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Operational Psychology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KBR

$87K - $120K/yr

... of operational psychology to special operations forces (SOF). Essential Duties & Responsibilities: May develop, plan and initiate resiliency programs for preventing and treating behavior health ...

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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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What states have the most Operational Psychology jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Operational Psychology jobs look for?

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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 Clinical Psychologist (Fort Bragg, NC)

KBR

Fayetteville, NC • On-site

$81K - $112K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

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 Clinical Psychologist (Fort Bragg, NC)

Sign-on bonus of up to $10K may be available to qualified, selected candidates (eligibility requirements may apply). Current KBR employees are not eligible to receive sign-on bonuses.

THIS POSITION OFFERS RELOCATION.

Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR!

KBR is a company of innovators, thinkers, creators, explorers, volunteers, and dreamers; but we all share one goal: to improve the world responsibly and safely.Wemaintaina highly qualified workforce to help care for service people and astronauts across the world.We attract the best minds because ourexpertisethrives on creativity, resourcefulness, and collaboration. That is how we supply our clients withcutting-edgesolutions and services.

TheSpecial OperationsClinical Psychologist will provide technical expertise, guidance, and direct clinical service in the area of operational psychology to Special Operations Forces (SOF).

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

May develop, plan and initiate resiliency programs for preventing and treatingbehavioralhealth issues to support all aspects of a servicemember'sreadiness and resiliency.

Conduct psychological evaluationsutilizinginformation from clinical interviews, psychological testing, and collateral sources, asappropriate.

Practice within the guidelines of their state licensing board, American Psychological Association Ethical Principles and Code of Conduct, and MTF privileges.

Establishpsychiatric diagnoses according to the American Psychiatric Association Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Disorders including providing psychological treatment for individuals and groups, helping medical and surgical patients deal with illnesses or injuries, andassistingin rehabilitation of patients.

Required Education/Experience/Skills/Training:

Position requires U.S. Citizenship.

This position requires a Secret Clearanceor Top, Secret Clearanceor the ability to obtain a clearance.

Doctorateof Philosophy(PhD) orDoctorateof Psychology(PsyD) from an American Psychology Association accredited college or university with a doctoral degree in clinical or counseling psychology.

Successful completion of an Internship/Residency in psychology accredited by the American Psychological Association.

A minimum of two (2)yearspeer-reviewable practice of clinical work ina mental health setting.

Providers must be able to meet clinical competency requirements specified in the Service-specific credentialing instructions.

Licensure: Current, full, active, and unrestricted license to practice as a psychologist in any U.S. State, the District of Columbia, Guam, PuertoRicoor U.S. Virgin Islands.

Obtain practice privileges fromthe servicingmilitary medical treatment facility.

Standard CompanyRequirements:

Mustcomply withSafety, Health and Environmental plan,policiesand procedures.

Mustcomply withthe Quality Assurance plan,policiesand procedures.

Mustmaintainregular and acceptable attendance.

Responsible for completing all required training.

Perform other assignments and duties, asrequired.

DesiredEducation/Experience/Skills/Training:

Experience working in a government setting such as DoD or Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) MTF.

  • Candidatehaspreviousmilitary background/experience.

KBR Benefits

KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule.We support career advancement through professional training and development.

Click here to learn more:KBR Benefits New | KBR

#POTFF #HPKBR

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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