Program Manager - Director of Accessibility Services
New York State
TitleProgram Manager - Director of Accessibility Services
Occupational CategoryAdministrative or General Management
Bargaining UnitM/C - Managerial/Confidential (Unrepresented)
Salary RangeFrom $140731 to $156734 Annually
Duties Description The Program Manager - Director of Accessibility Services, reporting directly to the Co-Executive Directors is responsible for developing, managing, and overseeing a comprehensive approach to accessibility within the electoral process. The role ensures compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), New York State Election Law, and all relevant state and federal regulations. The Director will lead efforts to support county boards of elections in providing accessible voting experiences for all eligible voters, particularly those with disabilities.
Additionally, the Director will stand up and oversee the statutorily mandated (Chapter 477 of the Laws of 2023) training institute tasked with developing the curriculum, reviewing county specific procedures and guidelines, and providing regional training.
Accessibility: The Director is responsible for coordinating activities related to ensuring accessibility across the electoral process, with a focus on supporting county boards of elections. Key duties include:
• Oversee ADA compliance for all State Board initiatives, ensuring accessibility across programs and digital platforms.
• Assisting county boards in evaluating the accessibility of polling locations and voting processes, providing guidance on best practices for compliance with ADA standards.
• Integrating accessibility topics into training programs for county election staff and poll workers, ensuring they are equipped to assist voters with disabilities.
• Providing technical expertise and support to county boards in resolving ADA-related accessibility complaints and coordinating with third-party surveyors to identify and mitigate accessibility barriers.
• Responding to and managing accessibility grievances and complaints as mandated under Title II of the ADA, particularly those that impact the ability of voters with disabilities to participate independently and privately in elections.
Interagency Coordination: The Director will serve as an agency liaison on all ADA and disability services matters, working closely with county boards of elections, relevant state and federal agencies, and disability advocacy groups to ensure cohesive and effective accessibility initiatives across the state.
Guidance and Oversight: The Director will develop and disseminate guidance to county boards of elections on implementing and maintaining accessible voting environments. This includes:
• Creating and updating policies, procedures, and best practices that align with federal and state accessibility laws.
• Monitoring county compliance with ADA requirements and providing ongoing support to address any deficiencies or challenges.
• Offering direct assistance to county boards in the development of accessible voting solutions, including the use of accessible voting machines, ballot marking devices, and other assistive technologies.
Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Disability Studies, Social Work, Political Science, Law, or a related field.
Preferred Skills and/or Special Requirements:
• Extensive experience working with people with disabilities and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the disability community in the context of voting.
• In-depth knowledge of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and New York State Election Law, particularly as they pertain to accessibility.
• Expertise in evaluating physical accessibility and developing reasonable accommodations for public services, specifically in the context of voting locations and processes.
• Strong skills in facilitating the resolution of accessibility-related complaints and providing technical support to county boards of elections.
• Proven ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with county boards of elections, state agencies, and external stakeholders.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and effectively.
• Strong training and capacity-building skills, with experience in developing and delivering educational programs on accessibility for election staff and poll workers.
Additional Comments What we offer:
• Extensive benefits package including paid leave, excellent health, dental, vision and retirement benefits
Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.