Autism spectrum disorder (ASD or autism) is a lifelong developmental disorder impacting around 1 in 150 Australians. Autism affects a person’s behaviour and the way they interact with the world and others. While autism is not a mental health problem or intellectual disability, some people with ASD may also deal with those challenges.
Finding suitable employment for individuals with autism is crucial for their personal fulfilment and overall well-being. Employment provides financial independence and opportunities for growth, social interaction and a sense of purpose. By helping people with autism find jobs that suit their unique needs, we can help them thrive in the workforce and in life.
What are the characteristics of autism-friendly jobs?
Autism-friendly jobs share characteristics that make tasks easier for those with ASD. Neurodiversity Media provides a number of recommendations for accommodations for autistic people in the workforce to help them to avoid autistic burnout. These include providing peer support, encouragement to request accommodations, enabling autistic people to be themselves, reducing overall load, and more. In addition to these, the following are also characteristics of autism-friendly jobs:
Clear and structured tasks
The right type of jobs for autistic people are those that work to their individual strengths. For instance, some individuals with autism can excel in activities requiring attention to detail and systematic approaches, meaning that clear instructions and structured tasks can be extremely helpful. Predictable routines also go a long way to helping those with autism feel comfortable performing their allocated tasks.
Low sensory stimulation
People with autism may struggle with sensory issues and, when overstimulated, may become uncomfortable and unable to perform tasks to the best of their ability. The right jobs for autistic people are those that minimise sensory overload where needed by consulting with the autistic person on what they need, whether it be providing a quiet workspace, controlled lighting or reduced auditory distractions.
Opportunities for specialised interests
Individuals with ASD often have intense interests or specialised skills, which they greatly appreciate being able to use in their work. Jobs that align with certain interests, such as technology-related roles or niche professions, can be highly fulfilling for individuals with autism. However, many roles can offer employees with autism the ability to include their interests or skills in everyday tasks or special projects.
What should employers do to support people with autism?
In addition to the above, reasonable accommodations should be made to better support people with autism to positively participate in the workforce. These legal requirements include but are not limited to:
Providing a supportive work environment
A supportive work environment promotes understanding, patience and acceptance. Employers who value diversity and provide accommodations within the workplace are more likely to see their employees with autism succeed in their roles. These accommodations can include offering flexibility, implementing supportive supervision, providing direct but sensitive feedback, and fostering open communication.
Maintaining flexibility and accommodations in roles
Flexibility in work arrangements, such as flexible schedules or remote work options, makes it easier for individuals with autism to have their needs met. Providing reasonable accommodations, such as assistive technologies or modified workspaces, can also enhance their productivity and well-being.
Is autism considered a disability in Australia?
Autism is considered a disability in Australia under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth). The definition of ‘disability’ used in the Act is broad.
It includes physical, intellectual, psychiatric, sensory, neurological and learning disabilities. It also includes physical disfigurement and the presence in the body of disease-causing organisms.
This legislation protects individuals with autism from discrimination across various aspects of life, including employment. It requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations to support employees with autism in the workplace, such as flexible work arrangements, assistive technologies, or modifications to work environments.
In 2020, it was found that occupational stress impacts those on the autism spectrum more than those without ASD, making it even more important for employers to be aware of any accommodations they need to make for employees with autism.
What valuable skills can individuals with autism bring to a role?
While skills vary from person to person, people with autism spectrum disorder tend to possess a range of skills that can be valuable in the workplace. Whilst this will vary among individuals, people with autism often have the following traits to some degree:
Attention to detail
Individuals with autism often exhibit exceptional attention to detail, making them well-suited for tasks that require precision and accuracy.
Strong focus and concentration
The ability of people with ASD to focus intensely on specific tasks for extended periods, often referred to as hyperfocus or flow, enables them to excel in roles that demand sustained attention and concentration.
Analytical thinking and pattern recognition
The analytical thinking abilities of individuals with autism allow them to identify patterns and make connections that may go unnoticed by others. These skills are advantageous in jobs that require data analysis, research and problem-solving.
Special interests and expertise
People with autism often deeply understand specific subjects due to how intensely they study things that interest them. Often, particular passions are developed in childhood or adolescence, making adults with autism experts on certain subjects. This knowledge can be channelled into careers as specialists or consultants in their areas of expertise, and their ability to delve into topics of interest makes them excellent researchers.
Creative problem-solving
Autism fosters unique perspectives and alternative ways of thinking, which can lead to innovative problem-solving approaches. Whilst people with autism tend to brainstorm fewer solutions when it comes to creative problem-solving, the solutions tend to be more original and creative. This creativity can be harnessed in various fields and environments.
What are the best jobs for people with autism?
People with autism tend to succeed with jobs that align with their individual strengths, interests and abilities and can accommodate their comfort and well-being. Some examples of suited jobs for people with autism are as follows:
Software developer or programmer
Software development and programming involve logical and structured tasks, which can align well with the thinking patterns and attention to detail often found in individuals with autism. Programming roles also often provide a quiet, controlled work environment with minimal sensory distractions.
Data analyst
Individuals with autism often excel in analytical thinking, pattern recognition, and valuable data analysis skills. This could translate to effectively identifying trends, analysing complex information, and drawing meaningful insights from data. Data analysis would also offer the opportunity to exercise their attention to detail and accuracy.
Graphic designer
Many people with ASD have superior visual thinking styles and stronger abilities to focus on details. For people with these skills, who also possess artistic abilities, graphic design could allow them to hone their unique perspective to create visually appealing designs. These skills may also translate to focusing on other specific interests such as illustration, typography or web design.
Lab technician
Lab work often involves following protocols and performing precise tasks, providing clear structure and routine that can be well-suited for people with autism. Lab technicians must also pay close attention to detail, perform accurate measurements and follow procedures meticulously, which align with the strengths of many people who have autism.
Librarians and archivists
Librarians and archivists require excellent organisational skills and attention to detail when it comes to categorising and maintaining books, records and other documents. Working as a librarian or archivist also offers the opportunity for those with ASD to explore and share their expertise in areas of personal interest.
Accountant
Accountants are required to analyse financial data, perform calculations and ensure accuracy. These types of tasks also involve specific guidelines and procedures, providing a structured and predictable work environment.
Animal carer
Although autism’s presentation can vary from person to person, many individuals with autism prefer repetitive tasks and find them soothing. Because of this, working as an animal carer, where there is a consistent routine, in an environment that generally provides low sensory stimulation, people with autism can thrive. In fact, in both animal and plant caretaking, people with autism can develop the skills they need for more meaningful relationships with others.
Researcher
Researchers need to gather, analyse and interpret data to draw conclusions, which is something that individuals with autism often excel in, making them valuable contributors to research projects. Research roles also allow individuals with autism to delve into their areas of interest and expertise and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their chosen field.
Tech support specialist
People with autism often possess strong problem-solving and logical reasoning abilities, meaning they are likely to succeed in a role that involves finding solutions to technical issues. A role as a tech support specialist would also be suitable for individuals with ASD who have a particular interest in specific technologies or software.
Finding success at work
It’s important to find a work environment that provides support, understanding and accommodations for employees with autism. After all, they can be unstoppable if they have an interest in a particular type of work or a desire to work in a certain profession. WISE has, since 1992, helped thousands of people who are on the autism spectrum into work. Please have a look at some of our job seeker success stories, and employer success stories.
What are the worst jobs for autistic adults?
Certain types of jobs may pose difficulties for people with autism as the nature of these roles makes them less able to accommodate the needs of those with ASD. Here are some examples of jobs that may be less suitable for autistic adults, although it is important to keep in mind that anyone can excel in a job that they enjoy with the right supports in place:
Jobs that require high levels of social interaction
Roles that heavily rely on social interaction, such as sales or telemarketing, may be challenging for some individuals with autism due to difficulties with social communication and reading non-verbal cues. For this reason, they may also struggle with jobs requiring networking, such as public relations or entrepreneurship.
Jobs with unpredictable or chaotic work environments
Jobs involving multitasking, managing time pressures, and working in fast-paced environments may be difficult for people with ASD to adjust to. Those with autism can find it challenging to adapt to uncertainty or sudden or frequent changes, meaning they would likely find being a news reporter or a flight attendant overwhelming.
Jobs with sensory overload
Individuals with ASD may find professions with a high level of sensory stimulation overwhelming, making it difficult for them to perform tasks to the best of their ability. Jobs involving crowded or noisy environments and intense social demands, such as waiters or event staff, may be less suitable for those with autism.
Jobs that are emotionally demanding
Adults with autism often experience heightened emotional sensitivities and may have difficulty regulating their own emotions. Emotionally demanding jobs – such as teaching, counselling, paramedicine or social work – may prove incredibly intense for someone with ASD, even though their strengths and qualities may benefit students, clients and patients.
How to find a job if you have autism
If you have autism, finding a job that suits your individual strengths and needs may be an involved process. Here are some simple steps to take to help you find and obtain a suitable job:
Identify strengths and interests
Reflecting on your personal strengths, skills, and interests is the first step. This will help you determine potential career options, and increasing your self-awareness will also make the job search process easier.
Seek supportive work environments and jobs
Looking for workplaces that promote flexibility, open communication and accommodations for the struggles you may face as someone with autism is incredibly important. A supportive work environment will help you achieve your potential as an employee and also make the workplace more enjoyable to be a part of.
Communicate your needs
Once employed, it is crucial to communicate openly with your colleagues and supervisors about your specific needs as a person with autism. Although it is not necessary to explicitly disclose your diagnosis, it is important to be aware of your needs and share these with your employer. It can be daunting to discuss these things, but it will mean that accommodations can be made and strategies put in place to support you at work better.
WISE can help you communicate specific workplace requirements and needs to your employer and team members, and assist with workplace modifications where needed.
Use a leading NFP disability employment provider like WISE
A disability employment provider is perfectly equipped to assist you in discovering your career path and guiding you towards it. At WISE, we specialise in finding employment for job seekers with illnesses or disabilities – like autism – or those who are otherwise struggling to find work (such as young people, people aged 50+, workers who have been made redundant or those who have gaps in their work history).
Helping people with autism find jobs
Encouraging individuals with autism to explore their strengths, interests, and passions when considering career paths can lead to fulfilling employment opportunities. By partnering with organisations like WISE Employment, autistic people who are looking for jobs can access resources, support and programs designed to assist them in finding and maintaining meaningful employment.
These include coaching, tailored employment plans, post-placement support, occupational rehabilitation, accredited training packages via WISE Training Services, and other programs specifically for those with disabilities to help them find and remain in work. We can also assist across the Australian Government’s Workforce Australia and Inclusive Employment Australia programs. Visit our Employment Programs and Services page to find out more.
With our access to government-funded support and subsidies, we can help you put your best foot forward and find a job that works for you.
Let WISE help you unlock your full potential and achieve career success. If you have autism, register as a job seeker, or get in touch with your nearest WISE office.