IT Accessibility Evaluator

Introduction
Maryland Department of Disabilities (MDOD) facilitates the coordination of accessible information technology in compliance with state and federal laws. The Department of Information Technology (DoIT) supports state agencies in developing, funding and implementing information technology services. Both agencies collaborate to ensure that the state procures, develops and implements accessible information technology systems.

The IT Accessibility Evaluator will provide technical assistance to state agencies and DoIT through website evaluation, technical remediation support, and training. Additionally, this position will serve as direct support staff to the lead IT Accessibility Coordinator, attending state-level & departmental meetings, compiling resources, and providing direct technical support state agency IT staff.

This is a full-time position for MDOD - MD Assistive Technology Program.
GRADE
16
LOCATION OF POSITION

Co-Located:

Department of Information Technology

100 Community Place

Crownsville, MD 21032

Maryland Department of Disabilities, Assistive Technology Program

2301 Argonne Drive

Baltimore, MD 21218
Main Purpose of Job

MDOD facilitates the coordination of accessible information technology in compliance with state and federal law. DoIT supports state agencies in developing, funding and implementing information technology services. Both agencies collaborate to ensure that the state procures, develops and implements accessible information technology systems.

The IT Accessibility Evaluator position will provide technical assistance to state agencies and DoIT through website evaluation, technical remediation support, and training. Additionally, this position will serve as direct support staff to lead IT Accessibility Coordinator, attending state-level & departmental meetings, compiling resources, and providing direct technical support state agency IT staff.
POSITION DUTIES

IT Accessibility Evaluation & Support Services

Support the IT Accessibility Coordinator in testing state websites, apps and software for accessibility in compliance with Section 508 and WCAG success criteria

Assist with troubleshooting issues and providing technical support to state agency website developers

Organize and maintain IT resources

Creation and/or remediation of documents into accessible formats

Lend IT support in areas such as website accessibility, website coding and UX design

In collaboration with the IT Accessibility Coordinator, evaluate all Voluntary Product Accessibility Templates, when provided by venders, to support accessibility claims of their products.

Provide technical assistance to DoIT regarding types of accessibility compliance testing and which is appropriate for particular circumstances.

Respond to inquiries about technology access from state constituents, employees, and agency leadership

Provide direct technical assistance to constituents on accessibility

Serve as a liaison between the National Federation of the Blind's Center for Excellence in Nonvisual Access and the State, encouraging state employees to participate in education experience offered by the NFB


Training, Outreach, Communications on IT Accessibility

In coordination with the IT Accessibility Coordinator, develop and implement an online Accessibility Standards training program for state personnel

Make available to state employees and constituents training resources on topics of accessibility

Host web-based and in-person Information and Communication Technology Trainings for state employees and general public

In coordination with MDTAP Executive director, participate in outreach and public awareness events focused on information technology accessibility

contribute weekly blog posts on IT Accessibility topics & tips


MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education: A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.

Experience: Four years of experience in administrative staff or professional work.

Notes:

1. Additional experience in administrative staff or professional work may be substituted on a year-for-year basis for the required education.

2. Additional graduate level education at an accredited college or university may be substituted at the rate of 30 semester credit hours on a year-for-year basis for the required experience.

3. Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service experience as a commissioned officer involving staff work related to the administration of rules, regulations, policy, procedures and processes, or overseeing or coordinating unit operations or functioning as a staff assistant to a higher ranking commissioned officer on a year-for-year basis for the required education and experience.
DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

A Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Accessibility, or a related field

Knowledge of ADA, Section 504 (part 794 in particular) and 508, Universal design principles, WCAG 2.1

Broad experience working with the disability community

Excellent teamwork skills

Experience leading workshops and/or staff trainings

Strong written and verbal communications skills

Preferred candidate will have completed Accessibility Training courses focused on procurement and purchasing utilizing 508 guidelines, available through GSA Section 508.gov or through Federal Acquisition Institute, or Department of Homeland Security Trusted Tester program


LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS
Employees in this classification may be assigned duties which require the operation of a motor vehicle. Employees assigned such duties will be required to possess a motor vehicle operator's license valid in the State of Maryland.
SELECTION PROCESS

Please make sure that you provide sufficient information on your application to show that you meet the qualifications for this recruitment. All information concerning your qualifications must be submitted by the closing date. We will not consider information submitted after this date. Successful candidates will be ranked as Best Qualified, Better Qualified, or Qualified and placed on the eligible (employment) list for at least one year.

EXAMINATION PROCESS
The assessment may consist of a rating of your education, training, and experience related to the requirements of the position. It is important that you provide complete and accurate information on your application. Please report all experience and education that is related to this position.
BENEFITS

STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

For education obtained outside the U.S. a copy of the equivalent American education as determined by a foreign credential evaluation service may be required prior to hire.

Online applications are highly recommended. However, if you are unable to apply online, the paper application and supplemental questionnaire may be submitted to: Department of Budget and Management, Recruitment and Examination Division, 301 W. Preston St., Baltimore, MD 21201. Paper application materials must be received in our office by the closing date for the recruitment. No postmarks will be accepted.

For questions regarding this recruitment, please contact the DBM Recruitment and Examination Division at Application.Help@maryland.gov or 410-767-4850, MD TTY Relay Service 1-800-735-2258.

We thank our Veterans for their service to our country.

People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.

As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruitment, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity.