15 Good Low-Stress Jobs For Autistic Adults To Choose From

While workplaces are becoming increasingly inclusive of neurodivergent employees, many find that social interactions and typical job circumstances don’t allow them to thrive.

In the case of autistic people, what seems like the right job may be too stressful.

That’s why, in this scenario, they should target low-stress jobs for autistic adults specifically.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss what autistic people require in their workplace and explain why low-stress jobs are essential for autistic job seekers.

Then, we’ll move to a list with some of the best low-stress job ideas for them, followed by some tips on finding and securing job offers that fit this description.

Before we wrap it up, we’ll explain how important it is for autistic people to work in a positive, inclusive environment where the company culture supports them all the way.

What Are The Needs Of Autistic Adults In The Workplace?

We can divide these into a few categories.

Sensory Accommodations

Many autistic people are sensitive to stimuli, so to avoid stress, their work environments should minimize excessive noise, strong lights, and smells.

At the same time, having quiet rooms for taking breaks can help them manage their sensory overload.

Clear Communication

When giving feedback or instructions, their managers should be clear and direct. When there’s no ambiguity and messages are to the point, autistic employees know what to expect and can do their job right.

It also makes sense to give them feedback regularly, for this will give them a clear idea of how they are doing in their jobs and whether and what they should improve.

Flexible Work Modes

Some of the low-stress jobs for autistic adults may still not provide suitable work arrangements for them.

That’s why having opportunities to work remotely, or at least in a hybrid model, will give autistic adults some security.

Even if they don’t necessarily decide to start working from home, knowing such an option is on the table helps a lot.

Supportive Working Culture

Working in a company where neurodivergent people are treated just like neurotypical individuals is always an asset.

Ideally, managers are trained in autism awareness, but, above all, they are empathetic.

Also, mentoring opportunities tailored to autistic people’s needs will be helpful.

How Low-Stress Jobs Are Essential For Autistic People?

Many autistic people express heightened sensitivity to stressors, and this may result in anxiety and emotional dysregulation.

According to studies, people on the autism spectrum are more likely to have comorbid anxiety disorders. These are often the outcome of high-stress exposure or sensory overload.

This is one of the reasons why low-stress jobs for autistic adults are instrumental in ensuring their well-being.

Best Low-Stress Jobs For Autistic Adults

Below is a list of some of the best low-stress jobs for autistic adults. This list isn’t conclusive, though.

Also, when considering any specific role, every person should analyze it with their specific needs in mind.

Regardless of how appealing it might seem, the right job for you is the one that considers all your requirements.

Technical and Computer-Based Jobs

Many autistic adults find employment within the IT industry.

For people with computer programming skills or knowledge of various codes, this might be where they want to start their job search.

Moreover, having advanced computer skills can facilitate many areas of an automated business. You can learn more about automated business ideas here.

Software Developer

Software developers use their coding skills to design software. This type of job usually allows for remote work, especially if you’re not starting.

Once you advance from the entry-level, remote job options become more available.

Software development work allows for a quiet, low-stress environment, which helps autistic people manage their sensory overload.

Web Developer

This is an umbrella term for different types of web developers. In general, web developers write codes, create and test new applications, or track a website’s performance.

For those autistic people interested in combining coding and graphic design for their professions, that’s a good idea for the right job.

Mainly because, like with software developers, their work environment allows for a workplace with fewer sensory stimuli and lower stress.

IT Support Specialist

You might think that any customer support role wouldn’t be a good fit for autistic adults, but this may be an exception.

With IT support, the communication takes place remotely and typically in writing. 

If the person in question has the expertise to lead people through different situations and help them solve their problems, this work environment might be an acceptable choice for autistic individuals.

Accountant

While one of the leading stereotypes about autistic people is that they are maths geniuses, many of them are indeed good with numbers.

That’s why bookkeeping or accounting jobs might attract people on the autism spectrum.

Besides bringing some predictability, it might also limit social interactions, contributing to a more relaxed workplace.

Creative and Artistic Jobs

Below are some ideas for autistic adults with a knack for creative and artistic things.

Graphic Designer

Many autistic people are visual thinkers. This and high levels of creativity may make them great graphic designers.

Graphic designing jobs may bring job satisfaction and allow them to do what they love. 

On the other hand, while some will find jobs with businesses and organizations, they might also choose to start their own business and freelance. 

Website Designer

Web design is another field in which many autistic adults can use their strong visual skills. Especially given that currently, every serious business seeks to have at least the most straightforward website.

Just like with graphic design, this job allows you to be self-employed and work from home.

Freelance Writer

For those of autistic adults who aren’t visual thinkers but are quite good with words, the writing job might be a good fit.

Writing has increasingly become a more and more valued skill among various industries, and it is a job you can do from the comfort of your home.

Choosing this profession, autistic adults can create their own, peaceful work environment and have more agency as business owners.

Freelance Translator

As a translator is a kind of writer, translating might be a good idea for autistic people who possess good knowledge of a foreign language.

It should be noted, though, that as much a translator isn’t a walking dictionary, their job isn’t restricted just to having a fluent command of at least two languages.

A translator’s job involves using strong problem-solving skills and working independently. This might be a great fit for autistic individuals.

Most translators are self-employed freelancers, so that’s another opportunity to build an independent career.

Technical Writer

Technical writers work on more specialized texts that require expertise on the given topic.

Their skill is useful in business and industrial fields, for typically, being a good writer without specialized knowledge isn’t enough to do this job.

Similarly to the two previous options, technical writers can be self-employed and freelance, running their own businesses.

Proofreader

This is the kind of job where autistic people might excel. 

As proofreading requires almost infallible attention to detail, meticulous people find it very rewarding.

Plus, for many people in general, sitting and scanning text to spot sometimes almost non-existent errors might be too much. Especially every day.

Proofreaders typically work in peaceful, quiet work environments. Also, some of them are translators, and, like in that profession, proofreading often allows you to work remotely.

Video Editor

Another option for those who thrive in visual thinking. Video editors typically work in their own suites, surrounded by different video editing software.

Although tools like Canva facilitate video editing for laypeople, professional video editors might not seem so needed anymore, and there’s still quite a significant demand for their services.

And, given how the medium of video is overtaking the written word, this shouldn’t change in the near future.

Animal Care and Agriculture Jobs

Many people on the autism spectrum find solace in connecting with animals. It’s one of the types of jobs we already recommended for autistic women.

Yet, staying in touch with nature generally is soothing to our bodies and minds. Moreover, often, these jobs don’t require too many social interactions and won’t expose you to too much stress.

Petsitter

Working as a petsitter can be rewarding professionally and just for your well-being, especially if you feel good dealing with animals.

Some people sit either dogs or cats, but nobody says you have to choose! Dog walking or playing with a cat will also improve your health.

Petsitting is also a great weekend side hustle idea. You can learn more about those in another blog post.

Gardener

Here’s another idea for a low-stress job for autistic adults. Like being around animals, tending to plants can have a soothing effect on a human.

Even short time spent in green spaces may reduce stress and anxiety. Additionally, another research study found that soil microbes may have antidepressant effects.

Blue-Collar Work, Manufacturing and Skilled Trades

Low-stress jobs for autistic adults don’t necessarily exclude physical work. Below are some ideas worth considering.

Overnight Stocker

Overnight stockers work the night shift at grocery or convenience stores. Their tasks include stocking shelves, taking inventory levels, or placing orders for new products.

As that’s when customers aren’t around, the workplace tends to be calmer, so social interactions are limited, and so are sensory stimuli.

Mechanic

For those passionate about cars, this might be a rewarding career. Either employed or running their own shop, autistic adults with a knack for vehicles can make it a good workplace.

If you’re self-employed, you’d need to deal with people more, but either way, the job gives you a chance to zone out of what’s around you and relax, focusing just on the job.

Wrapping Up

No matter if you have a formal autism diagnosis or if you just know that you’re on the spectrum, being autistic doesn’t need to mean you have no options.

Various forms of neurodivergence dictate the best jobs for different types of it, but there’s room to pivot.

A low-stress level at work helps autistic people deliver good results and live a healthy, balanced life that brings them satisfaction.

There are many leading companies that have already implemented valuable programs for autistic candidates and employees, so it’s also worth considering.

Also, read this post to learn more about neurodivergent-friendly jobs, or this one for positions for highly sensitive people.