Five Well-Paying Jobs For Job Seekers with Disabilities

Five Well-Paying Jobs For Job Seekers with Disabilities

If you’re one of the millions of Americans living with a disability, finding a job can be a stressful task, in part because there may be lingering doubts about your capabilities in the workforce. But being differently-abled simply means that you handle tasks in a different way, whether it’s because of your physical abilities or because you simply think outside the box. Fortunately, there are laws put in place for your protection when seeking out a job, ensuring that an employer cannot discriminate against you because of your disability, and there are several well-paying jobs out there that offer flexibility and the chance to shine doing something you enjoy.

Whether your differently-abled condition requires you to work from home with limited social interaction or is something purely physical, here are a handful of the best jobs to look for that also pay well.

Dog walking with Rover.com

For those living with emotional disabilities, working with animals can be highly fulfilling and can help form a bond that assists with critical thinking and empathy. Jobs such as dog-walking can offer a flexible schedule and the opportunity to earn quite a bit of cash, even on a part-time basis. Sites like Rover.com are extremely helpful in finding pet owners in need of a responsible caregiver, either as a dog-walker or boarder; simply sign up and let them pair you with a local animal owner, and they’ll even take care of the financial end of things.

Pharmacy technician

According to Forbes.com, jobs in the pharmacy industry are great for people living with disabilities because they may have insight into using certain medications, and they can be a wonderful asset for a pharmacy when it comes to helping a customer with similar conditions. It can be an especially fulfilling job for those who have lost a limb, such as a military veteran. While the average pay for a pharmacy technician or assistant varies greatly depending on which state you live in, you can expect to make anywhere from $30,000 - $40,000/year to start.

Computer support via Craigslist.org

There is always a need in the tech world for patient and skilled specialists who can help companies and their customers with any problems that arise, and many businesses require at least a partial staff to be on-call 24 hours a day. There are great opportunities with jobs like these, because as companies upgrade their software, there is always need for trained support specialists. Many businesses offer on-the-job training and some may allow employees with disabilities — such as the visually- or hearing impaired — to work from home. The median income for these types of jobs is around $51,000/year. Check out Craiglist.org for opportunities in your area.

Accounting

If you’re good with numbers, a career in accounting may be right for you. Many universities and community colleges offer two-year programs (many of which can be completed from home online) to become accredited, and if working for a firm isn’t right for you, self-employment is also an option. You can expect to make between $50,000 and $60,000/year with a job in this area.

Educator

Jobs in education can be hugely rewarding, and now that so many schools are offering their classes online, it’s easier than ever to find a teaching job that can be done from home or with software that allows anyone with a disability to engage with students. If you have experience with art, music, sports, or language, you might consider tutoring or coaching on your own time as well. Salaries in education vary widely, but if you find employment with a school you can probably expect around $40,000/year to start. Some special education teachers make up to $53,000 in a year.

Patricia Sarmiento loves swimming and running. She channels her love of fitness and wellness into blogging about health and health-related topics. She played sports in high school and college and continues to make living an active lifestyle a goal for her and her family. She lives with her husband, two children, and their shih tzu in Maryland.