Academic Specialist

Academic Specialist

Chatham University welcomes applications for an Academic Specialist. The Academic Specialist is responsible for the planning and provision of assistive technology services for students with diagnosed disabilities at Chatham University.

The person in this position will report directly to the Director, Office of Academic & Accessibility Resources (OAAR) and will assist the Director with:

• Interviewing students seeking disability support services.
• Providing reading materials in alternate formats.
• Scheduling, monitoring, and organizing distraction-limited testing.
• Managing the data associated with services for students with disabilities at Chatham University.

Chatham University strives to promote a campus environment that understands and embraces multiculturalism while increasing individuals' intercultural competence. We actively work to build and sustain a diverse and culturally vibrant campus, which promotes employee and student success and retention. Learn more at: https://www.chatham.edu/mission-and-values/diversity-and-inclusion/index.html .

Duties and Responsibilities: The Specialist will be responsible for, but not limited to, the following:

• Assist with the coordination and implementation of appropriate and reasonable accommodations for qualified students with disabilities.
• Facilitate assistive technology training and use by students with disabilities.
• Administer disability testing accommodations: Schedule exams, communicate with faculty, proctor, read/scribe, ensure confidential return of exams to instructors.
• Collaborate with instructional technology department to ensure accessibility of university resources.
• Utilize hardware and software applications to convert materials to alternative forms such as, but not limited to, enlarged text, text-to-speech; and Braille.
• Communicate with Assistive Technology companies to ensure up-to-date software and hardware purchases, receive information about webinars, and troubleshoot technical issues.
• Schedule American Sign Language Interpreters when needed.
• Remain updated on the ADA and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 for best practices and emerging technologies in the field of disability accommodations.
• Work individually with students with disabilities as well as those with academic challenges to improve their academic skills and performance.
• Represent OAAR at admissions and other campus events and meetings as needed.
• Develop and maintain a student disability policy and procedures manual.
• Serve as the liaison with the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation to refer potential students to their services.
• Teach study skills course to at-risk student population.
• Maintain thorough documentation and upkeep of client database and filing system.
• Research grants and other opportunities for Accessibility Services (procurement of software/hardware, facility improvement).
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in education, psychology, or related field required. Master's degree in special education or related field preferred.
• Experience in a diverse Higher Education setting in the areas of disability services and/or academic support services.
• Knowledge of best practices in disability service implementation and experience with learning disabilities and autism spectrum disorder.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should visit www.chatham.edu/careers and follow the instructions to complete the application process. To ensure full consideration, please include:

• Cover Letter
• Resume
• Contact information for three professional references

All documents should be uploaded in the "Resume" section at the same time at the time of application.

Chatham University offers competitive salary, an excellent benefits package, including tuition remission for qualified personnel, and a generous retirement plan.

Chatham University is an Equal Opportunity Employer with a strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equity. Persons of color, women, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and members of other underrepresented groups are highly encouraged to apply. Chatham University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, or national origin.