Accommodation Specialist

Job Summary

The Department of Student Wellness at St. John’s University is seeking a dynamic and passionate Accommodation Specialist to join the Office of Disability Services. This full-time, in-person position provides individualized support and accommodations to students registered with the office, fostering an inclusive learning environment.

Responsibilities

• Reviewing/evaluating diagnostic information and documentation of student learning disabilities;
• Determining eligibility for protection under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), Section 504, and other applicable legislation;
• Determining reasonable accommodation or course substitution;
• Consulting with students, faculty, administrators, and other campus personnel regarding students' instructional needs, the status of disability, and reasonable accommodations;
• Developing customized accommodations in collaboration with students based on assessment results and documentation of disabilities;
• Assisting in the coordination and implementation of accommodations, such as extended test time, note-taking support, accessible materials, and assistive technology;
• Providing ongoing support and guidance to students to implement and utilize accommodations effectively;
• Developing and delivering workshops, seminars, and training sessions for students, faculty, and staff on topics related to learning disabilities, inclusive teaching practices, and assistive technology;
• Collaborating with faculty to promote awareness of diverse learning needs and effective instructional strategies to support students with disabilities;
• Researching and compiling resources, including academic support services, community resources, and assistive technology tools, to enhance student learning and success;
• Maintaining an up-to-date database of resources and referral networks for students with disabilities;
• Providing guidance and recommendations for the acquisition of assistive technology and learning resources;
• Working with academic advisors, counselors, and other support services to ensure holistic support for students' academic and personal success;
• Participating in college, division, department meetings, events, and training as recommended and approved by the supervisor;
• Engaging in professional development opportunities, college committees, work groups and task forces, and other professional organizations as approved by the supervisor.

Work Environment

This position operates in a professional office environment. This position requires the use of standard office equipment such as personal computers, printers, etc. This position occasionally requires extended hours and weekend work.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Special Education, Psychology, Counseling, or related fields;
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities in an educational or support services setting;
• Knowledge of disability laws and regulations, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act;
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build rapport and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders;
• Commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education;
• Experience with assistive technologies and adaptive learning strategies;
• Ability to maintain effective, collaborative working relationships with internal and external colleagues and constituents;
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail;
• Strong written and oral communication skills;
• Proven ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to FERPA regulations;
• Experience in serving diverse populations and a demonstrated commitment to equity;
• Strong ability to consult and collaborate with others.

Required Education And Experience

Master’s degree in Special Education, Psychology, Counseling, or related fields. Experience working with individuals with disabilities in an educational or support services setting. Knowledge of disability laws and regulations, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build rapport and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders. Commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education. Experience with assistive technologies and adaptive learning strategies. Ability to maintain effective, collaborative working relationships with internal and external colleagues and constituents. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Strong written and oral communication skills. Proven ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to FERPA regulations. Experience in serving diverse populations and a demonstrated commitment to equity. Strong ability to consult and collaborate with others.