ACCESSIBILITY LEGAL CONSULTANT

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 understanding of local, state and federal laws, guidelines and procedures relating to accessibility, including but not limited to ADAAG, ABA, FHAG, Section 504, ANSI, IBC and UFAS and interpreting these for Accessibility Compliance Team, so they can provide direct information to other staff and individuals.  Continue to increase knowledge of accessibility guidelines of: ADA, Fair Housing, Section 504, as well as any other state or federal standards, with a goal of providing testimony as an expert witness.
• Give opinion and assist with legal translation of accessibility laws.  Interpret laws and regulations in specific case situations.  Identify options and possible strategies with recommendations.  Research and be able to site relevant cases to support our position.
• Review accessibility proposals, contracts and agreements.  Prepare and assist with proposals as assigned. 
• Facilitate process, as complaints are formally filed by Compliance Specialists and as investigators substantiate their findings.      
• Collaborate with department director to advocate for increased accessibility on a local and, eventually, regional and national level. 
• File select cases in (federal) court is deemed appropriate and pursue other cases as assigned in civil court.
• Initiate communications to support Access Compliance Team efforts.  Prepare advance letters notifying area retailers, owners, etc. of violations and their need to bring their structures into compliance in a progression that could lead to issuance of a formal complaint.
• Work with Accessibility Compliance Team to help interpret potential impact of local and national accessibility developments and case decisions. 
• Aid in regional and national accessibility trainings and provide support for local training as needed.
• Participate in bi-weekly team meetings and annual team retreat to review, plan and support departmental efforts and organizational mission. 

Qualifications

• Legal degree with knowledge and experience working with disability access laws and regulations is preferred.
• Possess familiarity with disability related issues.
• Must demonstrate competence and confidence in preparing documents and verbal presentations.
• Display ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a willingness to accept supervision.
• Experience with grant writing is desirable.
• Understanding of the Independent Living philosophy is a plus.

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!