Handle emergencies, such as in-flight medical issues, turbulence, or equipment malfunctions.

Skills Required:

• Strong organizational skills to efficiently manage cabin operations, meal service, and passenger needs.
• A keen eye for detail to ensure the cabin is clean, equipment is functioning correctly, and safety measures are followed.
• Communication skills to interact with both passengers and the flight crew to relay important information and address any issues promptly.
• Leadership skills to take charge in emergencies and ensure passenger safety.

Average Salary: $63,760 per year

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Construction

ESTPs find construction careers appealing because construction projects frequently involve fast-paced problem-solving in response to unexpected challenges, aligning well with their practical and adaptable nature.

Here are some Construction careers ESTPs can consider:

5. Surveyor

The role of a Surveyor is well-suited to ESTPs due to the dynamic nature of construction projects, which require quick and practical problem-solving in response to unexpected challenges, aligning well with their dynamic nature.

Primary Duties:

• Use specialized equipment, such as total stations and GPS devices, to accurately measure and record distances and elevations on land or in construction sites.
• Determine and demarcate property boundaries, land divisions, and legal property descriptions to establish ownership and property lines.
• Create topographic maps and charts that illustrate the natural and man-made features of an area.
• Provide precise measurements and reference points for construction projects.

Skills Required:

• Strong mathematical abilities for performing complex calculations, trigonometry, geometry, and data analysis.
• Keen attention to detail to ensure the accuracy of measurements, data, and mapping.
• Problem-solving skills to address challenges and discrepancies in survey data and measurements.
• Communication skills to interact with clients, team members, and other professionals,

Average Salary: $63,080 per year

6. Electrician

The role of an Electrician in the construction industry is particularly appealing to ESTPs because it requires practical and technical skills to diagnose, repair, and install electrical systems. ESTPs excel in jobs that involve hands-on problem-solving.

Primary Duties:

• Install, maintain, and repair electrical systems, wiring, and components in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
• Design and implement wiring systems, circuits, and connections to provide electrical power to lighting, appliances, equipment, and machinery.
• Ensure the safe operation of electrical systems and components by adhering to electrical codes and safety standards and conducting inspections and testing.
• Diagnose and resolve electrical issues and malfunctions by using technical knowledge.

Skills Required:

• Keen attention to detail to ensure the accuracy and safety of electrical work.
• Communication skills to collaborate with construction teams, project managers, and clients.
• Interpersonal skills to interact with clients, address their electrical needs and concerns, and provide a high level of service.
• Proficiency in handling and operating a wide range of electrical tools and equipment safely and effectively.

Average Salary: $60,240 per year

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Healthcare

ESTPs’ practical nature finds alignment in healthcare, especially in fields like surgery, where quick decision-making and hands-on procedures are integral.

Here are some careers ESTPs can pursue:

7. Orthopedic Surgeon

Orthopedic Surgeons deal with tricky bone and muscle problems that need quick problem-solving. ESTPs are good at handling such challenges and adapting to sudden changes in surgery.

Primary Duties:

• Assess patients’ medical histories, symptoms, and physical conditions to diagnose musculoskeletal issues and determine appropriate treatment plans.
• Perform orthopedic surgeries to treat various conditions, including fractures, joint replacements, ligament repairs, and spine surgeries.
• Recommend and provide non-surgical treatments, such as physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle modifications, when appropriate.
• Conduct preoperative assessments, including discussing the surgical procedure, risks, and benefits with patients.

Skills Required:

• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each patient’s unique condition.
• Manual dexterity to perform precise surgical procedures and techniques.
• Strong communication skills to explain diagnosis and treatment options to patients and collaborate with healthcare teams.

Average Salary: $371,400 per year

8. Anesthesiologist

The role of an Anesthesiologist involves making fast, crucial decisions in high-pressure situations and administering anesthesia, which aligns well with the action-oriented and practical nature of ESTPs.

Primary Duties:

• Evaluate patients’ medical histories, current health, and surgical needs to determine the appropriate anesthesia plan.
• Administer anesthesia drugs to induce and maintain a patient’s unconscious state, ensuring pain control and safety during surgery.
• Manage the patient’s airway to ensure proper breathing and oxygenation during anesthesia and surgery.
• Provide post-operative pain relief and ensure patients are comfortable during the recovery process.

Skills Required:

• Critical thinking skills to make rapid decisions in high-pressure situations and respond to unexpected medical emergencies.
• Strong communication skills to explain anesthesia options to patients and collaborate with surgical teams.
• Problem-solving skills to address anesthesia-related challenges and complications that may arise during surgery.
• Keen attention to detail to monitor patients’ vital signs and anesthesia levels continuously, ensuring their safety and comfort.

Average Salary: $302,970 per year

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Business

ESTPs excel in problem-solving and hands-on approaches, making them well-suited for the practical and solution-focused challenges frequently encountered in business environments.

Here are some Business careers ESTPs can consider:

9. Business Consultant

ESTPs’ practical problem-solving, adaptability, and quick decision-making skills make them an excellent fit for the role of a Business Consultant, where they address diverse challenges and offer impactful solutions across various industries and situations.

Primary Duties:

• Conduct in-depth assessments of a client’s business operations, identifying strengths and weaknesses and understanding their goals and challenges.
• Analyze financial, operational, and market data to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance business operations, reduce costs, increase revenue, and achieve long-term goals.
• Offer informed recommendations to clients, including process changes, organizational structure, technology, or market strategies.

Skills Required:

• Analytical skills to analyze complex data, identify patterns, and draw meaningful insights.
• Problem-solving mindset to address various business challenges and develop practical solutions.
• Excellent communication skills to convey ideas, recommendations, and complex concepts clearly to clients and team members.
• Strategic thinking skills to develop long-term plans to help organizations achieve their objectives.

Average Salary: $98,269 per year

10. Asset Manager

Asset Managers favor careers in asset management due to their quick decision-making nature, which aligns with the dynamic and risk-focused aspects of the field. 

Primary Duties:

• Conduct in-depth analysis of the assets in their portfolio, assessing their performance, value, and potential risks.
• Develop and implement strategies to maximize the value and return on investment for the assets under management.
• Identify potential risks associated with the assets and implement measures to mitigate those risks.
• Decide on the acquisition or sale of assets based on market conditions and the overall investment strategy.

Skills Required:

• Analytical skills to analyze asset performance, market trends, and financial data to make informed decisions.
• Strong communication skills to interact with clients, team members, and stakeholders.
• Problem-solving skills to address challenges related to asset management.
• Negotiation skills to make deals on behalf of clients.

Average Salary:$88,641 per year

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Finance

The fast-paced and dynamic nature of finance, which demands quick decision-making and responsiveness to market changes, aligns well with the decisive nature of ESTPs.

Here are some careers ESTPs can consider:

11. Equity Research Analyst

ESTPs enjoy the career of an Equity Research Analyst because their strong analytical and problem-solving aligns well with the demands of the dynamic financial sector.

Primary Duties:

• Conduct in-depth financial analysis of companies, industries, and market trends to provide investment recommendations.
• Evaluate the value of companies’ stocks or securities through various methods, such as discounted cash flow (DCF) and comparable company analysis (comps).
• Prepare detailed research reports that include financial models, investment theses, and recommendations for clients.
• Monitor financial markets, economic conditions, and industry developments to identify investment opportunities and risks.

Skills Required:

• Research skills to conduct market research, track trends, and interpret economic indicators.
• Communication skills to convey research findings and investment recommendations through written reports and presentations.
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills to assess and interpret financial data and market information.
• Decision-making skills to make informed and impactful investment decisions based on thorough analysis.

Average Salary: $77,158 per year

12. Portfolio Manager

ESTPs’ decisive nature suits the role of a Portfolio Manager, which involves making quick and impactful investment decisions to achieve results and deliver returns for clients.

Primary Duties:

• Create and implement investment strategies that align with clients’ financial goals, risk tolerance, and time horizons.
• Determine the allocation of assets within portfolios, including stocks, bonds, cash, and alternative investments, to optimize performance.
• Evaluate and select specific securities or investments to include in portfolios based on thorough analysis and research.
• Assess and manage the risks associated with investment portfolios, diversify assets to minimize risk, and employ hedging strategies.

Skills Required:

• Strong financial analysis skills to evaluate companies, industries, and market trends.
• Decision-making skills to select and adjust investments within portfolios to optimize performance.
• Communication skills to convey investment strategies, updates, and performance reports to clients or stakeholders.

Average Salary: $114,570 per year

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Information Technology

ESTPs enjoy careers in information technology due to their strong problem-solving skills and the dynamic nature of the field, where they can readily adapt to technological changes and apply their practical approach to troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges.

Here are some careers ESTPs can consider:

13. Web Administrator

ESTPs may be inclined toward careers as Web Administrators because these roles offer independence, hands-on tasks, and opportunities for specialization, aligning with their preference for autonomy and tangible results within the ever-evolving web administration environment.

Primary Duties:

• Update and maintain websites to ensure they remain functional, secure, and up to date.
• Manage website content, including text, images, videos, and other multimedia elements, to keep it current and engaging for visitors.
• Oversee web servers and hosting environments, configure server settings, and ensure website availability and performance.
• Implement security measures to protect websites from cyber threats, such as malware, hacking, and data breaches.

Skills Required:

• Problem-solving skills to identify and address technical issues related to website functionality, server performance, and content display.
• Proficiency in search engine optimization (SEO) techniques to improve website visibility and search engine ranking.
• Communication skills to work with team members, content creators, and external stakeholders.
• Time management skills to handle multiple tasks, updates, and troubleshooting while ensuring website availability.

Average Salary: $69,024 per year

14. Computer Network Architect

ESTPs enjoy the role of a Computer Network Architect due to their practical approach and strong problem-solving skills, which are essential in designing and managing complex network infrastructures. 

Primary Duties:

• Plan and design data communication networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and cloud-based networks.
• Evaluate the organization’s current network infrastructure, identify areas for improvement, and propose network enhancements or upgrades.
• Integrate security protocols, firewalls, and encryption measures into network designs to safeguard data and protect against cyber threats.
• Select appropriate network equipment, software, and protocols to ensure optimal network performance and reliability.

Skills Required:

• Strong problem-solving skills to analyze complex network issues and develop effective solutions.
• Analytical thinking skills to assess an organization’s network requirements and design solutions that align with business goals.
• Project management skills in project planning, budgeting, and coordination to oversee network projects and meet deadlines.

Average Salary: $126,900 per year

ESTPs bring a range of strengths to the workplace that set them apart.

Some of their key strengths include:

• Quick Thinking: ESTPs are quick-thinking decision makers. This allows an ESTP to find solutions to unexpected challenges efficiently, ensuring tasks stay on track and goals are met.
• Bold: ESTPs are known for their boldness, mental toughness, and competitive spirit. They are willing to take calculated risks to reach their objectives, which can lead to successful workplace outcomes.
• Personable and Sociable: ESTPs are highly personable and friendly individuals who excel in building relationships with a wide range of people. Their observant and perceptive nature allows them to connect with others effectively, making colleagues feel cared for and understood.
• Confident: ESTPs are confident individuals who readily assume leadership roles and excel in their chosen fields. In the workplace, this confidence empowers them to take charge, make decisions, and tackle challenges.

While ESTPs have several strengths in the workplace, they also have potential weaknesses that can impact their professional interactions and performance.

Here are some common weaknesses of ESTPs:

• Short-Term Focus: ESTPs are more focused on the present and the immediate future, sometimes neglecting long-term planning or strategic thinking, which can be essential for some roles and projects.
• Lack of Patience: ESTPs can become impatient when faced with slow-moving or bureaucratic processes. They may struggle to work in environments that require patience.
• Judgemental: ESTPs’ rapid judgment of situations and people based on initial perceptions can limit their ability to build valuable relationships and miss out on promising opportunities. In the workplace, this can hinder collaboration as it may lead to misunderstandings and misjudgments of their colleagues’ capabilities. 
• Difficulty with Routine or Repetition: Routine or monotonous tasks can be challenging for ESTPs because they thrive on variety and action. They may lose interest or become disengaged when confronted with repetitive work.
• Lack of Organization: ESTPs may struggle with maintaining order and tidiness in their personal and workspaces. This lack of organization can be a source of frustration for both the ESTPs themselves and their colleagues, who may be affected by the resulting inefficiencies and difficulties in finding necessary items or information.

While ESTPs can excel in a wide range of careers, there are specific jobs that don’t match well with their traits.

Here are some careers ESTPs can avoid:

Highly Isolated Roles

ESTPs should steer clear from the following highly isolated roles because they thrive on social interaction and dynamic work settings: 

• Freelance Writer: ESTPs are known for their friendly and action-oriented nature, making the solitary and unstructured nature of freelance writing unsuitable.
• Librarian: This job involves meticulous and repetitive tasks, which may not align with the ESTP’s preference for hands-on, dynamic work.
• Night Security Guard: The quiet, monotonous night shifts and limited social interaction of a Night Security Guard may not provide the stimulation and action that ESTPs typically seek.

Highly Regulated Professions

Highly regulated professions often come with strict rules, procedures, and protocols that leave little room for individual decision-making and flexibility.

ESTPs, who value independence and autonomy, may find the restrictions of the following jobs frustrating:

• Military Officer: The role of Military Officer requires strict adherence to protocols and a high degree of conformity, which may not align with the ESTP’s desire for independence.
• Regulatory Compliance Auditor: The role of a Regulatory Compliance Auditor involves auditing and ensuring adherence to strict regulations may feel restrictive to ESTPs who prefer more flexibility and autonomy in their work.
• Quality Control Inspector: This role involves rigorous adherence to quality standards and procedures, which may not provide the level of excitement and action that ESTPs typically seek in their careers.

Highly Unpredictable or Chaotic Environments

Highly unpredictable or chaotic environments may not be the best fit for ESTPs, as they thrive on action and excitement within a structured framework.

Here are some careers that may not align well with their preferences:

• Wildlife Photographer: ESTPs may find the unpredictable nature of a Wildlife Photographer challenging, as it can lead to inconsistent work opportunities and lack of structure.
• Disaster Relief Worker: Dealing with unpredictable, high-stress disaster situations can be overwhelming for ESTPs, who prefer more action and structured work settings.
• Event Planner: The role of an Event Planner involves managing large-scale events with countless variables and high unpredictability. This may not suit ESTPs, who thrive on action but enjoy more structure in their work environments.