IT Digital Accessibility Specialist - Senior

Persons with a disability requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact the HR Consultant at. Those with a hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at 1-. The core purpose of the Washington State School for the Blind (WSSB) is to empower blind and low vision individuals to reach their full potential. We believe in a future where every blind and low vision student in Washington has the supports and services they need to succeed. Our programs and services are provided across a diverse continuum of service options; including a range of short and long-term programs that include residential options at our Vancouver campus, outreach services in local schools and communities, access to specialized technology and resources through our Ogden Resource Center, as well as training options for parents, educators, and related service providers through a combination of department efforts. Our greatest resource at WSSB are our incredible staff. Our valued employees are continuously encouraged to improve the ways that we provide service to our students and the community. WSSB's core values are being student-centered, equity, accessibility, relationships, and continuous improvement. Duties The purpose of the IT Digital Accessibility Specialist (IT Business Analyst - Senior/Specialist) position is to facilitate cooperative partnerships that promote improvements in efficient and effective digital accessibility services to the agency, partner agencies, vendors and those we serve. Duties include but are not limited to the following: Ensure digital accessibility for agency content; Converting existing digital Microsoft created documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and Adobe PDFs to an accessible version; Able to complete complex tasks using advanced knowledge and skill, including developing new processes to analyze the most complex accessibility issues; Effectively communicate with internal and external customers and stakeholders; Test all WSSB IT Systems, General Use Software/Hardware, Electronic Documents and Communications using multiple tools to verify accessibility; Keep abreast of technology developments, issues, and changes surrounding digital accessibility through active engagement with community partners and vendors; Meet with directors, managers and other staff to analyze the needs of each department; Independently perform all levels of accessibility analysis and remediation, including the most complex assignments where no existing procedures or solutions exist; Apply advanced understanding of inclusive design principles and lived-experience-driven accessibility; Work with procurement, legal, and IT to determine whether remediation, delayed rollout, or contract modification is appropriate; Lead negotiations with vendors to establish remediation timelines, deliverables, and verification checkpoints; Advise leadership on risk tradeoffs and alternative mitigation strategies if remediation is delayed; Provide expertise and guidance in all areas of accessibility including Microsoft, Adobe, Canvas, Training platforms and websites; Analyze enterprise accessibility needs and detail specific technical requirements to ensure accessibility requirements are met enterprise wide; Collect and analyze data on technical problems associated with adaptive technology tools and after researching, provide recommendations of software or hardware changes to executive leadership to address recurring issues; Document alternative methods for existing technologies with accessibility barriers; Advise other agencies who we collaborate with on best user experiences; Train staff on accessibility and develop procedures on current standards; Be the expert for the agency for any digital accessibility related tasks and questions; Use different methods of training based on the needs of staff/group - examples include one on one, group sessions, agency wide in person trainings, and/or updating SharePoint/YouTube channel with content; Produce high quality analytical and business documentation suitable for executive, technical, and operational audiences; Other duties include but are not limited to performing IT inventory (Software and Hardware), IT Department annual certifications and audits, and customer support in common applications. Qualifications include the ability to independently perform duties; work effectively with children and adults who are blind and visually impaired; possess advanced level knowledge of a variety of common and specialized technology tools (Adobe, Microsoft, Wave, Fusion, etc.); skilled at continually learning new/updated technology; ability to create accessible documents and forms using standard tools for all departments and other state agencies; ability to work with vendors, contractors and other agencies on the topic of accessibility; skilled at learning and utilizing AT software; ability to maintain confidentiality regarding student/staff/IT related issues; advanced knowledge of WCAG, ADA Standards, and Washington State regulations; knowledge of screen readers and other specialized techniques used in working with blind/low vision students and staff; ability to perform duties with frequent interruptions at times; ability to take action to learn and grow and meet the needs of others. Desired qualifications include four or more completed years of college with emphasis on education and/or IT, 2 years of experience in accessibility compliance testing, and CPACC certification or other accessibility certification. The position offers a student-focused and mission-driven environment on a 13.2 acre campus with various facilities and benefits. Note: Salary range is posted for informational purposes only and placement will be based on education, experience, skills, and abilities. This position will remain open until filled. The hiring manager reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time so apply early for best consideration. Additional information and benefits details are available on the State HR website.