Assistive Technology Specialist
Career GuideKey Responsibilities
- Assess individual needs and goals
- Recommend appropriate assistive technology tools
- Set up and customize devices and software
- Train users, families, and staff
- Create accessibility plans and documentation
- Troubleshoot technical issues and provide ongoing support
- Coordinate with educators, therapists, and employers
- Support funding requests and procurement processes
- Stay current on accessibility standards and new tools
- Track outcomes and adjust solutions over time
Top Skills for Success
Accessibility Knowledge
Needs Assessment
User Training
Assistive Technology Configuration
Troubleshooting
Communication
Documentation
Stakeholder Collaboration
Case Management
Privacy Awareness
Career Progression
Can Lead To
Senior Assistive Technology Specialist
Assistive Technology Program Coordinator
Accessibility Specialist
Rehabilitation Technology Specialist
Special Education Technology Lead
Transition Opportunities
Accessibility Consultant
Disability Services Manager
Learning Technology Specialist
User Support Manager
Product Accessibility Specialist
Common Skill Gaps
Often Missing Skills
Accessibility TestingDevice Fleet ManagementData TrackingFunding NavigationChange Management
Development SuggestionsBuild a repeatable assessment and training toolkit, practice evaluating tools with real users, and learn basic accessibility testing methods. Add structured tracking for outcomes, issue patterns, and training completion to show impact and improve service quality.
Salary & Demand
Median Salary Range
Entry LevelUSD 45,000 to 60,000
Mid LevelUSD 60,000 to 80,000
Senior LevelUSD 80,000 to 105,000
Growth Trend
Growing demand driven by inclusive education, remote work accessibility needs, aging populations, and increased adoption of accessibility features in mainstream technology.Companies Hiring
Major Employers
Public school districtsUniversities and collegesHospitals and rehabilitation centersVocational rehabilitation agenciesNonprofit disability service organizationsGovernment health and human services departmentsAssistive technology vendors and resellersWorkplace accommodation providers
Industry Sectors
EducationHealthcareGovernmentNonprofitWorkplace servicesTechnology services
Recommended Next Steps
1
Create a portfolio of anonymized case examples showing assessment, setup, training, and results2
Earn an accessibility credential or complete a practical accessibility course3
Get hands-on practice with screen readers, speech to text tools, and alternative input devices4
Shadow a clinician, special educator, or disability services team to deepen user context5
Develop a standard intake form, training checklist, and follow-up plan6
Join professional communities focused on assistive technology and accessibility7
Set a goal to run a small pilot program and report measurable outcomes