ACCESSIBILITY COMPLIANCE SPECIALIST

Do you want to make a lasting impact?!  The Whole Person, Inc., the independent living center in Kansas City is working to create a more accessible, livable city.  We are looking for dedicated team members that can utilize their talents to make a strong impact on accessibility compliance.  Please review the following job description and contact us if your interests and skills match our needs.

Summary of Responsibilities

• Demonstrate knowledge and application of relevant state and federal design regulations (ADAAG) through accurate completion of accessibility survey tools, with a goal of gaining a level of expert knowledge.  Serve as a resource to other staff, for accessibility knowledge.
• Develop prospective list of proposed test sites, in accordance with team objectives and timelines
• Complete reports of findings and requirements.  Follow appropriate process to file formal complaints.
• Maintain relevant, accurate case documents in locked files.  Track information about sites tested in an Excel document and in CIL Manager data base.
• Maintain and document timely contacts with investigators, as they substantiate findings. Facilitate process when indicated and stay abreast of case developments. Ensure department director is informed of case overview and included in conciliation phase of investigation.

• Provide overview training (Level I) of ADAAG, ADAAG Revised and FHAG to consumers and staff.  Conduct more detailed training and mock studies (Level II) to volunteers (focus consumer-volunteers) to prepare for involvement in community surveys.  This training will focus on requirement specifics, approach and process. ACS will be responsible for providing this training to temporary testers, when workload requires their employment.  The ACS will help educate other metro groups as opportunities arise.
• Coordinate the update of KC Access Guide and help locate funding sources. Through their efforts, the ACS and volunteers will work jointly with the rest of the Accessibility Team to update the KC Access Guide. 

• Facilitate monthly grassroots consumer accessibility advocates meeting.  These meetings will identify test sites, strategize implementation of plan and allow for reports and discussions.  The ACS will help maintain focus and priorities. 
• Work with area officials to increase accessibility.  Research and report on local developments.  Help educate other TWP employees, consumers and Chambers of Commerce on basic accessibility guidelines. 
• Support team in provision of regional training opportunity and other team designated activities. 
• Participate in litigation/negotiation process as needed.  Prepare written responses or counter proposals and submit to department director for approval. 
• Participate in team retreats to develop departmental goals and priorities that promote the organizational mission.  Contribute to effort to develop a strong, supportive, accomplished team. 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree is required in one of the following areas Rehabilitation Science, Social Service, Architecture, Engineering, Law or a related field, but will accept an equal number of years work experience in one or more of the designated fields.
• Some knowledge of major disability laws is essential.  Must have familiarity with ADAAG and FHAG.  Familiarity with ABA, section 504, ANSI, UFAS and IBC and practical experience working with access codes is highly desired.
• Due to nature of work, a good memory for reporting and observation skills are essential and may be called upon in cases that go to court.  Specialists are required to use basic instruments of measure and recording devices or implements.  There are many laws and regulations that Compliance Specialists need to know and remember.
• Driven determination to positively impact the community is fundamental.
• Solid public relations and negotiation skills are vital.
• Must possess competence in development of curriculum and teaching skills.
• Demonstrate ability to successfully coordinate training events, supervise others and project management.
• Basic ability shown to review and comprehend documents, as well as ability to draft a proposal and write reports. 
• Understanding of the Independent Living philosophy is a definite plus.
• Basic computer skills required with preferred knowledge in Word, Excel, and Outlook.

Other Requirements

This position will require some infrequent non-traditional work hours for trainings, workshops, presentations, investigations, proposal preparation, etc.  Individual may be subpoenaed to appear in court.  Some travel is involved for training purposes.  Must be able to traverse the metropolitan Kansas City area.

Individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Please send your resume and cover letter to: 
The Whole Person, Inc.
Attn: Bonnie Payberah,
Director of Accessibility Compliance
3420 Broadway, Suite 105
Kansas City, MO 64111
Or via fax at 816-753-8163
Or via email bpayberah@thewholeperson.org .
No phone calls please!