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Operational Psychology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VENESCO LLC

Operational Psychologist

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$165K - $200K/yr

The Operational Psychologist applies behavioral science principles to optimize performance ... D.) in Clinical Psychology or Counseling Psychology from an APA-accredited institution.

Battelle

Operational Psychologist

Columbus, OH · On-site

Provide technical expertise, guidance, and direct services in the areas of clinical and operational psychology to SOF * Develop, plan and initiate unit level resiliency programs for preventing and ...

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How much do operational psychology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for operational psychology in the United States is $28.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $35.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operational psychologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operational Psychologist, you need a doctoral degree in psychology, licensure, expertise in psychological assessment, and a strong understanding of behavioral science in high-stakes environments. Familiarity with assessment tools, data analysis software, and security clearance procedures is typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, cultural competence, and adaptability allow for effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and clients in sensitive settings. These competencies are critical for providing actionable insights, supporting mission objectives, and ensuring psychological well-being in operational contexts.

How do you become an operational psychologist?

To become an operational psychologist, typically one needs a doctoral degree in psychology (Ph.D. or Psy.D.), along with specialized training in applied or industrial-organizational psychology. Certification or licensure is required in many regions, and experience in military, law enforcement, or high-stakes environments is often valued. Developing skills in assessment, decision-making, and stress management is also important for this role.

What is the difference between Operational Psychology vs Industrial-Organizational Psychology?

AspectOperational PsychologyIndustrial-Organizational Psychology
CredentialsOften requires psychology degrees, certifications in applied psychology, and specialized training in military or government settingsRequires psychology degrees, certifications in I-O psychology, and often a master's or doctorate in I-O psychology
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in military, government, or security settings focusing on personnel selection, training, and performancePrimarily in corporate, business, or organizational settings focusing on employee performance, engagement, and organizational development
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by military, defense agencies, and government organizationsUsed by corporations, consulting firms, and academic institutions

Operational Psychology focuses on applying psychological principles in military and government contexts, often emphasizing security and personnel performance. In contrast, Industrial-Organizational Psychology centers on improving workplace productivity, employee well-being, and organizational effectiveness in civilian industries. While both fields require psychology credentials, their work environments and employer types differ significantly.

How does an operational psychologist typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to support mission objectives?

Operational Psychologists frequently work alongside military, law enforcement, and intelligence professionals to provide psychological expertise that informs decision-making and mission planning. They may conduct behavioral assessments, consult on personnel selection, and advise commanders or team leaders on human factors impacting operations. Collaboration often involves participating in briefings, sharing insights during after-action reviews, and delivering training to enhance team effectiveness. This integrated approach ensures that psychological perspectives are considered at every stage of operational planning and execution.

What is operational psychology?

Operational psychology is a specialized field within psychology that applies behavioral science principles to support national security, military, and law enforcement operations. Professionals in this field use psychological expertise to assist with threat assessments, personnel selection, and the development of strategies for influencing behavior in operational settings. They may work with intelligence agencies, the military, or law enforcement to enhance decision-making and mission success. Operational psychologists often have advanced training in clinical or forensic psychology and are skilled at applying their knowledge in high-stakes, dynamic environments.

How much do operational psychologists make?

Operational psychologists typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often work in government, military, or security settings, requiring specialized training and security clearances.

What does an operational psychologist do?

An operational psychologist applies psychological principles to support military, law enforcement, or security operations. They assess personnel, develop training programs, and analyze performance to enhance decision-making, resilience, and effectiveness in high-stress environments. This role often requires strong analytical skills and knowledge of psychological testing and assessment tools.
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Operational Psychology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operational Psychology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,773 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Special Operations Operational Psychologist (AFSOC Unit/Fort Bragg, NC)

KBR, Inc.

Liberty, NC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

142nd of 449 rated engineering

Job description

Title:
Special Operations Operational Psychologist (AFSOC Unit/Fort Bragg, NC)
THIS POSITION OFFERS RELOCATION TO FORT BRAGG, NC.
A career at KBR can change the world - and change your life. If you're ready, let's get started.
The Special Operations Operational Psychologist shall provide technical expertise, guidance, and direct services in the areas of clinical and operational psychology to SOF. In concert with an existing active duty Operational Psychologist, or independently if no such active duty psychologist is available, the OP shall develop, plan and initiate unit level resiliency programs for preventing and treating behavioral health issues to support all aspects of service member readiness and resilience.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Provide technical expertise, consultation, and direct support in the areas of assessment and selection of personnel, operational support, individual/team/organizational assessment and performance enhancement, executive coaching and leadership development, research, conduct advanced training designed to maximize performance and resilience of SOF personnel to accomplish mission objectives in potentially time-constrained, high-stakes, ambiguous and hostile operating environments, and the provision of psychological services to unit members.
  • Conduct, administer, and interpret a full spectrum of psychological assessment measures and consult with command personnel; manage relevant process improvement, program validation, and related research; develop and manage appropriate personnel selection records and filing systems.
  • Conduct baseline and post-event neuropsychological screening and will collect/analyze data and monitor trends in psychological health as directed.
  • Responsible for management of referrals and disposition of referrals for behavioral health care.
  • Provide professional development and awareness education to leadership and SOF personnel as requested.
  • Provide crisis response and follow-up care in the event of unit casualties or other serious incidents.
  • Primary supporter of the assessment and selection of incoming personnel and provide feedback to unit leadership on suitability of personnel to serve within certain military organizations or positions.
  • Ability to manage relevant process improvements, program validations, and related research.
  • Mastery of psychological assessment, behavioral health, behavioral research, and familiarity with organizational effectiveness literature, operational psychology, performance enhancement and training, industrial/organizational psychology, and social and operational psychology.

Required Education/Experience/Skills/Training:
  • Position requires US Citizenship
  • This position requires a Secret Clearance or Top Secret Clearance, or the ability to obtain a clearance.
  • This position requires a Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) or Doctorate of Psychology (PsyD) from an American Psychology Association accredited college or university with a doctoral degree in clinical or counseling psychology. The OP shall have successfully completed an Internship/Residency in psychology accredited by the American Psychological Association.
  • Must have a minimum of two (2) years' post-doctoral experience within the past five (5) years in the independent practice of psychology in the area of the operational psychology, preferably in a Government setting such as a Department of Defense (DOD) or Intelligence Community (IC).
  • Must meet clinical competency requirements specified in the Service-specific credentialing instructions.
  • May be required to receive and maintain clinical practice privileges.
  • Shall have experience and training in the assessment and treatment of alcohol and substance abuse conditions, domestic violence, child abuse, post-traumatic stress, mood and anxiety conditions, and family/marital issues.
  • Licensure: Current, full, active, and unrestricted license to practice as a psychologist in one of any U.S. State, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico or U.S. Virgin Islands.
  • Shall have and maintain current certification in Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) as required for credentialing at servicing medical treatment facilities. Documentation of such training shall be provided to the Unit/Component COR annually. The front and back of the BCLS shall also be provided to the Credentialing Department of the MTF they are credentialed through.
  • Must maintain credentialing requirements in good standing at a local MTF.
  • Demonstrate computer literacy sufficient to operate a personal computer utilizing psychological test, word processing, database/spread sheet programs, and possess basic typing skills sufficient to efficiently produce the psychologist's own reports and correspondence.
  • Demonstrate a working knowledge of professional standards and ethics regarding the delivery of clinical psychology programs.
  • Oral and written communication skills in English.
  • One year of experience in performance enhancement or executive coaching as well as organizational assessment and consultation and/or completion of the USASOC Operational Psychology in Personnel Selection course or similar organizational psychology classes.
  • Training in critical incident/stress trauma interventions.
  • Capability of meeting the physical demands of selection and training events including the ability to hike over rough terrain, work long irregular hours with disruption in sleep cycles, and function in austere environments.
  • SERE orientation and/or certification through the Joint Personnel Recovery Agency (JPRA), or the willingness to obtain it.

Post-doctoral training, or willingness to obtain training, qualifying them as an Aerospace Psychologist as demonstrated by completion of USAF and/or USA aviation psychology training (USAFSAM's Air Force's Aviation Mishap Intervention and Prevention course and USASAM's Aeromedical Psychology Training Course). This is a requirement for AFSOC and other organizations with aviation capabilities only.
Standard Company Requirements:
  • Must comply with Safety, Health and Environmental plan, policies and procedures.
  • Must comply with the Quality Assurance plan, policies and procedures.
  • Must maintain regular and acceptable attendance.
  • Responsible for completing all required training.
  • Perform other assignments and duties, as required.

Desired Education/Experience/Skills/Training:
  • Experience working with physicians providing medical psychological services is desired

Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.
KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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About KBR

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At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998

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