Autism Friendly Jobs: How to Find The Best Workplaces

For an autistic person, finding autism friendly jobs that are both meaningful and sustainable can sometimes feel incredibly challenging. It’s not due to a lack skills or abilities, but because most workplaces simply aren’t set up with neurodiversity in mind.

However, employers may start to feel the impact of this, with research showing that 1 in 5 neurodiverse individuals declines a job offer due to poor workplace design. This means that companies that fail to prioritize inclusivity may find themselves hemorrhaging potential talent.

Looking back on the different workplaces I’ve experienced, they all had one thing in common: they prioritized neurotypical needs and preferences and weren’t necessarily all autism friendly jobs.

Usually, I’ve found there’s an expectation to be socially engaged, by which I mean having to mingle and do small talk in the corridors and offices. If you’re not seen to be doing this proactively then you’re considered an outsider and not one of the team.

Then there’s change, which occurs frequently and often without notice. Unexpected change can play havoc with an autistic mind that’s grounded in routine and stability.

Finally, in a lot of workplaces the measure of one’s success is defined by how well you can perform in high-pressure environments, which again, can be overwhelming and overstimulating for autistic people.

I think most of us recognize autism friendly jobs when we see them.

It’s a job that allows us to showcase our individual strengths while minimizing unnecessary barriers.

But if you’re searching for employment, how do you identify jobs that are suitable for autism before ever stepping into the workplace, and what specific characteristics are likely to make it sustainable?

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the factors that define autism friendly jobs, the red flags to look out for and some basic strategies to advocate for yourself at work.

What Makes Autism Friendly Jobs Truly Inclusive?

When considering autism friendly jobs, it’s important to look beyond just a list of suitable occupations. The real focus should be on the key factors that make a job truly inclusive and sustainable, especially for those just starting their careers who may not yet have the benefit of learning through experience.

Research published in the Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation reinforces this idea. In a study of 64 autistic adults, most participants highlighted the importance of a positive workplace atmosphere, supportive supervisors, and a job that aligns with their special interests. These insights strongly resonate with my own experiences.

For me, one of the most crucial factors has always been predictability and routine. While change is a natural part of life, for many autistic individuals, unexpected shifts can trigger intense anxiety. In extreme cases, this can lead to long-term stress, sickness, or even job loss. Truly autism friendly jobs should provide clear expectations, a stable routine and well-defined roles and responsibilities, creating a work environment where autistic employees can thrive.

Another key consideration is whether a workplace can provide a sensory-friendly environment, minimizing the potential triggers that could lead to sensory overload. Features such as adjustable lighting and quiet areas can make a really big difference – I’ve even written a full article on how to create such an environment.

Before accepting a job offer, it’s crucial to assess whether these accommodations can be realistically provided. The nature of the job and its environment will determine how easily adjustments can be made. Generally, the larger the company and the more varied the roles, the harder it will be for an employer to argue against reasonable accommodations.

Possibly the most critical factor when looking for autism friendly jobs is the organizational culture, particularly its attitude toward disability. This can make or break your experience as an autistic employee. Look for disability friendly accreditations or signs that the company actively promotes inclusive policies.

If possible, try to get an insider view and observe how employees solve problems, collaborate, and handle conflict. These behaviors reveal a lot about the company’s culture. You can also check employee reviews on platforms like Glassdoor or Reddit or seek feedback from current or former employees.

Another major factor is accommodations and flexibility. Like workplace culture, this can determine your success as an autistic employee. Carefully review the company’s website and job postings – do they mention remote work or flexible schedules? These can be essential for allowing autistic employees to perform at their best.

Once you understand the company’s culture, consider whether it’s the kind of environment where you’d feel comfortable asking for accommodations without fear of judgment or stigma.

Finally, true autism friendly jobs are ones that align with your special interests and strengths. Choosing a career path that’s based on others’ expectations can be a mistake. One of the best pieces of advice I can give is to understand what makes you tick, what you enjoy and what you don’t, and find a career that fits you.

Warning Signs a Job Isn’t Autism Friendly

While some employers excel at making accommodations for neurodivergent employees, others may present obstacles for a variety of reasons. Some will view accommodations purely from a cost perspective, while others mistakenly believe that treating everyone the same is the fairest approach, forgetting the fact that accommodations exist to level the playing field for everyone.

When assessing a company’s approach to supporting autistic employees, here are four potential warning signs to look out for:

• Unclear job descriptions – If the job description and responsibilities are vague or ambiguous, this could signal a workplace where employees are frequently pulled in different directions. For autistic individuals who thrive on clarity and structure, this kind of uncertainty can lead to significant challenges further down the line.

• Rigid work environments – A company that offers no flexibility in working hours or location may have a culture of “this is how we’ve always done it” or one where employees are closely monitored rather than trusted to work independently. This lack of flexibility can indicate a less inclusive workplace.

• High social demands – Research has shown that people with autism were more likely to succeed in a job when contact with others is limited. If a role places heavy emphasis on social interactions, networking events or constant teamwork, consider carefully whether it aligns with your personal strengths and preferences. Those of us with autism have a range of social comfort levels and while some may do well in these environments, others may find them overwhelming.

• Lack of neurodiversity awareness – If, during your interactions with a company, you notice a lack of understanding about neurodiversity (e.g. hearing dismissive comments like “we’re all on the spectrum”), this could indicate a lack of policies or training to support autistic employees. You may find that without proper awareness in place, advocating for the accommodations you need may be more difficult.

Being aware of these potential red flags can help you to make informed decisions about jobs that are truly autism friendly.

How to Advocate for Yourself in the Workplace

I know firsthand just how hard it can be to advocate for your needs, even when working for an inclusive employer. Speaking up and asking for accommodations takes a lot of courage and bravery, especially when you’re unsure how your request will be received.

They say that knowledge is power, and one of the most important steps in advocating for yourself is understanding your legal rights.

In the UK, the Equality Act 2010 protects autistic individuals from workplace discrimination, while in the US, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) serves a similar purpose. Knowing your rights and what employers are legally obligated to provide can give you the confidence to request accommodations without fear of being treated unfairly.

It’s also crucial to have a clear understanding of your own needs. If possible, requesting a workplace needs assessment can be incredibly helpful. This involves consulting with a neurodiversity expert who can assess your work environment and provide recommendations for reasonable accommodations.

When making your request, try to frame it in a way that highlights how these adjustments will enhance your productivity and benefit the company. When employers see accommodations as a way to improve efficiency rather than a a burden or an inconvenience, they may be more willing to implement them.

Seeking out supportive networks at work can also make a real difference (trust me on this one!). Many companies have employee resource groups or diversity initiatives that are focused on disabilities and neurodiversity.

These groups can provide you with mentorship and a sense of belonging within the workplace. If your company doesn’t have such a network, consider looking for support in online forums or neurodiversity related groups where you can find others who share similar experiences. I can highly recommend The Autistic Boss Facebook page!

If your employer seems hesitant about implementing accommodations, then suggesting a trial period can be a good way to ease their concerns. A temporary adjustment allows both you and the company to evaluate its effectiveness without requiring a long term commitment. This can make employers more receptive to trying out accommodations they might otherwise be unsure about.

Finally, if you find yourself in a work environment where your requests are ignored or the culture makes you feel unsupported then it’s important to recognize when it’s time to move on and possibly look for more autism friendly jobs.

While legal action is an option in cases of discrimination, sometimes the best decision for your wellbeing is to seek out a workplace that truly values you. Your happiness, mental health and ability to succeed should always come first. If a company refuses to meet you halfway, then perhaps it doesn’t deserve you. It’s about knowing your worth and find a job where you feel valued and supported.

Final Thoughts on Finding Autism Friendly Jobs

When searching for autism friendly jobs, it’s important to focus on workplaces that genuinely support neurodivergent employees.

By understanding the key factors that contribute to an inclusive environment and being aware of potential red flags, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions that align with your needs.

While the job hunt may feel overwhelming at times, prioritizing a workplace where you feel valued, supported, and able to succeed is really important, even when it means taking a little longer to find the right fit. Remember, there are plenty of autism friendly jobs out there, but it really helps if you know what to look for first.