Text Size

Translate Page

Call 1800 276 276

Finding jobs for people living with back pain

If you’re living with back pain and looking for a job, it can be difficult to know where to start. That's why helping you find a fulfilling job in a workplace that supports your physical well-being is our mission.

Banner feature
A man working in a warehouse sitting down and resting his sore back

Find a job that works for you

If you're living with back pain and looking for work, you aren't alone. Many people with back pain are also seeking roles or are actively working in their desired fields.

Finding meaningful work that accommodates your strengths and physical needs can be challenging. Our mission is to support individuals living with back pain in securing fulfilling employment and thriving in workplaces that prioritise their well-being and adaptability.

Finding meaningful work can:

  • Provide a sense of independence and control
  • Improve your quality of life with routine and structure
  • Enable financial independence
  • Build your confidence
  • Help you develop new skills for personal growth

Below, you’ll find tips on discovering your strengths, figuring out what you need in a job, and exploring roles that might be a great fit for you as someone with a bad back. Your journey and situation are your own, and discovering what will work for you is an essential part of that journey.

Keep reading for tips on finding a job as someone living with back pain.

Get support

Register for APM Disability Employment Services

 
 

What to look for in a job as someone living with back pain

Individuals living with back pain are fully capable of finding meaningful and fulfilling work in a variety of roles and workplaces.

Physical abilities, skills, and interests vary from person to person, so there is no single job that is ideal for everyone managing back pain.

When searching for a job, focus on finding a role that accommodates your physical needs, highlights your strengths, and aligns with your unique abilities and interests.

While every person’s experience with back pain is different, you may want to consider the following job features:

What physical requirements work best for me?

Do you need a job with minimal physical demands that won't worsen your back pain?

Would you benefit from tasks that don't require heavy lifting, bending, or prolonged exertion?

Consider roles where the physical requirements align with your comfort and health needs.

What work environment supports my health?

Do you work best in an office with ergonomic furniture and equipment?

Would you benefit from a workplace that prioritizes employee well-being, such as providing adjustable desks or supportive chairs?

Consider environments that promote physical comfort and long-term health.

How can a flexible schedule help me?

Do you need a job with flexible hours to allow for breaks or rest periods when needed?

Would a role with adjustable work hours help you better manage your back pain?

Look for opportunities that offer the flexibility to accommodate your physical needs throughout the day.

Get support

Job ideas for people with back pain

Every experience living with back pain is unique, which means there’s no one-size-fits-all list of jobs that will work for everyone.

However, here are some ideas to help you explore what kind of employment might suit you best.

As you review these job suggestions, consider your unique strengths, abilities, and physical needs. If you’re unsure about which job might be right for you, we’re here to help.

Speaking with one of APM’s employment consultants can assist you in discovering workplaces you may not have considered before and finding roles that align with your skills and physical needs.

Jobs with flexible working options

  • Virtual assistant
  • Customer support representative (remote)
  • Content writer
  • Graphic designer
  • Proofreader/editor
  • Administrative assistant
  • Online tutor
  • Technical support specialist

Jobs with low social interactions and ergonomic considerations

  • Freelance copywriter
  • Data analyst
  • Web developer
  • Digital marketing specialist
  • Quality assurance tester
  • Archivist
  • Librarian
  • Medical records technician

Jobs that allow movement

  • Physical therapy aide
  • Tour guide
  • Retail associate
  • Mail carrier
  • Dog walker
  • Park ranger
  • Photographer
  • Event coordinator
A woman using a standing desk in an open-plan office

* Please note that these job suggestions may not be suitable for every person living with back pain. These job suggestions may suit some people depending on their circumstances including, but not limited to, their current experience as someone living with back pain.

What employment support can I access?

If you're living with an injury, illness or disability, there is support available to help you reach your goals.

If you are eligible for Disability Employment Services, APM can provide support to assist you to find work. Disability Employment Services is a government-funded program designed to help you find and keep work and is provided at no cost to participants.

We can help with:

  • Career advice
  • Finding suitable job opportunities
  • Meeting local employers
  • Writing resumes and job applications
  • Preparing for job interviews
  • Accessing training
  • Accessing mental health support
  • Ongoing workplace support
  • Accessing funding for things like uniforms and transport
  • Accessing workplace modifications to help you succeed at work
  • Workplace assessments to help identify what support is right for you
Get support
An APM employee in a black polo smiles in conversation with a DES participant

Ready to get started?

Register now to see if you’re eligible for our, Disability Employment Services program and start your employment journey.

Get support

More about Disability Employment Services


"It gives me a purpose and a reason to get out of bed."

Video transcript | More success stories

Jeff's story


"Going to APM was just the best thing ever."

Video transcript | More success stories

Leonie's story


"It definitely has boosted my confidence."

Video transcript | More success stories

Maegan's story

Get a personal job plan

APM can help you find fulfilling work by building you a job plan that’s tailored to your needs.

Identify your strengths:

  • Your life experiences, including managing back pain, can bring unique strengths to the workplace—not just your work history.
  • Your strengths might include problem-solving, resilience, adaptability, attention to detail, empathy, dedication, and much more, all of which are valuable in many roles.
  • Identifying your strengths on your own can be hard. If you need a hand, our team at APM would love to help. Our goal is to help you find a job that suits your strengths, skills and interests, and we are committed to supporting you throughout the entire process.

Building a job program around you:

  • Explore job options that accommodate your physical needs and allow you to succeed
  • Develop a personal strategy that includes job searches, resumes and interviews
  • Discuss your specific support needs with potential employers, such as flexible hours or accommodations
  • Consider any requirements for ergonomic equipment or workplace modifications to help you perform your job comfortably
  • Plan for any additional support you might need as you transition into the workplace, such as regular check-ins or adjustments to your workload

Get started in three easy steps

Step one

Register with us, and we'll be in touch in the next few days to discuss your eligibility and how to join DES with APM.

artwork of a job seeker registering for DES with APM
Step two

If you're eligible, you'll meet your APM employment consultant and tell them your interests, goals and challenges.

artwork of a DES participant meeting an APM consultant
Step three

You get to work with your employment consultant and start your plan for new skills, training or a job that’s right for you.

DES0029__Stage-3

Our support doesn't stop when you start working

We also want to make sure you and your employer have everything you need to be a success together.

Depending on your level of support and the job you start, we work together to make sure you’re able to work safely and effectively.

This can include helping you access training, job coaching, performance monitoring, and understanding the workplace culture and what is expected from you.

We also support workplaces with proactive education to be aware of any impacts your disability may have so we can help avoid any misunderstandings and create a culture of support and inclusion.

If you need ongoing support for long periods of time we will also discuss this with you and establish a support structure.

Our goal is to see you enjoy rewarding and long-term employment and ensure you have the right level of support to succeed.

Get in touch with our teams to find out more.

Get support
DES participant Ngaire with her employer and APM consultant walking outside a rural property

Other advice and resources that may help you find a job

How to craft the perfect resume for people living with a disability

In this guide to resume writing for people with disability, you will find information about what to put in your resume, how to structure it and ways to make it stand out.

Read more

An illustration of three people working on a giant resume
How to find your dream job

Explore various strategies to find your dream job. From internet searches to networking and cold calling, discover effective job-hunting techniques.

Read more

Two cafe workers standing at the front counter
Tips for a successful job interview

Get tips for a successful job interview. Learn how to prepare, answer common questions, and make a positive impression on your potential employer.

Read more

A man smiling during a job interview

About this article

APM supports people with disability, injury, or a health condition through various programs and services across its businesses, including Disability Employment Services in Australia.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

When discussing disability, APM’s copy style is to use person-first language and the social model of disability in the first instance. Some articles may use identity-first language or refer to the medical model of disability for clarity or to better suit a specific audience.

If you have any questions or feedback about the content of this article, visit our Feedback page to get in touch or email support@apm.net.au