Director, Center for Accessibility Resources

Saint Xavier University•Chicago, IL

About The Position

The Director of the Center for Accessibility Resources leads the university’s efforts to ensure equal access and full participation for students with disabilities in academic programs, services, and activities. The Director provides strategic direction and oversees the Center’s daily operations, regulatory compliance, accommodations, accessibility technology and services, and staff. The role also serves as the university’s primary subject matter expert and consultant on disability law and accessibility best practices in higher education. The Director reports to the Executive Director of Academic and Student Support and supervises Center staff, graduate assistants, and student workers. The position works Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The university values responsive, collaborative, effective, respectful, and personalized service; is committed to diversity; and encourages applicants from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences. Saint Xavier University is a Catholic institution inspired by the heritage of the Sisters of Mercy and may employ persons who subscribe to its mission, vision, and core values. The university is an Equal Opportunity Employer and makes hiring and other employment decisions without discrimination on legally protected grounds.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Special Education, Rehabilitation Counseling, Higher Education Administration, Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field.
At least 5 years of progressively responsible experience in disability services, accessibility, or a related field; higher education experience is preferred.
Comprehensive knowledge of the ADA, ADAAA, Section 504, FERPA, and other relevant federal and state laws and regulations.
Demonstrated experience evaluating disability documentation and determining reasonable accommodations through an interactive process.
Knowledge of assistive technology, accessible instructional materials, and digital accessibility standards.
Strong leadership, interpersonal, organizational, and analytical skills.
Ability to prioritize and multitask, perform under pressure, and meet deadlines.
Excellent written and oral communication skills, including discretion and empathy when communicating sensitive information.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse student, faculty, and staff populations.
Strong computer skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office products.
Ability to perform the essential duties satisfactorily, with reasonable accommodation provided to otherwise qualified individuals with disabilities.

Nice To Haves

Supervisory experience.
Experience with accessibility case-management software such as Accommodate or Navigate.

Responsibilities

Provide vision, leadership, and strategic direction for the Center in alignment with the university’s mission and commitment to inclusive excellence.
Supervise Center staff, graduate assistants, and student workers, including hiring, training, professional development, and performance evaluation.
Administer the interactive process for determining reasonable academic accommodations, auxiliary aids, and services for students with disabilities.
Review and evaluate disability documentation in accordance with professional standards and AHEAD guidance.
Ensure compliance with the ADA, Section 504, ADAAA, and other applicable regulations.
Develop, implement, and review policies, procedures, and protocols for accessibility services.
Advise faculty, staff, and administrators on disability-related matters.
Manage accessibility technology and assistive tools, including Accommodate, screen readers, alternative-format production, Navigate, and Canvas.
Coordinate testing accommodations, note-taking services, alternative-format materials, sign-language interpreting, and captioning.
Maintain accurate and confidential student files and case-management records in compliance with FERPA, HIPAA, and disability confidentiality standards.
Manage the Center’s budget, forecast and allocate resources, and identify cost-effective service and accommodation solutions.
Evaluate student concerns, requests, and appeals regarding accommodation decisions and participate in grievance procedures as appropriate.
Collaborate across university departments to support accessibility in programs, physical spaces, and digital environments.
Manage the Center’s website and ensure its information is current, accurate, and digitally accessible.
Represent the Center on university committees and at special events, and serve as liaison to external agencies, community partners, and professional organizations related to disability.
Develop and deliver training, workshops, and outreach on disability awareness, accommodations, and inclusive practices.
Collect, analyze, and report data on Center usage, student outcomes, and service effectiveness to support improvement and institutional planning.
Maintain knowledge of trends, case law, and best practices by attending and participating in workshops and conferences.
Perform other duties as assigned.