Top 20 Jobs For Adults With Special Needs & Resources in 2024

Adults with special needs and disabilities have the right to live, work and develop independently, just like anyone else. However, while jobs are primarily designed for common needs, finding a job for special needs that fits their unique requirements and abilities can be challenging, but not impossible.

Let’s keep in mind that people with disabilities face higher unemployment and underemployment rates than the general population. Despite this landscape, there are many opportunities of jobs for special needs people to find meaningful employment. Some of these jobs you would have never even thought of.

This article will mainly target people with deaf impairments, wheelchair users, visually impaired, and mentally and learning disabled people in the US, nevertheless, these jobs are a great option for any type of disability. We will discuss job descriptions, median wages, and employment outlooks for these occupations, to provide the tools on what better suits different needs.

Looking for jobs for adults with special needs? We invite you to have a look at our list of jobs for disabled people to find and apply to inclusive job offers that might interest you.

Here are the best jobs for people with special needs:

1.  Personal care aide

This job is all about assisting individuals with disabilities or chronic illnesses with personal care tasks such as bathing, dressing, and grooming. It may be suitable for people with learning or other disabilities who have great empathy and compassion for others. 

The median hourly wage for personal care aides is $12.

The employment outlook is very promising with a growth of 34% due to the aging population and the increasing demand for long-term care services.

2.  Translator

In this job, you will be translating written or spoken language from one language to another. It may be suitable for blind or deaf adults and in general with special needs because you can work on a freelance basis, providing translation services to clients remotely. In addition to having fluency in multiple languages, translators must have strong writing and communication skills, and sign languages as well as braille are great advantages.

The average annual wage is $53,000 with the highest 10% earning more than $98,670.

The employment outlook is projected to grow by 20%, which is one of the faster-growing occupations.

3.  Video editor

If you like editing and creating videos for websites, social media, or other platforms, this is the job for you. It is also suitable for people with mental disabilities who are detail-oriented, interested in video creation, and can work independently.

The median annual wage for video editors was $65,690 in May 2020.

The employment outlook for video editors is expected to grow by 18% in the coming years, much faster than the average for all occupations. As businesses and individuals continue to produce more video content, the need for skilled video editors is expected to increase.

4.  Animal caretaker

This job involves caring for animals in a shelter or veterinary clinic, sometimes even in your own home. It is mostly suitable for those who have a love for animals and can perform tasks such as feeding, cleaning, and exercising them. Besides, the advantage of animals being therapeutic for those with special needs is very appreciated.

It has a median hourly wage of $12.

And its employment outlook is expected to grow by 16%. This growth is due to the increasing demand for pet services, as well as the need for animal care in zoos, shelters, and veterinary clinics.

5. Landscaper

This job is about maintaining outdoor spaces, including planting, pruning, and mowing. It may be suitable for individuals who enjoy working outdoors and can perform physical tasks, therefore it can be quite beneficial for people with mental disabilities.

The median hourly wage for landscapers and groundskeepers is $14.

The employment outlook for landscapers and groundskeepers is expected to grow by 8% from 2019 to 2029, which is still faster than the average for all occupations.

6. Social media manager

For this position, you will manage social media accounts for businesses or organizations. It is suitable for individuals with ADHD or OCD who are tech-savvy and enjoy social media.

The median annual wage for social media managers was $135,900 in May 2020.

The employment outlook for social media managers is positive, projected to grow 10% until 2029 due to the increasing importance of social media and the need for companies to have a strong social media presence to connect with customers.

7. Food service worker

This involves working in a restaurant or café, preparing food, serving customers, and cleaning up. It could be good for individuals with learning and mental disabilities who need structured work and clear processes to follow.

As of 2021, the median hourly wage for food service workers was $14.32, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, fast food workers may make closer to minimum wage, while experienced chefs or restaurant managers may earn significantly more.

In terms of employment outlook, the BLS predicts growth of about 6% until 2030, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations.

8. Office Assistant

The task here is assisting with administrative duties such as filing, answering phones, and scheduling appointments. It may be suitable for individuals with physical disabilities who can operate a computer and handle the paperwork.

An office assistant is expected to earn an average of $41,030 per year.

The employment outlook for office assistants is expected to grow by 5% from 2019 to 2029. This growth is due to the continued need for administrative support in a variety of industries, including healthcare, education, and government.

9. Janitorial staff

This job involves cleaning and maintaining buildings. It may be suitable for individuals with physical disabilities, but it is in general a very suitable job for all types of abilities. The main tasks are sweeping, mopping, and dusting, earning $13.95 per hour on average. The lowest 10% earned less than $9, and the highest 10% earned more than $22.

The employment outlook for janitors and cleaners is expected to grow by 4% in the next years. Additionally, there may be increased demand for janitorial staff due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, as businesses and facilities prioritize cleanliness and sanitation to prevent the spread of the virus.

Looking for jobs for adults with special needs? We invite you to have a look at our list of jobs for disabled people to find and apply to inclusive job offers that might interest you.

10. Tutor

This job is based on providing academic support to students. It may be suitable for individuals with ADHD, OCD, or physical disabilities who have strong academic skills and enjoy working with children.

Despite the lack of data on median wages for tutors, the employment outlook is good as it is expected to grow by 4% until 2029.

Additionally, as more students pursue online or hybrid learning options, there may be an increased need for tutors who can provide remote support.

11. Artist

This job involves creating visual or performance art such as paintings, sculptures, music, or theater. It is greatly suggested for people with various disabilities who have artistic skills and can express themselves through their art.

The median annual wage for artists varies widely depending on their specific occupation.

For example, the median annual wage for fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators, rounds to $51,000, while for multimedia artists and animators is $77,700.

The employment outlook for artists varies but overall is projected to grow 4% from 2019 to 2029. However, competition for jobs in the arts is expected to be strong, and many artists may find it difficult to earn a living solely from their creative work.

12. Graphic designer

If you enjoy creating visual designs for websites, logos, or other products, this job fits you. It is mainly suitable for people with ADHD or OCD who are creative and detail-oriented. It also offers the advantage of working from home.

Graphic designers make around $56,000 per year. The lowest decile earned less than $32,850, and the highest 10% earned more than $98,430.

The employment outlook for graphic designers is expected to grow by 3% due to the increasing demand for graphic design services, particularly in the digital and multimedia industries. Opportunities for advancement within the graphic design industry may also exist, such as becoming a senior designer or creative director.

13. Freelance writer

As a freelancer writer you will write content for websites, blogs, or other publications and mostly from home. It is great for adults with ADHD or OCD who enjoy writing and can work independently. And in general for those who can benefit from working from home.

There is no specific data on the median wages for freelance writers as they typically work on a project-by-project basis and their earnings can vary widely based on factors such as their level of experience, the type of writing they do, and the rates they negotiate with clients.

However, the employment outlook is expected to grow by 2% in the next years. However, competition for freelance writing assignments can be intense, and writers may need to develop a strong portfolio and network of clients to establish a sustainable income.

14. Library assistant

This job involves assisting patrons with finding books and other resources, shelving books, and performing administrative tasks. It may be suitable for individuals with physical disabilities who can operate a computer and provide customer services.

The median annual wage for library assistants is around $28000.

The employment outlook is expected to grow by 2%, not a big growth because as digital resources become more prevalent, some libraries may shift their focus away from traditional tasks such as shelving books and processing materials, which could affect the demand for library assistant positions.

15. Retail sales associate

In this position you will be working in a store, assisting customers with purchases, and stocking shelves. It is suitable for those with physical disabilities such as wheelchair users who can operate a cash register and help customers. It may only require minor adjustments for mobility.

The median hourly wage for this job is around $12 per hour.

However, wages may vary depending on the location, type of store, and level of experience. In terms of employment outlook, it is projected a 2% decline in employment for retail salespersons from 2019 to 2029.

16. Customer service representative

This job involves answering customer inquiries and resolving issues. It could be good for adults with hearing or speech impairments who can communicate effectively through written communication.

The median annual wage for customer service representatives rounds to $34,000.

The employment outlook, however, is expected to decline slightly by 2% due to advances in technology and automation. But, there will still be demand for customer service representatives in industries such as healthcare, insurance, and finance, where there is a need for personalized service and support.

17. Data entry clerk

This job involves entering data into a computer system. It is a great fit for people with physical and mental disabilities who can type accurately and pay attention to details.

Data entry clerks earned around $34,000 in 2020. The lowest 10 % earned less than $23,000, and the highest 10% earned more than $52,000.

Despite the employment outlook being expected to decline by 7% in the next 6 years, there will still be demand for data entry keyers in industries such as healthcare, insurance, and finance, where there is a need for accurate data entry and record keeping. Additionally, there may be opportunities for data entry clerks in online roles.

18. Medical transcriptionist

As a medical transcriptionist your main activity focuses on listening to audio recordings made by healthcare professionals and transcribing the audio into medical reports, patient histories, and other medical documents. It may be suitable for individuals with physical disabilities who have excellent listening skills, strong attention to detail, and a good understanding of medical terminology.

The median annual wage for medical transcriptionists is around $35,000 and the employment outlook projects a decline of 2%. However, the main opportunities are in the specialization in certain areas, such as legal or insurance transcription.

19. Telephone operator

These people work answering and directing calls in a specialized center. It may be suitable for individuals with movement limitations who can work from home.

The median hourly wage for telephone operators was $15.54 in May 2020. Its employment outlook is declining rapidly due to advances in technology that allow people to handle many of the tasks traditionally performed by telephone operators.

20. Assembly line worker

This job involves working on an assembly line, and putting together products or parts. It may be suitable for individuals with physical or mental disabilities who prefer performing repetitive tasks and have good manual dexterity.

The median hourly wage for assemblers and fabricators is $16 and the employment outlook projects a decline of 5%.

Programs For People With Special Needs That Support Their Job Searching

Here are some resources available in the USA to support adults with special needs in their job search:

-The Ticket to Work Program is designed to provide free training for individuals between the ages of 18 and 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits and wish to pursue employment opportunities.

–AbilityOne.gov assists individuals who are visually impaired or have significant disabilities in finding employment. Nonprofit agencies across the country offer job openings through this program.

–State vocational rehabilitation agencies offer support in terms of job skill development and assistance with job searches.

-The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) runs an internship program that offers students valuable work experience and mentoring to help them succeed in their careers.

–Easterseals provides employment services that include career exploration, job search assistance, job assessment, case management services, access to technology and digital literacy training, transportation support, and other necessary skills and services to aid in finding a job.

-The Workforce Recruitment Program for College Students with Disabilities (WRP) connects college students and recent graduates with disabilities who are eager to showcase their abilities with private businesses and federal agencies.

-The U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration (ETA) offers training and employment assistance specifically for individuals with disabilities.

–My Disability Jobs is the largest job site catering to people with disabilities. It serves as a platform for businesses, governments, and nonprofits to connect with talented job seekers.

These programs and resources aim to support individuals with special needs in their pursuit of employment opportunities.

Looking for jobs for adults with special needs? We invite you to have a look at our list of jobs for disabled people to find and apply to inclusive job offers that might interest you.

Conclusion

As we could see, there are a variety of job opportunities available for individuals with special needs or disabilities in the US. These jobs can provide fulfilling work and financial stability to those who may face challenges in the job market at the same time it goes along with their interests.

It’s essential for employers to create an inclusive workplace that supports the unique needs of these individuals, and for job seekers with disabilities to seek out resources and programs that can help them find the right job for their skills and abilities.

The employment outlook for many of these jobs is positive, with many projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations. This bodes well for adults with special needs or disabilities who are seeking employment. By focusing on their strengths and unique abilities, and by taking advantage of the resources available to them, individuals with special needs can find fulfilling and successful careers in a variety of fields.

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