Alternative Format Text Lead Production Assistant

Student Affairs at the University of Victoria helps to transform students’ lives by supporting and inspiring the highest standards of student learning and success, community engagement and staff development. The comprehensive and integrated range of services we provide make Student Affairs one of the most dynamic and diverse divisions on campus.

As a unit within the Division of Student Affairs, the Centre for Accessible Learning (CAL) is responsible for providing institutional leadership in the delivery of a comprehensive student-focused accessible learning model and delivers training and education to further the University’s commitment to provide equal access to all academic programs. CAL provides advice and consultation on the University’s legal and regulatory compliance with the BC Human Rights Code, the Ministry of Advanced Education, and University policy and procedures. Keeping current with best professional practices, standards, and research, CAL facilitates equal access to all university academic opportunities. CAL’s work is designed and guided by theories and knowledge of universally designed instruction, student learning and development, CAS Standards, and reflects developmental and demographic profiles while remaining responsive to relevant campus stakeholders. CAL is a core academic support unit for both students and faculty and contributes to the recruitment and retention of students as well as their academic and personal success.

The CAL Alternative Format Text Program (AFTP) provides students with the information, resources and assistance required to reduce print-based disability related educational barriers and supports faculties to fulfill their responsibilities to implement academic accommodation plans which include requirements for alternative format text.

Working as part of a team and reporting to the Coordinator of the Alternative Format Text Program, the AFTP Lead Production Assistant plays a central role in the effective day-to-day operation of the program. They apply advanced practical knowledge and independent professional judgment across a broad range of production, communication and program support responsibilities, exercises initiative in resolving non-routine production and accessibility challenges, provides day-to-day oversight, guidance and mentorship for a team of Production Assistants, and fosters ongoing collaboration with publishers, faculty, and other internal and external stakeholders. The Lead Production Assistant collaborates with the AFTP Coordinator on significant decisions, communicates developments, and seeks direction when proposed actions fall outside established program objectives or departmental procedure.

Experience

• Minimum three (3) years of directly relevant experience in alternative format text production, preferably within a post-secondary or comparable environment.
• Demonstrated experience producing complex STEM course materials in accessible formats for students who are blind or have low vision is required.
• Experience with publisher relations and copyright compliance in an educational context is an asset.
• Some experience providing guidance, training, or mentorship to colleagues is preferred.
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.
  
  

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Commitment to valuing principles of truth, reconciliation and respect, equity, diversity and inclusion, and contributing to an inclusive and respectful working and learning environment.
• Dedicated to ongoing professional development, staying current with evolving accessibility standards, technologies and best practices.
• Exceptional attention to detail to ensure accuracy of document production and distribution.
• Demonstrated ability to operate with initiative and sound judgment, proactively identifying and contributing to improvements in team processes, procedures and client service in collaboration with AFTP colleagues
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with demonstrated ability to navigate challenging and nuanced stakeholder interactions with consideration, confidentiality and professionalism.
• Demonstrated ability to provide effective training, mentorship and constructive feedback to colleagues, and to contribute meaningfully to team performance and development.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage competing priorities, high volumes of time-sensitive work, and team coordination during peak periods.
• Knowledge of Canadian copyright law as it pertains to alternative format materials, and ability to handle confidential student information in accordance with FIPPA and University policy.
  
  

Specialized knowledge/education

• Post-secondary education and proficiency with accessibility software required.
• Thorough understanding of accessibility best practices and inclusive education principles as they relate to students with print-based disabilities.
• Advanced proficiency with alternative format production software including ABBYY FineReader, MathType, EquatIO and Adobe Acrobat Pro DC, and strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite with demonstrated aptitude for independently acquiring technical skills in new applications as required by evolving program needs.
• Knowledge of University of Victoria campus and policies, procedures is considered an asset