Assistant Director, Specialized Support

Assistant Director, Specialized Support

Please see Special Instructions for more details.

Chapman University is an equal opportunity employer that provides equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of their protected characteristics.  All qualified applicants and employees are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.

Applicants for Staff and Administrator positions must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Chapman University does not sponsor applicants for Staff and Administrator positions for work visas.

The offer of employment is contingent upon satisfactory completion and outcomes of a criminal background screening and returning to the Office of Human Resources a signed original acceptance of the Chapman University Agreement to Arbitrate.

Position Title  | Assistant Director, Specialized Support
Position Type  | Regular
Job Number  | SA64024
Full or Part Time  | full-time 40 hours weekly
Fair Labor Standard Act Classification  | Exempt
Anticipated Pay Range  | $75,000 - $80,000
Pay Range Information  | Chapman University is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this position. This range takes into account a variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Salary offers are determined based on the final candidate’s qualifications and experience, as well as internal equity and other internal factors. The anticipated pay range is not a promise of a particular wage.

Job Description Summary  | Chapman University seeks an experienced and student-centered professional to serve as the Assistant Director of Disability Services within the Disability Services (DS) office. The Assistant Director plays a vital leadership role in promoting access and equity for students with disabilities through direct service, case management, and campus-wide collaboration. This position focuses on navigating complex ADA-related issues, managing disability-related housing accommodations, and providing targeted support for students with specific disabilities, including those on the autism spectrum. In partnership with campus stakeholders, the Assistant Director ensures compliance with federal, and state disability laws and supports Chapman’s commitment to inclusive excellence.

Responsibilities  | Address Complex ADA and Disability-Related Issues Serve as a campus resource and thought partner in addressing multifaceted disability cases impacting the academic and co-curricular environment. Provide expert guidance to faculty, deans, and administrative offices on ADA, Section 504, and University policies related to disability accommodations. Interpret disability-related legislation in a university context to ensure legal compliance and alignment with Chapman’s values. Contribute to the development and refinement of processes, policies, and training materials related to access and compliance.

Manage Residential Housing Accommodations Lead the intake, evaluation, and implementation of disability-related housing accommodations, in collaboration with Residence Life and First Year Experience. Review disability documentation with a strong understanding of both ADA compliance and Chapman’s residential housing offerings and policies. Identify creative, reasonable alternatives when requested accommodations are not immediately available due to space or inventory limitations. Serve as the liaison between DS and Residence Life on matters related to housing and accessibility.

Provide Targeted Support to a Specialized Student Population Manage a focused caseload, including students on the autism spectrum and/or students with complex accommodation needs. Develop individualized accommodation plans that support both academic and social integration. Consult with faculty and staff on strategies to support neurodiverse learners and foster inclusive learning environments. Organize peer and support programs, workshops, or groups that address the needs of students with specialized disabilities.

Campus-Wide ADA Consultation & Institutional Support Collaborate with departments and academic units to support inclusive practices and accessible programming across Chapman. Serve on committees and task forces related to student support, access, and equity. Develop and deliver educational sessions for faculty and staff on topics such as ADA compliance, disability awareness, and inclusive pedagogy. Monitor emerging best practices and legal updates related to disability services and access in higher education.

Required Qualifications  | Master’s degree in Higher Education, Special Education, Counseling, Disability Studies, Social Work, or a related field, or a combination of equivalent education and experience. Substantial professional experience (5+ years desirable) working with students with disabilities in a post-secondary setting. In-depth understanding of ADA, Section 504, the Fair Housing Act, and related federal and California state legislation. Demonstrated experience analyzing disability documentation and determining appropriate accommodations in academic and housing contexts. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact sensitively with students from diverse backgrounds. Strong critical thinking, mediation, and problem-solving abilities. Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively across multiple departments.

Desired Qualifications  | Experience managing a high-volume and complex accommodation caseload in a college or university setting. Familiarity with Chapman University’s systems, policies, and student support structure is a plus. Background in housing or auxiliary services related to accessibility and accommodations. Experience designing and implementing training or educational programs on ADA, disability awareness, or neurodiversity. Knowledge of assistive technologies and support tools for students with disabilities.

Special Instructions to Applicants  | Chapman University is an equal opportunity employer that provides equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of their protected characteristics.  All qualified applicants and employees are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.

Applicants for Staff and Administrator positions must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Chapman University does not sponsor applicants for Staff and Administrator positions for work visas.

The offer of employment is contingent upon satisfactory completion and outcomes of a criminal background screening and returning to the Office of Human Resources a signed original acceptance of the Chapman University Agreement to Arbitrate.
Minimum Number of References  |
Maximum Number of References  | 

Pre-screening Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Applicant Documents

MAIN CAMPUS
One University Drive
Orange, CA 92866
(714) 997-6815

RINKER HEALTH SCIENCE CAMPUS
9401 Jeronimo Road
Irvine, CA 92618
© 2019 CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY

Contact Us
Office of Human Resources
One University Drive
Orange, California 92866
TalentServices@chapman.edu
 
The offer of employment is contingent upon satisfactory completion and outcomes of a criminal background screening, and returning to the Office of Human Resources a signed original acceptance of the Chapman University Agreement to Arbitrate.