15 Best Jobs For People With ADHD

Finding a fulfilling job when you have ADHD can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to hold you back. Many individuals with ADHD possess unique strengths that can lead to successful and rewarding careers. With the right strategies to manage symptoms and a focus on career paths that align with your skills, you can thrive professionally.

This article offers a curated list of the 15 best jobs for people with ADHD, emphasizing roles that leverage your strengths and interests.

Key Takeaways:

• Approximately 7.2% of children are diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), with 50-85% of these cases persisting into adulthood.

• Excellent career options for adults with ADHD include roles such as teacher, nurse, graphic designer, and software developer.

• From 2020 to 2030, the nursing field is projected to grow by 12%, creating approximately 371,500 new jobs across the U.S.

• Software developer positions are expected to increase by 22% during the same period, adding around 409,500 jobs nationwide.

15 Best Jobs for People with ADHD

1. Teacher

   Average Yearly Salary: $46,000
   Job Outlook: Teacher jobs are projected to grow 3%, adding about 53,100 opportunities across the U.S. between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

   Teaching is ideal for individuals with ADHD because it offers dynamic interactions and keeps you engaged. Each class is a new experience with diverse students, allowing you to utilize your empathy and creativity to support those with learning challenges.

   Find Teacher jobs near me

2. Day Care Provider

   Average Yearly Salary: $24,000
   Job Outlook: Day care provider jobs are projected to grow 2%, adding approximately 27,700 opportunities across the U.S. between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

   Working as a daycare provider allows you to engage with children in a playful and creative environment, where every day brings new challenges and joys. If you enjoy nurturing young minds without the formalities of lesson planning, this could be a rewarding path.

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3. Social Worker

   Average Yearly Salary: $51,000
   Job Outlook: Social work jobs are projected to grow by 12%, with approximately 78,300 openings each year between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

   As a social worker, your innate compassion can shine as you help those in need. This role is fast-paced and varied, perfectly suited for individuals with ADHD who thrive on dynamic tasks and meaningful connections.

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4. Emergency Doctor

   Average Yearly Salary: $30,000
   Job Outlook: Emergency doctor jobs are projected to grow by 7%, adding approximately 18,700 opportunities across the U.S. between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

   This role requires quick thinking and adaptability, making it ideal for individuals with ADHD who thrive under pressure and enjoy facing new challenges regularly.

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5. Nurse

   Average Yearly Salary: $59,000
   Job Outlook: Nursing jobs are projected to grow 12%, creating around 371,500 job opportunities across the U.S. between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

   Nursing offers diverse settings and specialties, catering to various interests and skill levels. This profession is in high demand, providing job security and flexibility in work environments.

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6. Athletic Trainer

   Average Yearly Salary: $42,000
   Job Outlook: Athletic training jobs are projected to grow by 23%, with about 3,100 openings each year between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

   This career allows you to combine your energy with a passion for fitness, making it ideal for individuals who want to help others achieve their health goals.

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7. Copy Editor

   Average Yearly Salary: $47,000
   Job Outlook: Copy editing jobs are projected to decline by 3%, resulting in a loss of approximately 3,400 opportunities across the U.S. between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

   This role suits individuals who enjoy working with language and can handle multiple projects. Copy editors thrive under deadlines, making this a fitting choice for those with ADHD who enjoy a fast-paced work environment.

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8. News Reporter

   Average Yearly Salary: $38,000
   Job Outlook: News reporting jobs are projected to decline by 10%, resulting in a loss of approximately 5,100 opportunities across the U.S. between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

   This position offers variety and excitement, ideal for those who thrive on unpredictability and enjoy meeting diverse people throughout their workday.

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9. Police Officer

   Average Yearly Salary: $47,000
   Job Outlook: Police officer jobs are projected to grow by 7%, creating about 67,100 new positions each year between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

   This role offers a fast-paced environment where no two days are alike, catering to individuals with ADHD who thrive on high-intensity work and enjoy serving their communities.

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10. Probation/Parole Officer

    Average Yearly Salary: $44,000
    Job Outlook: Parole officer jobs are projected to grow by 3%, adding about 3,000 opportunities across the U.S. between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

    This role combines elements of law enforcement and social work, allowing you to help individuals reintegrate into society while navigating the complexities of the criminal justice system.

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11. Military

    Average Yearly Salary: $61,000
    Job Outlook: Unknown. While military career projections are not covered by BLS, various military roles are available.

    For those who thrive in structured environments, a military career offers discipline and the opportunity to learn valuable skills that can lead to a successful post-service career.

    Find Military jobs near me

12. Entertainer

    Average Yearly Salary: $61,000
    Job Outlook: Jobs for musicians and entertainers are projected to grow by 11%, with around 20,800 openings each year between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

    If you have a creative talent, a career in the entertainment industry can channel your energy into a fulfilling profession that allows for self-expression and connection with audiences.

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13. Graphic Designer

    Average Yearly Salary: $45,000
    Job Outlook: Graphic design jobs are projected to grow 3%, adding approximately 7,300 jobs between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

    Graphic design offers a blend of creativity and problem-solving, allowing you to work on diverse projects and potentially work remotely, aligning well with the gig economy.

    Find Graphic Designer jobs near me

14. Food Industry

    Average Yearly Salary: N/A
    Job Outlook: Food and beverage serving jobs are projected to grow by 17%, adding around 740,000 jobs between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

    The food industry offers flexible entry points for individuals with ADHD, providing a dynamic work environment where each day varies. This field requires minimal formal education and can be a great fit for those who prefer hands-on work.

15. Software Developer

    Average Yearly Salary: $80,000
    Job Outlook: Software developer jobs are projected to grow by 22%, adding approximately 409,500 jobs between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

    For those who are passionate about technology and enjoy problem-solving, a career in software development allows you to be creative while working on innovative projects in a rapidly evolving field.

    Find Software Developer jobs near me

Jobs for People with ADHD FAQ

1. What are the symptoms of ADHD?

   Symptoms of ADHD can include impulsivity, difficulties with time management, and challenges with organization. While ADHD can pose challenges in the workplace, many adults successfully manage their symptoms and lead productive professional lives with the right support and strategies.

2. How can you be successful at work when you have ADHD?

   Implementing a structured daily schedule and creating to-do lists can significantly enhance productivity for individuals with ADHD. Setting realistic goals and breaking tasks into manageable chunks can prevent feelings of being overwhelmed and support overall success.

Author

Kristin Kizer

Kristin Kizer is an award-winning writer, television and documentary producer, and content specialist who has worked on a wide variety of written, broadcast, and electronic publications. A former writer/producer for The Discovery Channel, she is now a freelance writer and delighted to be sharing her talents and time with the wonderful Zippia audience.