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Disability Studies Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Access Consultant

West Lafayette, IN · On-site

$13 - $17.75/hr

Bachelor's degree in education, student affairs, disability studies, counseling, or an equivalent field of study * Two (2) years of experience in higher education or professional disability-related ...

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$26

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How much do disability studies jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for disability studies in the United States is $26.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is disability studies?

Disability studies is an interdisciplinary field that explores the social, cultural, historical, and political aspects of disability. Rather than focusing solely on medical or clinical perspectives, disability studies examine how society defines, treats, and interacts with people with disabilities. The field aims to challenge stereotypes, promote inclusion, and advocate for the rights of disabled individuals by analyzing policies, representation, and lived experiences. It draws from disciplines such as sociology, history, literature, law, and public health to deepen understanding and foster social change.

What are typical responsibilities for professionals working in disability studies within academic or advocacy organizations?

Professionals in Disability Studies often engage in a variety of tasks, including conducting research on disability issues, developing inclusive curriculum, organizing community outreach programs, and advocating for policy changes. They may collaborate closely with people with disabilities, educators, policymakers, and healthcare providers to promote accessibility and social justice. The role typically involves both independent work, such as scholarly writing or data analysis, and teamwork, including coordinating events or leading workshops to raise awareness about disability rights.

What are the qualifications to get a job in disability studies?

The primary qualifications for getting a job in disability studies are a bachelor's degree in a related field and several years of experience. Most employers prefer a master's degree and experience working with federal laws governing disabilities, including the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. These jobs also require the ability to manage and maintain confidential information. Fulfilling the responsibilities and duties of a job in disability studies requires communication skills, attention to detail, creativity, and the ability to find solutions in time-sensitive situations. Experience is precious in this industry, so the more you work with disability advocacy, the easier it is to find another job in this field. Many people use internships or volunteer their time to gain experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a disability studies specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Disability Studies Specialist, you need a solid background in disability theory, social sciences, and advocacy, typically supported by a relevant degree or experience in disability services. Familiarity with accessibility laws (like ADA), assistive technologies, and research tools is important. Strong interpersonal communication, cultural competence, and critical thinking skills help in engaging with diverse communities and advancing inclusion. These skills are crucial for effectively challenging barriers, promoting equity, and implementing systemic change for people with disabilities.

What is the difference between Disability Studies vs Rehabilitation Counselor?

AspectDisability StudiesRehabilitation Counselor
Required CredentialsTypically a Bachelor's or Master's in Disability Studies, Sociology, or related fieldsMaster's in Rehabilitation Counseling or related field, licensure required
Work EnvironmentAcademic settings, advocacy organizations, research institutionsHealthcare facilities, rehabilitation centers, private practice
Industry UsageFocuses on social, cultural, and policy aspects of disabilityFocuses on individual rehabilitation, counseling, and support services

Disability Studies primarily explores the social and cultural aspects of disability, often within academic or advocacy contexts. Rehabilitation Counselors work directly with individuals to support their rehabilitation and integration into society. While both roles address disability, their focus, credentials, and work environments differ significantly.

Is disability studies a good major?

Disability studies is an interdisciplinary major that explores social, cultural, and policy aspects of disability, preparing students for careers in advocacy, social services, education, and policy analysis. It develops skills in critical thinking, research, and communication, which are valuable in various roles supporting individuals with disabilities. The major often requires coursework in sociology, psychology, and law, and can lead to diverse employment opportunities in nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and healthcare settings.

What can you do with a degree in disability studies?

A degree in disability studies prepares individuals for careers in advocacy, policy development, social services, education, and healthcare. Graduates can work as disability support specialists, policy analysts, accessibility coordinators, or in community organizations, often requiring strong communication and understanding of legal and social frameworks related to disability rights.

What cities are hiring for Disability Studies jobs?

Cities with the most Disability Studies job openings:

What states have the most Disability Studies jobs?

States with the most job openings for Disability Studies jobs include:

Infographic showing various Disability Studies job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,308 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Contract and Grants Specialist (0081441T)

University of Hawaii

Honolulu, HI

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


University Of Hawaii System rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

232nd of 621 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description Title: Contract and Grants Specialist Position Number: 0081441T Hiring Unit: College of Education, Center on Disability Studies Location: Manoa Date Posted: July 15, 2026 Closing Date: September 02, 2026 (Extended) Band: A / B Salary: salary schedules and placement information Full Time/Part Time: Full-time Temporary/Permanent: Temporary Other Conditions: Multi-level recruitment (see application instructions). Appointment to begin September 2026 or soon thereafter. Renewal contingent upon satisfactory performance, department needs, and availability of funds.

Duties and Responsibilities Pay Band A *Provides staff support by searching continually for external funding opportunities that relate to the mission of the organization, interests of the faculty, and needs of the community. *Assists with submitting proposals for all faculty using the UH electronic submission system. Provide project management, as requested, including budget management, working with subcontractors to ensure satisfactory compliance, providing technical assistance as necessary.

*Assists with maintaining database on status of Center on Disability Studies (CDS) grants submitted, funded, ending, reporting requirements. Initiate, organize, and conduct meetings to review, plan, and prepare funding proposals for submission. Conduct review of grant applications for compliance with College of Education (COE) policies and Office of Research Services (ORS) requirements.

Pursue and assist in negotiating potential contracts related to CDS work. *Assists with maintaining the National Information and Reporting System (NIRS) national data reporting system including monitoring the timeline for submission of data into the system and ensuring that all staff and faculty complete data entry by June 30 of each year. Provides assistance with preparing the final NIRS report, reviewing all data entry, identifying errors, duplications, and omissions by the due date of July 30 of each year.

Provide training to CDS personnel in use of the NIRS system. Provide supervision for other administrative or student staff, as assigned. Copy edit documents.

Provides support to faculty in preparing proposals, literature reviews, providing boilerplate information, prepare budgets ensuring compliance with submission guidelines pertaining to research designs, grant narrative, deadlines, and specific requirements of request for proposals (RFP). Performs other duties as assigned. Pay Band B *Search continually for external funding opportunities that relate to the mission of the organization, interests of the faculty, and needs of the community.

*Submit proposals for all faculty using the UH electronic submission system. Provide project management, as requested, including budget management, working with subcontractors to ensure satisfactory compliance, providing technical assistance as necessary. *Maintain database on status of Center on Disability (CDS) grants submitted, funded, ending, reporting requirements.

Initiate, organize, and conduct meetings to review, plan, and prepare funding proposals for submission. Conduct review of grant applications for compliance with College of Education (COE) policies and Office of Research Services (ORS) requirements. Pursue and assist in negotiating potential contracts related to Center on Disability Studies (CDS) work.

*Oversee and maintain the National Information and Reporting System (NIRS) national data reporting system including monitoring the timeline for submission of data into the system and ensuring that all staff and faculty complete data entry by June 30 of each year. Prepare the final NIRS report, reviewing all data entry, identifying errors, duplications, and omissions by the due date of July 30 of each year. Provide training to CDS personnel in use of the NIRS system.

Provide supervision for other administrative or student staff, as assigned. Consult faculty in preparing proposals, literature reviews, providing boilerplate information, prepare budgets ensuring compliance with submission guidelines pertaining to research designs, grant narrative, deadlines, and specific requirements of the Request for Proposal (RFP). Performs other duties as assigned.

* Denotes Essential Function Minimum Qualifications Pay Band A Possession of a baccalaureate degree in education, business, communication, psychology or related field and 2 year(s) of progressively responsible professional experience with responsibilities for extramural grant proposals and reporting; or any equivalent combination of education and/or professional work experience which provides the required education, knowledge, skills and abilities as indicated. Functional knowledge of principles, practices and techniques in the area of extramural grant proposals and reporting demonstrated by knowledge, understanding and ability to apply concepts, terminology. Functional knowledge and understanding of principles, theories, federal and state laws, rules, regulations and systems associated with extramural grant proposals and reporting.

Demonstrated ability to recognize problems, identify possible causes and resolve the full range problems that may commonly occur in the area of extramural grant proposals and reporting. Demonstrated ability to understand oral and written documentation, write reports and procedures, and communicate effectively in a variety of situations. Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external organizations, groups, team members and individuals.

Demonstrated ability to operate a personal computer and apply word processing software. Experience with electronic grant submissions. Experience with electronic reporting systems (i.e

NIRS Data Reporting System). Strong organizational skills. Pay Band B Possession of a baccalaureate degree in education, business, communication, psychology or other related field and 3 year(s) of progressively responsible professional experience with responsibilities for extramural grant proposals and reporting; or any equivalent combination of education and/or professional work experience which provides the required education, knowledge, skills and abilities as indicated.

Considerable working knowledge of principles, practices and techniques in the area of extramural grant proposals and reporting as demonstrated by the broad knowledge of the full range of pertinent standard and evolving concepts, principles and methodologies. Considerable working knowledge and understanding of applicable federal and state laws, rules, regulations and theories and systems associated with extramural grant proposals and reporting. Demonstrated ability to resolve wide ranging complex problems through the use of creative reasoning and logic to accurately determine the cause of the problems and the resolution of the problems in an effective, innovative and timely manner.

Demonstrated ability to interpret and present information and ideas clearly and accurately in writing, verbally and by preparation of reports and other materials. Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external organizations, groups, team leaders and members, and individuals. Demonstrated ability to operate a personal computer and apply word processing software.

If applicable, for supervisory work, demonstrated ability to lead subordinates, manage work priorities and projects, and manage employee relations. Experience with electronic grant submissions. Experience working with electronic reporting systems (i.e

NIRS Data Reporting System). Strong organizational skills. Desirable Qualifications Pay Band B Familiarity with myGrant system (Pre-Awards).

Familiarity with rules and regulations for state and federal agencies. Familiarity with GrantSolutions. Experience working with Foundations.

To Apply: Click on the "Apply" button on the top right corner of the screen to complete an application and attach required documents to the online application. Applicants should submit 1) cover letter indicating your interest in the position either at the Band A or Band B level and how you meet the minimum and desirable qualifications, 2) resume; 3) names and contact information (including email address) of at least 3 professional references; and 4) official transcripts (copies acceptable; however, official transcripts are required upon hiring). Late, incomplete, or unreadable application materials will not be considered.

Please REDACT references to social security numbers and birth date on submitted documents. All items become the property of the University of Hawaii and will not be returned. NOTE: If you have not applied for a position before using NEOGOV, you will need to create an account.

The maximum file size to upload/attach is 10 MB. If the attachment is larger than 10 MB, please split the file and upload it as a supplemental attachment. Inquiries: Meghan Miller, miller95@hawaii.edu EEO, Clery Act, ADA The University of Hawai'i is an Equal Opportunity Institution and is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment, including on the basis of veteran and disability status

For more information, visit: https://www.hawaii.edu/offices/eeo/policies/ Employment is contingent on satisfying employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986; reference checks of previous employers; and for certain positions, criminal history record checks. In accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, annual campus crime statistics for the University of Hawai'i may be viewed at: https://www.hawaii.edu/titleix/help/campus-security/, or a paper copy may be obtained upon request from the respective UH Campus Security or Administrative Services Office. In accordance with Article 10 of the unit 08 collective bargaining agreement, bargaining unit members receive priority consideration for APT job vacancies

As a result, external or non BU 08 applicants may not be considered for some APT vacancies. BU 08 members with re-employment rights or priority status are responsible for informing the hiring unit of their status. Accommodation Request: The University of Hawai'i complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the EEO coordinator directly. Determination on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis. For further information, please refer to the following link: https://www.hawaii.edu/offices/eeo/accommodation-request/


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About University of Hawaii

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The University of Hawaii, located in Honolulu, HI, US, is an internationally recognized institution of higher learning. Spanning across ten campuses, including one online university, it represents the public system of higher education in the state of Hawaii. Established in 1907, the university operates in the educational services industry, its mission rooted in quality and affordable education for all. It offers over 600 different study programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees in a broad spectrum of disciplines. Some of its unrivaled specialties encompass tropical agriculture, tropical medicine, oceanography, astronomy, electrical engineering, volcanology, and Pacific Islands and Asian area studies.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Honolulu, HI, US

Year founded

1907