Employment Category: Full-Time, Permanent
Location: Vancouver, BC (Hybrid)
Reports To: Manager, Student Accessibility Services
Primary Purpose
Reporting to the Manager of Accessibility Services, the Assistant will be responsible for providing support to the Accessibility Services Department to ensure and maintain efficiency of unit operations including day-to-day activities, communications, meetings and scheduling needs, projects and initiatives, documents, processes, systems, and file management. The role will frequently consult with other staff, faculty, students, and external partners. The ideal candidate will demonstrate an understanding of disability related needs and accessible practices, problem-solving, and the ability to navigate a complex and dynamic role while maintaining a high standard of professionalism and accuracy.
Specific Responsibilities
The Assistant will work in a fast-paced environment and is expected to be able to handle high volume workload, problem-solve, take initiative, self-manage, and adapt to changes to support unit needs while maintaining a high level of professionalism. The incumbent is responsible for the following, as well as other related duties as assigned to support the evolving accessible, inclusive, diverse, and equitable practices, policies, and procedures of UCW:
- Working closely with the Manager of Accessibility Services and Advisors to support their day-to-day unit operations.
- Serve as a point of contact by supporting office operations and general queries related to Accessibility Services at UCW, departmental activities, policies, and procedures (outreach, front reception assistance, general student advising etc.)
- Assist, prepare, and maintain records, files, reports, correspondence, and other documents (reports, presentations, spreadsheets, diagrams, process maps, etc.) related to Accessibility Services or its program activities, policies, and procedures.
- Manage department scheduling needs, prepare meeting materials, compile background information, take accurate meeting minutes and follow up on action items.
- Monitor incoming communications, gather necessary information to facilitate timely and accurate responses, and respond when and as appropriate.
- Facilitate the development, review, and file management with university policies and accreditation.
- Prioritize conflicting needs; handle matters expeditiously and proactively and follow through on projects or tasks to successful completion.
- Compile, manage, and track information/updates related to other Student Affairs Services and Academic Departments.
- Assist in the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data to support student success and unit operations.
- Liaise with other departments or roles to support operational functions and goals of Accessibility Services, and other Student Affairs related services.
- Assist in the planning, coordination, and facilitation of Accessibility Services events and initiatives, while proactively seeking improvements to support efficacy and productivity.
- Support the planning and implementation activities which promote awareness of services offered by Accessibility Services department to both students and staff across the University.
- Maintain and updates current knowledge of disability issues, new developments, and changes in standards.
- Collaborate with teams across the university to incorporate accessible planning and development into programs, services, facilities and monitoring current standards and regulations to support best practices.
- Contribute to a positive and inclusive work environment that encourages knowledge of, respect for, and development of skills to engage with people with diverse backgrounds.
- Assist with recruitment, training and supervision of casual employees providing support services for students (such as sign language interpreters; attendants for students with physical disabilities; academic aids for students with vision impairments; tutors, scribes, invigilators for exams, etc.)
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Competencies
Position Requirements:
- Ability to operate effectively within the inclusive, diverse, and equitable UCW culture and environment by cultivating relationships with UCW staff, faculty, and students, as well members from the external community.
- Ability to exercise tact, good judgment, discretion, and confidentiality when interacting with students who may require accessibility related supports and services to ensure equal opportunities for success in their academic and career pursuits.
- Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills in both formal and informal settings, to maintain integrity and professionalism whilst interacting with all individuals.
- Ability to take initiative, utilize critical thinking, and proactively problem solve to demonstrate decision-making skills.
- Ability to work on diverse competing tasks and priorities, while demonstrating diligence, excellent organization, and prioritization skills.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal support and as a part of a multi-disciplinary team to meet deadlines.
- Demonstrated ability and aptitude with Microsoft Office, Excel, PowerPoint, as well as related office tools and technologies, databases, and management systems.
- Demonstrated data-input and file management skills.
- Ability to provide support with case management administrative tasks.
- Awareness and knowledge of adaptive technology and accessible practices for students with disabilities, including web and mobile access, and experience with accessibility testing tools and technologies.
- An understanding of post-secondary Universal Design for Learning principles
- Awareness of the Accessible BC Act and the Duty to Accommodate.
- Proven presentation skills, interview skills and supervisory experience.
- Experience in recruiting and supervising support workers and personal attendants.
- Service orientation with a positive, supportive attitude and friendly approach.
- Desire to learn, grow and contribute positively to the organization and work environment.
Required Qualifications
- Associate degree in Disability Studies, or a related field.
- At least 1 year of experience in an accessibility or a related field, including experience conducting accessibility assessments and implementing accessibility improvements.
Preferred Qualifications
- Undergraduate degree in Disability Studies, Inclusive Education, or related field or combination of education and experience.
- Experience with exam invigilation and proctoring services, strongly preferred.
- Previous administrative experience in a fast-paced environment.
