Software Systems Specialist III (Digital Accessibility Program) - ITS-Software Development Solutions

To provide the technical skills and expertise required in developing and maintaining computer operating system software of the most complex nature.

Serves as UTMB's designated Digital Accessibility Officer under Texas law, responsible for developing, implementing, and sustaining the institution's digital accessibility program. Establishes policy, standards, and governance so that UTMB's digital products and services conform to the state's accessibility law and administrative rules (1 TAC 206 and 1 TAC 213) and to WCAG 2.1/2.2 Level AA, and so that they are usable by employees and members of the public with and without disabilities.

Analyzes existing and projected operating and application system procedures, including studies of the interaction of several software systems to ascertain feasibility and performance.

Coordinates implementation of software systems, and evaluates and modifies existing components of the computer operating and application systems.

Participates in studies of projected enhancements in hardware and software and in the development of recommendations to management based upon the results of such studies.

Advises software system specialists of lower grade with respect to determination of and possible solutions to work problems.

Plans, coordinates, and supervises other programmers and software system specialists of lower grade.

Makes work assignments and reviews completed work.

Adheres to internal controls established for the department.

Performs related duties as required.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

Working knowledge of WCAG 2.1 and 2.2 Level AA and the ability to apply it to web, mobile, application, and document content.

Ability to conduct accessibility audits using automated tooling and manual techniques, including keyboard-only and screen reader testing.

Strong understanding of semantic HTML, ARIA, keyboard navigation, focus management, color contrast, and accessible design patterns.

Ability to write actionable remediation plans and track defects to resolution with development and content teams.

Ability to review vendor accessibility conformance documentation (VPAT/ACR) and advise on procurement risk.

Working knowledge of Texas HB 5195, 1 TAC 206, 1 TAC 213, ADA Title II, and Sections 504 and 508.

Ability to assess compliance risk, determine when a requirement imposes a fundamental alteration or significant financial burden, and document exceptions for executive approval.

Ability to design alternate methods of access for individuals with disabilities when an exception is approved.

Ability to complete state-mandated compliance reporting, including the biennial Information Resources Deployment Review.

Ability to develop policy and standards and gain adoption across a large organization.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate technical requirements into plain guidance for non-technical audiences.

Ability to operate as a change agent, driving adoption of new practices across developers, designers, content authors, and business owners.

Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage a large asset inventory and competing remediation priorities.

Ability to collaborate effectively across IT, Procurement, General Counsel, and clinical and academic units.

Commitment to inclusive design and to improving the experience of users with disabilities, including patients, students, faculty, staff, and the public.