Navigating the job market can be an overwhelming task for individuals with disabilities. Managing work-from-home and in-office roles while accommodating one’s abilities can be a limiting factor. That said, there is no shortage of job opportunities where individuals with disabilities can thrive, including remote work, freelance opportunities, customer service roles, and much more.
Keep reading to learn more about the best jobs for individuals with disabilities and their specifications, including recommended job categories, easy-to-manage jobs for disabled adults, and our favorite resources for disabled job seekers, such as dedicated job boards like the U.S. Department of Labor’s Job Accommodation Network (JAN) and abilityjobs.com.
Let’s not forget how website accessibility overlay widgets like Accessibly can help your mobile applications increase ADA and WCAG compliance.
Top Job Categories for the Disabled
Here are the top jobs for individuals with disabilities, along with a brief description, examples, and day-to-day expectations:
1. Remote Work Opportunities
One of the best job options for people with physical disabilities is remote work, which eliminates many physical barriers that an office setting may present. Remote collaboration tools like Zoom and Slack help coordinate meetings with coworkers. Fortunately, there are numerous accessibility solutions for those with mental or learning disabilities to use these tools effectively.
Examples of remote work opportunities for individuals with disabilities include software developers, language teachers, freelance writers, and data entry assistants. All of these are excellent desk jobs for people with physical disabilities.
Assistive technologies that people with physical disabilities can use while working remotely include screen readers (e.g., JAWS and NVDA), speech recognition software (e.g., Dragon NaturallySpeaking for the visually impaired), and other relevant tools.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that all employers provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities, which may include employing assistive technologies, modifying workstations or seat height, or similar initiatives.
Available Jobs: Software Developer, Language Teacher, Freelance Writer, Data Analyst, Customer Support Representative
2. Freelance Opportunities
Another area where individuals with physical disabilities can excel is through freelancing. According to the Freelancers Union, 36% of U.S. workers are freelancers, making it a natural fit for disabled adults who prefer better workload management.
Examples of freelance opportunities for individuals with disabilities include graphic designers, freelance writers, local designers, and web developers. These professionals can use accessibility software like Adobe Creative Cloud, PDF accessibility checkers, and more.
One of the most essential aspects of freelance opportunities is easy access to keyboard shortcuts. Today, many editing programs allow for easy keyboard shortcuts, even personalized ones, so that you can access your most commonly used commands at the press of a button. Be sure to have a strong resume and cover letter ready for these work-from-home jobs.
Available Jobs: Amazon FBA Coach, Copywriter, Technical Writer, Editor/Proofreader, Legal Consultant
3. Customer Service Roles
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, close to 25% of people working in the customer service industry have a partial or total disability. Job titles range from small business customer service associates to primary airline call center agents.
Today, these roles can benefit from accessible tools like screen magnification and speech recognition software, allowing employees with disabilities to participate in the workforce.
Available Jobs: Call Center Agent, Technical Support Specialist, Chat Support Representative, Client Relations Associate, Customer Service Rep
4. Administrative Assistants
One of the best jobs for individuals with disabilities is an administrative assistant. This position includes a variety of job titles, from office coordinator to data entry specialist, and there are plenty of tools available to assist with everyday tasks, such as data entry and logging hours into Google Documents.
Two of these tools are teaching software and screen readers, which allow spoken language to be converted into written text or displayed on a computer screen and converted into audio, making it easier for the visually impaired to digest information.
We’re also big fans of magnification tools that enlarge every element on the screen, allowing people with low peripheral vision to access digital content. These tools can be applied to everything from spreadsheets to PDFs.
For people with physical disabilities, there are ergonomic tools like elevated workstations or adjustable-height desks for individuals with physical disabilities, which can help wheelchair users become more productive and limit fatigue. This applies to a wide range of jobs, including government positions, remote work opportunities, customer service roles, data entry, writing, editing, virtual assistance, and more. All of these do an excellent job assisting people with disabilities.
Available Jobs: Office Coordinator, Data Entry Specialist, Executive Assistant, Receptionist, Project Coordinator
5. Creative Fields (Writing, Graphic Design, etc.)
Creative fields such as graphic design and architecture allow disabled employees to express their creativity.
These fields offer a flexible work environment without the need for traditional office settings. Additionally, they celebrate inclusivity by giving individuals with disabilities artistic expression.
There are also many assistive technologies used to facilitate creative expression, such as speech recognition software, which allows users to dictate writing instead of typing it. Additionally, word prediction software and text-to-speech software assist users in composing text or converting written text into spoken words, enabling real-time corrections.
Lastly, numerous writing assistance tools, such as Grammarly and Hemingway Editor, provide real-time spelling and grammar suggestions. These tools are excellent for individuals who have problems with verbal communication skills, and those with visual or hearing disabilities.
Available Jobs: Content Writer, Copywriter, Illustrator, Video Editor, Social Media Content Creator, Web Designer, Content Writer Editor Virtual, Data Entry Clerk Content
Jobs for Disabled Adults
When entering the workforce, one of the first things that individuals with disabilities may consider is easy jobs. Some disabled adults may prefer these roles due to the minimal physical activity required.
Here are four recommended easy jobs for disabled adults to consider with reasons why they may fit well into the everyday lifestyles of individuals with disabilities. Some may require computer skills.
6. Data Entry
Data entry involves minimal physical effort, primarily requiring the entry of information into Excel sheets. It offers many remote opportunities, making it ideal for individuals with disabilities who prefer to avoid traveling due to limited mobility.
To qualify for a suitable job, basic computer literacy and a high degree of typing proficiency are required. Remember that entry-level jobs do not necessitate a college degree.
Jobs to Consider: Data Entry Clerk, Transcriptionist, Database Administrator, Medical Coder, Inventory Data Specialist, Analyzing Customer Service Representative Data
7. Content Moderation
Another area where individuals with disabilities can find work is content moderation. This role involves reviewing user-generated content on message boards, government websites, and other platforms, removing derogatory remarks and content that does not comply with the platform’s policies.
Content moderation offers benefits such as flexible work hours, remote environments, and limited physical effort. The job primarily requires reading and reviewing text and checking it against a checklist to determine if it violates company policy.
Social media platforms like Facebook and YouTube employ thousands of content moderators to oversee the millions of posts on their sites.
Any of the aforementioned disabled job search websites can guide you in the right direction for content moderation job opportunities.
Jobs to Consider: Social Media Moderator, Content Review Specialist, Online Community Manager, Forum Moderator, Digital Content Curator
8. Virtual Assistant
Another job that individuals with disabilities can excel in is a virtual assistant (VA). VAs provide administrative support to individuals and companies seeking extra help with tasks such as creating social media posts, managing emails, scheduling, and much more.
Virtual assistant roles require little physical exertion and there are part-time, full-time, and contract opportunities available.
The virtual assistant job market is projected to grow by 13% from 2020 to 2030 in areas such as software development, IT support, and cybersecurity support.
Jobs to Consider: Administrative Assistant, Customer Service Support, Email Manager, Calendar Scheduler, Project Assistant
9. Online Tutoring
One of the best jobs in the education space for people with disabilities is online tutoring.
Online tutoring allows you to get paid for educating people. All you need is a working internet connection and access to video or chat platforms.
You can teach anything from high school-level chemistry to English. Plus, there’s plenty of flexibility, with the ability to use communication platforms, such as Google Meet, Slack, or Microsoft Teams.
Lastly, online tutoring allows the disabled to set their working hours, which makes perfect sense if you have other health-related commitments.
Jobs to Consider: Language Tutor, Math Tutor, Science Tutor, Test Prep Tutor, ESL Tutor
10. Quality Assurance Tester
Another opportunity available to people with a disability is quality assurance testing, which ensures that software and other applications meet quality criteria by identifying bugs and underlying issues for developers to fix.
Many QA work settings do accessibility well, providing extra accommodations like height-adjustable work desks, seats, and more. Plus, there is always an opportunity to work remotely.
Jobs to Consider: Software Tester, Game Tester, Product Quality Analyst, Web Application Tester, Usability Tester
Resources for Disabled Job Searchers
Disabled job search can be challenging . Many can become be discouraged due to unfair hiring practices or a perceived lack of resources.
Here are several of our favorite resources to simplify your next job search:
Job Accommodation Network (JAN)
Managed by the US Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP), the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) is one of the leading disabled job-seeker websites. This website is associated with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and offers several practical tools to help people find jobs.
One of our favorite JAN offerings is personalized accommodation guidance, where the disabled can connect with specialists who can offer customized insights about workplace accessibility based on their disability type.
For example, if you have a mobility-related impairment, they can suggest heightened work tables or modified workstations to make you more comfortable with everyday work.
Additionally, JAN could connect you with legal advisors who can advocate for you and explain your rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act. They can explain how to request accommodations and all of the rights employees must recognize.
JAN has numerous comprehensive resources, with an intense case study and podcast library that allows the disabled to understand their rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act. These resources can be used no matter where you are, whether you live in the best countries for people with disabilities so you can become one of the many successful people with disabilities.
Other job boards that specialize in job opportunities for the disabled include Disability Solutions, Evenbrea, MyDisabilityJobs, and SourceAmerica.
AbilityJobs
Considered one of the top disabled job search sites, AbilityJobs has insider information on job opportunities ranging from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies across various sectors, including data entry, customer service, and traditional office tasks.
Like Indeed, AbilityJobs allows disabled job applicants to upload their resumes and set up email notifications to stay informed about the latest job opportunities based on saved keywords or phrase searches.
As of this writing, the site has 122,000 registered job applicants, 33,000 searchable resumes uploaded, and 6,500 registered employers. These employers include businesses, government agencies, and nonprofits looking to hire individuals with disabilities across a wide range of skill sets, from entry-level roles to executive positions.
The site also features hundreds of job postings from companies such as Amazon, Montgomery College, the U.S. Department of Transportation, and HSBC.
USAJOBS
One of the best resources under USAJOBS is the unique Hiring Authority feature, which allows individuals with disabilities to search for federal jobs. This feature offers numerous specialized tools to build resumes, learn in virtual and in-person job sessions, and much more.
It’s an excellent place to start looking for long-term employment opportunities, which can be difficult for some individuals with disabilities.
Disability Employment Initiative (DEI)
The Disability Employment Initiative (DEI), a federal program administered by the United States Department of Labor, works alongside local American Job Centers to provide training and support services to individuals with disabilities.
One of its greatest assets is its partnerships with local agencies, which provide extensive resources to job applicants, such as job placement assistance, skills testing, and life coaching. Additionally, many personalized employment services help individuals with disabilities apply and interview for jobs.
National Telecommuting Institute (NTI)
Although not technically a dedicated resource for individuals with disabilities, the National Telecommuting Institute (NTI) does an excellent job of listing remote work opportunities and work-from-home positions in areas such as data entry, virtual assistance, and technical support.
One of the best aspects of the National Telecommuting Institute (NTI) is its IT services for Social Security beneficiaries, ensuring that any job available will not jeopardize their monthly income benefits. This allows many individuals with disabilities who are fearful of returning to the workforce to do so, knowing that their monthly income will not be affected.
CareerOneStop Disability Resources
Another one of our favorite resources for individuals with disabilities is CareerOneStop Disability Resources. Managed by the U.S. Department of Labor, this resource connects individuals with disabilities to various services, including job training and financial tools. All of the job postings on the website are listed by employers who are disability-inclusive.
Another area where CareerOneStop Disability Resources excels is in providing resources for disabled job applicants to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
However, our favorite feature is its access to local American Job Centers (AJCs), which enables people with disabilities to obtain in-person assistance with job placement opportunities and enroll in various programs that allow them to expand their skill sets.
In short, if you want to understand your rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act, CareerOneStop Disability Resources is an excellent place to start.
AbilityLinks
AbilityLinks is one of our favorite online communities for people with disabilities. It connects job applicants with employers seeking individuals with disabilities. Type in phrases such as “occupational therapist” or “financial analyst,” and you’ll be surprised at what you can find for a person with a disability.
We appreciate its personalized job matching system, which allows job applicants to complete a profile that aligns their skills and experience with recommended jobs.
In addition to job matching, AbilityLinks also provides resume-building tools, skills development workshops, and other resources to enhance your candidacy, regardless of the role you may be applying for.
As of this writing, the website features employers such as Accenture, Southeast Gas, Northwestern Medicine, Amazon, the Teachers Retirement Association, gOVexec, and Sesame Place, an amusement park in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services
One of the foremost support systems for people with disabilities in the United States is Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services, which provides administrative support to businesses by helping individuals with disabilities find suitable employment that accommodates their needs.
These programs are geared toward individuals aged 14 and older, offering pre-employment transition services and personalized support for people with disabilities. One of its most significant benefits is conducting personal assessments that help identify the best job opportunities based on skill sets and talents.
National Disability Institute (NDI)
Promising to “build a better financial future for the disabled and their families,” the National Disability Institute (NDI) is a national nonprofit organization that focuses on financial literacy for individuals with disabilities. For the past 18 years, it has assisted people with disabilities across the public and private sectors to promote financial wellness through various programs and projects. Even individuals with intellectual disabilities seeking remote jobs can benefit from NDI’s resources.
In short, if you’re currently receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, the NDI can be an excellent resource for understanding how any employment—whether full-time or part-time—can impact benefits eligibility.
The National Federation of the Blind (NFB)
Another excellent resource for the blind and visually impaired is the National Federation of the Blind (NFB), which offers a variety of employment opportunities, training programs, and accessibility tools tailored to different job types and fields of study. The NFB is one of the foremost advocates for people with visual impairments.
For example, they are often at the forefront of rights advocacy and accessibility improvement at all levels, including local and national initiatives, cooperating with lawmakers to ensure that crucial legislation, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), fully reflects today’s needs.
Another area of focus for the NFB is education and training programs that center around learning technology, mobility training, and similar objectives designed to help people with disabilities excel in their personal and professional lives.
Putting Accessibly to the Test
One of the best ways to stay current with ADA and WCAG compliance is to test drive a website accessibility overlay widget like Accessibly. All individuals with physical disabilities can benefit, including those working in government agencies as data entry clerks or virtually any job.
The Accessibly app is one of the web’s most popular accessibility solutions, allowing website owners, remote workers, and web developers to instantly enhance WCAG compliance by introducing essential accessibility features. These features include high-contrast text, customizable background colors, larger text and cursors, highlighted links, additional reading lines, and compatibility with assistive technologies like screen readers, which are crucial for the visually impaired.
Plus, all users can now enjoy a free 7-day trial. All it takes is a simple snippet that can be hard-coded on your site in about five minutes. Accessibly offers native integrations on popular platforms like Shopify and WordPress, making it a one-click effort.
With around 15% of the world experiencing some form of disability, there has never been a better time to focus on increasing ADA and WCAG compliance.
More Available Jobs
If you’re unsure about the types of jobs for the disabled that you would like to pursue, here are some employment options across various fields from admin to human resources directors:
- Administrative assistant
- Call center agent
- Warehouse worker
- Financial analyst
- Web developer
- Social media manager
- Manual labor
- Occupational therapists
- Service representative data entry
- Customer service representative
- Clerk
- Content writer
- Editor
- Data entry specialist
- Social Security case manager
- Data entry specialist
- Human resources director
- Government jobs
- Virtual assistant
- Remote customer service representative
- Customer service data entry
Get started with a Free 7-day Accessibly Trial Today!
Whether you’re looking to become a content writer or seeking a work-from-home job, finding the right apps for disabled people is about embracing inclusivity, recognizing the needs outlined in the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, and respecting the Americans with Disabilities Act in many ways.
Fortunately, there is no shortage of resources that individuals with intellectual disabilities and physical disabilities can use to learn about jobs best suited to them. Whether it’s data entry, customer service, or various remote work opportunities, there’s always a place for talented individuals with disabilities to excel and work toward a brighter career path, regardless of physical limitations or interpersonal skills. With these resources, we hope you find success in your job search.
