Specialist, Digital Instructional Accessibility

SUMMARY

Responsible for ensuring accessibility and compliance standards are implemented and measurable within the College’s online learning environment. Assists Blackboard Learning Management System Administrators on support and software integration. Serves as a main point of contact for the College-wide Blackboard Web Accessibility plan. Consults with instructional divisions, the Center for Learning Excellence (CLE), the Student Accessibility Services Office (SAS), the Office of General Counsel, Integrated Communications, Human Resources, and more to develop standards and best practices for compliance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 (WCAG) AA standards for instructional materials, principles of Universal Design and Blackboard Ally.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS


Manages the workflow and prioritization of accessibility projects and take appropriate corrective action
Assures compliance of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, equal opportunity for students and reporting a baseline that includes Electronic and Information Technology Accessibility (EITA) online requirements
Develops and implements outreach and training on principles, tools and techniques for members of the College community who maintain instructional websites or use the web to deliver instructional materials
Leads accessibility audits of key instructional websites, web applications evaluations for online instructional content systems and third party providers
Identifies and assists in implementing tools for supporting online instructional content and accessibility
Acts as the primary web and technology accessibility trainer for the College community, including faculty, staff and students, utilizing Ally software within the Blackboard Learn Management System (LMS)
Builds and maintains working relationships with all faculty and deans, leading towards a defined goal of a fully accessible Blackboard Learn courses and other digital accessible technology initiatives
Continually develops understanding of accessible technologies, related laws, and common practices through the development of a diverse professional network and engagement in development opportunities to stay abreast of major trends in the field
Recommends and develops training as a method of inspiring faculty and staff to create a more inclusive course environment
Assists with the development and updating of course materials to improve course accessibility while improving the accessibility score for the institution
Prepares accessibility reports, articles and presentations as needed utilizing software and tools that are in place at the College
Performs other duties as assigned

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS


EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE/TRAINING


Bachelor’s degree in Instructional Design, or related field
Significant related experience may substitute for education
Minimum of five years of demonstrated experience in higher education and/or distance learning programs
Certifications in Instructional Design, Educational Technology, or Universal Design
Demonstrated project management experience
Demonstrated experience in Web Accessibility training for electronic media
Demonstrated familiarity with JAWS, ZoomText, and Dragon Naturally Speaking
Demonstrated experience with one LMS (such as Blackboard, Angel, Canvas, Desire2Learn, Moodle 2.0)
Demonstrated experience in developing online courses or course components in a LMS

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES


Possess working knowledge of the ADA and other laws addressing the rights of people with disabilities, such as Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C. § 794
Possess working knowledge of various alternative formats and alternative technologies that enable persons with disabilities to communicate, participate, and perform tasks
Possess knowledge of principles guiding application of reasonable modifications under the ADA
Possess strong knowledge of XML and HTML
Possess strong customer service, organizational and problem-solving skills
Intermediate-level proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Outlook, Word and PowerPoint
Ability to support the analytics and reporting process(s) of the College in the area of digital online accessibility
Ability to work cooperatively with the Office of Accessibility, local government and persons with disabilities to promote the College as a community leader in advocating access for all in education
Ability to quickly learn and present new technology tools for evaluation
Ability to interact with diverse groups of faculty, students and staff with a wide spectrum of technical skills
Ability to work effectively in a technologically dynamic and changing work environment requiring flexibility and teamwork
Ability to confidentially and discreetly handle subject matters requiring privacy and sensitivity
Proven ability to work independently, in a team environment, and with employees of all levels throughout the organization

COMPETENCIES


CRITICAL COMPETENCIES


Service Focus
Collaboration
Continuous Improvement

VERY IMPORTANT COMPETENCIES


Communication
Time Utilization

IMPORTANT COMPETENCIES


Quality of Work
Adaptability

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS


EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE/TRAINING

Master’s degree in Instructional Design
Demonstrated experience in Articulate
Certified Professional in Web Accessibility (CPWA)
Demonstrated experience in Web Accessibility training for electronic media
Demonstrated experience with system administration of Blackboard Mobile, Connect, Content, Community, and Blackboard Outcomes
Possess strong knowledge in web accessibility and ability to provide guidance in WCAG 2.0 standards and Section 508 accessibility requirements in conjunction with knowledge of the Americans with Disability Act Amendments (ADAA)

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORKING CONDITIONS


(The demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.)

The work is performed in a normal, professional office environment;
The work area is adequately lighted, heated and ventilated;
Typically, the employee may sit comfortably to perform the duties of the job and will perform repetitive motions with hands/fingers using a computer mouse and keyboard to type. However, there may be some walking; standing; bending; carrying of light items such as papers, files, pamphlets, books, etc.;
Work may also require walking and standing in conjunction with travel to and attendance at meetings and conferences away from the worksite
Special Note:

Special Instructions to Applicants: During the application process, you may be required to attach a cover letter and/or resume. It is recommended that you have these documents ready to be attached electronically to the online application. This system accepts only MS Word or PDF attachments. Any employment with the College is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check and drug screen.

Affirmative Action Statement: Cuyahoga Community College is committed to attaining excellence through the recruitment and retention of a qualified and diverse workforce. Cuyahoga Community College is an equal employment/educational opportunity institution.