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Pennsylvania State University

Digital Accessibility Assistant

🇺🇸 University Park, PA

🕑 Part-Time

💰 $15 per Hour

💻 Information Technology

🗓️ December 4th, 2025

Canvas

Edtech.com's Summary

The Pennsylvania State University is hiring a Digital Accessibility Assistant for the Spring 2026 academic term within the Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences. The role involves auditing and editing web and course content using accessibility tools, collaborating with instructional staff, and maintaining records to ensure compliance with accessibility standards.

Highlights
  • Audit and edit Canvas and university website content for digital accessibility compliance.
  • Use accessibility tools and AI-based technologies to generate and proofread elements like alt text and captions.
  • Edit PowerPoint, PDF, and Word documents to meet accessibility requirements.
  • Work closely with instructional designers and staff to document course updates.
  • Maintain records of completed accessibility tasks and participate in related trainings.
  • Proficiency with synoptic meteorology and common weather analysis tools required.
  • Basic knowledge of Canvas, Microsoft Office 365, and HTML is advantageous; training provided.
  • Interest or experience in digital accessibility and AI tool usage is a plus; training provided.
  • Part-time position, 20 hours per week, compensated at $15.00 per hour.
  • Must complete background checks in accordance with University policies.

Digital Accessibility Assistant Full Description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

 
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants
 
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
The Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences (EMS) is seeking applicants for the job of Digital Accessibility Assistant for Spring 2026 academic term. The location where the student will perform duties is 418 Earth and Engineering Sciences Building, University Park.

Primary Duties:
  • This position will be responsible for work on various projects. Duties may include: 
  • Using accessibility tools and checklists to audit content on Canvas and university websites
  • Reviewing and editing web page and Canvas course content for accessibility compliance (e.g., adding alt text, checking color contrast, applying proper heading structures, editing video transcripts)
  • Editing documents including PowerPoint, PDFs, and Word documents to meet accessibility requirements
  • Utilizing and proofreading output from AI-based tools to assist in generating accessibility elements such as image alt text, captions, and transcripts
  • Working closely with instructional designers and staff to document updates and changes to course materials and resources
  • Maintaining records of updates and completed tasks
  • Participating in occasional training or team check-ins related to accessibility practices.
  • General qualifications for the position:
  • Proficiency with synoptic meteorology and common weather analysis and forecasting tools, such as skew-T/log-P diagrams and various weather maps
  • Strong attention to detail with a high level of accuracy
  • Ability to focus on detailed tasks for extended periods
  • Basic understanding of web content and tools like Canvas, Microsoft Office 365, and HTML is a plus (training will be provided)
  • Interest in or experience with digital accessibility is a plus (training will be provided)
  • Familiarity with or willingness to learn AI-based tools for accessibility support
  • Dependable, self-motivated, and able to work independently

Schedule & Compensation:
  • 20 hours/ week
  • $15.00 / hourly
 
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
 
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
 
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
 The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.