Senior Reasonable Accommodation Specialist - FEMA Disability Support Branch

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is seeking an experienced and proactive Senior Reasonable Accommodation Specialist to join our Disability Support Branch. This role is crucial in ensuring compliance with the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act/Amendment Act while enhancing the reasonable accommodation process for our staff and supervisors. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in disability law and a commitment to promoting an inclusive work environment.

**Key Responsibilities:**

- **Process Simplification:** Lead initiatives to simplify and streamline the reasonable accommodation process, ensuring that it is clear and easy to understand for all staff and supervisors.

- **Facilitate Interactive Processes:** Collaborate effectively with supervisors and staff to facilitate the interactive process, ensuring open communication and the exploration of viable accommodation options.

- **Prompt Response to Requests:** Identify, assess, and respond to reasonable accommodation requests in a timely manner, prioritizing service excellence and efficiency.

- **Timeline Management:** Develop, communicate, and monitor timelines for processing accommodation requests, ensuring that both staff and supervisors are aware of expectations and deadlines.

- **Participation in Meetings and Trainings:** Actively participate in weekly and/or bi-weekly status meetings and training sessions organized by the Disability Support Branch to enhance knowledge and improve processes.

- **Case Management Reporting:** Maintain comprehensive reports on case assignments, tracking the status of each request, and ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the process.

- **Mentorship and Training:** Provide guidance and mentorship to junior staff members, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development within the Disability Support Branch.

**Experience Requirements:**

- Minimum of 6 years of experience in reasonable accommodation processes, with a strong knowledge of disability law, particularly the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act/Amendment Act.

**Education Requirements:**

- **Bachelor's Degree:** A bachelor's degree in a relevant field is preferred.

- **Education Substitution:** Six years of relevant work experience may be substituted for a bachelor’s degree, or an associate degree plus four years of relevant work experience may be substituted for a bachelor’s degree.

**Skills and Qualifications:**

- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to manage difficult conversations with sensitivity and professionalism.

- Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, etc.) and other relevant productivity software.

- Strong organizational skills with a keen attention to detail and the ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive medical information.

- Proven ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and engage effectively with diverse populations.

**Why Join FEMA?**
FEMA is dedicated to fostering an inclusive work environment that values diversity and provides equal opportunity for all employees. As a Senior Reasonable Accommodation Specialist, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities while contributing to FEMA’s mission of preparedness and response.