Graduate Accessibility Student Assistant

## Job Description

**Overview**
The Electronic Thesis & Dissertation (ETD) Accessibility graduate student supports the Auburn University Graduate School by reviewing electronic thesis and dissertation submissions for compliance with federal digital accessibility requirements. This position plays a critical role in ensuring that graduate student research is accessible to all users and meets applicable federal regulations and university standards before final approval and publication. The graduate assistant will work closely with Graduate School staff and communicate directly with graduate students regarding required accessibility revisions.

**Responsibilities**
* Reviews electronic thesis and dissertation submissions for compliance with federal digital accessibility requirements, including but not limited to document structure, alternative text, headings, tables, links, and overall readability.
* Identifies accessibility issues and provides clear, professional written feedback, guidance and university resources to graduate students on required revisions.
* Applies established Graduate School policies, federal regulations, and accessibility best practices consistently and accurately across all submissions.
* Communicates effectively with Graduate School staff, students and faculty to resolve questions related to accessibility standards and submission requirements.
* Maintains accurate records of reviews, revisions, and approvals in electronic systems and shared tracking tools.
* Maintains training and knowledge of current best practices, federal requirements and updates to technology resources available on and off campus.
* Assists with developing or updating written guidance, checklists, and resources related to accessible ETD preparation as needed.

**Qualifications**
Minimum Qualifications

• Enrollment in a graduate degree program at Auburn University.

• Excellent writing, editing, and written communication skills.

• Exceptional attention to detail and ability to identify errors, inconsistencies, and compliance issues.

• Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply detailed guidelines, policies, and federal regulations.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, PDF documents, and basic document formatting tools.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with digital accessibility standards and federal regulations (e.g., Section 508, WCAG).

• Experience reviewing, editing, or formatting long-form academic or technical documents.

• Experience working with PDFs, accessibility checkers, or assistive technology tools.

• Background in writing, editing, communications, technical writing, instructional design, or a related field.

**Why Work at Auburn?**
Why should **YOU**consider student employment at Auburn University?

* **Gain valuable work experience!** Student employment allows you to explore different interests, identify strengths, and make informed decisions about your future career goals.
* **Build your network!** Interacting with faculty, staff, and fellow students can lead to valuable connections and potential mentors.
* **Make a difference!**Have the satisfaction of knowing **YOU**are a part of providing the premier academic experience at Auburn and the life-changing work our students and employees perform.

**Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement**
It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance's[website](https://auburn.edu/administration/eoc/)to learn more.