Senior Digital Accessibility Specialist - Technology Solutions

Hiring Department: Technology Solutions

Location: Chicago, IL USA

Requisition ID: 1028105

Posting Close Date: 11/18/2024

About the University of Illinois Chicago

UIC is among the nation’s preeminent urban public research universities, a Carnegie RU/VH research institution, and the largest university in Chicago. UIC serves over 34,000 students, comprising one of the most diverse student bodies in the nation and is designated as a Minority Serving Institution (MSI), an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AANAPSI) and a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). Through its 16 colleges, UIC produces nationally and internationally recognized multidisciplinary academic programs in concert with civic, corporate and community partners worldwide, including a full complement of health sciences colleges. By emphasizing cutting-edge and transformational research along with a commitment to the success of all students, UIC embodies the dynamic, vibrant and engaged urban university. Recent “Best Colleges” rankings published by U.S. News & World Report, found UIC climbed up in its rankings among top public schools in the nation and among all national universities. UIC has over 300,000 alumni, and is one of the largest employers in the city of Chicago.

This is a full-time and benefits eligible position. Hybrid and flexible work schedules are available. UIC offers competitive salaries commensurate with experience. In addition all full time benefits eligible positions include a comprehensive benefits package which include; Health, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability & AD&D insurance, a defined benefit pension plan as well as paid leave which includes; Vacation, Holiday and Sick. In addition we offer tuition waivers for employees and dependents. Click for a complete list of Employee Benefits

UIC is seeking two Senior Digital Accessibility Specialists to join our Technology Solutions team. This role will be responsible for ensuring that digital products, applications, websites, and services are designed and developed in a manner that is accessible to all individuals, including those with disabilities. This role requires a strong understanding of accessibility guidelines, standards, and best practices to promote inclusivity and usability for diverse user groups.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Accessibility consultation services:

Conduct comprehensive accessibility audits of digital assets, including websites, applications, software, and documents, to identify potential barriers and ensure compliance with accessibility standards such as WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) via UIC Digital Accessibility Consultation Services and other communication mechanism.
Test digital assets using various assistive technologies (e.g., screen readers, magnifiers, voice recognition software) to ensure compatibility and optimal user experiences for individuals with disabilities.
Participate in design and development reviews to proactively identify potential accessibility challenges and provide guidance on inclusive design principles. Accessibility review also includes Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAG) and Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR) shared by the vendors.

Provide UIC Digital Accessibility services which include:

Digital Accessibility Consultations
Digital Accessibility Exception Request
Report a Digital Accessibility Problems
Request for Accessibility score and reporting services

Accessibility training and coordination:

Provide training sessions and workshops to developers, designers, and other stakeholders to raise awareness and promote best practices for integrating accessibility into the development process.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including developers, designers, product managers, quality assurance, and content creators, to promote accessibility awareness and establish a culture of inclusivity.

Accessibility integration, improvement, and monitoring:

Work closely with software development teams to integrate accessibility into the development lifecycle, from concept to release and beyond.
Administer the University wide digital accessibility monitoring system and provide technical support.
Assist to remediate accessibility problems and develop action plans and recommendations to address accessibility issues identified during audits, working closely with development teams to implement necessary changes and improvements.
Engage with individuals with disabilities or accessibility needs to conduct user testing, gathering feedback and insights to inform ongoing improvements.

Accessibility Compliance:

Collaborate with development teams and stakeholders to ensure that digital products adhere to relevant accessibility laws, regulations, and industry standards, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 508 in the United States.

Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications Required:

Bachelor Degree within Computer Science or closely related field of study
Minimum 5 years of professional IT experience within IT Development which includes demonstrated experience in developing and/or modifying new and existing applications, including requirement analysis, design, code, test, debug, implementation and maintenance.
Demonstrated knowledge of accessibility standards, guidelines, and best practices, including WCAG, ADA, and Section 508.


Preferred Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Human-Computer Interaction, or a related field. Advanced degrees or certifications in accessibility or assistive technology are a plus.
Familiarity with accessibility evaluation tools and assistive technologies.
Proficiency in web technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript).
Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and address accessibility issues effectively.
Excellent communication and presentation skills to deliver accessibility training and collaborate with diverse teams.
Understanding of user experience (UX) design principles and their application in accessible design.
Knowledge of disability laws and regulations related to digital accessibility.
Ability to keep up-to-date with evolving accessibility trends and emerging technologies.

#LI-REMOTE

To Apply: For fullest consideration click on the Apply Now button, please fully complete all sections of the online application including adding your full work history with specific details of your duties & responsibilities for each position held. Fully complete the education, licensure, certification and language sections. You may upload a resume, cover letter, certifications, licensures, transcripts and diplomas within the application.

Please note that once you have submitted your application you will not be able to make any changes. In order to revise your application you must withdraw and reapply. You will not be able to reapply after the posting close date. Please ensure the application is fully completed and all supporting documents have been uploaded before the posting close date. Illinois Residency is required within 180 days of employment

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

The university provides accommodations to applicants and employees. Request an Accommodation