Careers

Best Jobs for ADHD and Autism

Updated on March 6, 2024

Written by

Frank Gogol

Written by

Frank Gogol

I’m a firm believer that information is the key to financial freedom. On the Stilt Blog, I write about the complex topics — like finance, immigration, and technology — to help immigrants make the most of their lives in the U.S. Our content and brand have been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, and more.

See all posts Frank Gogol

Finding the right job can be a unique journey for individuals with ADHD or autism, as it’s important to find roles that match their strengths and work preferences. Below, we’ve curated a list of ten jobs that may be particularly suitable, taking into account factors like work environment, required social interaction, and the nature of tasks involved.

Computer Programmer

Average Salary: $62,841
Job Description: Computer programmers write and test the code that enables software applications to function. They often work in teams but can also work independently, making it a good fit for those who enjoy solitary work as well as collaboration.
Responsibilities: Writing, testing, and maintaining computer code; troubleshooting and debugging software.
Required Education: A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field is common, though not always required, especially for those with strong programming skills.

Data Analyst

Average Salary: $60,123
Job Description: Data analysts interpret complex datasets to help businesses make informed decisions. This role requires strong mathematical and analytical skills, and much of the work can be done independently.
Responsibilities: Analyzing data, creating reports, and communicating findings to stakeholders.
Required Education: Typically requires a bachelor’s degree in a field like mathematics, statistics, economics, or computer science.

Data Entry Clerk

Average Salary: $33,402
Job Description: Data entry clerks input, update, and maintain information in computer systems. This role often involves repetitive tasks and minimal social interaction, which might be suitable for individuals who thrive on routine.
Responsibilities: Entering and updating data, maintaining records.
Required Education: Usually requires a high school diploma.

Dog Trainer

Average Salary: $35,722
Job Description: Dog trainers work with animals to teach them behaviors and assist their owners in understanding and managing their pets. This job can be ideal for individuals who connect well with animals and prefer minimal human interaction.
Responsibilities: Training dogs in basic commands and behaviors, working with pet owners.
Required Education: No formal education required, but certification can be beneficial.

Gardener

Average Salary: $36,248
Job Description: Gardeners maintain and cultivate gardens, working with plants to create beautiful landscapes. This outdoor job can be perfect for individuals who enjoy solitary, hands-on work.
Responsibilities: Planting, pruning, weeding, and general maintenance of garden areas.
Required Education: No formal education required, though knowledge of horticulture can be advantageous.

Janitor

Average Salary: $28,989
Job Description: Janitors keep buildings clean and maintained. The work is mostly independent and involves a variety of cleaning tasks.
Responsibilities: Cleaning, garbage removal, minor repairs.
Required Education: High school diploma is often sufficient.

Librarian

Average Salary: $50,167
Job Description: Librarians manage library resources and assist patrons. This job involves organizational skills and a quiet, structured environment, which may appeal to some individuals on the autism spectrum.
Responsibilities: Managing collections, assisting library users, organizing documents.
Required Education: A master’s degree in library science is typically required.

Mechanical Engineer

Average Salary: $70,427
Job Description: Mechanical engineers design, develop, and test mechanical devices. This role requires problem-solving skills and the ability to work on projects independently or as part of a team.
Responsibilities: Designing and testing mechanical products, collaborating with a team.
Required Education: A bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field.

Photographer

Average Salary: $46,179
Job Description: Photographers capture images for a variety of purposes. This creative field allows for flexibility in work environment and can be suitable for those who prefer project-based work.
Responsibilities: Taking photographs, editing images, managing client relationships.
Required Education: No formal education required, though courses in photography can enhance skills.

Software Engineer

Average Salary: Not specified
Job Description: Software engineers design and develop software systems. This role often involves both independent work and collaboration within a team, ideal for those who can shift between solitary tasks and group projects.
Responsibilities: Designing software, writing and testing code, troubleshooting software issues.
Required Education: A bachelor’s degree in software engineering, computer science, or a related field is typically required.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a career is a significant decision for anyone, but for individuals with ADHD or autism, it’s crucial to find roles that align with their unique strengths and preferences. The jobs listed above offer a range of environments and tasks that might suit the skills and work styles of those with ADHD or autism, from solitary, routine tasks to creative, project-based Sources

Other Jobs in Demographic-Specific Opportunities

Sources

https://www.appliedbehavioranalysisprograms.com/30-great-jobs-for-people-on-the-autism-spectrum/

Frank Gogol

See author's posts

Best Jobs for ADHD and Autism

Computer Programmer

Data Analyst

Data Entry Clerk

Dog Trainer

Gardener

Janitor

Librarian

Mechanical Engineer

Photographer

Software Engineer

Final Thoughts

Other Jobs in Demographic-Specific Opportunities

Sources

Frank Gogol

Get the Checklist