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Salary

How much does a Disability Specialist make?

The average salary for a Disability Specialist is $59,788 per year in the US.

A Disability Specialist helps people with disabilities to live and work as independently as possible. This job is important and rewarding. The salary for this role can vary based on experience and location. On average, Disability Specialists earn about $59,788 each year.

Here are some details about the salary range:

  • The bottom 10% earn around $32,098 per year.
  • The next 20% earn between $40,543 and $48,989.
  • About 35% earn between $48,989 and $57,435.
  • The top 10% earn more than $91,217 per year.
With experience and additional qualifications, earnings can increase. Good communication skills and empathy are important in this job.

View Disability Specialist jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Disability Specialist?

Job seekers interested in Disability Specialist roles can look to major cities for competitive pay. Los Angeles offers the highest average salary at $100,914. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking higher wages. Portland also provides a solid salary at $63,157, while Tallahassee offers $53,611.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Disability Specialist jobs, highlighting Los Angeles, CA with the highest at $100,914 and Tallahassee, FL with the lowest at $53,611.
  1. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $100,914
    In Los Angeles, you'll find many opportunities to help those with disabilities. Nonprofits and government agencies are always looking for skilled professionals. Companies like Goodwill Industries and Easterseals Southern California offer rewarding positions.
    Find Disability Specialist jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  2. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $63,157
    Portland provides a unique environment for those helping people with disabilities. The city's commitment to inclusivity creates many job openings. Organizations such as Ability360 and the Oregon Health Authority offer valuable experiences in this field.
    Find Disability Specialist jobs in Portland, OR


  3. Tallahassee, FL
    Average Salary: $53,611
    Tallahassee offers a range of positions to assist individuals with disabilities. Nonprofits and state agencies provide solid career paths. Companies like the Florida Department of Children and Families and the Arc of Florida present excellent opportunities to make a difference.
    Find Disability Specialist jobs in Tallahassee, FL

What are the best companies a Disability Specialist can work for?

Prudential, The Hartford, and MetLife offer some of the highest salaries for Disability Specialist roles. With Prudential leading at $65,793, followed closely by The Hartford at $56,777 and MetLife at $54,893, these companies provide competitive pay. Job seekers will find that these companies value their specialists and offer attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Disability Specialist jobs, highlighting YMCA of the East Bay with the highest at $69,127 and Keystone Human Services with the lowest at $50,014.
  1. YMCA of the East Bay
    Average Salary: $69,127
    The YMCA of the East Bay offers rewarding opportunities for Disability Specialists. They focus on helping individuals with disabilities in Oakland, Berkeley, and other East Bay communities. They provide a supportive environment and a chance to make a real difference.


  2. Prudential
    Average Salary: $65,793
    At Prudential, Disability Specialists help people with disabilities across the country. They work to provide financial support and other services. Locations include major cities nationwide, offering diverse opportunities.


  3. The Hartford
    Average Salary: $56,777
    The Hartford offers Disability Specialists various roles across the nation. They focus on providing insurance and support services. They operate in many states, giving specialists a chance to work in different places.


  4. MetLife
    Average Salary: $54,893
    MetLife provides diverse roles for Disability Specialists. They offer opportunities to work in several locations, including New York and California. They focus on helping clients with insurance and support needs.


  5. Keystone Human Services
    Average Salary: $50,014
    Keystone Human Services offers roles for Disability Specialists in Pennsylvania. They focus on supporting individuals with disabilities in various communities. They offer a chance to work in both urban and rural areas.

How to earn more as a Disability Specialist?

Becoming a Disability Specialist can be a rewarding career. This role requires a unique blend of skills and dedication. Many Disability Specialists strive to increase their earnings over time. Increasing income often involves gaining more experience and skills. This can lead to higher positions or new opportunities. There are several factors to consider when looking to earn more in this field.

First, gaining certifications can boost earnings. Specializations like Certified Disability Management Specialist (CDMS) or Occupational Health and Safety (OHST) are highly valued. Employers often pay more for these credentials. Second, obtaining a master’s degree in social work or a related field can lead to higher-paying jobs. Many employers prefer candidates with advanced degrees for leadership roles. Third, gaining experience in different areas of disability services can open more earning opportunities. Working in various settings, such as hospitals, schools, or private practices, can lead to a more diverse skill set. Fourth, networking with other professionals in the field can uncover new job opportunities. Attending conferences, joining professional organizations, and connecting on LinkedIn can all be beneficial. Finally, taking on additional responsibilities at work can lead to higher pay. Volunteering for extra duties or leading projects can demonstrate commitment and skill.

Here are some factors to consider for earning more as a Disability Specialist:

  1. Earn certifications like CDMS or OHST.
  2. Obtain a master’s degree in social work or a related field.
  3. Gain experience in different disability service settings.
  4. Network with other professionals in the field.
  5. Take on additional responsibilities at work.

Currently 66 Disability Specialist job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Disability Specialist in the US?

Learn what a Disability Specialist does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Disability Specialist today.
Position
Overview
Disability Specialist
66 Job Openings