Digital Accessibility Coordinator

Position Summary
Reporting to the Associate Director, Strategic Initiatives and Communications and serving as a key member of the Information & Communication Technologies (ICT) team, the Digital Accessibility Coordinator will lead efforts to ensure digital accessibility across enterprise platforms and technologies while collaborating with units across Laurier. This role involves developing and implementing accessibility procedures, training programs, and prioritized initiatives to create an inclusive digital environment for students, faculty, staff, and external partners. The Coordinator will work closely with Information and Communication Technologies, Teaching and Learning, Accessible Learning, Digital Experience, and the Library, to integrate accessibility into their digital practices, conduct regular audits, and provide support and training to ensure compliance with legal requirements and best practices. This position is crucial for fostering an inclusive learning environment, improving user experiences, and enhancing the institution's reputation for accessibility and inclusivity.

Accountabilities
Policy, Standards & Compliance

Collaborate with subject matter experts to develop and update digital accessibility policies and guidelines ensuring AODA and Ontario Human Rights Code compliance
Monitor and report on compliance with accessibility standards across Laurier's digital properties
Enhance processes for verifying vendor accessibility claims within existing procurement frameworks (PSIA, HECVAT)

Assessment & Quality Assurance

Conduct regular accessibility audits of digital content, websites, and Learning Management Systems using tools like SiteImprove
Evaluate software and applications (both legacy systems and new purchases) for accessibility compliance
Identify accessibility issues, provide remediation recommendations, and maintain systematic monitoring processes
Track audit results and report progress to impacted units

Education & Support Services

Create and deliver comprehensive accessibility training (virtual courses, workshops) for faculty and staff
Develop educational resources including guides, checklists, and best practices
Provide ongoing consultation and support for creating accessible digital content, course materials, and documents
Collaborate with departments (Teaching and Learning, Accessible Learning, Library and others) to integrate accessibility into their practices

Project Leadership & Community Engagement

Lead prioritized accessibility projects including LMS content review, website remediation, and document accessibility
Coordinate project teams, manage timelines and budgets, and track key performance indicators
Recruit, train, and supervise co-op students in accessibility assessment techniques and remediation processes
Coordinate project teams including co-op students, manage task delegation, timelines and budgets, and track key performance indicators
Provide mentorship and professional development opportunities for co-op students in digital accessibility practices
Advocate for digital accessibility culture through awareness campaigns, events, workshops
Represent Laurier in external accessibility forums and engage with the disability community for feedback and continuous improvement

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., Information Technology, Education, Accessibility Studies).
Minimum of 4 years of experience in digital accessibility or a related role.
Certification in accessibility (e.g., CPACC, WAS).
Strong knowledge of accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG 2.1 AA, AODA).
Experience with accessibility auditing tools (e.g., SiteImprove, Blackboard Ally).
Excellent project management and organizational skills.
Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
Passion for inclusion and equity in digital environments
Ability to conduct audits and preparing detailed reports with actionable recommendations
Experience in higher education settings.
Familiarity with LMS platforms and web development
Effective communication and training skills.
Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.