Breaking Barriers: Top 20 Jobs for People with Disabilities in 2024
#accessibility #accessiblejobs
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (1), the unemployment rate among people living with disabilities was just under 8 percent in 2022.
The good news is that this stat has decreased by 2.5 percentage points from the previous year, indicating employment is on the rise within the disabled community.
Thanks to advancements in the assistive technologies space and the growing awareness of physical and online accessibility requirements, disabilities are no longer a barrier to work.
People living with disabilities are just as capable of contributing to society as anyone else and the growing number of job opportunities is a testament to this.
And if you’re currently searching for a job, we have outlined some of the best jobs for people with disabilities below.
People with learning or mental disabilities still possess a diverse range of skills, so the jobs they choose will depend on their individual strengths and weaknesses as well as support needs.
Receptionists, data entry clerks, and admin assistants are all ideal for those with mental or learning disabilities. This is mainly because they require structured routines and repetitive or organized tasks.
Customer Service – Avg. Salary: $33,000
Whether in-person or over the phone, someone with strong interpersonal and communication skills can thrive in a customer service role. This could include answering inquiries and assisting and supporting customers.
Restaurant hosting and assisting in hotels and kitchens is another role that’s ideal for people with learning and mental disabilities. Again, this is due to the structured nature of these roles as well as the opportunity to work as part of a team.
Many people within the disabled community have strong and unique creative talents that can be put to good use in fields such as music, photography, and graphic design.
Due to the organized and repetitive nature of jobs in the manufacturing and assembly space, roles such as packaging, quality control, and product assembly make for the best jobs for people with mental and learning disabilities.
People struggling with physical limitations due to injury or disease are better suited to roles that are office-based and require little to no manual labor. Naturally, the nature of the physical disability will play a role in the position that can be fulfilled.
While this does require a specific qualification, a role as an accountant is ideal for someone with a physical disability because it can be done from home or an office. What’s more, accountants are capable of earning high-paying salaries, particularly if they move into an auditing role.
As a desk-based role, human resources is another area that people with physical disabilities should explore, particularly if they have good communication and interpersonal skills. The role can also be applied across a wide variety of sectors, which is an added benefit.
The technology sector is forever growing and evolving, which means IT professionals will always be in demand. This is another role that can be performed from almost anywhere, provided you have the right equipment.
As more brands shift their focus to digital marketing, web designers, especially those with strong creative and technological skills, can earn an excellent salary. Again, this is another role that can be fulfilled from home or at an accessible office.
There are so many topics that counseling touches on, making it one of the most interesting and fulfilling jobs for people with physical disabilities. An added benefit is that you can counsel clients from home or even online.
Even though visual and hearing disabilities may come across as barriers to work, they’re anything but, particularly with the abundance of assistive technology available today. Here are some of the best jobs for people with hearing and visual disabilities.
Marketing covers a wide spectrum of skills, which means professionals with hearing and visual disabilities have an array of jobs available to them. From copywriting and social media marketing to marketing management, with the help of assistive technology, anyone can fulfill one or more of these types of roles.
Assistive technology and software development go hand in hand. With the right tools and knowledge, this is a job that can be done by anyone from home or an office.
Visual and hearing disabilities do not have to prevent them from teaching others. With knowledge of specific topics, good communication skills, and the right tools, it’s possible to be a tutor from anywhere.
Businesses, banks, insurance companies, and pension funds all rely on financial analysts to help their businesses thrive. Even those with hearing and visual impairments are able to advise businesses and people on how to spend and invest their hard-earned money.
Preparing documents, research, admin, providing quotes, and interviewing people are all tasks that people with disabilities are able to perform as a paralegal.
Working from home is more common than ever before, which means the disabled community has even more job opportunities available to them.
Depending on what you choose to sell, eCommerce can be a lucrative opportunity. What’s more, setting up an online store is simple with platforms such as Shopify, Wix, and BigCommerce.
Converting audio notes from medical professionals into written notes is another way to make money from home as a person living with disabilities. This job requires strong listening skills, familiarity with medical terminology, and accurate typing abilities.
Businesses across the globe need call center agents to field queries and handle complaints from customers, a job that can easily be performed at home with a phone and assistive technology.
Companies are unable to make informed decisions without the right information, which is where online researchers come in. It helps to have knowledge of specific topics for certain projects, but for everything else, all you need is a strong internet connection and logical thinking skills.
As more businesses prioritize accessibility, the demand for consultants who can guide them during this process has risen. There are several accessibility certifications available that can get you started on this career path.
Many people living with disabilities are concerned about their Social Security Disability Insurance once they start considering finding employment.
The good news is that even if you’re currently receiving insurance payments, the law dictates that you’re still permitted to engage in meaningful work, but there are caps on what you’re able to earn in a given month.
The best option is to contact your Social Security case manager to find out more about what your options are based on your current disability and the benefits you receive.
If you are given the go-ahead to work, you now have some options to start with.
With the help of technology and the right skills, it is possible for people living with disabilities to conquer the working world and fulfill their professional dreams and ambitions, and these jobs are a good place to start.
Hi Jacqueline,
Here are some employment opportunities tailored for individuals with intellectual disabilities:
(1) Grocery Store Clerk: Many grocery stores hire individuals with intellectual disabilities to work as clerks, assisting customers, stocking shelves, or bagging groceries. This role provides opportunities for social interaction and building organizational skills.
(2) Office Assistant: Entry-level office positions such as filing clerk, mailroom assistant, or office aide can be suitable for individuals with intellectual disabilities who excel in structured environments and routine tasks.
(3) Cafeteria Worker: Schools, hospitals, and corporate cafeterias often hire individuals with disabilities to work in food service roles, such as assisting with meal preparation, serving food, or cleaning tables. This job offers hands-on experience in a team-oriented environment.
(4) Hotel Housekeeper: Many hotels and resorts employ individuals with disabilities as housekeepers, responsible for cleaning guest rooms, replenishing supplies, and maintaining cleanliness throughout the facility. This role offers a structured routine and the opportunity to work independently.
(5) Retail Stock Clerk: Retail stores frequently hire individuals with intellectual disabilities to work as stock clerks, responsible for unpacking shipments, organizing merchandise, and maintaining inventory levels. This position allows for physical activity and may offer opportunities for advancement within the company.
Hi Vengadesh,
Seek out companies recognized for their support and inclusivity towards employees with diverse needs. Some organizations have programs specifically designed to assist individuals with disabilities. Additionally, use online job platforms such as Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor to find entry-level clerical positions. Hope this information can advance your job search and help you find a position that matches your interests and skills. Best of luck!
Hi Kamla,
I’m sorry to hear about your challenges. Look for a suitable position as a cashier or warehouse worker by searching job boards such as Indeed and LinkedIn. Use search terms like “inclusive” or “accessible”. Also, attempt to apply to employers such as Walmart, Amazon, and Target, which are recognized for recruiting people from diverse backgrounds.
These resources are available to assist you, so don’t be hesitant to reach out to them. Good luck!
Hi Hassan,
Great! Here are some resources to help you find work as a graphic designer, especially tailored for someone with a disability:
Job Search Platforms
Upwork: Freelance platform with many graphic design opportunities.
Fiverr: Offer graphic design services to a global market.
Indeed: Search for remote graphic design jobs.
FlexJobs: Curated remote and flexible job listings.
Behance: Showcase your portfolio and connect with potential clients.
I hope you find this information useful.
Hi Loretha,
Sure! Here are some work-from-home job options for individuals with disabilities:
Job Options
(1) Customer Service Representative
Virtual Assistant
Data Entry Clerk
Content Writer/Editor
Graphic Designer
Social Media Manager
Web Developer
Online Tutor
(2) Transcriptionist
Freelance Writer/Designer
Job Search Platforms
These roles and resources can help you find suitable work-from-home employment.
Hi Wangu,
Thanks for your message. Firstly, highlight your relevant experience in logistics and administration. Emphasize key skills such as project management, logistics coordination, and team leadership.
Also, use platforms like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn to search for senior admin positions in logistics.
I hope you find this helpful.
Hi Rakesh,
Here are some job options suitable for individuals with disabilities:
Remote and Office-Based Jobs such as Customer Service Representative, Data Entry Clerk, Content Writer/Editor, Virtual Assistant can provide administrative support to businesses from home.
These options can help you find suitable employment that accommodates your abilities and needs.
Hi Ganapavarapu,
Here are some job options suitable for individuals with disabilities:
Remote and Office-Based Jobs such as Customer Service Representative, Data Entry Clerk, Content Writer/Editor, Virtual Assistant can provide administrative support to businesses from home.
These options can help you find suitable employment that accommodates your abilities and needs.
Hi Thea,
Given your extensive experience and ability to work within government policies, consider these options:
(1) Government Jobs: Apply for administrative and client service roles on government job portals.
(2) Nonprofits: Organizations like the National Disability Authority may have relevant job openings.
(3) Job Boards: Check AbilityJobs and other disability-specific job sites for suitable positions.
These options can leverage your skills and accommodate your needs. Let me know if you need more help. Thanks.
Hi. I am a skilled person with disability, however, from the Philippines. I am just wondering if the institution welcome applicants continuing career or job opportunities regardless of the country originating from? I am soon to retire from government service at 65. And modesty aside, I attend to children with special health needs oral health, behavior assessment and management. I perform the American Sign Language or ASL for the Deaf. Hoping for a favorable response. Thank you very much.
Hi Gerry,
Many international institutions welcome skilled applicants regardless of their country of origin. Here are some options for you:
(1) Remote Work Platforms: Websites like Upwork and Remote.co offer remote job opportunities worldwide.
(2) International Job Boards: Websites like Indeed and LinkedIn have global job listings.
(3) Specialized Platforms: Sites like FlexJobs and AbilityJobs cater to skilled workers with disabilities.
These platforms often value diverse experiences and skills, making them suitable for continuing your career globally. I hope you find this information useful. Thank you.
Hi Joshua,
To find a suitable job, you may consider these steps:
(1) Update Resume: Emphasize your qualifications, skills, and resilience.
(2) Network: Connect with organizations that support disabled professionals.
(3) Inclusive Employers: Apply to companies known for hiring and supporting disabled employees.
I hope you find this information useful. Thank you.
Hi Mercy,
For your son, consider these job options:
(1) Office Assistant: Assisting with clerical tasks and organization.
(2) Retail Associate: Providing customer service and assistance in a store.
(3) Cafeteria Worker: Assisting in food preparation and service.
(4) Janitorial Staff: Performing cleaning duties in various facilities.
These roles typically offer entry-level positions and can accommodate different levels of ability. This should help.
Hi Alexis,
Consider these work-from-home jobs for a visually impaired person skilled in administrative tasks with a college degree:
(1) Virtual Assistant
(2) Data Entry Specialist
(3) Remote Administrative Coordinator
(4) Online Customer Support
(5) Transcriptionist
I hope you find this information useful.
This article is very short sighted. Knowing their strengths and how to compensate for their limitations and building a like that takes those things into consideration is nothing new to disabled adults. They had to figure that out just to get to the point in their lives when they’re ready for work. It’s VERY basic to recommend a desk job for someone with limited mobility, etc. The real challenges are: 1) figuring out how to pay for adaptive equipment that would even the playing field, and 2) overcoming the ignorance, misinformation and stigma that will prevent disabled people from getting hired in the first place. That is way more disabling that any diagnoses.
Hi Takyra,
You may consider these job options for a single mother like you, with hearing impairment who recently received a cochlear implant:
(1) Remote Customer Support: Flexible hours and work from home.
(2) Data Entry Specialist: Minimal communication required, can work remotely.
(3) Content Writing/Editing: Flexible, home-based, minimal auditory demands.
(4) Administrative Assistant: Organizational tasks, possible remote work.
I hope you find this information useful.
Hi Brenda,
You might excel in roles such as:
(1) Shelf stocker in retail stores or supermarkets.
(2) Housekeeping roles in hotels or residential facilities.
(3) Inventory management assistant, where your organizational skills are valued over your math abilities.
These positions prioritize your strengths in stocking and cleaning while minimizing the need for extensive math skills.
Hi Gladys,
Here are some suitable summer jobs for a 14-year-old boy with intellectual disabilities:
Assisting with simple tasks at a local community center or library.
Helping with gardening or basic landscaping for neighbors or local businesses.
Assisting at a pet shelter with feeding, cleaning, or socializing animals.
Working at a local farm or farmer’s market, helping with basic chores or selling produce.
Assisting with light cleaning or organizing tasks at a small business or family-owned shop.
Helping out at a summer camp for children with disabilities, providing support and assistance under supervision.
Hi Christo,
You could explore careers in accessibility consulting, software development with a focus on accessibility features, or audio transcription. Additionally, you might consider roles in customer service, where verbal communication skills can be more heavily relied upon, or pursue freelance writing or editing positions. This should help
Hi to all my Senior management. Hope you good I am from Pakistan I am disabled person I lost my right leg in car accident but I am walking Easily in Artificial Leg I have Done Bachelor Of STATISTICS I am jobless currently I need your help kindly reply me back if anyone support me [email protected] this is my email address
Hi Marie,
Given your background as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Caregiver, there are several part-time job opportunities that can be done either from home or in an accessible work environment. Here are some job ideas and resources to help you find suitable employment:
(1) Remote Health Advisor/Patient Care Coordinator:
Use your healthcare experience to provide remote support and coordination for patients. Companies like telehealth services and healthcare providers often hire for these roles.
(2) Virtual Customer Service Representative:
Many companies hire remote customer service representatives to handle calls, emails, and chat support.
(3) Medical Transcriptionist:
Transcribe medical records from home. This role leverages your healthcare background and can often be done part-time.
I hope you find this information helpful.
Hi Charles,
Here’s a job suggestion suitable for someone with a leg disability: Customer Service Representative (Remote).
In today’s digital age, many companies offer remote customer service positions that can be performed from the comfort of home. This role typically involves interacting with customers via phone, email, or chat to assist with inquiries, resolve issues, and provide support.
Hi Charles,
Finding a job that accommodates a leg disability and allows you to work from home or in an accessible environment is essential. Here are steps and resources to help you in your job search:
(1) Assess your skills, experiences, and interests to determine the types of jobs you are best suited for.
(2) Search for Remote and Accessible Jobs by using job boards that specialize in remote and accessible job listings.
(3) Join professional groups and networks related to your field of interest. Attend virtual job fairs and webinars.
I hope this answers your question.
Hi Hillary,
I’m sorry to hear about your stroke, but it’s great that you’re looking to find work from home. Here are steps to help you apply for remote jobs, even without prior experience.
1. Identify Your Strengths and Interests. Think about what tasks you enjoy or have some familiarity with. Consider roles that require skills you can easily learn, such as customer service, data entry, or virtual assistance.
2. Create a Resume and Cover Letter. Explain your eagerness to learn and adapt, emphasizing your trainability.
3. Search for Entry-Level Remote Jobs. Use sites like Indeed, FlexJobs, Remote.co, and We Work Remotely.
4. Prepare for Interviews and practice Common Questions: Be ready to discuss your adaptability, willingness to learn, and how you overcame challenges.
By following these steps, you can increase your chances of securing a remote job. Good luck!
Hi Tyraneshia,
Here are some concise job suggestions for a person with a disability:
Remote Work: Customer Service Representative, Data Entry Specialist, and Content Writer/Editor
Freelancing: Graphic Designer, Web Developer, and Social Media Manager
Creative and Artistic Roles: Artist/Illustrator, Craftsperson, and Photographer
Education and Training: Tutor, and Online Course Instructor
Administrative Roles: Virtual Assistant, and Bookkeeper
These roles offer flexibility and can be tailored to individual needs.
Hi Naresh,
Here are some job suggestions that can be suitable for individuals with various types of disabilities, emphasizing flexibility, accessibility, and inclusiveness: Customer Service Representative, Social Media Manager, Artist/Illustrator, Online Course Instructor and Medical Transcriptionist.
I’m looking for a job I have a class five I feel the best job for me would be a delivery driver I have been out of work since 2014 I feel I’m ready to work my disability is hip replacement bad knees and ankles and tendonitis in my right hand and my neck is not great I know I can drive and deliver packages I’m very responsible and reliable
Hi Roy,
Given your situation and skills, becoming a delivery driver sounds like a feasible option. Here are some steps to help you find a job as a delivery driver:
(1) Update Your Resume. Highlight your driving experience, reliability, and any other relevant skills. Even if you’ve been out of work since 2014, include any volunteer work or tasks you’ve done that show your responsibility and reliability.
(2) Look for Job Listings, websites like Indeed, Monster, and Glassdoor have numerous listings for delivery driver positions. Tailor your search to your location and type of work you’re looking for.
(3) Consider Gig Economy Opportunities. Rideshare and Delivery Apps, and Companies like Uber Eats, DoorDash, Postmates, and Instacart often have flexible delivery driver positions. These roles can be a good fit if you need flexibility due to your disability.
Hope this works for you.
Hi Neha,
There are many job opportunities suitable for people with disabilities, particularly in fields that offer remote work, such as customer service, data entry, content writing, and software development. Creative roles like graphic design and educational roles like tutoring are also viable options. Key resources include job boards like AbilityJobs and organizations like Lime Connect and Job Accommodation Network (JAN). Inclusive employers and programs, such as Microsoft’s Autism Hiring Program, can also be valuable. Utilizing assistive technology and understanding legal rights, such as those provided by the ADA, can further support job seekers with disabilities.
I hope you find this information useful.
Hi Che,
Absolutely! There are several job opportunities that can be suitable for adults with intellectual and learning disabilities beyond the food and grocery store industries. Here are some suggestions:
(1) Retail and Customer Service Stock Clerk, helping with inventory, stocking shelves, and organizing merchandise; or Cashier, operating cash registers with appropriate training and support.
(2) Office and Clerical Work, such as Data Entry Clerk, involves entering information into databases or spreadsheets or receptionists answering phones, greeting visitors, and managing appointments.
(3) Healthcare and Elderly Care, such as Therapy Aides, who Assist physical or occupational therapists with basic tasks, or Caregiver Assistants, who support caregivers in nursing homes or assisted living facilities with non-medical tasks.
I hope you find this information useful.
Hi Dora,
I’m sorry to hear about your situation. Here are some helpful steps in applying for jobs as a disabled adult:
(1) Prepare Your Resume and Cover Letter: Highlight your skills and experiences, focusing on remote work capabilities.
(2) Set Up Job Alerts: Use job boards to set up email alerts for new postings that match your criteria.
(3) Leverage Networking: Use LinkedIn to connect with professionals and join groups focused on remote work or disability employment.
These resources should help you find and apply for suitable job opportunities. Good luck with your job search!
Hi Nicole,
Finding work-from-home employment as a non-ambulatory adult is feasible, especially given the rise of remote work opportunities across various industries. Here are several suggestions to help you get started: Assess your skills, experience, and interests to identify the type of work that suits you best. Utilize job search websites dedicated to remote work or those with remote work filters, and, most especially, tailor your resume to highlight relevant remote work skills.
My 29 year old son is a college graduate but still lives at home. He is in physical good shape, no issues, but suffers from anxiety and OCD, He cannot work in an office or bar/restaurant environment, too much background noise. Any ideas of a good position, preferably that starts after 10 AM, EST.
Hi Doug,
Given your son’s situation, here are some job ideas that accommodate his anxiety and OCD, minimize background noise, and offer flexible start times, preferably after 10 AM EST:
(1) Freelance Writer/Editor: He can work from home and set his own hours.
(2) Graphic Designer: Many roles allow for flexible hours and remote work.
(3) Virtual Assistant: He can support businesses remotely with administrative tasks.
(4) Data Entry Specialist: Often offers flexible hours and remote work options.
(5) Online Tutor: Teaching students virtually, with the ability to choose session times.
(6) Transcriptionist: Converting audio to text from a quiet home environment.
(7) Customer Service Representative (Remote): Many companies offer flexible schedules.
(8) Remote Project Manager: Managing projects remotely with flexible hours.
These roles can provide the quiet environment and flexible scheduling that he needs, helping him manage his anxiety and OCD effectively.
Hi Mohd,
Here are some top jobs for people with disabilities in 2024, considering accessibility, inclusivity, and remote work options:
Customer Service Representative
Graphic Designer
Data Entry Specialist
Content Writer
Social Media Manager
Virtual Assistant
Web Developer
Online Tutor
IT Support Specialist
Market Research Analyst
Transcriptionist
Quality Assurance Tester
Interpreter/Translator
Customer Success Manager
These roles are selected for their potential for flexibility, remote work, and accessible environments. Hope this information helps.
Hi Savita,
Finding a work-from-home job that suits your skills and needs is very achievable, especially with the growing availability of remote positions. Here are some steps and resources to help you get started:
(1) Assess Your Skills: Identify your strengths, whether they are in customer service, writing, graphic design, programming, data entry, etc.
(2) Check out job boards that specialize in remote work, such as: Remote.co, Upwork, and Indeed.
(3) Customize your resume and cover letter for each job application to highlight relevant skills and experience.
I hope you find this information useful.
Hi Shahbaz,
Given your specialization as a Shopify Developer and Frontend Developer, there are several avenues you can explore to find remote work opportunities tailored to your skills and accommodate your needs as a person with a disability. To connect with clients in need of Shopify development services, consider enrolling in the Shopify Experts program. You might also want to have a look at some remote job boards, such as We Work Remotely, which lists jobs for remote workers in a variety of industries. Another option is to use Upwork, a freelance marketplace where you may market your abilities and services.
I hope you find the information useful.
Hi Leynette,
Finding a work-from-home job that suits your skills and needs can be a great way to earn income while accommodating your disability. You can try looking for work in Upwork, a platform where you can offer your skills on a freelance basis. Jobs range from writing and graphic design to programming and customer service. Freelancer is another platform for finding freelance work in a variety of fields.
Goodluck! Let me know if you need more help.
Hi Leynette,
Looking for work from home jobs can be a great way to get opportunities. You may wish to have a look at some remote job boards, such as We Work Remotely, which provides job postings for remote roles in a variety of sectors. Another option is to use Upwork, a freelance marketplace where you may market your abilities and services.
I hope you find this information useful.
