Accessibility Compliance Tester Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the increasingly digitized world, the importance of accessibility compliance testers is growing exponentially.

As technology continues to evolve, the demand for proficient professionals who can assess, improve, and ensure the accessibility of our digital platforms is surging.

But let’s dig deeper: What’s really expected from an accessibility compliance tester?

Whether you are:

A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
Or simply curious about the intricacies of accessibility testing,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we are unveiling a comprehensive and customizable accessibility compliance tester job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Contents show

Accessibility Compliance Tester Duties and Responsibilities

Accessibility Compliance Testers are responsible for ensuring that digital content such as websites, applications, and other software are accessible to all users, including those with disabilities.

They ensure compliance with various accessibility standards such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).

The key duties and responsibilities of an Accessibility Compliance Tester include:

Reviewing and analyzing software applications and websites for accessibility compliance
Implementing and conducting tests to evaluate accessibility features
Identifying and documenting accessibility issues and recommending solutions
Creating detailed reports on the accessibility status of digital content
Monitoring and managing compliance with standards such as WCAG, Section 508, and ADA
Collaborating with developers and designers to improve accessibility
Keeping up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques in digital accessibility
Providing training and guidance on accessibility best practices to staff and stakeholders
Participating in the development of policies and procedures to ensure accessibility standards are maintained

Accessibility Compliance Tester Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a diligent Accessibility Compliance Tester to join our team.

In this role, you will be responsible for ensuring our digital products, software and websites are fully accessible to all users, including those with disabilities.

The Accessibility Compliance Tester will conduct thorough audits, identify barriers in accessibility and work with the development team to rectify these issues.

Our ideal candidate has a deep understanding of accessibility standards, like WCAG and Section 508, and is experienced in testing software for accessibility compliance.

Responsibilities

Perform accessibility testing on a variety of digital products, including websites, software applications, and mobile applications.
Identify and suggest potential solutions for accessibility barriers based on WCAG 2.0/2.1 AA standards and Section 508 compliance.
Write detailed reports on accessibility findings and recommendations.
Work closely with development and design teams to implement and maintain accessibility standards.
Stay up-to-date on current trends and developments in the field of digital accessibility.
Assist in developing, implementing and maintaining accessibility policies and procedures.
Train staff on accessibility testing tools, standards and best practices.

Qualifications

Proven experience in accessibility testing or similar role.
Knowledge of WCAG 2.0/2.1 AA standards and Section 508 compliance.
Familiarity with accessibility testing tools and assistive technologies (e.g., JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver).
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
Strong communication skills with the ability to explain technical terms to non-technical users.
Experience in web development or programming is a plus.
Relevant certification in Accessibility, such as CPACC or WAS, is a plus.

Benefits

401(k)
Health insurance
Dental insurance
Retirement plan
Paid time off
Professional development opportunities

Additional Information

Job Title: Accessibility Compliance Tester
Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Some travel may be required for team meetings or client consultations.
Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Compliance Officer or Compliance Manager.
Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $95,000 maximum
Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
Employment Type: Full-time
Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

What Does an Accessibility Compliance Tester Do?

An Accessibility Compliance Tester is a specialized professional who evaluates websites, applications, software, and digital platforms for compliance with accessibility standards and guidelines.

Their main task is to ensure that digital products are accessible to all users, including those with disabilities such as visual impairment, hearing loss, mobility issues, and cognitive impairments.

They assess the usability of digital platforms and technologies using various tools and techniques.

These can include automated testing tools, manual testing methods, and user testing with individuals who have disabilities.

They work closely with developers, designers, and stakeholders to identify and resolve accessibility issues.

This may include suggesting modifications to website architecture, color schemes, navigation elements, or content presentation.

A part of their job also involves staying updated with the latest accessibility laws, regulations, and best practices.

They may also be tasked with educating their team members and the wider organization about the importance of digital accessibility.

Accessibility Compliance Testers are also responsible for creating and maintaining comprehensive reports documenting their testing processes, findings, and recommendations for improving accessibility.

Accessibility Compliance Tester Qualifications and Skills

An effective Accessibility Compliance Tester should possess the following skills and qualifications:

Proficiency in accessibility standards such as WCAG 2.0/2.1, ADA, Section 508, and AODA to ensure that all testing aligns with these principles.
Strong analytical skills to evaluate and comprehend the technical requirements and specifications of various digital platforms.
Experience in working with various testing tools like JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and other assistive technologies to simulate the user experience of individuals with different disabilities.
Outstanding attention to detail in order to thoroughly inspect each component of the product, identifying any minor issues that could impact the product’s accessibility.
Excellent communication skills to effectively convey any accessibility issues to developers and other stakeholders in the project, and to make informed suggestions for improvements.
Familiarity with various coding languages such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and ARIA to understand the structure and functionality of products being tested.
Problem-solving skills to find innovative solutions that improve accessibility without compromising the product’s functionality or user experience.
Understanding of user interface design and user experience principles to ensure that all products are not only compliant but also user-friendly for all users, including those with disabilities.

Accessibility Compliance Tester Experience Requirements

An Accessibility Compliance Tester typically requires at least 1 to 2 years of experience in a similar role, such as a Quality Assurance Tester, IT Accessibility Specialist, or Web Accessibility Evaluator.

This experience often includes proficiency in using assistive technologies and automated testing tools, as well as a deep understanding of accessibility standards like WCAG and ADA.

Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field are often preferred.

These professionals can also gain significant experience in web and software development, which is vital for evaluating accessibility compliance.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience have usually honed their skills in identifying accessibility barriers and providing recommendations for remediation.

They might have also gained knowledge about different programming languages and platforms, and might have experience working closely with design and development teams.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are likely to have a background in creating and implementing accessibility test plans and strategies.

They may also have experience managing or leading teams, and are often capable of providing accessibility training to other team members.

In addition to these, knowledge of universal design principles and user experience design, along with strong problem-solving skills, are essential experience requirements for an Accessibility Compliance Tester.

Accessibility Compliance Tester Education and Training Requirements

Accessibility Compliance Testers often have a bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field.

In-depth knowledge of accessibility standards such as WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) is crucial for this role.

They must have a strong understanding of various testing methodologies and tools, as well as proficiency in programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

In addition, a background in user experience (UX) design or a related field can be beneficial, as this role often involves ensuring that digital content is user-friendly for people with disabilities.

Some positions may require Accessibility Compliance Testers to have a master’s degree in a specific IT or accessibility-related discipline.

Certifications such as Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC) or Web Accessibility Specialist (WAS) are advantageous and demonstrate a candidate’s expertise in the field.

It’s also crucial for Accessibility Compliance Testers to possess excellent communication skills, as they often work in multidisciplinary teams and need to communicate their findings and suggestions effectively.

Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest accessibility standards and technologies is also required for this role.

Accessibility Compliance Tester Salary Expectations

An Accessibility Compliance Tester can expect to earn an average salary of $61,752 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary can vary significantly based on factors such as experience, certification, the size of the employing company, and the location of the job.

Accessibility Compliance Tester Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Accessibility Compliance Tester need?

Accessibility Compliance Testers should be detail-oriented with a deep understanding of accessibility guidelines and laws, like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).

They need good analytical and problem-solving skills to identify and suggest solutions for accessibility issues.

These professionals should also have knowledge of assistive technologies used by people with disabilities.

Communication and report-writing skills are important for documenting findings and communicating with the development team.

Do Accessibility Compliance Testers need a degree?

While some employers may prefer candidates with a degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field, it’s not always required.

More crucial is a solid understanding of accessibility standards and laws, along with experience using various testing tools and methodologies.

Certifications, such as the Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC), can also be beneficial.

What should you look for in an Accessibility Compliance Tester resume?

First and foremost, look for experience in accessibility testing.

This could include previous roles as an Accessibility Compliance Tester, or relevant experience in web development or QA testing.

Also look for familiarity with accessibility guidelines such as WCAG, and experience with assistive technologies.

Certifications in accessibility or related fields can also be a plus.

What qualities make a good Accessibility Compliance Tester?

A good Accessibility Compliance Tester is empathetic and has a genuine concern for creating inclusive and accessible user experiences.

They are detail-oriented, as ensuring compliance often requires meticulous review of code and user interfaces.

They have good problem-solving skills to propose effective solutions for identified issues.

Additionally, they are good communicators, able to articulate problems and solutions clearly to various team members.

Is it difficult to hire Accessibility Compliance Testers?

Hiring Accessibility Compliance Testers can be challenging as it is a specialized field with limited qualified candidates.

The role requires a unique blend of technical skills and a deep understanding of accessibility guidelines and laws.

Therefore, it might take more time to find the right candidate who fits the requirements of this role.

Providing competitive compensation, professional development opportunities, and demonstrating a commitment to diversity and inclusion can make your company more attractive to potential candidates.

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve illuminated the true essence of being an Accessibility Compliance Tester.

And guess what?

It’s not just about checking boxes.

It’s about creating an inclusive digital world, one accessibility test at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive Accessibility Compliance Tester job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why halt your momentum?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your indispensable tool for meticulously crafted job listings or for refining your resume to its ultimate form.

Remember:

Every accessibility test contributes to a more inclusive world.

Let’s build that world. Together.

Reasons to Become an Accessibility Compliance Tester (Ensure Universal Web Usability)

How to Become an Accessibility Compliance Tester (Complete Guide)

Disadvantages of Being an Accessibility Compliance Tester (Perfection’s Heavy Burden)

The Workplace Wailers: The Most Hated Jobs on Earth

The Enjoyment Equation: Fun Jobs That Also Pay the Bills

Where Stress Meets Success: The Paradox of High-Pressure Jobs!

Flex and Fly: Careers That Let You Soar