Junior Digital Accessibility Specialist

UIC is seeking a Junior Digital Accessibility Specialist to join its Technology Solutions team. The role will be responsible for ensuring that digital products, applications, websites, and services are accessible to individuals with disabilities. The specialist will conduct accessibility audits, test digital assets with assistive technologies, provide consultations, and promote accessibility standards across teams. This role requires knowledge of accessibility guidelines and standards such as WCAG, ADA, and Section 508 to ensure inclusivity in the university’s digital offerings.

Key Responsibilities

Accessibility Consultation Services

• Conduct accessibility audits of digital assets (websites, applications, software) to identify barriers and ensure compliance with WCAG and other accessibility standards.
• Test digital assets using assistive technologies (screen readers, magnifiers, voice recognition software) to ensure compatibility.
• Participate in design and development reviews to proactively identify accessibility challenges and advise on inclusive design principles.
• Provide various digital accessibility services, including consultations, exception requests, problem reporting, and accessibility score services.

Accessibility Training and Awareness

• Provide training sessions and workshops to developers, designers, and other stakeholders to promote accessibility best practices.
• Collaborate with teams to establish a culture of inclusivity and raise accessibility awareness.

Accessibility Integration and Monitoring

• Work with software development teams to integrate accessibility into the development lifecycle.
• Administer the university-wide digital accessibility monitoring system.
• Assist with remediating accessibility problems and developing action plans to improve accessibility.
• Engage with individuals with disabilities to conduct user testing and gather feedback.
• Maintain accurate records of accessibility assessments, remediation efforts, and compliance status.

Accessibility Compliance

• Collaborate with teams to ensure digital products comply with accessibility laws and regulations, such as ADA and Section 508.
• Perform other related duties and contribute to special projects as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a closely related field.
• Experience: At least 1 year of professional IT experience, with demonstrated experience in application development and maintenance.
• Knowledge: Understanding of accessibility standards, guidelines, and best practices, including WCAG, ADA, and Section 508.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with accessibility evaluation tools and assistive technologies.
• Proficiency in web technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript).
• Strong problem-solving skills for addressing accessibility issues.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Understanding of UX design principles and their role in accessible design.
• Knowledge of disability laws and regulations related to digital accessibility.