What Does an Accessibility Specialist Do?

Accessibility specialists are responsible for ensuring that the digital content produced by their organization is accessible to all users. This often involves testing and evaluating web pages, mobile apps, software interfaces, etc., to ensure they meet certain standards of accessibility.

Accessibility specialists may also be tasked with creating or updating internal policies related to accessibility in order to ensure consistent application of these standards across all digital content produced by their organization.

Accessibility Specialist Job Duties

Accessibility specialists have a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:

• Making sure that websites are compatible with screen readers, text browsers, and other assistive technologies used by people with disabilities
• Conducting assessments of physical facilities to determine potential barriers to access by disabled individuals
• Consulting with architects and designers to ensure compliance with ADA standards during the design phase of a project
• Recommending modifications to equipment, procedures, policies, or practices to ensure compliance with ADA standards
• Maintaining records of building modifications and improvements made to ensure continued compliance with ADA standards
• Developing and conducting training programs for staff on disability-related issues as well as on disability etiquette and sensitivity
• Conducting onsite assessments of businesses and other facilities to identify barriers to access by people with disabilities
• Consulting with companies about best practices for increasing accessibility in the workplace for employees with disabilities
• Creating an annual plan for compliance with ADA standards and maintaining records of actions taken to implement that plan

Accessibility Specialist Salary & Outlook

Accessibility specialists’ salaries vary depending on their level of education, years of experience, and the company size and industry. They may also earn additional compensation in the form of bonuses.

• Median Annual Salary: $66,500 ($31.97/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $122,000 ($58.65/hour)

The employment of accessibility specialists is expected to grow faster than average over the next decade.

As the large baby-boom population ages, more people will need access to buildings and other facilities. Accessibility specialists will be needed to ensure that older buildings are accessible to those with disabilities.

Accessibility Specialist Job Requirements

There are a number of qualifications required to obtain a position as an accessibility specialist. They include:

Education: Accessibility specialists are typically required to have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, human-computer interaction or a related field. Some of the coursework that these programs include is accessibility standards, assistive technology, assistive software, assistive devices, assistive technology software, assistive technology hardware, assistive technology assessment, assistive technology implementation, assistive technology evaluation, assistive technology selection, assistive technology training, assistive technology support, assistive technology use, assistive technology usability, assistive technology validation, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification, assistive technology verification,

Training & Experience: Most employers will provide on-the-job training for accessibility specialists. This training will help you learn the specific software and computer programs the company uses. It will also familiarize you with the company’s workflow and procedures.

Certifications & Licenses: While certifications are not mandatory, they can offer additional qualifications that make you a more competitive candidate when applying for jobs.

Accessibility Specialist Skills

Accessibility specialists need the following skills in order to be successful:

Communication skills: Communication skills are essential in accessibility roles. You may be required to communicate with clients, coworkers and other professionals in the workplace. You may also be required to communicate complex information to clients and other professionals. Effective communication skills can help you convey information clearly and understand the needs of others.

Technical skills: Technical skills are the abilities you have when it comes to technology. This can include knowledge of software, hardware and networking. It’s important to have these skills so you can create accessible technology and ensure it’s compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Analytical skills: Analytical skills are the ability to assess a situation and determine the best course of action. As an accessibility specialist, you may be required to make recommendations to improve accessibility. This may include researching accessibility standards, researching the company’s current accessibility status and evaluating the cost of potential accessibility improvements.

Problem-solving skills: When working with clients, accessibility specialists may need to solve problems that arise during the process of making a website or software program accessible. For example, if a website has a complicated coding structure, an accessibility specialist may need to find a way to make the website more accessible for people with disabilities.

Teamwork skills: Working with others is an important part of the job for accessibility specialists. They often work with other professionals to ensure compliance with accessibility standards and regulations. They also work with clients to identify accessibility issues and develop solutions.

Accessibility Specialist Work Environment

Accessibility specialists work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, private businesses, and nonprofit organizations. They may work in an office setting or telecommute. Many accessibility specialists work full time, but some may work part time. Accessibility specialists typically work during regular business hours, but they may need to work evenings or weekends to meet deadlines or attend meetings. Some accessibility specialists travel to conferences or training sessions.

Accessibility Specialist Trends

Here are three trends influencing how accessibility specialists work. Accessibility specialists will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.

The Need for More Diversity in the Workplace

The need for more diversity in the workplace is becoming increasingly important as businesses realize the value of having a workforce that reflects the customers they serve. This trend is leading to an increased demand for accessibility specialists who can help make workplaces more inclusive and accessible for all employees.

As the need for more diversity in the workplace grows, accessibility specialists will be in high demand as they are able to help create environments where everyone feels comfortable and can be successful. By understanding the needs of diverse populations and creating solutions that meet those needs, accessibility specialists can help businesses become more successful and productive.

More Focus on Universal Design

Universal design is a concept that was first developed by architect Ronald Mace in the 1970s. It refers to the idea that buildings and products should be designed so that they are accessible to people of all ages and abilities.

Accessibility specialists are now beginning to focus on universal design in order to create products and buildings that are accessible to everyone. This trend is likely to continue as society becomes more aware of the importance of accessibility.

Greater Emphasis on User Experience (UX)

User experience (UX) has become an increasingly important factor in business decisions over the past few years. As businesses have come to understand the importance of UX, they have begun to place greater emphasis on hiring professionals who can help them create products and services that are easy to use and enjoyable for their customers.

Accessibility specialists are well-positioned to take advantage of this trend, as they have expertise in making products and services accessible to users with different disabilities. By working with businesses to improve their UX, accessibility specialists can help them create products that are not only easier to use but also more accessible to all users.

How to Become an Accessibility Specialist

An accessibility specialist career can be a great way to use your skills in design and technology to make the world a better place. As an accessibility specialist, you’ll work with designers and developers to ensure that their products are accessible to people with disabilities. This could mean anything from ensuring that websites are easy to navigate using screen readers to making sure that mobile apps have large enough buttons for users with limited dexterity.

To become an accessibility specialist, you’ll need to have a strong understanding of web and app development best practices, as well as knowledge of assistive technologies and how they can be used to improve the user experience. You’ll also need to be able to effectively communicate with both designers and developers about the importance of accessibility.

Advancement Prospects

Advancement prospects for accessibility specialists are good. As organizations become more aware of the need to make their products and services accessible to people with disabilities, the demand for accessibility specialists is likely to increase. In addition, as accessibility specialists gain experience, they may move into management positions or start their own consulting businesses.

Accessibility Specialist Job Description Example

At [CompanyX], we are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible environment for all employees, customers, and visitors. We are looking for an experienced Accessibility Specialist to join our team to help us ensure that our facilities, products, and services meet or exceed all applicable accessibility standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong knowledge of accessibility standards and regulations, as well as experience conducting accessibility audits and creating accessibility plans. He or she will be responsible for ensuring that all new and existing facilities, products, and services are accessible to everyone, and for providing training and education on accessibility to employees, customers, and visitors.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Understand and apply knowledge of WCAG 2.0/2.1 success criteria and techniques, as well as other accessibility guidelines (e.g. Section 508, ADA, AODA)
• Perform manual and automated testing of digital content for compliance with accessibility standards using a variety of tools, including screen readers, screen magnifiers, and validators
• Analyze testing results to identify potential accessibility barriers and recommend solutions
• Collaborate with web developers, designers, and content creators to implement accessibility improvements
• Educate team members on accessibility best practices and requirements
• Monitor industry trends and updates to accessibility standards
• Keep abreast of new technologies and how they can be used to improve the accessibility of digital content
• Assist in the development of internal policies and procedures related to accessibility
• Conduct training sessions on accessibility for team members and clients
• Participate in client meetings to provide accessibility consulting services
• Prepare accessibility reports detailing findings and recommendations
• Manage projects from start to finish to ensure accessibility goals are met

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in human factors, psychology, or related field
• 3+ years of experience conducting user research with people with disabilities
• Experience developing accessibility guidelines, standards, or policies
• Knowledge of WCAG 2.0/2.1 and other international accessibility guidelines
• Familiarity with assistive technologies, such as screen readers, screen magnifiers, and alternative input devices
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• Master’s degree in human factors, psychology, or related field
• 5+ years of experience conducting user research with people with disabilities
• Experience leading accessibility audits and evaluations
• Certification in accessibility, such as the Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC) through the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP)
• Advanced knowledge of WCAG 2.0/2.1 and other international accessibility guidelines