Digital Accessibility Associate

Youngstown State University•Youngstown, OH

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Supports the university’s efforts to make its electronic and information technology (EIT) accessible to individuals with disabilities. Serves as a subject matter expert in Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, Title II/III, and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1 or higher). Assists university constituents by auditing requests and technology related to this initiative. Works under general supervision and exercises professional judgment with university constituents to reduce institutional risk while improving equitable access to technology. Collaborates with departments across campus to integrate accessibility best practices into digital projects, content, and services.

Requirements

At least a bachelor’s degree and two years of related and/or equivalent experience; OR at least an associate degree and four years of related and/or equivalent experience.
Knowledge of digital accessibility standards (WCAG 2.1 AA or higher, Section 508) and how they apply to products with a user interface.
Knowledge of procurement processes in a higher education or public sector setting.
Knowledge of common business technology platforms, purchasing systems, operating systems, and security practices.
Knowledge of university policies and procedures, office practices and procedures, department/division goals and objectives, department/division policies and procedures, workplace safety practices and procedures, English grammar and spelling, records management, office management, project management.
Skill in using assistive technology and software to evaluate technology resources.
Skill in problem solving in complex technology environments.
Skill in remediation and/or recommending remediation steps for content requested for review through service management tickets.
Skill in use of office equipment, typing, data entry, computer operation, use of computer software and other programs applicable to the assigned department.
Ability to evaluate accessibility risks and use judgement when assessing accessibility risks against the risk matrix.
Ability to read and interpret VPATs/ACRs/HECVATs and identify significant conformance gaps and request practical remediation solutions.
Ability to communicate technical compliance findings clearly to non-technical stakeholders, vendors, and governance committees.
Ability to consult with clients to determine skills gaps and specialized training needs.
Ability to design and test content to digital compliance standards.
Ability to test applications and systems while giving constructive feedback using designated testing protocols.
Ability to communicate in an understandable, polite, and professional manner with various stakeholders, both technical and non-technical.
Ability to successfully work independently with clients and technical support personnel.
Ability to compile and prepare reports.
Ability to use proper research methods to gather data.
Ability to understand a variety of written and/or verbal communications.
Ability to prepare accurate documentation.
Ability to maintain records according to established procedures.
Ability to train or instruct others.
Ability to move quickly and effectively from one task to another.
Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships.

Nice To Haves

Experience with accessibility compliance reviews for WCAG 2.1 or higher and familiarity with accessibility evaluation tools (e.g., axe, WAVE, NVDA) sufficient to review vendor claims.
Vendor digital accessibility risk management, or ADA/Section 508 coordination.
Accessibility testing with manual or automated testing tools.
Experience in higher education or large-scale organizational environments.

Responsibilities

Reviews all new software procurement requests and annual software renewal agreements for digital accessibility compliance documentation, including Voluntary Product Accessibility Templates (VPATs), Accessibility Conformance Reports (ACRs), Higher Education Community Vendor Assessment Toolkits (HECVATs) and vendor accessibility statements.
Evaluates vendor-submitted accessibility documentation against current WCAG conformance criteria and applicable state/federal standards; note gaps and exceptions in conformance for follow-up.
Coordinates with vendors to request or clarify accessibility documentation when not initially provided or insufficient.
Develops and maintains standardized accessibility review checklists, and workflow documentation to ensure consistent, auditable review of every applicable agreement.
Prepares periodic compliance reports for IT leadership and executive governance summarizing review volume, findings, outstanding risks, and fine/penalty exposure.
Stays current on evolving state and federal digital accessibility requirements and adjust review criteria and procedures accordingly.
Consults with or trains clients on digital accessibility best practices, which include procuring software and creating content for public use (website, LMS).
Conducts software and application testing in alignment with university business and academic standards.
Communicates regularly with supervisor and stakeholders to align training with institutional objectives.
Prepares and maintains accurate records of daily tasks in accordance with applicable policies and procedures and assures timely communication with supervisor, staff, and students where appropriate.
Gathers data and prepares reports and other information/documentation for supervisory review related to programs and/or services, or one or more assigned components.
Remains informed of current developments and procedures pertinent to duties; participates in staff development activities; attends meetings, conferences, and other events.
Assists with training new hires.
Performs other duties as assigned and/or required that are within the level of responsibility for this classification at the discretion of the supervisor.