How to find a job if you have a disability: resources and tips

  • There are portals, foundations, and public services with specific programs for the employment of people with disabilities.
  • Personalized support and specialized training are key to improving employability and overcoming potential barriers.
  • Laws guarantee rights and facilitate access to employment, requiring companies to reserve positions for people with disabilities.

Where to find work

Finding work as a person with a disability may seem like a challenge, but the reality is that there are multiple resources, programs, and specific assistance that make this journey easier. In Spain, the commitment to job inclusion has given rise to various public and private services dedicated to advising, training, and supporting those seeking to improve their employability, regardless of their personal circumstances.

In this article, we explain in detail and with a practical approach how you can access job offers tailored to your profile, what types of career guidance are available to you, and what rights and opportunities are established by current legislation. If you have a disability, are over 45 or 55 years old, belong to a single-parent family, have experienced difficult situations such as gender-based violence, or are at risk of social exclusion, you'll be interested in everything you can do to enhance your access to the labor market.

Specialized disability resources and employment portals

In Spain, there are pioneering and highly recognized job portals that focus their work on the inclusion of people with disabilities. DisJob It's one of the benchmarks, backed by more than 15 years of experience from its professionals and the successful integration of thousands of users in companies of all types. These platforms typically offer:

  • Filtered job offers depending on the type of disability and the professional sector.
  • Personalized advice so that each candidate can find the position best suited to their skills and needs.
  • Direct collaboration with leading companies committed to social responsibility and diversity.
  • Workshops, blogs and educational resources to improve employability and face selection processes with more confidence.

These websites not only publish job openings, but also provide support throughout the entire career journey, from the initial search to the onboarding process. By registering on portals like DisJob, you have access to thousands of job postings, expert advice, and inspiring experiences from other candidates.

Public services and personalized attention

man work at home

Public employment services, such as the Andalusian Employment Service (SAE) or similar entities in other communities, facilitate registration and access to all resources for job seekers with disabilities. In many cases, these services also offer information about suspension of employment and salary..

Requesting an appointment at the offices, whether in person, by phone or through their digital platforms, guarantees you receive Personalized attention based on respect and empathy. Expert staff helps with:

  • Registration or re-registration procedures and updating of job demand.
  • Creation of an individualized profile, using statistical tools to position yourself in the market.
  • Design of a personalized action plan, aimed at increasing your chances of finding work.

Additionally, during the registration process, you can indicate your type and degree of disability, allowing you to filter offers and tailor services to your actual needs.

Career guidance and support

La specialized guidance It is one of the key differentiators of support for people with disabilities. Both from the public sector and from private entities such as the Adecco Foundation and ELEVEN, there are programs that provide you with:

  • Support throughout the entire process, from the first interview to integration into the company.
  • Referral to external support units such as the Andalucía Orienta program, which offers resources and personalized attention according to the type of disability (physical, intellectual, sensory, etc.)
  • Professional experiences for employment, with internships and tutoring to acquire skills and values in real work environments.
  • Bargain seekers which allow you to easily filter vacancies aimed at people with disabilities.

La Adecco Foundation supports the candidate from the initial registration on its portal to direct intermediation with companies and follow-up after hiring. This support aims to break down barriers and foster autonomy of the candidate during the active job search.

Training, workshops and improving employability

La initial and continuous It is one of the most effective ways to overcome obstacles and access new jobs. ONCE, for example, combines individual counseling with support and materials to help its members develop fully, while also promoting training and personal development.

Other entities and foundations, such as Adecco, have developed employment schools where workshops adapted to different profiles and situations are taught:

  • Workshops self motivation and personal autonomy.
  • Formed at Internet, social networks and job portals to make the most of technologies.
  • Simulation of Job interviews and techniques to stand out from other candidates.
  • Programs about CV, personal image and cover letters.
  • Dynamics to learn how to manage the time, personal branding and social skills.
  • Specific workshops for people with intellectual disabilities.

These initiatives also allow for the development of transversal skills such as communication, emotional management, and teamwork.

Accessible types of employment and labor rights

If I have 2 jobs, do I pay double?

According to Spanish law, people with disabilities can opt for different types of employment:

  • Ordinary employment: in private companies and public administrations, with the possibility of receiving support tailored to each case.
  • Protected employment: in special employment centers and work enclaves, designed to facilitate integration through a more adapted environment.
  • Self-employmentIf you prefer to work for yourself, there are specific Social Security bonuses and tax advantages for people with disabilities.

Current regulations establish that Companies and administrations with more than 50 employees must reserve at least 2% of their staff for people with disabilities.This creates numerous specific opportunities and forces organizations to create more inclusive selection processes. To learn about the benefits of being a pensioner for permanent total disability.

To start any labor inclusion itinerary, it is advisable to consult the General Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and provisions on protected employment, public contracts and tax benefits.

Support programs and phases of the process

Many foundations and entities have comprehensive employment programs that support you at every stage, such as #EmploymentForAll from the Adecco Foundation:

  1. Registration on the employment portal: Facilitates access to offers and resources, allowing direct management of applications.
  2. Initial welcome interviews: Priority is given to personal situation and emotional well-being, generating an environment of trust and empathy.
  3. Advanced career guidance: Both structural and personal factors that may hinder job placement are considered.
  4. Workshops and training: Tailored to individual needs, to enhance the skills and abilities of each candidate.
  5. Intermediation with companies: Active assistance in identifying opportunities and advice during the onboarding process.
  6. Inclusion Support UnitA team of consultants supports both new employees and companies during the adaptation period, answering questions and offering practical solutions.

This comprehensive support is not limited to placement, but also seeks long-term professional development.

Job offers by autonomous communities

Many foundations and specialized portals offer Updated job offers by autonomous communityYou can find specific opportunities for people with disabilities at:

  • Andalusia (Málaga, Seville)
  • Catalonia (Barcelona, Girona, Tarragona)
  • Valencian Community (Valencia, Alicante)
  • Canary Islands (Las Palmas, Santa Cruz de Tenerife)
  • Region of Madrid
  • Balearic Islands (Palma de Mallorca)
  • Basque Country (San Sebastián, Bilbao)
  • Navarre (Pamplona)
  • Aragon (Zaragoza)

Accessing these regional listings allows you to focus your search on the most interesting areas and take advantage of the network of local offices and branches for in-person guidance.

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