Advisor, Assistive Technology & Disability Grants

Advisor, Assistive Technology & Disability Grants

Primary Purpose: The Student Advisor, Assistive Technology and Disability Grants is responsible for instructing and assisting students with disabilities in the integration of technological tools, online resources, and the use of print materials produced in an alternate format in the achievement of their academic goals: assisting students in the learning and application of effective strategies involving technical aids and providing instruction, assistance and signing authority for provincial/federal grants available to post-secondary students with documented, permanent disabilities.

Nature of Work: Reporting to the Lead Advisor Online Resources, Assistive Technology & Disability Grants and the Director of Access & Equity Services, the position will perform complete assessments of students’ learning and assistive technology needs by reviewing medical/psychological documentation for technology and learning strategy recommendations; research and recommend technology purchases. The incumbent will also liaise with the campus community regarding accessibility and assistive technology issues.

This is a high volume position in a fast-paced environment with high traffic and frequent interruptions. Unexpected situations and problems occur frequently and must be resolved on the spot using specialized knowledge of disability issues, U of S Policies and Procedures and Human Rights Legislation.

There is frequent interaction with students who have complex physical, psychological, permanent and temporary disabilities. Considerable discretion is required as the position works with highly confidential medical information and all situations must be handled in accordance to the Health Information Privacy Act.

Typical Duties or Accountabilities:

1. Managing and organizing incoming and outgoing emails. Implementing and maintaining efficient email processes and workflows. Ensuring timely and accurate responses to emails and inquiries.
2. Provide one to one teaching of assistive technology in the context of addressing learning strategy skills development; assist students in self-monitoring the effectiveness of the integration of the technology and learning strategies.
3. Provide guidance on assistive technology expenditures, supporting students with grant applications for purchasing process.
4. Research and identify high and low technology innovations, devices, software and hardware, remain up to date on new developments in the field related to learning disabilities, and make recommendations for upgrades and new purchases.
5. Extend awareness of the utility of assistive technology for students with disabilities; act as a resource for IT accessibility enquiries; participate on relevant university committees.
6. Communicate effectively with faculty members and instructors, providing guidance regarding methods of accommodating students with disabilities.
7. Consult with and deliver training to staff who work with students using alternate format materials and assistive technology.
8. Assist the Lead Advisor in other related tasks that contribute to the successful operation of the unit, including but not limited to general advising of students registered with Access & Equity Services and participate in collaborative decision making, planning and program delivery with other advisors and colleagues.
9. Participate in professional networks and professional bodies pertaining to the current and emerging uses of alternate format and adaptive technologies.

Education: A Bachelors or Graduate degree, preferably in a technology related area with additional education in disability studies, education, adult education, psychology, social work, library sciences, assistive technologist training certificate an asset. An equivalent combination of experience and education may be considered. Certification in VTRA Level 1 and Mental Health First Aid would be considered an asset.

Experience: Five to ten years’ experience working with individuals with disabilities with a preference to those with working experience in a disability setting in a post-secondary institution. Experience teaching or training others in assistive devices or computer applications, evaluating the effectiveness; possess awareness of information resources related to new assistive technology devices. A strong understanding of human rights legislation and policy around the accommodation of Individuals with disabilities. An excellent working knowledge in a wide variety of adult disability related issues (including academic issues) and a sound working knowledge of the University of Saskatchewan; Experience working in settings that may require dealing with upset and agitated individuals and individuals with communication difficulties is required.

Skills: Demonstrated ability to understand differential diagnosis related to learning and mental health disabilities, and their impact on learning at the post-secondary level. Strong computer skills, with knowledge of computer hardware and assistive technology software; excellent ability with screen reading software; good troubleshooting skills with software/hardware/disability devices interactions; ability to learn existing and new assistive technology devices and products independently. A commitment to the objective of empowerment, integration and inclusion and the capacity to work in a constantly evolving area.

Must have excellent interpersonal skills, the ability to exercise patience, tact, good judgment, diplomacy, and the ability to negotiate complex situations in a calm and persuasive manner. Must have exceptional analytical and team building skills with demonstrated ability to work both collaboratively and independently, displaying flexibility, sensitivity, creativity, a high degree of initiative and foster a cooperative work environment.

The incumbent must possess a strong working knowledge of the following:

• Human Rights Legislation
• The Health Information Protection Act
• University’s policy respecting the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act
• The Local Authority Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act

Department: Access and Equity Services
Status: Term 1 year with the possibility of extension
Employment Group: ASPA
Shift: Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0
Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $67,681.00 - 105,753.00 per annum. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Salary Family (if applicable): Specialist Professional
Salary Phase/Band: Phase 2
Posted Date: 11/8/2024
Closing Date: 11/22/2024 at 6:00 pm CST
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: On Campus

The University is committed to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion, and are proud to support career opportunities for Indigenous peoples to reflect the community we serve. We are dedicated to recruiting individuals who will enrich our work and learning environments. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. We are committed to providing accommodations to those with a disability or medical necessity. If you require an accommodation to participate in the recruitment process, please notify us and we will work together on the accommodation request. We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships.