Assistive Technology Analyst

State of Iowa • Des Moines - 50313 - Polk County, IA

7d • Onsite

About The Position

The Iowa Department for the Blind (IDB) is seeking applicants for a Program Data Reporting and Systems Accessibility Specialist. This role is crucial for ensuring that the Department’s Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) and Independent Living (IL) case management, reporting, and data systems are fully accessible to blind and low vision staff. The position supports accurate federal and state reporting, maintains data integrity, and ensures essential systems function effectively with assistive technology such as screen readers, magnification tools, and Braille displays. This is a non-merit position classified as a Senior Services Specialist for the Blind 2.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited U.S. college or university with major course work in technical writing, education, computer science, or related fields and experience equal to three years of full-time work in technology, education, computer science, engineering or a closely related field.
• OR an equivalent combination of education and experience substituting the equivalent of one year of full-time work experience, outlined above, for each year of the required education to a maximum substitution of three years.
• 6 months experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both using Microsoft SQL toolset within no more than 2 major versions of the current release.

Responsibilities

• Ensure that the Department’s VR/IL case management system, databases, dashboards, RSA reporting tools, and related applications are fully accessible to blind and low vision staff.
• Test workflows, reporting screens, query outputs, and data review functions using assistive technology to identify barriers and implement solutions.
• Research and document strategies for using SQL-based reporting tools and dashboards with assistive technology.
• Collaborate with external vendors (Tyler Technologies, Encorps, SWIS, Tracker) to resolve accessibility issues, validate fixes, and ensure ongoing compatibility with screen reader and magnification software.
• Provide technical assistance to blind staff experiencing access issues; log and document recurring problems and solutions.
• Maintain the accessibility and usability of SQL queries, validation tools, and reporting interfaces used for state and federal reporting.
• Apply program knowledge of VR/IL case statuses, service categories, and RSA data definitions to support accurate data entry and reporting processes.
• Review data for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with RSA reporting specifications; recommend and document corrections needed to meet federal guidance.
• Provide accessible staff guidance on reporting expectations, data element definitions, and common errors.
• Analyze VR program data to identify accessibility-related workflow barriers or data integrity concerns.
• Develop accessible documentation, tutorials, and reference materials describing data entry procedures, reporting requirements, and workflows for screen reader and magnification users.
• Train blind and sighted staff on data accuracy, reporting processes, and accessibility best practices within the case management system.
• Provide individualized support to resolve workflow, accessibility, and data entry challenges.
• Communicate system changes clearly and provide accessible demonstrations of new features.
• Coordinate shared reporting elements with partner agencies and resolve cross-system data discrepancies.
• Support partner organizations in meeting accessibility requirements for collaborative tools and processes.
• Participate in discussions regarding reporting changes or cross-agency processes affecting accessibility or data integrity.
• Research updates in screen readers, magnification software, and Braille technologies to support accurate accessibility testing.
• Maintain knowledge of reporting tools, SQL processes, and database structures to support accessible interaction with these systems.
• Identify and recommend accessibility-focused system enhancements that improve efficiency and program data accuracy.
• Ensure accessibility of workflows, dashboards, data entry screens, and SQL-based reporting interfaces.
• Develop and modify SQL scripts and query automation used to extract, validate, and analyze VR/IL program data.
• Analyze program data for completeness, accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with federal RSA requirements.
• Apply detailed knowledge of VR/IL program structures, case statuses, service categories, and reporting definitions.
• Develop, validate, and modify SQL queries and reporting tools for federal and state reporting.
• Create accessible documentation and training materials for all staff.
• Conduct group trainings on reporting requirements, data accuracy, and accessible workflows.
• Provide individualized technical assistance regarding accessibility and reporting issues.
• Collaborate with partner agencies and vendors to maintain accessibility and resolve data discrepancies.
• Test vendor updates to ensure continued compatibility with screen readers and magnification tools.
• Maintain current knowledge of assistive technology and federal reporting guidance.
• Communicate technical concepts, reporting requirements, accessibility needs, and data concerns clearly and effectively.

Benefits

• Paid Time Off: Enjoy vacation with accruals that rollover on a yearly basis, sick leave with no limits on accrual and 9 paid holidays per year.
• Great Benefits: Excellent Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance Options.
• Retirement Plan: IPERS Retirement package and an option for a deferred compensation plan.
• Flexibility: Flexible Spending Accounts (medical and dependent care).
• Life Insurance: Free Life Insurance.
• Support: Employee Assistance Programs and Employee Discount Programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior