Assistive Technology Specialist

The Assistive Technology Specialist (ATS) at Vanderbilt University will assess assistive technology needs and recommend appropriate systems to enhance access for individuals with disabilities. This position serves as a key member of the Student Access Services team.

Student Access Services provides academic and other reasonable accommodations to students with disabilities at Vanderbilt University. While primarily student-focused, SAS staff also work with Vanderbilt faculty, staff, and parents to ensure a welcoming, accessible environment.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Serves as coordinator for all requests for books and materials in alternative format for students with print disabilities; collaborates with publishers, third party vendors and students to fulfill requests for books/materials in alternative format; conducts alternative format conferences with eligible students; prepares educational and informational materials in alternative formats

• Conducts assistive technology evaluations and makes recommendations for students in the use of assistive hardware and software.

• Tracks and coordinates assistive technology equipment check out and equipment inventory; provides budget forecasts for technology related to student accommodations to the Director.

• Serves as the administrator for SAS data management system; additionally, provides technical support for SAS staff members including technical support for test proctoring.

• Serves as accessibility expert to institutional departments in order to promote accessibility of instruction. This may include, but not limited to creating effective workshops, seminars, website content, multimedia visual aids and presentations, video demonstrations, e-learning modules, and online courses as needed to train and develop faculty and staff on available technologies for classroom and online teaching and learning

• Participates in development, implementation, and maintenance of policies, objectives, short and long range planning; collaborates with other program staff in strategic planning, cultivation of partnerships, and development and implementation of programmatic initiatives.

• Assists SAS Staff in developing accommodation plans, note-taking process, and proctoring procedures.

• Assumes additional responsibilities and performs special projects as needed or directed by the Director.

Profile of an Ideal Candidate

• A Bachelor’s degree in human services, education, technology domain or related field from an accredited institution of higher education is necessary.

• A Master’s degree in human services, education, technology domain or related field from an accredited institution of higher education is preferred.

• Knowledge and understanding of the Civil rights laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 504 and 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, the ADAA and other applicable laws, and their application at the post-secondary level is necessary.

• Demonstrated working knowledge of assistive technologies such as computer voice synthesis, electronic text systems, digital voice recording devices, audio books, CCTV, adaptive devices, braille equipment, networked printers and high speed scanners, note taking software, and the theories, principles, and practices guiding their use is necessary.

• Experience working with individuals with disabilities in identification of AT that provide access to environmental barriers is necessary.

• Experience in Information Technology, customer service, and working with diverse populations is necessary.

• Skill in organization, presentation, and verbal and written communication is necessary.

• Experience using disability management software (e.g. AIM) and online classroom management systems (e.g. Brightspace) is preferred. 

Vanderbilt University, located in Nashville, Tennessee, is a top-15 private research university offering a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. Vanderbilt is situated on a 330-acre campus near the thriving city center, serving more than 12,000 students and employing almost 7,000 faculty and staff. The university’s students, staff, and faculty frequently cite Nashville and the surrounding area as one of the many perks of being a part of the Vanderbilt community. Vanderbilt University is a place where your expertise will be valued, your knowledge expanded, and your abilities challenged. It is a place where your diversity is sought and celebrated. Vanderbilt was recently named as one of “America’s Best Large Employers” and the top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area in 2018 (Forbes).

Vanderbilt University offers a competitive, flexible benefits package including health, dental, vision, life, accidental death & dismemberment, disability insurance, paid time off, and a 403(b) retirement plan with employer match. Vanderbilt offers tuition assistance to employees, spouses, and dependent children.

Commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Vanderbilt University is committed to achieving the goal of a diverse and inclusive academic community of faculty, staff, and students. We seek individuals who are committed to this goal and our campus values.