Accessibility Specialist

Department:

Accessibility and Disability Services Department

Division of Institutional Equity

Office of Student Disability Services

The University of Maryland, Baltimore County’s Office of Student Disability Services (SDS) coordinates accommodations for UMBC students with documented disabilities, as well as those with temporarily disabling conditions and injuries, who experience barriers that may require accommodations in order to have equal access and participation in the University’s classes, activities, and housing. SDS is within the Accessibility & Disability Services (ADS) unit under the Division of Institutional Equity (DoIE). The office is guided by principles of inclusion, equity, and universal design, and all members of the diverse campus community are welcome in this collaborative student support and resource office. 

https://sds.umbc.edu/

Position Overview:

The accessibility specialist provides resources and support to UMBC students with disabilities to ensure that reasonable accommodations are implemented when disability-based access barriers exist in the environment that prevent student’s from equitable participation and inclusion in all of the University’s academic, co-curricular, housing, dining, and/or employment programs and activities. The specialist will work as a collaborative partner across the university community and will have a passion for equity, inclusion, and social justice work that seeks to improve the university experience for all students with disabilities. The specialist will conduct interactive, individualized intake meetings and review disability documentation to determine eligibility and access needs for educational, housing, and/or employment accommodations as indicated under the ADA(AA) & Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. The specialist will be a skilled communicator who is experienced in problem-solving and solution identification for complex challenges experienced by individuals with disabilities, often engaging with faculty, staff, students, student’s families, and healthcare providers to implement accommodations. The position requires participation in university orientations, presentations, and trainings to educate and bring disability awareness and inclusive practices to all members of the UMBC community. The specialist will connect students with disabilities to campus supports that go beyond access to foster student success, health, well-being, and belonging as part of a coordinated care team.

Why Work at UMBC?

UMBC offers competitive compensation.  This role starts at $56,400 and has over 4 weeks of vacation for regular full time roles. Tuition remission is also available.

What is it like to work at UMBC?  Check out Glassdoor or Indeed. 

For 15 years in a row UMBC has been recognized as a Great College to Work For! 

Telework:

A hybrid telework schedule may be available. 

Responsibilities:

Primary responsibilities and duties of the position include:  

• Conducting individualized intake meetings with students,  families, and student employees requesting access accommodations to gather information about accessibility needs and barriers.
• Reviewing and evaluating disability-related documentation to support accommodation determinations and implementation.
• Creating and managing official accommodation notification letters to students, faculty, staff, and Residential Life as indicated by the identified access support needs.
• Consulting with and advising students, faculty, and staff when accommodation challenges arise, and problem-solving, solution/resolution identification, or ongoing case management support is needed.
• Meeting with prospective students, families, and counselors from high school and/or community colleges for university transition questions and preparation related to disability support and resources at UMBC.
• Participates in and/or leads orientations, campus presentations, faculty/staff training, events, and seminars related to student disability support, awareness, and inclusive practices. May participate in University committee service as a disability inclusion advocate.
• Participates in the accessibility office poli