Senior Disability Access Services Specialist - Whitman College

Another Source•Walla Walla, WA

6d•$55,800 - $62,000•Onsite

About The Position

Whitman College is recruiting a Senior Disability Access Services Specialist to advance an accessible, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for students with disabilities. Based onsite in Walla Walla, Washington, the role combines direct student engagement with operational leadership and reports to the Associate Vice President for Wellness. The specialist serves as a trusted resource for students, faculty, and staff and leads the day-to-day operations of Disability Access Services (DAS). The position guides students through the accommodation process, reviews documentation, determines appropriate academic accommodations, coordinates accessible materials and assistive technology, and maintains confidential records. It also involves campus consultation and education, collaboration on complex cases, accommodated testing support, and academic coaching and mentoring, particularly for first-year students. The specialist evaluates DAS policies and practices, contributes to assessment and continuous improvement, and helps foster a campus culture in which accessibility and disability inclusion are shared priorities. The role also contributes to evolving initiatives and projects and keeps current with disability services practices, assistive technology, and applicable accessibility requirements. Responsibilities and priorities may change during the academic year in response to student needs and the College's operational calendar. This is a full-time, nonexempt position. The anticipated pay range is $26.82–$29.80 per hour (approximately $55,800–$62,000 annually), based on qualifications and experience. Relocation assistance is available.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in higher education, counseling, student personnel, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of relevant education, training, and experience.
Three years of experience providing direct academic support, advising, or disability-related services to students from diverse backgrounds.
Experience supporting and mentoring college students in an educational setting; experience in a rigorous higher education environment is described as ideal.
Working knowledge of Section 504, the ADA/ADAAA, and applicable laws and regulations governing accessibility in higher education.
Experience reviewing disability documentation, evaluating accommodation requests, and coordinating appropriate academic supports.
Familiarity with assistive technology, accessible learning materials, and alternative-format textbooks.
Strong interpersonal, listening, and communication skills, including the ability to approach sensitive situations with empathy, professionalism, and sound judgment.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and navigate complex student situations with discretion.
Collaborative approach to building productive relationships with faculty, staff, students, and campus partners.
Demonstrated commitment to equity, accessibility, inclusion, and creating an environment where people with diverse experiences and perspectives can thrive.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in higher education, counseling, student personnel, or a related field.
Experience supporting individuals with concussions or related accommodation needs.
Familiarity with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles.
Background or experience in mental health support.
Experience working with, or a strong interest in supporting, neurodiverse students.

Responsibilities

Guide students through the interactive process of requesting, renewing, and modifying academic accommodations.
Review disability documentation, conduct student intake meetings, and determine accommodations that support equitable access to academic programs and resources.
Build relationships with current and prospective students and families and help them understand services and navigate the accommodation process.
Ensure accommodation decisions and practices align with Section 504, the ADA Amendments Act, and institutional policies.
Coordinate accessible course materials, alternative-format textbooks, and assistive technology.
Partner with the Director of DAS to maintain and improve assistive technology resources, train students, and explore emerging accessibility solutions.
Maintain accurate, confidential student records and accommodation documentation using the Accommodate system.
Use sound judgment to address accommodation concerns and determine when consultation or escalation is appropriate.
Serve as a campus resource and advisor for students, faculty, and staff navigating disability accommodations.
Collaborate with academic departments, student support services, and campus partners to strengthen accessibility across programs and services.
Consult on complex student accommodation cases and coordinate collaborative solutions.
Develop and deliver educational programming and professional development for faculty and staff on disability awareness, accommodations, and inclusive practices.
Represent DAS on campus committees and collaborative teams, including the CARE Team, Campus Accessibility Committee, and Housing and Dietary Accommodations Team, as requested.
Support accommodated testing with the Testing Coordinator while balancing student access and academic integrity.
Provide individualized academic coaching and mentoring, particularly for first-year students transitioning to college.
Lead daily DAS operations and ensure responsive, consistent, student-centered service delivery.
Evaluate policies, procedures, and practices and identify opportunities to improve accessibility, effectiveness, and the student experience.
Use research-informed approaches and assessment findings to strengthen disability services and operational efficiency.
Help cultivate a campus culture where accessibility and disability inclusion are shared institutional priorities.
Contribute to emerging DAS initiatives and special projects as student needs and institutional priorities evolve.
Stay current on disability services best practices, assistive technologies, ADA and Section 504 requirements, and inclusive approaches to higher education.
Apply new knowledge and professional development to enhance services, strengthen partnerships, and improve student outcomes.