Disability Specialist

About the Opportunity

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

Under the general direction of the Director, the Disability Specialist is responsible for the formulation, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of appropriate services for students with disabilities with a focus on maintaining cutting-edge student-centered services. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & ACCOUNTABILITIES

1) Direct Service to Students  

Counsel and advise students; provide specialized skills and compensatory strategies for students with disabilities. Advocate for students with disabilities with faculty, administrators and parents. Guide faculty to an understanding of how to make accommodation for students in their classes. Support student advocacy and learning strategies.

2) Outreach and Training  

Under the direction of the Director, participate in education efforts to assist departments within the University to understand the policies and procedures involved in providing access individuals with disabilities and to improve the quality of access and services at Northeastern University. Participate in outreach and training efforts to students eligible for services through Disability Access Services (DAS).

3) Review and Establish Services for Students with Disabilities  

Determine eligibility for services; approve services and accommodations; communicate with students, maintain current on complete records. Assist current and prospective students and their families through the process of acquiring appropriate documentation and registering for services. 

4) DAS Committees and Miscellaneous.   

Participate in departmental committees. Additional duties and projects as assigned by the Director. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience evaluating disability documentation, including psycho educational, psychological, and medical evaluations; specialized knowledge to interpret and assess medical and technical evaluations and determine disability accommodations and appropriate support services; developing and presenting in-service training.
• Demonstrated knowledge of computer and assistive technologies; disability practices and procedures including applicable federal and state laws, policies, regulations, and standards (e.g., Section 504 and the ADAAA); principles, concepts, methods, and techniques of universal design; standards, requirements, and regulations regarding confidentiality of information. Working knowledge of ADAAA and regulations and the ability to explain them and the implications for students with disabilities.
• Excellent group process and communication skills, problem-solving skills to resolve academic accommodation and/or disability management, interpersonal, organizational, verbal, and written communication skills. 
• Knowledge and skills typically acquired through completion of a Master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling, Counseling, Educational Psychology or related field or, equivalent combination of experience and/or education from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved. Minimum two years' experience working with students in post-secondary education providing advocacy and support services within a college setting. 

Position Type

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.  

Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.  

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Compensation Grade/Pay Type:

Expected Hiring Range:

With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.