How to Become an Accessibility Tester (Surfing the Web Waves)

If you’ve ever imagined creating a digital world that’s inclusive and accessible to everyone, or pondered on how to become an accessibility tester, you’ve come to the right place.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the SPECIFIC steps you need to take to kickstart your career as an accessibility tester. We’ll discuss:

• The skills you need.
• The education that can boost your prospects.
• How to secure a job as an accessibility tester.

So, whether you’re a novice in the field of digital accessibility or a tech-proficient individual looking to diversify your skill set, stay with us.

We’re about to unfold the roadmap to becoming an accessibility tester.

Let’s embark on this journey!

Steps to Become an Accessibility Tester

 

Step 1: Understand the Importance of Accessibility

Understanding the importance of accessibility is the first step to becoming an Accessibility Tester.

Accessibility ensures that digital content such as websites, applications, or software are usable by all people, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.

As an Accessibility Tester, you will play a critical role in making sure that these digital platforms are inclusive and accessible to everyone, including those with visual, auditory, motor, or cognitive disabilities.

You should familiarize yourself with various international standards and guidelines such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Learning about different types of disabilities and the challenges they pose in interacting with digital interfaces will also help to understand the scope of your job.

Remember, the goal of an Accessibility Tester is not only to find accessibility issues but also to advocate for inclusivity in the digital world.

This understanding will guide your career path and remind you of the importance of your role in creating an inclusive digital experience for all users.

 

Step 2: Learn About Disabilities and Assistive Technologies

Understanding the different types of disabilities and the assistive technologies that are used is crucial to being an effective accessibility tester.

You need to be knowledgeable about visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive impairments, along with the various technologies that help individuals with these impairments navigate the digital world.

You can start by self-studying.

There are numerous resources available online that provide information about different disabilities and assistive technologies.

Additionally, you can attend workshops, conferences, and seminars to further your understanding.

Learning about assistive technologies such as screen readers, magnifiers, speech recognition software, and alternative input devices is also vital.

Not only should you learn about how they work, but you should also get hands-on experience using them.

This will give you insights into the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities when they interact with software products.

Understanding web standards and guidelines, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) is also important as they provide a framework for creating accessible digital content.

Familiarize yourself with these guidelines and implement them in your testing process.

This knowledge will form the foundation of your career as an accessibility tester, allowing you to identify and address accessibility issues effectively.

Remember, your goal is to ensure that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can use the software product you’re testing.

 

Step 3: Study Accessibility Guidelines and Standards

As an aspiring Accessibility Tester, it’s crucial to have a deep understanding of accessibility guidelines and standards.

These guidelines, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), provide a framework for making digital content more accessible to people with disabilities.

Make sure to study these guidelines and standards thoroughly, as they will be your main point of reference during testing.

They encompass a wide range of recommendations, from color contrast ratios, to alternative text for images, to keyboard accessibility.

Also, keep yourself updated as these guidelines frequently evolve and new standards emerge.

They are developed and updated by industry professionals and organizations committed to digital accessibility, so staying current will help you ensure that the products you test are meeting the latest best practices.

Consider enrolling in specific courses or attending workshops to deepen your knowledge and understanding of these guidelines.

There are various online resources and communities dedicated to these topics that can provide useful insights and updates.

Remember, the goal of an Accessibility Tester is not just to identify the flaws in a product, but also to suggest improvements that make it accessible to all users, in line with these guidelines and standards.

 

Step 4: Obtain Relevant Education

As an Accessibility Tester, you will need specific knowledge and skills related to digital accessibility standards and practices.

This could be achieved through obtaining a degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field, where you can learn about basics of web and software development and how to test them for accessibility.

While a formal degree can provide a strong foundation, it’s not the only route to becoming an Accessibility Tester.

There are also numerous online courses and certifications available that specifically focus on digital accessibility testing.

These courses often cover a wide range of topics such as understanding different accessibility standards (like WCAG), using accessibility testing tools, and learning how to identify and fix common accessibility issues.

No matter which education route you choose, make sure it covers both the technical aspects of web and software development, as well as the principles of digital accessibility.

This includes understanding the various barriers that people with disabilities face when using digital platforms, as well as the legal requirements for accessibility.

As a part of your education, you should also gain hands-on experience wherever possible.

This could involve working on accessibility testing projects, either as part of your coursework or on your own.

Practical experience will not only enhance your understanding of the field but will also make you more attractive to potential employers.

 

Step 5: Practice with Accessibility Tools

As you’re growing your skills and knowledge in the field of accessibility testing, familiarize yourself with the tools commonly used in the industry.

These may include screen readers such as JAWS, NVDA or VoiceOver, accessibility testing tools like WAVE, AChecker, Google Lighthouse, and other assistive technologies that individuals with disabilities use to navigate the web.

Start by learning how these tools work and understanding their different functionalities.

For example, get acquainted with how screen readers interpret and read out web content, or how color contrast analyzers check if a website’s color contrast meets accessibility standards.

Having hands-on experience with these tools not only improves your skill set but also helps you understand the kind of barriers individuals with disabilities face when browsing the internet.

This understanding is crucial for creating more inclusive web environments.

You can also take this opportunity to experiment with different testing methods such as automated, manual, and user testing.

Each method has its strengths and weaknesses, and understanding when to use each one can greatly enhance your effectiveness as an accessibility tester.

 

Step 6: Gain Hands-On Experience

As an aspiring accessibility tester, it is crucial to gain practical experience in the field.

There are several ways to do this.

Firstly, consider working on real projects either as a part of your job, internship, or even freelance.

Applying the theoretical knowledge you’ve obtained into a practical setting will help you better understand the nuances of accessibility testing.

Secondly, familiarize yourself with various assistive technologies such as screen readers, magnification software, and speech recognition programs.

You can do this by volunteering to work with organizations that cater to individuals with disabilities, thus giving you a hands-on experience of how these technologies work.

Additionally, you can contribute to open-source projects that focus on accessibility.

This will not only provide you with hands-on experience, but also make you part of a community where you can learn from other experienced testers.

Lastly, try to replicate and resolve real-life accessibility issues.

This will aid in developing your problem-solving skills which is crucial for an accessibility tester.

Always remember, the aim is to make the digital world more inclusive for everyone, and gaining hands-on experience is a significant step towards achieving that goal.

 

Step 7: Develop Coding Skills

As an Accessibility Tester, developing solid coding skills is crucial.

Your role will often involve digging into the code of a website or application to identify where accessibility issues lie.

Therefore, understanding programming languages such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and others is essential.

Firstly, start by gaining a strong foundation in HTML and CSS as these are the building blocks of web content.

Familiarize yourself with how to create accessible HTML structures and how to use CSS for visual presentation in an accessible way.

Then, learn JavaScript as this language can significantly affect the accessibility of web content.

It can be used to manage dynamic content and handle user interactions, so understanding how to use it in a way that maintains accessibility is key.

Furthermore, you might need to learn other technologies like ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications), a set of attributes that define ways to make web content more accessible to people with disabilities.

You can acquire these skills through online courses, tutorials, and practice.

Remember, your goal is not just to understand these languages but to be able to identify and correct code that could pose accessibility problems.

Ongoing learning is also important in this step as technologies and best practices continually evolve.

 

Step 8: Network with Accessibility Professionals

As you gain expertise in accessibility testing, it’s critical to build relationships with other professionals in the field.

Networking can not only provide you with helpful insights and advice but can also open up potential job opportunities.

Attend industry conferences, meetups, and seminars to meet other accessibility testers and professionals.

Not only can you learn from their experiences, but it can also help you stay abreast with the latest trends and advancements in the field.

You should also consider joining online communities and forums dedicated to accessibility testing.

These platforms can provide a wealth of information and are an excellent place to ask questions and share your knowledge.

Social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter can also be very helpful for networking, as many accessibility professionals actively share their thoughts and insights there.

Remember, networking is not just about taking, but also about giving.

Share your own experiences, answer questions, and contribute to the community.

This will help establish your credibility and open up more opportunities for you.

Finally, consider seeking out a mentor in the field.

This person can guide you through your career, help you navigate challenges, and provide valuable insights.

They can be a great source of motivation and inspiration as you advance in your career as an accessibility tester.

 

Step 9: Expand Your Knowledge on Legal Requirements

As an Accessibility Tester, you will need to be thoroughly knowledgeable about the legal requirements associated with digital accessibility.

This includes understanding laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).

Understanding these laws and guidelines is crucial in ensuring that the websites and applications you are testing comply with all necessary regulations.

This will not only help you detect and report accessibility issues more effectively, but it will also ensure that your employer or clients avoid legal issues related to non-compliance.

You should also familiarize yourself with updates to these laws as they occur.

This can be done by attending webinars, reading industry news, or participating in relevant forums and online communities.

Furthermore, you can consider taking certification courses to validate your knowledge on the subject.

Several organizations offer credentials in digital accessibility that can boost your credibility as an Accessibility Tester and open up more job opportunities.

Remember that your role is not just about identifying issues but also about ensuring that digital platforms are inclusive and accessible to all users, which is both a legal and ethical responsibility.

 

Step 10: Gain Official Certification

As an Accessibility Tester, it’s beneficial to get certified to prove your expertise in the field.

Official certifications not only boost your credibility but also make you stand out among other candidates.

One such certification is the Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC) credential offered by the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP).

The CPACC certification validates an individual’s broad, foundational knowledge about disabilities, accessibility and universal design, and accessibility-related standards, laws, and management strategies.

To prepare for the certification exam, you can take advantage of various resources like webinars, study guides, and online courses.

Moreover, if you want to demonstrate a higher level of technical skills in accessibility testing, you can pursue the WAS (Web Accessibility Specialist) certification, also offered by the IAAP.

This is more technical and focuses on methods for evaluating and fixing accessibility issues in websites and other digital platforms.

Gaining these certifications necessitates dedicated study and preparation, but the rewards, in terms of career growth and the ability to make digital platforms more accessible, are well worth it.

 

Step 11: Prepare Your Resume and Portfolio

As an Accessibility Tester, your resume and portfolio should reflect your unique set of skills and experiences.

Start by highlighting any relevant education, certifications or training you’ve completed, such as a degree in computer science or certificates in accessibility testing.

Include any experiences where you’ve used automated testing tools, manual testing or user testing for website and software accessibility.

Next, make sure your resume includes any previous job experience, specifically detailing roles where you tested for accessibility.

This might include positions in web development, software testing or quality assurance where you had specific responsibilities related to accessibility.

In your portfolio, include examples of the projects you’ve worked on.

It’s essential to show not only the final products but also the process you went through to ensure accessibility.

Explain the testing methods you used, the accessibility standards you followed, and the impact your work had on the project.

Don’t forget to include any problems you discovered and how you worked to solve them.

Finally, include any additional skills that set you apart, such as knowledge of assistive technologies, understanding of WCAG standards, or experience in user experience design.

Remember, your goal is to demonstrate your passion for making technology accessible to all users, and your resume and portfolio are the perfect tools to do this.

 

Step 12: Apply for Accessibility Tester Positions

After obtaining the necessary skills and qualifications, begin applying for Accessibility Tester positions.

You can find job listings on various job portals, company websites, and professional networking sites like LinkedIn. Some organizations specialize in accessibility testing, and these would be ideal places to start your job search.

When applying, ensure your resume and cover letter highlight your specific skills in accessibility testing.

Mention any training or certifications you have, including any knowledge of WCAG guidelines.

Also, highlight any experience you have with different testing tools and techniques.

This could be from your training or from any volunteering or internship experience you have obtained.

It’s also important to showcase any projects or practical work you’ve done during your training.

This could be assessments you’ve done, websites you’ve tested, or issues you’ve identified and fixed.

These will demonstrate your practical experience and ability to apply your skills in a real-world context.

Finally, prepare for your interviews.

Typically, you may be asked to demonstrate your testing skills or to discuss how you would approach testing a particular software or website.

Be ready to discuss your thought process, your attention to detail, and your problem-solving skills.

Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get a job offer immediately.

It can take time to find the right position, but with persistence, you will find a role that suits your skills and interests.

 

Accessibility Tester Roles and Responsibilities

Accessibility Testers specialize in testing the accessibility features and usability of a product or website for people with disabilities.

They ensure that the product is compliant with relevant accessibility standards and legislation.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

 

Accessibility Testing

• Perform accessibility testing of applications, websites, and products to ensure they can be used by individuals with varying abilities.
• Use assistive technologies and tools to conduct testing.
• Identify, document, and prioritize accessibility issues and defects.

 

Problem Solving

• Analyze complex accessibility problems and propose solutions.
• Work with developers to implement fixes for identified accessibility issues.
• Verify that accessibility fixes have been implemented correctly.

 

Standards Compliance

• Understand and ensure compliance with web accessibility standards (WCAG, Section 508, etc.).
• Stay up-to-date with changing accessibility laws and standards.

 

Training and Consultation

• Provide training and guidance to developers and designers on accessibility best practices.
• Consult on the design and implementation of accessible interfaces.

 

Documentation

• Write detailed reports on findings from accessibility testing.
• Maintain documentation of accessibility standards and guidelines.

 

Collaboration

• Work closely with developers, designers, product managers, and other QA testers.
• Advocate for the importance of accessibility in product design and development.

 

User Research

• Conduct user research with individuals with disabilities to understand their needs and challenges.
• Apply findings from user research to improve accessibility.

 

Continuous Learning

• Stay current with advances in assistive technology and accessibility testing tools.
• Attend conferences, workshops, and training programs related to accessibility.

 

What Does an Accessibility Tester Do?

An Accessibility Tester primarily works to ensure that the digital products, such as websites and applications, are usable and accessible by people with a range of disabilities.

This involves testing the product’s user interface and features to ensure they meet required accessibility standards and guidelines such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).

They work closely with software developers, product managers, and user experience designers, providing feedback and recommendations to improve the product’s accessibility.

This could involve suggesting alternative text for images (for the visually impaired), ensuring all functions can be performed using a keyboard (for those with mobility issues), or verifying color contrast (for those with color vision deficiency).

Accessibility Testers also conduct automated and manual testing using a variety of tools and assistive technologies, such as screen readers, magnifiers, or voice recognition software.

They identify and report any issues or barriers that could prevent someone with a disability from fully using the product.

They are often responsible for creating test plans and scenarios, documenting their findings, and tracking the resolution of reported issues.

They must stay up-to-date with the latest accessibility standards, best practices, and technologies to ensure they can effectively advocate for users of all abilities.

 

Essential Accessibility Tester Skills

• Understanding of Accessibility Standards: Familiarity with international accessibility laws and guidelines such as ADA, WCAG, and Section 508 is vital.
• Knowledge of Assistive Technologies: Proficiency in the use of screen readers, magnifiers, and other assistive technologies to understand the challenges faced by users.
• Experience with Accessibility Testing Tools: Using automated tools like aXe or WAVE for initial accessibility audits is crucial.
• Manual Testing: Ability to perform manual testing to identify issues that automated tools might miss is necessary.
• Strong Communication Skills: Accessibility testers must effectively communicate findings and make recommendations for improvements to developers and designers.
• Problem-Solving: Identifying barriers in accessibility and coming up with efficient and effective solutions is a key skill.
• Programming Knowledge: Basic understanding of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript aids in identifying coding issues and suggesting fixes.
• User-Centric Thinking: Consideration for user needs and abilities is essential. Accessibility testers should be able to empathize with users and advocate for their needs.
• Documentation: Ability to document accessibility issues accurately and comprehensively for remediation by developers.
• Software Testing: Knowledge of software testing methodologies and practices is important for thorough accessibility testing.
• Website Design: Understanding of website architecture, navigation, and design principles is useful in evaluating the accessibility of the site.
• Attention to Detail: Accessibility testing often involves detailed inspections of elements and coding. A keen eye for detail is necessary to spot potential issues.
• Patience: Accessibility testing can be time-consuming and requires a patient and methodical approach.
• Persistence: Overcoming resistance or lack of understanding about the importance of accessibility requires persistence and the ability to advocate for users.
• Continual Learning: Accessibility standards and practices evolve over time. A commitment to continual learning and staying up to date with the latest developments is a valuable skill.

 

Accessibility Tester Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Junior Accessibility Tester

The first step in an accessibility tester’s journey is usually as a Junior Accessibility Tester.

At this stage, you will be learning about various accessibility standards and tools and testing small parts of a product or website.

Here are some tips for success:

1. Learn Continuously: Familiarize yourself with different accessibility guidelines such as WCAG and ADA.
2. Get Hands-On: Gain practical experience with accessibility testing tools and assistive technologies.
3. Collaborate: Work with developers and designers to understand their perspectives and requirements.

 

The Ascent: Accessibility Tester

After gaining some experience, you transition into the role of an Accessibility Tester.

Here you’ll handle larger assignments, perform comprehensive accessibility audits, and provide detailed reports and recommendations.

To thrive at this stage:

1. Improve Your Testing Skills: Become proficient in using automated and manual testing tools.
2. Communication: Clearly convey your findings to the development and design team.
3. Stay Updated: Keep up with the latest changes in accessibility regulations and standards.

 

Reaching New Heights: Senior Accessibility Tester

As a Senior Accessibility Tester, you are recognized for your expertise and understanding of accessibility.

You might lead accessibility testing efforts, mentor junior testers, and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure products are accessible.

To excel at this stage:

1. Lead Testing Initiatives: Take ownership of the testing process and ensure it aligns with the accessibility standards.
2. Provide Mentorship: Share your knowledge and guide junior testers in their career development.
3. Influence Design: Collaborate with developers and designers to create more accessible products from the ground up.

 

Beyond the Horizon: Lead Roles and Beyond

Progressing further, you might specialize in a specific accessibility domain or move into roles like Accessibility Consultant, Lead Accessibility Tester, or even Accessibility Manager.

These roles involve greater responsibilities and strategic decision-making.

Focus on these areas:

1. Strategic Planning: Develop accessibility strategies and procedures for the organization.
2. Leadership Skills: If you transition into management, develop strong leadership and communication skills to guide your team effectively.
3. Advocacy: Advocate for accessibility, raising awareness, and promoting inclusion within your organization.

 

Pinnacle of Success: Director of Accessibility

In the highest tier of the career ladder, you might find yourself as the Director of Accessibility, where you are responsible for overseeing the organization’s overall accessibility strategy, influencing policy, and ensuring compliance.

 

Accessibility Tester Salary

Entry-Level Accessibility Tester

• Median Salary: $40,000 – $65,000 per year
• Entry-level accessibility testers typically have 0-2 years of experience and may hold bachelor’s degrees in computer science, information systems, or related fields. Their primary role involves testing and ensuring that software and websites are accessible to individuals with disabilities.

 

Mid-Level Accessibility Tester

• Median Salary: $65,000 – $85,000 per year
• Mid-level accessibility testers have 2-5 years of experience. They not only perform tests but may also be responsible for developing and implementing accessibility test plans and strategies.

 

Senior Accessibility Tester

• Median Salary: $85,000 – $110,000 per year
• Senior accessibility testers possess 5+ years of experience. They are typically involved in mentoring junior testers, coordinating testing efforts, and advising on the integration of accessibility considerations in the development process.

 

Accessibility Testing Manager / Lead Accessibility Tester

• Median Salary: $110,000 – $140,000+ per year
• These roles require significant experience in accessibility testing and often involve leading teams of testers, deciding on testing methodologies, and liaising with software development teams to ensure accessibility standards are met.

 

Director of Accessibility Testing / VP of Accessibility

• Median Salary: $140,000 – $180,000+ per year
• These high-level positions require extensive experience and expertise in accessibility testing. They often involve setting strategies for accessibility testing across the organization, overseeing the implementation of accessibility initiatives, and ensuring the company meets all relevant legal and industry accessibility standards.

 

Accessibility Tester Work Environment

Accessibility Testers generally work within the technology or software development industry, typically in office settings but may also work remotely depending on their employer’s policy.

They collaborate with software developers, UX/UI designers, and project managers to ensure digital products such as websites and applications are accessible to everyone, including users with disabilities.

The work of an Accessibility Tester often involves the use of various testing tools and technologies, requiring them to be proficient with a range of software applications.

Their work schedules may be flexible, with the potential to work on various projects simultaneously.

After gaining sufficient experience and expertise, an Accessibility Tester might choose to work as a freelance consultant or develop their own accessibility testing firm.

 

FAQs About Becoming an Accessibility Tester

What is needed to become an Accessibility Tester?

To become an Accessibility Tester, you need to have a solid understanding of accessibility standards such as WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

You should be proficient in using assistive technologies like screen readers, magnifiers, or speech recognition software.

A background in software testing, web development, or a related field can be beneficial, along with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Experience with testing tools, methodologies, and platforms is also important.

 

How long does it take to become an Accessibility Tester?

The time it takes to become an Accessibility Tester can vary greatly depending on your prior experience and the depth of your knowledge about accessibility standards and testing methodologies.

Generally, if you have a background in software testing or web development, it may take a few months to a year to gain the specific knowledge and skills related to accessibility testing.

This can be achieved through self-study, online courses, or on-the-job training.

 

Can I become an Accessibility Tester without a degree?

Yes, it’s possible to become an Accessibility Tester without a traditional degree.

While a degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field can be beneficial, practical experience and knowledge of accessibility standards and testing methods are often more important.

This can be gained through self-study, online courses, or hands-on experience.

 

Is Accessibility Testing a stressful job?

Accessibility Testing, like any job, can have its stressful moments.

This could be due to tight deadlines or complex issues that are hard to resolve.

However, many find it rewarding to make technology more accessible and inclusive.

The level of stress can vary greatly depending on the work environment, workload, and individual stress management abilities.

 

What are the prospects for Accessibility Testers in the next decade?

The prospects for Accessibility Testers are positive for the next decade.

As society becomes more digitally focused, the demand for accessible technology is growing.

This trend, combined with legal requirements for accessibility in many countries, is expected to drive demand for skilled Accessibility Testers in the future.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Embarking on the journey to become an accessibility tester may not be easy, but it’s undeniably rewarding.

Equipped with the appropriate skills, education, and persistence, you’re well on your way to making a substantial contribution in the realm of digital accessibility.

Remember, the path might be daunting, but the prospects are limitless. Your expertise could lead to innovative solutions that revolutionize how people with disabilities engage with the digital world.

So, take that first leap. Immerse yourself in learning. Network with industry professionals. And most importantly, never cease testing and improving.

Because the world is waiting for the difference you can make.

And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on initiating or advancing your career as an accessibility tester, take a look at our AI Career Path Advisor.

This complimentary tool is designed to provide personalized advice and resources to assist you in navigating your career journey effectively.

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