Summary
As an IT Specialist (Customer Service)/ Technical Accessibility Specialist, you will focus on ensuring the accessibility of digital content in compliance with Section 508 regulations. You will also conduct audits for accessibility, research and implement AI-driven assistive technologies, provide technical guidance, and manage Information and Communication Technology (ICT) projects.
Duties
Accessibility Expertise, Compliance, and Consultation: The incumbent will act as a digital accessibility specialist, ensuring systems, websites, and digital products comply with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act and other accessibility directives. They will conduct audits and testing of websites, provide guidance and technical assistance, and analyze websites, applications, and products to improve compliance with accessibility policies. Research, Development, and Technical Recommendations: The position involves conducting market and technology research on new and emerging information and communication technology (ICT) and testing methods. The incumbent will prepare reports, evaluate requirements, analyze alternatives, provide expert analysis and advice, and make authoritative recommendations to management. Project Management, Systems Development, and Collaboration: The incumbent will work with the Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) staff to plan, design, and test new systems. They will use the Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC) to ensure successful completion of ICT projects, consult with customers, assess business needs, develop solutions, and monitor and evaluate contractor performance. Procurement Evaluations and Recommendations: The individual will evaluate procurements for Section 508 compliance, assess accessibility documentation from vendors, and make recommendations based on the level of accessibility of these technologies to people with disabilities. They will also evaluate AI-driven solutions from vendors that claim to enhance accessibility. Cross-functional Collaboration and Advocacy: The incumbent will collaborate on special cross-cutting initiatives and task force groups to review technologies, tools, and policies, or develop new accessibility-related initiatives. They will also navigate enterprise organizations and processes, providing consultation on information architecture and advising on accessibility issues during transitions.
Requiremennts
Must be a U.S. Citizen or National Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service Suitable for Federal employment, determined by a background investigation May be required to successfully complete a probationary period This position is eligible for inclusion in the bargaining unit. if the duty station is finalized in the Washington, DC metropolitan area, employees in this position will be represented by the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) Local 32. if the duty station is finalized outside of the Washington, DC metropolitan area, this position will not be represented by a bargaining unit.
Qualifications
Basic Requirements: You must have IT-related experience demonstrating each of the following four competencies. 1) Attention to Detail - Is thorough when performing work and conscientious about attending to detail. 2) Customer Service - Works with clients and customers (that is, any individuals who use or receive the services or products that your work unit produces, including the general public, individuals who work in the agency, other agencies, or organizations outside the Government) to assess their needs, provide information or assistance, resolve their problems, or satisfy their expectations; knows about available products and services; is committed to providing quality products and services. 3) Oral Communication - Expresses information (for example, ideas or facts) to individuals or groups effectively, taking into account the audience and nature of the information (for example, technical, sensitive, controversial); makes clear and convincing oral presentations; listens to others, attends to nonverbal cues, and responds appropriately. 4) Problem Solving - Identifies problems; determines accuracy and relevance of information; uses sound judgment to generate and evaluate alternatives, and to make recommendations. AND In addition to the basic qualifications above, applicants must have one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level in the Federal Government (or private sector equivalent) that included all of the following tasks: Conducting comprehensive audits and tests of websites and digital products for accessibility compliance. Diagnosing and solving complex systems problems related to accessibility. Providing expert guidance and technical assistance on accessibility-related issues. Participating in the research and develop AI-driven assistive technologies as they relate to 508 compliance. You must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements by the closing date of this announcement. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
At OPM, we are champions of talent for the Federal Government. We lead Federal agencies in workforce policies, programs, and benefits in service to the American people. We will create a new vision of work, together, positioning the Federal Government as a model employer for past and present employees through innovation, inclusivity, and leadership. We will build a rewarding culture that empowers the workforce to solve some of our nation's toughest challenges. For information on OPM's goals and objectives, please refer to our Strategic Plan.
