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Salary

How much does a Special Needs Care Worker make?

The average salary for a Special Needs Care Worker is $40,892 per year in the US.

Special Needs Care Workers play a vital role in helping people with disabilities. They provide support and care that allow individuals to live fulfilling lives. The average yearly salary for these dedicated professionals is $40,892. This means, on average, they earn a decent income for their important work.


The salary for Special Needs Care Workers can vary based on experience and location. Here are some average salaries for different experience levels:

  • Entry-level: $26,991
  • Early career: $30,901
  • Mid-career: $34,811
  • Experienced: $38,721
  • Late career: $42,631
  • Early post-retirement: $46,541
These figures show how experience can increase earning potential. With time and dedication, Special Needs Care Workers can see their salaries rise significantly.

View Special Needs Care Worker jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Special Needs Care Worker?

Job seekers in special needs care can find higher salaries in certain cities. Austin, TX, leads with an average salary of $56,600. Santa Rosa, CA, and Little Rock, AR, follow closely with salaries around $41,000 and $40,000. Southern California cities also offer strong opportunities. Los Angeles and San Diego offer average salaries close to $40,000. This data highlights cities with better pay for those committed to special needs care.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Special Needs Care Worker jobs, highlighting Austin, TX with the highest at $56,600 and San Diego, CA with the lowest at $39,347.
  1. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $56,600
    In Austin, caregivers work with local nonprofits to support individuals with disabilities. Austin Child Guidance Center and the Special Education Center provide many opportunities. The job offers a stable environment with good benefits.
    Find Special Needs Care Worker jobs in Austin, TX


  2. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $41,341
    Santa Rosa offers a nurturing community for caregivers. Local organizations like the Sonoma County Office of Education give caregivers the tools to succeed. It’s a place where compassion meets professional growth.
    Find Special Needs Care Worker jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  3. Little Rock, AR
    Average Salary: $40,238
    In Little Rock, caregivers make a difference through schools and community centers. The Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families connects caregivers with rewarding jobs. This city values care and offers a supportive work culture.
    Find Special Needs Care Worker jobs in Little Rock, AR


  4. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $39,678
    Los Angeles provides a diverse environment for caregivers. Large organizations like the Los Angeles Unified School District offer many opportunities. Caregivers here enjoy a dynamic job with varied responsibilities.
    Find Special Needs Care Worker jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  5. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $39,347
    San Diego offers a blend of urban and coastal living for caregivers. Local groups such as Rady Children’s Hospital give a chance to work with children. It’s a vibrant place where caregivers can thrive.
    Find Special Needs Care Worker jobs in San Diego, CA

What are the best companies a Special Needs Care Worker can work for?

Job seekers aiming for Special Needs Care Worker positions can find attractive opportunities at Pacific Homecare Services. They offer a competitive average salary of $46,340 annually. Another strong option is First Choice In-Home Care, where the average salary stands at $46,030 per year. Exploring schools, the Pulaski County Special School District provides an average salary of $41,020. This role can be both rewarding and well-compensated. For those willing to work in a school setting, this might be an excellent choice.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Special Needs Care Worker jobs, highlighting Pacific Homecare Services with the highest at $46,340 and BAYADA Home Health Care with the lowest at $33,699.
  1. Pacific Homecare Services
    Average Salary: $46,340
    Pacific Homecare Services offers Special Needs Care Worker jobs with competitive salaries. They focus on personalized care for individuals with special needs. Their services cover various locations across the state.


  2. First Choice In-Home Care
    Average Salary: $46,030
    First Choice In-Home Care provides rewarding Special Needs Care Worker positions. They emphasize a supportive environment for both caregivers and clients. They operate in multiple cities, ensuring diverse opportunities.


  3. Pulaski County Special School District
    Average Salary: $41,020
    The Pulaski County Special School District offers Special Needs Care Worker jobs with a focus on education and care. They have various locations to serve the community better. Their programs are designed to meet individual needs.


  4. accessAbilities, Inc.
    Average Salary: $38,000
    AccessAbilities, Inc. provides Special Needs Care Worker jobs with a commitment to inclusion and support. They operate in several cities, ensuring they reach diverse communities. Their focus is on empowering individuals with special needs.


  5. Community Horizons LLC
    Average Salary: $37,299
    Community Horizons LLC offers Special Needs Care Worker positions with a dedication to community service. They serve multiple locations, providing essential care and support. Their mission is to enhance the quality of life for individuals with special needs.


  6. 24 Hour Home Care
    Average Salary: $37,160
    24 Hour Home Care provides Special Needs Care Worker jobs with around-the-clock care options. They operate in several areas, ensuring availability and support. Their staff is trained to offer the best possible care for individuals with special needs.


  7. Christian Servants Home Care, LLC
    Average Salary: $33,714
    Christian Servants Home Care, LLC offers Special Needs Care Worker jobs with a focus on compassionate care. They serve multiple locations, providing essential support services. Their programs are designed to meet the unique needs of each individual.


  8. BAYADA Home Health Care
    Average Salary: $33,699
    BAYADA Home Health Care provides Special Needs Care Worker jobs with a strong emphasis on personalized care. They operate in various locations, ensuring accessibility and support. Their mission is to improve the quality of life for individuals with special needs.

How to earn more as a Special Needs Care Worker?

Special Needs Care Workers play a vital role in supporting individuals with unique needs. To thrive in this rewarding field, consider these factors to increase earning potential. Gaining specialized training and certifications can enhance skills and open new opportunities. Programs focused on autism, mental health, and first aid are especially valuable. Each certification can lead to higher pay and more job options.

Experience and dedication can also impact earnings. Those who work longer and build a strong reputation may see their salaries grow. Networking with other professionals and joining relevant organizations can lead to new job offers and promotions. Volunteering and participating in continuous education can further improve qualifications. Employers often value employees who show a commitment to ongoing learning. The following list includes additional ways to boost income:

  1. Work in a high-demand area.
  2. Seek positions in urban areas or regions with fewer care workers.
  3. Consider night, weekend, or holiday shifts for premium pay.
  4. Look for opportunities in private practice or home care settings.
  5. Pursue leadership roles such as supervisory positions.

Currently 94 Special Needs Care Worker job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Special Needs Care Worker in the US?

Learn what a Special Needs Care Worker does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Special Needs Care Worker today.
Position
Overview
Special Needs Care Worker
94 Job Openings