Exciting news for individuals with autism and their families! A recent study has discovered five amazing job sectors where people on the autism spectrum can really shine. Did you know that many companies are now creating welcoming workplaces that value the unique skills and abilities of neurodivergent employees? This groundbreaking research is giving hope to countless individuals and their loved ones, showing that a bright future filled with fulfilling careers is within reach.
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Computer Programmer
You and I know kids with autism often have a knack for coding. Their ability to focus intensely on details and their logical thinking patterns make them a perfect fit for this field. In addition, programming jobs often provide a structured environment and clear-cut tasks, which can be a great comfort for individuals on the spectrum.
Moreover, the tech industry increasingly recognizes the value of neurodivergent employees. Companies like Microsoft and SAP have even launched hiring initiatives targeting individuals with autism. They understand that these individuals bring a unique perspective and set of skills that can drive innovation and problem-solving.
Read more: How To Help Autistic Teens Transition to Adulthood: Tips for Parents & Caregivers
Web Developer
Another field that can be a great fit for people with autism is web development. Web developers create websites, applications, and other online platforms. This job requires strong visual skills and attention to detail, qualities often found in individuals on the spectrum.
Besides, web development offers the flexibility of remote work, which can be a boon for those who prefer a familiar and controlled environment. It also allows for a lot of creative expression, providing a satisfying outlet for those with a keen aesthetic sense.
Data Analyst
Those with autism should consider data analysis jobs. This job requires attention to detail, pattern recognition, and logical thinking – strengths many people with autism possess. As a data analyst, one would be responsible for inspecting, cleansing, transforming, and modeling data to discover useful information, suggesting conclusions, and supporting decision-making.
Furthermore, this field is growing rapidly with the rise of big data and machine learning, meaning there are plenty of job opportunities. And just like programming and web development, data analysis can often be done remotely, providing additional flexibility.
Dog Trainer
Last but certainly not least, let’s remember jobs that involve working with animals, such as a dog trainer. Many people with autism have a special affinity for animals and find great joy and comfort in their company. Training dogs requires patience, consistency, and a deep understanding of animal behavior – all skills that can be honed by individuals on the spectrum.
Moreover, working with animals can provide therapeutic benefits and contribute to overall well-being. So, this job doesn’t just provide a paycheck but also a sense of fulfillment and happiness.
Read more: What Are Good Jobs for Someone With ADHD?
Lab Technician or Research Scientist
For those more inclined toward the sciences, roles such as lab technician or research scientist can be a good fit. These roles involve a highly specialized area in a field of interest that may attract people with autism. The structured environment of a lab and the opportunity to delve deep into a specific area of interest can be highly satisfying for individuals on the spectrum.
Not to mention, these roles contribute to meaningful advancements in science and technology, giving a sense of purpose and fulfillment to the work being done.
How To Determine the Best-Fit Job:
The journey of figuring out which career is best is not exactly black and white. But it is exciting and feasible! We recommend trying a 4-fold strategy:
- Make a list of areas of obsessive interest.
- Ask the question: what are your passions?
- Make a list of strengths.
- What skills are hardwired? Are you a visual learner? Are verbal skills a challenge? Then, list out careers that play to those strengths and take a look at which ones align with those discovered from the obsessive interest list.
- Make a list of the potential triggers that may result from the careers that aligned with both skills and passion.
- Are there careers that include triggers that simply cannot be worked around? Which ones can?
- Create a visual schedule that can help create a routine for the job. Goally is a great option for this, as the personal device can be taken to any job in any context. If you can incorporate visual schedules into the job, you are probably on the right track!
Goally | Skills Training Videos for Kids
Does your child need some extra guidance on building essential life skills? Goally’s TV app for kids has the most robust video library of skills training videos for kids. Ranging from content like “How to Brush Your Teeth” to “How to Make Friends at School,” we have dozens of interactive video lessons for kids with thinking and learning differences.
Dive into the Goal Mine channel, where Puffy the Penguin leads your child through behavior skills training videos. They’ll learn social, hygiene, and living skills that are key to their independence. For those moments when they need a break, the Chill Zone channel offers low stimulation video content with Paulie the Penguin at the beach, perfect for relaxation and self-regulation.
Final Thoughts
In wrapping up, it’s evident that the job market is teeming with opportunities well-suited for individuals with autism. The key is to identify your child’s strengths, interests, and needs and align them with the right career path. Remember, the goal is not just to find a job but to find a job where your child can thrive, contribute, and find fulfillment. Your child can certainly carve out a successful career path with the right support and guidance.
Resources:
- Autism Speaks: Employment – A comprehensive resource on employment for individuals with autism, including job search tools and success stories.
- National Autistic Society: Work – This UK-based organization provides information on finding a job, workplace rights, and more.
- Applied Behavior Analysis EDU: 5 Great Jobs for Individuals with High Functioning Autism or Asperger’s Syndrome – A detailed look at job opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum.
FAQs About Jobs for People With Autism
What are some common strengths of individuals with autism? Common strengths of individuals with autism include being great with animals, high-performing technical skills, having a great long-term memory, and being visually oriented.
What jobs should individuals with autism avoid? Jobs that require sharp short-term memory, overwhelming interpersonal interactions, or dealing with high levels of stress and unpredictability, such as cashier, receptionist, taxi dispatcher, or airline ticket dealer, may be challenging for individuals with autism.
How can parents help their children with autism find the right job? Parents can help their children with autism find the right job by identifying their passions and areas of obsessive interest, understanding their strengths and challenges, considering potential triggers, and incorporating visual schedules to create a routine.
Are there any specific tools or resources that can aid in job search for individuals with autism? Yes, visual schedules, emotional regulation apps, and rewards systems can be helpful tools to support individuals with autism in their job search and daily work routines.
Can individuals with autism excel in their chosen careers? Absolutely! With the right support, accommodations, and a career that aligns with their strengths and interests, individuals with autism can excel and make significant contributions in their chosen careers.
This post was originally published on May 27, 2021. It was updated on 05/08/2024.
Emily is a seasoned blog writer for Goally, leveraging her extensive background in child psychology and special education to provide valuable insights and resources for parents. Her commitment to understanding and addressing the unique needs of these children, combined with her expertise in educational strategies, makes her a credible and empathetic voice for families.
