Industrial-Organizational Psychologists
Apply principles of psychology to human resources, administration, management, sales, and marketing problems. Activities may include policy planning; employee testing and selection, training, and development; and organizational development and analysis. May work with management to organize the work setting to improve worker productivity.
SOC: 19-3032.00
Common Job Titles
I-O Psychologist (Industrial-Organizational Psychologist)Organizational ConsultantOrganizational PsychologistResearch Scientist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeEvaluate organizational systems and processes using systems evaluation methodologies to improve worker productivity and organizational effectiveness.Advanced
- KnowledgeAnalyze workforce data and employee performance metrics using statistical software (SPSS, SAS) to inform human resource policies and talent management decisions.Advanced
- KnowledgeDesign employee assessment, selection, and development programs applying psychometric principles and testing methodologies independently for organizational clients.Advanced
- MindsetIntegrate psychological principles with organizational goals when consulting with management on policy planning and strategic human resource initiatives.Advanced
- KnowledgeInterpret complex psychological research findings and assessment results for diverse stakeholders including executives, HR professionals, and employees.Advanced
- MindsetAdvocate evidence-based human resource practices when advising organizational leaders on employee selection, training, and development strategies.Advanced
- KnowledgeSynthesize research from psychology, organizational behavior, and human resources domains to develop innovative solutions for workplace challenges and organizational development.Advanced
- KnowledgeFormulate staffing strategies and talent acquisition frameworks aligned with organizational objectives and compliance with employment law requirements.Advanced
- KnowledgeAssess training needs and learning strategies collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to optimize employee development programs.Proficient
- MindsetEngage organizational stakeholders at multiple levels to establish trusted advisory relationships and facilitate change management initiatives.Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Industrial-Organizational Psychologists (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
1,050
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $51,880 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $224,590 |
| Workers on average earn | $134,400 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Personnel and Human Resources4.9/5
- Psychology4.8/5
- Education and Training4.5/5
- Administration and Management4.0/5
- Mathematics4.0/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Adobe AcrobatGoogle SheetsHypertext markup language HTMLIBM SPSS StatisticsMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft ProjectMicrosoft VisioMicrosoft WordOracle PeopleSoftSAS
Technology Skills
Assessment Systems Corporation XCALIBREHuman resource information system (HRIS)Learning management system LMSMentimeterMuthen & Muthen MplusPadletPsychometric testing softwareScientific Software International BILOG-MG
Tools & Equipment
Data input scannersDesktop computersLaptop computersLiquid crystal display LCD video projectorsPersonal computersUniversal serial bus USB flash drives