508 Testing Specialist (Technical Specialist III) 2026P-0158

Job Summary Ascension LLC is seeking a **508 Testing Specialist** to support FEMA’s National Training and Education Division (NTED) in ensuring that all training materials, systems, and digital content meet federal accessibility standards. This role is critical to ensuring equitable access to training programs that support national preparedness and emergency response. The ideal candidate is someone who understands that accessibility is not just a compliance requirement but a mission enabler. This individual will play a key role in identifying accessibility gaps, guiding remediation efforts, and ensuring that all deliverables align with Section 508 and WCAG standards. This position directly supports the broader objective of delivering high-quality, inclusive training programs across FEMA’s Training Partners Program. Position Summary The 508 Testing Specialist will be responsible for conducting accessibility testing, validating compliance with WCAG 2.0/2.1 and Section 508 standards, identifying defects, and providing actionable remediation guidance. The role requires a strong attention to detail, the ability to interpret accessibility standards, and the capability to work collaboratively with content developers, instructional designers, and program staff. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, analytical, and proactive. They should be comfortable working in a fast-paced, sometimes ambiguous environment and capable of managing multiple reviews simultaneously. This individual will help ensure that all digital training products are usable by individuals with disabilities, thereby supporting FEMA’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Key Responsibilities / Day-to-Day Activities - Conduct accessibility testing of training materials, websites, and digital content using automated and manual testing methods - Evaluate compliance with Section 508 standards and WCAG 2.0/2.1 guidelines - Identify accessibility defects and document findings in clear, actionable reports - Provide remediation guidance to developers, instructional designers, and content owners - Perform validation testing to confirm that identified issues have been resolved - Collaborate with curriculum review teams to ensure accessibility is integrated into the development lifecycle - Maintain testing documentation, audit logs, and compliance reports - Support accessibility audits of training delivery platforms and systems - Participate in review boards and provide accessibility subject matter expertise - Recommend tools, processes, and best practices to improve accessibility compliance Minimum / Required Qualifications - Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Human-Computer Interaction, or related field - Minimum of **6 years of relevant experience** in accessibility testing and compliance - Demonstrated experience with **Section 508 and WCAG 2.0/2.1 standards** - Experience using accessibility testing tools such as: - JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver - Axe, WAVE, ANDI - Strong understanding of HTML, CSS, and web structure as it relates to accessibility - Experience documenting defects and providing remediation guidance - Strong written and verbal communication skills - Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities Desired / Preferred Qualifications - IAAP certifications (e.g., CPACC, WAS, CPWA) - Experience supporting federal clients, particularly DHS or FEMA - Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS) and eLearning platforms - Experience with Section 508 audits in training or instructional content environments - Knowledge of Agile or iterative development environments - Experience working with instructional designers and content developers Suitability / Security Requirements - Ability to obtain and maintain a **Public Trust clearance** - U.S. Citizenship required Pay: $95,000.00 - $125,000.00 per year Benefits: - Paid time off Work Location: Hybrid remote in Washington, DC 20590