Are you living with autism and want to start working?
Whatever your skills, abilities and challenges are, there is a diverse range of jobs for people with autism.
At APM, we’ve seen first-hand how having a job can be beneficial for adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Asperger's syndrome falls under the umbrella of autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
Some people living with autism may identify as having Asperger's syndrome as they may have been previously diagnosed with it, however the term has not been used in diagnosis since before 2013.
People living with autism have different levels of support needs, and can have fulfilling and active roles in the wider community.
Working in a safe and supportive environment can give you a new outlook on life and help you learn new skills. As well as earning money, working also helps connect you with other people in a meaningful way.
What type of jobs are right for you?
Everyone has their own set of skills, strengths and abilities. It’s important that you find work where you can use your strengths and feel confident about doing your job.
Talking with a professional can help you identify your skills and strengths and help you find job opportunities that are suitable for you.
Consider:
- What are my strengths? Are you a strong visual thinker with an excellent long term memory? Are you good with numbers and facts? Think about how your skills and strengths make you a valuable addition to different types of workplaces.
- What tasks do I perform best with? Do you find it difficult to multitask? Do you work best with repetitive tasks that have a clear endpoint? Think about the types of jobs that will empower you to do your best work.
- What environment do I work best in? Do you function best in a quiet, odourless environment? Do you find social interaction challenging? Think about which types of workplaces would be most safe and supportive for you.
10 Great jobs for people with autism
1. Computer programmer
If you’re a visual thinker with a curiosity about coding, you might enjoy working as a computer programmer. Computer programmers can work as freelancers or as part of a larger company.
2. Equipment engineer
Equipment engineers help create, monitor and improve equipment for a wide range of industries. This is a great career opportunity for visual thinkers who are good at problem solving and decision making.
3. Laboratory technician
Lab technicians run tests and record data accurately. If you pay attention to details and are good with scientific thinking, this might be a fulfilling role for you.
4. Mechanic
Mechanics build and repair different types of machinery such as cars, air conditioning or bicycles. If you are good at problem solving and like to have a clear end point for your work, a job as a mechanic might interest you.
5. Factory assembly
Do you thrive with repetition and clearly defined tasks? You might be a great factory worker. In this role you could do tasks such as assembling parts, sorting and packing products and operating machinery.
6. Taxi driver
If you’re great at memorising things and have a good sense of space, taxi driving might be a rewarding job for you. Taxi drivers who have excellent knowledge of the local area can choose the most efficient way to bring people to their destination.
7. Appliance repairer
Do you have a knack for fixing things? Appliance repairers help fix and install appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines and ovens. You might enjoy this role if you like tasks with a clear end point and are good at problem solving.
8. Statistician or data scientist
Statisticians look closely at data and apply mathematical techniques to help solve real-world problems. You might find this a fulfilling career choice if you’re good with numbers and can work methodically.
9. Shelf stocker
Stocking shelves in a department store or grocery store could be a good job if you work best with repetitive tasks. You’ll need to be able to lift and carry boxes as well as organise products on the shelf.
10. Researcher
If you have a special passion or interest, you could turn that into a career as a researcher. Researchers work in all sorts of fields from mathematics to literature, physics and history. Their job involves collecting and analysing data, information and facts.
For expert advice about searching for jobs, writing resumes and managing job interviews, check out our guide on how to get a job with autism.
Need help finding work? APM can help.
For many people with Autism, finding meaningful employment can be challenging.
If you want to work but are having trouble finding a job, help is available. You could be eligible for a government-funded initiative called Disability Employment Services (DES) program.
At APM, we believe everyone has the right to experience the life changing benefits of work.
Through our Disability Employment Services program, we’ve helped thousands of job seekers find meaningful and valuable work. And we’re ready to help you too.
Our employment support services can help you with:
- Identifying your strengths and skills
- Finding suitable job opportunities
- Writing resumes and job applications
- Preparing for job interviews
- Support to stay in work and do your job with confidence