"Disabilities Specialist"

Job Summary

The Disabilities Specialist (DS), as part of the Student Access and Accommodation team, is responsible for supporting students with disabilities who require reasonable and appropriate accommodations for equal access to their academic, housing and dietary needs. The DS reviews disability documentation as part of a committee to evaluate and determine appropriate accommodations for students. The DS is responsible for providing guidance to students, faculty and staff regarding the implementation and facilitation of recommended accommodations. Additionally, the DS provides outreach and educational information to the greater campus community regarding the Office of Student Access and Accommodation and equal access as afforded by the Americans with Disabilities Act as amended and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Duties & Essential Job Functions

1. Serves on the documentation review committee in reviewing and interpreting clinical documentation for physical, psychiatric, learning, and attentional diagnoses/impairments.
2. Maintains accurate and confidential records for each student including information related to eligibility and provision of accommodations.
3. Assists students with completion of paperwork, processing documentation in appropriate manner and answers questions related to accommodations.
4. Responsible for case management of assigned caseload and accurate documentation of case progress.
5. Provides expertise and technical assistance to students, faculty, and University officers on disability related concerns.
6. Consults with students and University faculty and staff to assure delivery of appropriate support services.
7. Provides outreach and training to greater campus community regarding accommodations and the Office of Student Access and Accommodation.
8. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Education & Experience

• Master’s Degree in Vocational Rehabilitation, Clinical/Educational or School Psychology, Special Education or related field of study.
• 3 years of experience working with adolescents and/or adults with disabilities.

Preferred Education & Experience

• Experience in post-secondary setting, working with students with disabilities.
• Working knowledge of the Americans with Disabilities Act as Amended and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Required Licensure/Certification/Specialized Training

None

Preferred Licensure, Certification, and/or Specialized Training

None

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of and experience working within federal and state disability regulations and guidelines.
• Working knowledge and ability to interpret medical, psychological, educational and clinical testing/documentation to determine reasonable and appropriate accommodations in a post-secondary setting.
• Knowledge of assistive and adaptive equipment/software available to persons with disabilities.
• Skill in in planning and implementing student services/accommodation in an academic environment.
• Skill in the use of Microsoft Office, Windows and PeopleSoft software packages.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Ability to communicate effectively.

TCU Core Competencies

University Core Competencies definitions may be found on the Human Resources website and in the staff performance management system.

Physical Requirements (With or Without Accommodations)

• Ability to read information from computer screens, forms and other materials and information.
• Ability to engage clearly in conversation and general communication.
• Ability to engage in verbal communication/conversation/responses via telephone, telephone systems, and face-to-face interactions.
• Ability to create written communication, navigate campus independently, and engage in functions expected in a student facing office environment.
• Ability to move objects and equipment up to 10 lbs.

Work Environment

• Work is indoors and sedentary and is subject to schedule changes and/or variable work hours.
• This role is an on campus, in-person position.
• There are no harmful environmental conditions present for this job.
• The noise level in this work environment is usually moderate.

Employment Values Statement

Texas Christian University values Integrity, Engagement, Community, and Excellence in the workplace. TCU treats applicants and employees with fairness and respect. TCU hires and promotes individuals based on their qualifications and their commitment to making a positive impact on our student-centered community. TCU is an equal opportunity employer and follows all applicable employment laws. TCU fairly considers all qualified individuals, ensuring we are a workplace free from unlawful discrimination and harassment.