What Type of Jobs are Best for a High-Functioning Autistic Teenager?

Every individual with autism is unique, both in their challenges and their areas of comfort and expertise. It is important to recognize that there are no jobs that entirely exempt autistics, as many individuals possess exceptional skills that can be beneficial to various fields. For instance, I know friends who excel in diverse roles such as working in shops, handling tills, waiting on tables, or performing driving jobs. These jobs might not be suitable for everyone, but they showcase the varied abilities and strengths that autistics can bring to the workplace.

The Case for Autistic Professionals in Psychological Therapy

My adult life has primarily been centered around work, with my first professional experience starting at the age of 19 in psychological therapy. The perspective of autistic employees in therapy is often unique and advantageous. Autistic individuals frequently do not get emotionally entangled in the narratives of their clients or the 'he said, she said' scenarios. This ability to focus on patterns and notice details that others may miss can lead to innovative and effective solutions that might not be immediately apparent to therapists without these qualities.

Personal Experiences: A Caterer's Perspective

During my teenage years, I worked in catering, which provided me with a role where I excelled. My primary responsibility involved loading and unloading the pot wash machine, a task that I was extremely proficient at and thoroughly enjoyed. For 15 hours a day, six days a week, I found this work fulfilling and manageable. However, I struggled with working behind the counter, dealing with customers, and adhering to the rule that 'the customer is always right,' even when this was not the case. Honesty was not always welcome, and I found it difficult to confront customers with what I believed to be erroneous or dishonest claims.

Identifying the Right Job Conditions for Autistic Individuals

The focus should not be on identifying 'the best' jobs for autistic individuals but rather on understanding the conditions and accommodations that can enable them to thrive in their chosen career paths. My experience in an office job highlights this point. Initially, I performed well in an office environment where my manager provided a favorable setup, including high desk dividers and desk corner placement in an office without overhead lighting. However, when my new manager made changes to create an open-plan office with no physical barriers and added overhead lighting, my ability to perform my job disappeared. The change in working conditions not only made it difficult to focus but also contributed to my frustration, depression, and eventually, a desire to leave the job.

The key takeaway from my experience is that accommodating an autistic individual's specific needs can greatly enhance their job performance. Autistic individuals excel in roles that align with their skills and are supported by a conducive work environment. Creating a workplace that understands and addresses the unique requirements of autistic employees can significantly improve job satisfaction and productivity. Employers must consider the individual's unique circumstances and make reasonable adjustments to ensure that they can perform at their best.

Conclusion

The journey to finding the right job for a high-functioning autistic teenager or adult involves a holistic approach that focuses on individual strengths and areas of comfort. By providing a supportive work environment and making necessary accommodations, employers can unlock the full potential of autistic individuals and create fulfilling career paths. It is essential to recognize that what works for one person may not work for another, and employers must be adaptable and empathetic in their approach to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.