Director of Digital Equity & Accessibility

Position Summary

The mission of Pierce College is to create quality educational opportunities for a diverse community of learners to thrive in an evolving world. The Pierce College District is committed to being an anti-racist institution; to truly be anti-racist we must work deliberately to eliminate barriers that have prevented the most promising and capable students from entering and thriving in college.


The Director of Digital Equity & Accessibility is a key member of the Equity, Engagement, and Belonging (EEB) team. This role leads college initiatives to ensure digital spaces are accessible and inclusive for all. This role focuses on implementing accessible technology initiatives, providing technical expertise on assistive technologies, and driving compliance with digital accessibility standards. The Director plays a crucial role in leading and assisting with the updating of course content within our Learning Management System (LMS) to meet accessibility requirements while also fostering a culture of inclusion and equitable access to technology across the institution. This position reports to the Vice President of Equity, Engagement, and Belonging. This position requires regular and consistent attendance.


About the District

Pierce College is a high-performing, mission-driven, data-informed, student-focused district committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. For 55 years, Pierce College has developed a national reputation for academic excellence and support services to ensure student success. The district is proud of the many awards and recognitions it has received. Pierce College is an Achieving the Dream Leader College of Distinction and was the 2017 recipient of their prestigious Leah Meyer Austin Award, given for measurable improvements in student outcomes.


Named as a Top 5 Finalist and a Rising Star for the 2019 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, Pierce College Fort Steilacoom was recognized for exceptional achievements in student learning, certificate and degree completion while in community college and after transferring to a four-year institution, employment and earnings rates after graduation, and access for and success of minority and low-income students. Pierce College District was named as a Top 10 finalist for the 2021 Aspen Prize and a Top 25 for 2023. Pierce is also one of 30 original AACC Guided Pathways colleges and one of first five College Spark Washington pathways colleges. We have bold goals to have all students on a career pathway to increase completion rates for all students and to close achievement gaps by 2027.


Pierce College at Fort Steilacoom

Located on a beautiful 140-acre site adjacent to a 340-acre community, recreational park, and Waughop Lake. Want a feel for our District, take a peek with aerial campus views!


Pierce College at Puyallup

Located on an expansive site with 125-acres of wooded land including modern facilities and beautiful hideaways.


Pierce College at JBLM

Located at the Joint Base Lewis-McChord military sites, serving many of our military and active-duty families serving our country.


Our colleges enjoy a strong presence in the communities in which they serve and participate in numerous partnerships with business, community, government, and educational organizations.

Essential Functions

The Director of Digital Equity & Accessibility will be responsible for the following, but not limited to:


Digital Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Management and Leadership

Develop and implement a comprehensive digital equity strategy that aligns with Pierce College strategic plan goals and promotes inclusivity.

Lead the Accessible Technology Committee, providing subject matter expertise and implementation support.

Advocate for accessibility improvements and equity-focused policies within the organization and through external partnerships.

Serve as the college’s designated Accessible Technology Coordinator, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local laws, including ADA, Section 504, and Section 508.

Establish, assess, and evaluate software that support compliance with accessibility standards.

Oversee the assessment and enhancement of digital platforms to ensure they meet WCAG and other federal and state requirements.

Develop a continuous improvement process through assessment, feedback, and evaluation of accessibility programs and services.

Maintain records and program files, ensuring confidentiality and compliance with institutional policies.

Foster a culture of equity and inclusion, recognizing the diverse needs of students, faculty, and staff.

Provide exceptional public relations and customer service in accessibility initiatives.

Direct the development of appropriate standards, verification, remediation processes, and professional development for accessible technologies (both software and online accessibility needs).

Lead training sessions and workshops to raise awareness and educate faculty and staff about digital equity and accessibility.

Lead the accessibility work group within the District’s Technology Council, guiding the review, development, and revisions of technology accessibility policies and procedures.

Learning Management System & Assistive Technology Management

Support mobile and accessible access to the LMS by ensuring that policies, processes, and procedures comply with accreditation and regulatory requirements.

Integrate accessibility best practices into LMS design and content development.

Partner with Institutional Research (IR), Employee Learning and Development (ELAD), and other departments to assess technology implementation effectiveness and utilize data to improve programs, trainings, and implementations.

Coordinate implementation of assistive technology for students, staff, and faculty in consultation with instructors, managers, and other support staff.

Serve as an adaptive and assistive technology consultant, acting as a liaison between Access Services students and their faculty to ensure accessible instructional materials.

Provide technical assistance and support to faculty, staff, and students to create accessible instructional materials.

Develop and implement a college-wide communications program on accessibility and inclusivity.

Technology & Compliance Monitoring

Provide accessibility testing of documents, websites, and systems, ensuring compliance with accessibility laws and policies for college purchases.

Remediate digital content and oversee the work of hourly employees and contractors hired for accessibility compliance.

Collaborate with Information Technology (IT) to ensure assistive technology tools are properly installed and maintained.

Develop training and educational resources on assistive and accessible technology, including online materials and social media outreach.



Qualifications

Education Required

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Education, Rehabilitation, Social Science, Computer Information Systems, Instructional Technology, or a related field.

AND one of the following:

One (1) year of experience in higher education working with faculty or staff in a professional capacity OR

One (1) year of experience evaluating and adapting electronic or online materials to meet accessibility standards, with familiarity in Section 504 and Section 508 compliance in a higher education setting.

OR

Five (5) years of relevant education and experience in digital accessibility, instructional technology, or a related field.

Experience Required

Demonstrated experience leading digital accessibility initiatives, ensuring compliance with WCAG, ADA, and Section 508 standards, and fostering inclusive digital environments.

Proficiency in assistive technologies, digital accessibility tools, and updating course content within Learning Management Systems (LMS) to enhance accessibility.

Ability to design and deliver professional development on digital accessibility, collaborate across departments, and lead institution-wide strategies for digital equity.

Deep understanding of EDI principles and their intersection with digital accessibility, ensuring equitable access to technology for all users.

Required Competencies

Technical Expertise: Maintains up-to-date knowledge of digital accessibility standards, assistive technologies, and best practices in equitable technology integration. Applies this expertise to improve digital learning environments and ensure compliance with accessibility regulations.


Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: Applies critical, creative, and reflective thinking to identify barriers to digital access and equity. Uses data-informed decision-making to develop and implement inclusive solutions that support diverse learners and communities.


Racial and Equity Focus: Demonstrates a strong commitment to advancing digital equity and accessibility. Actively works to remove barriers to technology and educational resources, ensuring all students – regardless of background, ability, or socio-economic status – have equitable access to opportunities. Engages in ongoing learning and growth related to anti-racism, cultural competency, and accessibility best practices.


Team Player: Fosters an inclusive and supportive environment by building trust, mutual respect, and shared purpose among colleagues, students, and community partners to advance digital equity and accessibility initiatives.


Explaining Complex Information: Translates technical and digital equity concepts into clear, accessible, and actionable information for diverse audiences, including students, faculty, staff, and external partners.


Student Focus: Prioritizes student needs by developing and implementing programs, resources, and services that enhance digital access, learning experiences, and overall student success. Engages students in meaningful ways to identify and address digital barriers.


Outcomes Oriented: Establishes measurable goals for digital inclusion and accessibility initiatives. Uses assessment and evaluation tools to track progress, measure impact, and continuously improve strategies for equitable access.


Leadership: Advocates for systemic changes that promote digital inclusion and accessibility. Aligns departmental and institutional strategies with broader equity, diversity, and inclusion goals. Demonstrates integrity, accountability, and a commitment to continuous improvement.


Interpersonal Skills: Engages with empathy, cultural awareness, and respect for diverse perspectives. Builds strong relationships with students, faculty, staff, and

community stakeholders to advance digital equity initiatives.


Effective Communication: Communicates with clarity and cultural humility across various platforms, ensuring accessibility for all audiences. Uses inclusive language and multiple communication formats to. effectively engage diverse communities.

Application Process

To be considered for this position, applicants must

Meet the required qualifications as outlined in this announcement.
Complete the online application profile and apply for the specific job opening at: https://www.pierce.ctc.edu/hr.
Upload (attach) a cover letter that addresses how you meet the required qualifications as outlined in this announcement. (Cover Letter)
Upload (attach) detailed résumé of all educational and professional experience. (Résumé)
Transcripts are not required in order to apply for this position; however, if you are selected for an interview, you will be asked to bring copies of unofficial transcripts showing completion of the required level of education and/or coursework. Please upload current copies of your transcripts, if available. Unofficial copies of all college and university transcripts must include degree received and conferral date. International transcripts must include a foreign transcript evaluation. For a list of approved credential evaluation services visit: https://www.naces.org/members.
Please note: Certain positions require specific levels of educational attainment such as a post-secondary degree, licensures or certifications. In order to evaluate applicant materials to determine if the minimum qualifications are met, information regarding your education and experience should be included in your application materials.
Applications without transcripts attached, may receive notification that their application materials are incomplete. If you receive a notice and information has been provided elsewhere in your applications materials, please disregard. (Unofficial transcripts acceptable for application process; official transcripts required upon hire). (Transcripts)
Upload (attach) a list of at least three (3) professional references with names, telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses. One of which must be your current or most recent supervisor. Letters of recommendation will not be accepted. (References)
Provide a response to the following question. (Supplemental Question)

The College's goal is to support all students and to achieve racial and social equity in pursuit of mission. Briefly describe how you have worked in your previous or current positions to advance equity, diversity, and inclusion in your organizations and how you would do that in this position. Please limit your response to a maximum of 500 words.

To learn more about our Equity, Engagement, and Belonging efforts, please visit: https://www.pierce.ctc.edu/equity-engagement-and-belonging


Please Note

To ensure consideration, application materials should be received no later than 5:00 p.m. on the closing date.


All correspondence regarding your application status will be sent to the email address associated with your SCHOOLJOBS.COM account. Please make sure to check your spam folder periodically, in the case of an automated, incorrect delivery.


Terms of Employment

This is a full-time administrative - exempt position. The primary work location will be at Pierce College, Fort Steilacoom campus. Frequent travel to Pierce College campuses or other sites may occur. Standard work hours are between 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, with occasional evening and weekend hours required. This position requires regular and consistent attendance.


Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this position is $95,489.00 - $118,144.00 annually. The salary will be determined based on the candidate's qualifications and related experience. Typically, new hires start no higher than $99,468.00/year, based on Pierce College's Administrative/Exempt Compensation Plan.


Your paycheck is just part of the total compensation package. There is an outstanding benefits package which is worth an additional value equivalent to about 30% of your salary. A comprehensive health care benefits package for you and your dependents includes medical, dental and vision insurance. Life and long- term disability insurance plans; vacation, sick and personal leave; reduced tuition; and retirement benefits are also provided. For more information, please visit our Benefits and Leave website at: https://www.pierce.ctc.edu/hr- benefits.


Physical Work Environment

This position works indoors in an office environment which requires visual concentration on detail, dexterity, precision, and is subject to frequent noise and interruptions. This position operates in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.


Reasonable Accommodation

Applicants with disabilities who require assistance with the application and employment process will be accommodated to the extent reasonably possible. Requests should be made to the District Human Resources Office by calling 253-964-7342. Persons who are deaf or hard of hearing may dial 711 to place a call through Washington Relay, the state's free telecommunication access service.


Screening & Interview Process
Only those candidates who have complied with the application process and meet the required qualifications will be considered. Following the review of application materials, the most qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview. Check the email account you used for the application process for communication regarding the status of your application. Application materials submitted to Pierce College are the property of the College and will not be returned.


Please Note

This is a competitive selection process. Your application materials will be reviewed and evaluated based on the minimum qualifications listed for the position. Applicants whose qualifications most closely correspond to the district’s needs will be eligible for further consideration.


Notification of application status normally occurs 4 to 6 weeks after the closing date. Short notice may be given to applicants to participate in further selection processes which may include written, oral and performance examinations, and final interviews.


Conditions of Employment

Prior to the start of employment, the finalist for this position will be subject to a criminal background check as a condition of employment. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position.


Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Conditional offer letters will be accompanied by a declaration and authorization to release information form to be completed by the applicant. Disclosure is required under Washington State Law RCW 28B.112.080.


An offer of employment will not carry with it any responsibility or obligation on the part of the district to sponsor an H-1B visa. In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, proof of authorization to work in the United States will be required at the time of hire.


Pierce College has adopted a Drug Free Workplace policy. As a condition of employment, employees must agree to abide by the requirements established in that policy.


Equal Opportunity

The Pierce College District is an equal opportunity employer. The Board of Trustees and Pierce College District are committed to providing equal opportunity and will not discriminate in terms and conditions of employment and personnel practices. Decisions are made without regard to race, color, national origin, age, perceived or actual physical or mental disability, pregnancy, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, creed, religion, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or use of a trained guide dog or service animal.


For more information about this position or assistance regarding your application, please contact the Human Resources office at: [email protected].


Questions regarding equal employment opportunities or discrimination may be directed to the following: