Digital Accessibility Specialist (Temporary, non-benefited)

General Summary:

UMass Boston and Accessible Web are dedicated to advancing web accessibility. We're seeking a skilled Digital Accessibility Specialist on a temporary/contract basis to ensure our digital properties meet top-tier accessibility standards, aligning with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1)

Web Accessibility Issue Spotting and Resolution:

• Proactively spot and resolve issues reported in DubBot.
• Provide guidance and hands-on demonstrations to the web team on addressing and preventing similar issues.

Additional Responsibilities:

* WCAG Compliance: Ensure umb.edu and associated properties comply with WCAG standards.

* Conduct regular DubBot audits to identify and address accessibility issues.

* Conduct manual accessibility testing on highly visited web pages to ensure comprehensive coverage.

* Issue Resolution: Actively resolve reported accessibility issues in web content and website code.

* Collaborate with content creators, designers, and developers to implement sustainable accessibility solutions.

* ARIA Implementation: Possess ARIA expertise and integrate techniques into web content and code for enhanced accessibility.

* User Interaction: Engage with users to gather feedback on accessibility challenges.

* Demonstrate proficiency in using assistive technologies to understand and address user concerns.

* Training and Documentation: Provide training sessions for web editors, designers, and developers on accessibility best practices.

* Develop and maintain documentation outlining accessibility guidelines and procedures.

Qualifications:

* WCAG Auditing and Technical Experience: Advanced understanding of WCAG success criteria and expertise in auditing/testing.

* Solid knowledge of web development technologies, including HTML and CSS.

* Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex topics succinctly.

* Formal communication style with high attention to detail.

* Assistive Technology Experience: High level of experience using screen readers for auditing and testing.

* Organizational Skills: Ability to work independently, maintain focus, and log billable hours.

* Demonstrated organizational skills, handling multiple projects simultaneously.

* Core Competencies for Success: Strong attention to detail and persistent problem-solving drive.

* Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.

* Highly responsive, flexible, and adaptable to changing priorities and deadlines.

* Critical thinking and creative problem-solving abilities.

Application Instructions:

Please apply online with your resume and cover letter.

This is a temporary, non-benefited, hourly position. We expect the appointment to run for one year without the possibility of renewal.

UMass Boston is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, we will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations for the hiring process. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact HR@umb.edu or 617-287-5150.