Accessibility Testing Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of digital inclusivity, the spotlight on Accessibility Testing Specialists has never been more significant.

As technology continues to evolve, so does the demand for knowledgeable professionals who can ensure that our digital world is accessible to everyone.

But what exactly does an Accessibility Testing Specialist do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the depth of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the realm of accessibility testing,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Accessibility Testing Specialist job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or career sites.

Without further ado, let’s dive in.

Accessibility Testing Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Accessibility Testing Specialists ensure that digital products, such as websites and applications, are accessible and usable by people with disabilities.

This involves testing the products against accessibility standards and guidelines.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Reviewing and understanding the accessibility specifications and guidelines
• Creating and executing test plans and strategies for accessibility testing
• Conducting accessibility audits and identifying accessibility issues
• Using assistive technologies, such as screen readers and magnifiers, to test the accessibility of products
• Working with developers and designers to address identified accessibility issues
• Conducting user testing with people with disabilities to ensure products are usable
• Keeping up-to-date with the latest developments in accessibility standards and assistive technologies
• Documenting and reporting findings and recommendations to improve accessibility
• Providing guidance and training to other team members on accessibility best practices
• Promoting awareness and understanding of accessibility throughout the organization

 

Accessibility Testing Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Accessibility Testing Specialist to join our team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for identifying and suggesting potential solutions for accessibility barriers based on the WCAG 2.0 standards as well as compliance with the ADA, Section 508, and other accessibility related laws.

Accessibility Testing Specialist responsibilities include conducting accessibility testing on web applications and mobile apps, creating detailed reports of findings and recommendations for improvements, and working closely with the development team to implement these enhancements.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct accessibility testing of web applications and mobile apps
• Produce clear and concise accessibility audit reports
• Work with developers and designers to understand the issues and provide potential solutions
• Keep up-to-date with latest accessibility standards and best practices
• Participate in team meetings to discuss testing strategies and results
• Develop and implement accessibility test plans and strategies
• Provide guidance and training to other team members on accessibility best practices
• Identify and suggest potential tools and technologies to improve accessibility testing process

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience in accessibility testing
• Knowledge of WCAG 2.0 standards and guidelines
• Experience in using accessibility testing tools and screen readers (such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver)
• Understanding of HTML, CSS, JavaScript and WAI-ARIA techniques
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work effectively in a team setting
• BSc degree in Computer Science, IT, or a related field

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Accessibility Testing Specialist
• 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 Accessibility Testing Team Lead.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $110,000 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 Testing Specialist Do?

Accessibility Testing Specialists work primarily in the IT industry, ensuring that software, websites, and applications are accessible to people with disabilities.

This includes visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive impairments.

Their main job is to use a range of testing tools and methodologies to identify and rectify any accessibility issues in digital content.

They work in conjunction with software developers, website designers, and other IT professionals to ensure that digital platforms are universally accessible.

Accessibility Testing Specialists evaluate and analyse the compatibility of systems and applications with assistive technology, such as screen readers, magnifiers, and special input devices.

They may also be required to develop and execute test cases, track testing coverage, and document any issues they find.

In addition, these specialists advocate for accessibility within their organization, educating others about its importance and promoting best practices.

They may also keep up-to-date with relevant legislation, ensuring that their organization stays compliant with any accessibility standards or regulations.

Ultimately, the Accessibility Testing Specialist plays a crucial role in ensuring digital products are inclusive and accessible to all users, regardless of any physical or cognitive challenges they may face.

 

Accessibility Testing Specialist Qualifications and Skills

An Accessibility Testing Specialist should have a diverse set of skills and qualifications to ensure that all digital products are accessible to all users, including those with disabilities, such as:

• Strong understanding of accessibility standards and guidelines such as WCAG 2.0/2.1, Section 508, and ADA
• Experience with accessibility testing tools and assistive technologies such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and ZoomText
• Proficiency in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and other web technologies to diagnose and suggest potential fixes for accessibility barriers
• Excellent communication skills to effectively relay accessibility issues to development teams and stakeholders
• Experience in manual accessibility testing, including keyboard-only testing, color contrast analysis, and screen reader testing
• Ability to create detailed and comprehensive accessibility audit reports
• Problem-solving skills to identify and address potential accessibility issues in a variety of contexts
• Understanding of user experience design principles, with an emphasis on inclusive and universal design
• Empathy and understanding for the needs of users with disabilities

 

Accessibility Testing Specialist Experience Requirements

Accessibility Testing Specialists typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field.

However, a significant amount of practical experience can sometimes substitute formal education.

Entry-level roles often require 1 to 2 years of experience, which can be gained through internships or part-time roles in software testing, quality assurance, or other IT-related roles.

Entry-level Accessibility Testing Specialists should have a basic understanding of accessibility guidelines and standards, such as WCAG and ADA.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience are often expected to have more advanced skills, including the ability to use automated testing tools, proficiency in manual accessibility testing, and a good understanding of assistive technologies.

These candidates often have experience in conducting accessibility audits and presenting findings to stakeholders.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership experience, including managing a team of testers, coordinating with developers and designers to implement accessibility features, and driving accessibility initiatives within the organization.

They should also have a strong understanding of the legal requirements for accessibility and be able to advise the organization on compliance issues.

 

Accessibility Testing Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Accessibility Testing Specialists typically hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field.

A strong understanding of web development, including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, is vital.

In addition to the degree, they need to have specific knowledge in the field of accessibility.

This includes being familiar with accessibility standards, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), and being able to understand and apply these standards in testing processes.

Many Accessibility Testing Specialists also hold certifications from professional bodies such as the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP).

These certifications, such as the Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC) or the Web Accessibility Specialist (WAS), demonstrate specialist knowledge and practical skills in accessibility testing.

Furthermore, experience with using assistive technologies, such as screen readers, text enlargement software, and voice recognition software, is often essential for this role.

Accessibility Testing Specialists should also possess good communication skills and have the ability to work in teams, as they often need to collaborate with other developers, designers, and stakeholders to ensure a product’s accessibility.

Continuous learning is also important in this field due to the rapid technological advancements, so ongoing professional development in the form of further training, workshops, or courses is beneficial.

 

Accessibility Testing Specialist Salary Expectations

An Accessibility Testing Specialist can expect to earn an average salary of $75,000 (USD) per year.

However, this can fluctuate significantly depending on factors such as years of experience, the industry of employment, and the cost of living in the geographical location.

 

Accessibility Testing Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Accessibility Testing Specialist need?

An Accessibility Testing Specialist should have a solid understanding of accessibility standards and guidelines, such as WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines).

They need to be proficient in various testing tools and methodologies, including both manual and automated accessibility testing.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are crucial, as they’ll need to identify and fix accessibility issues.

Good communication skills are also important for effectively reporting issues and suggesting improvements.

 

Do Accessibility Testing Specialists need a degree?

While a degree in Computer Science, Information Technology or a related field can be beneficial, it is not always required.

Many employers value practical experience and demonstrated knowledge in accessibility testing over formal education.

However, certification as a Professional Web Accessibility Auditor, or a similar credential, can strengthen a candidate’s job application.

 

What should you look for in an Accessibility Testing Specialist resume?

You should look for experience in both automated and manual accessibility testing.

Knowledge of WCAG and other relevant accessibility standards is crucial.

Experience with assistive technologies such as screen readers and voice recognition software is a big plus.

It can also be beneficial if they have some background in web development, as understanding how websites are built can help in identifying and fixing accessibility issues.

 

What qualities make a good Accessibility Testing Specialist?

A good Accessibility Testing Specialist should be detail-oriented and analytical, with the ability to identify and resolve accessibility issues effectively.

They need to have a deep understanding of various disabilities and how users with these disabilities interact with digital content.

Empathy is key as they should be able to view the user experience from different perspectives.

They should also be up-to-date with the latest accessibility guidelines and testing tools.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Accessibility Testing Specialist?

It can be challenging to hire an Accessibility Testing Specialist as it is a specialized role requiring a unique set of skills and knowledge.

The candidate must be well-versed in accessibility standards and testing methodologies, and have a deep understanding of diverse user needs.

However, the growing emphasis on digital accessibility is leading to a rise in professionals specializing in this field.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve revealed the true essence of being an Accessibility Testing Specialist.

Surprise!

It’s not just about identifying barriers.

It’s about shaping an inclusive digital universe, one accessibility test at a time.

Armed with our essential Accessibility Testing Specialist job description template and real-life instances, you’re ready to take that leap.

But why end here?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your ticket to crafting razor-sharp job listings or tailoring your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every accessibility test contributes to a larger vision.

Let’s shape that inclusive future. Together.

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