Experienced Director of Accessibility Services – Leading Digital, Electronic, and Communication Access Initiatives in a Hybrid-Remote Setting

Introduction to the University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati, founded in 1819, stands as one of the nation's premier urban public research universities. With a rich history and a commitment to innovation, UC is home to nearly 48,000 students, 11,000 faculty and staff, and boasts an alumni network of over 332,000. The university's strategic initiatives, including the Cincinnati Innovation District and its entry into the Big 12 athletic conference, underscore its momentum and dedication to excellence. UC's annual budget exceeds $1.65 billion, with an endowment totaling $1.8 billion, positioning it as a leader in higher education.

Job Overview: Director of Accessibility Services

We are seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Director of Accessibility Services to lead our efforts in ensuring digital, electronic, and communication access for all members of the university community. This critical role will oversee the development and implementation of policies, procedures, and programs designed to promote inclusion and accessibility, in compliance with federal and local mandates. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in accessibility services, instructional design, or a related field, with a proven track record of driving success in similar roles.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive policies and procedures to ensure the delivery of digital, electronic, and communication access accommodations, in accordance with federal, state, and local laws.
• Maintain compliance with relevant laws and guidelines, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 and 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including Digital Technology Solutions, Marketing and Communication, and the Center for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning, to research current trends and participate in strategic planning for the Accessibility Network.
• Recommend and implement assistive technology, hardware, and software solutions to support individual needs, and develop training programs to enhance the use of these tools.
• Manage service agreements and invoices with third-party vendors, ensuring efficient and cost-effective delivery of communication accessibility solutions.
• Design and implement data collection and assessment strategies to evaluate the success of accessibility services and inform future initiatives.
• Develop and oversee an annual budget, collaborating with divisional business affairs units to analyze data, calculate expense projections, and draft reports.
• Provide direct and indirect supervision to exempt and non-exempt staff, as well as third-party contractors, including hiring, performance evaluations, and disciplinary actions.

Essential Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Education, Rehabilitation Counseling, Instructional/Curriculum Design, Social Work, Information Technology, Communications, ASL/English Interpretation, Linguistics, or a related field.
• Five (5) years of related professional experience in digital or electronic accessibility, instructional design, communication access services, special education, rehabilitation counseling, accessible design, or a related field.
• Knowledge of disability law, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
• Experience providing access services or support to individuals who are d/Deaf, hard of hearing, blind, and/or visually impaired.
• Demonstrated supervision of direct reports and knowledge of disability culture and multiple models of disability identity and expression.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification in a specialty related to digital, electronic, or communication accessibility, such as National Court Reporters Association (NCRA), Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competency (CPACC), or Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf.
• Additional experience in accessibility services, instructional design, or a related field.
• Strong understanding of current trends and best practices in accessibility and assistive technology.

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

As a Director of Accessibility Services at the University of Cincinnati, you will have the opportunity to work in a dynamic and innovative environment, collaborating with a talented team of professionals dedicated to promoting inclusion and accessibility. You will be supported in your professional development, with access to training and resources to enhance your skills and knowledge in accessibility and assistive technology.

Work Environment and Company Culture

The University of Cincinnati is committed to providing an inclusive, equitable, and diverse place of learning and employment. Our campus is designed to promote collaboration, creativity, and innovation, with state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant community of students, faculty, and staff. As a hybrid-remote role, you will have the flexibility to work from home and on campus, allowing you to balance your professional and personal responsibilities.

Compensation, Perks, and Benefits

The University of Cincinnati offers a competitive salary range of $68,000 - $70,000, dependent on the candidate's experience. You will also be eligible for a wide array of complementary and affordable benefit options, including comprehensive insurance plans, flexible spending accounts, and an award-winning employee wellness program. Additional benefits include generous paid time off, tuition remission, and discounts for on and off-campus activities and services.

Conclusion

If you are a motivated and experienced professional looking to make a meaningful impact in the field of accessibility services, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. As a Director of Accessibility Services at the University of Cincinnati, you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to promoting inclusion and accessibility, and will have the opportunity to drive success and growth in a supportive and innovative environment. Don't miss out on this chance to join our community and contribute to our mission of providing an exceptional education and experience for all members of the university community.

Apply now to take the first step in your new career as a Director of Accessibility Services at the University of Cincinnati!