Primary purpose:
The ADA Coordinator works to promote equitable access and inclusive participation for individuals with disabilities in all municipal programs, services, facilities, and activities, while fostering a culture of accessibility across City government. The ADA Coordinator ensures the timely and ongoing compliance of City programs, services, and activities with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Title II of the ADA, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (as Amended), and applicable federal and state regulations pertaining to accessibility and disability accommodations. The ADA Coordinator is responsible for developing, updating, and coordinating and monitoring the implementation of the City’s ADA Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan, as well as other ADA policies, procedures, and best practices for the City. Works collaboratively with all City departments to support accessibility and ADA compliance across municipal operations, programs, services, facilities, communications, and public engagement efforts. The ADA Coordinator evaluates requests for accommodation and services based on the disability needs of residents and visitors and is responsible for investigating and responding to public ADA-related complaints on behalf of the City. They will also advise the City’s departments, boards and commissions on matters concerning ADA compliance, accessibility, and disability accommodations. This includes coordinating training of City staff to ensure that access for City facilities, programs and services comply with the ADA. The ADA Coordinator performs all other related work as required and directed.
Supervision:
Supervision Scope: Performs duties requiring thorough knowledge of departmental operations, regulations and applicable local, state and federal laws, exercising judgement and initiative. Operates with a moderate level of independence over specified activity areas and refers complex issues or technical problems to the Director of Human Services.
Supervision Received: Works under the policy direction of the Commissioner of Health and Human Services and under the general supervision of the Director of Human Services. Follows department rules, regulations, and policies requiring the ability to plan and perform operations and to independently complete assigned tasks according to a prescribed schedule and prioritized based on department needs. Maintains a strong sense of urgency in order to meet deadlines and responds to inquires in a timely and efficient manner.
Supervision Given: None.
Essential Functions:
(The essential functions or duties listed are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.)
- Conducts annual reviews of City facilities, programs, services, and policies to ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations including Title II of the ADA and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
- Responsible for and leads the development and evaluation of the City’s ADA Self Evaluation and Transition Plan, including the monitoring and reporting of the goals and removal of barriers identified. Drafts, updates, and oversees implementation of the Transition Plan in collaboration with City departments. Develops, updates, and maintains database of items in progress or completed related to Title II projects, self-evaluations conducted, and the City’s Transition Plan. Monitors progress toward accessibility goals and recommend updates based on evolving standards and community needs.
- Serves as primary point of contact for the public regarding concerns and inquiries on ADA issues. Responds to public inquiries, complaints, and accommodation requests on behalf of the City. Ensures appropriate processes are in place to provide for the prompt and equitable resolution of complaints and inquiries from the public regarding disability discrimination and accommodation requests. Receives, tracks, investigates, responds to, and acts as a facilitator in complaint resolutions related to Title II ADA. Refers complaints and inquiries related to educational services to Newton Public Schools and all employee accommodation requests to Human Resources for further action.
- Conducts regular reviews of City facilities, programs, services, and policies to ensure access and accommodations comply with the ADA. Coordinates with City departments on ADA compliance and assists with methods for providing modifications and accommodations to ensure access issues are integrated into daily operations, policies, education, and public information. Identify grant opportunities and assist City departments with submission of grant applications.
- Facilitate interdepartmental communication between City departments on ADA issues and communicate regularly with the Executive Office.
Conducts outreach and develops productive working relationships with City departments, businesses, and community-based organizations.
- Advises and collaborates with the Commission on Disability, as well as other City boards and commissions (including the Newton Fair and Affordable Housing Partnership), providing them with updates on City initiatives and projects and sharing their feedback with City departments.
- Provides and facilitates technical assistance to City staff on ADA compliance through education and training sessions. Ensures training opportunities and requirements for all City staff are available and current.
- Assists all City Departments with the review of plans for ADA compliance and conduct site facility access reviews as needed. Advise the Inspectional Services and Planning and Development departments on ADA compliance including accommodations requests under the City’s Zoning Ordinance.
- Works with the Capital Improvement Steering Committee in preparing the City’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP).
- Coordinate with engineering, facilities, planning, parks, public works, transportation and other departments regarding ADA considerations in capital projects.
- Serves as primary liaison with relevant state and federal agencies, as well as ADA coordinators of other municipalities and institutions.
- Provide expertise and guidance to departments organizing public meetings, programs, events, recreation activities, and community outreach initiatives to help ensure accessibility and inclusion.
- Promote proactive accessibility planning for all public-facing municipal activities.
- Conduct community outreach through in person community-based networking, developing promotional and educational materials, planning programs and events, and attending community-based events to engage with residents and inform them of services.
- Assist residents with disabilities by providing information and referrals to appropriate City, community, governmental, and nonprofit services, programs, and resources.
- Performs related work and other duties as required, directed and/or assigned.
Minimum Entrance Qualifications:
(To perform successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. We encourage all candidates who feel they are capable of successfully performing the responsibilities as outlined in this position description, regardless of the qualifications listed below to apply.)
Education, Training, and Professional Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in a related field and at least three (3) years of professional experience providing consultation, guidance and training in the area of ADA compliance, disability advocacy or related experience, preferably with local, regional or state governmental agency; and/or equivalent combination of education and experience required. ADA Coordinator Certificate strongly preferred. A strong commitment to public service is required.
Lived Experience:
Applicants with lived disability experience are encouraged to apply.
Knowledge, Ability and Skill:
Knowledge: Full comprehension of governmental obligations and responsibilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Title II of the ADA, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Fair Housing Act, and other applicable federal and state regulations (MAAB) pertaining to accessibility and accommodation; development, coordination and implementation of ADA Self-Evaluation and Transition Plans; other ADA policies, procedures, and best practices for the City.
Ability: Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, government agencies and the public; review, develop and implement practices and/or strategies in organizational development related to ADA; interpret and apply laws, policies and regulations; work effectively with broad and diverse populations including people with disabilities; listen and communicate effectively with residents and stakeholders in response to accommodation requests; handle multiple projects and issues simultaneously; evaluate, recommend and implement improvements to programs. Ability to organize time, work independently to accomplish tasks despite frequent interruptions. Ability to operate various types of office equipment, systems, and technology. Ability to maintain a high level of confidential information. Ability to work effectively under time constraints to meet deadlines. Ability to interpret and follow departmental procedures and guidelines as well as local, state and federal guidelines. Ability to maintain a high standard of attention to detail, especially in communications which are external to the department. Ability to anticipate the needs of others, ability to be an integral and supportive partner to the department and a team player. Ability to handle competing priorities and to work effectively in a municipal environment. Ability to move about the city for site visits, meetings, etc. as required.
Skills: Exceptional analytical skills; excellent, clear, and effective communication and organizational skills; accuracy and attention to detail; highly motivated self-starter; strong interpersonal skills (both verbal and written) with the public, other employees, vendors, stakeholders, etc. in a tactful, courteous and/or compassionate manner. Strong problem solving and troubleshooting skills required. Maintains strong sense of urgency and close attention to detail. Must possess a positive, professional attitude and presence. Skill and ability in using a computer, the internet, skill in utilizing technology in order to meet the department goals and initiatives; skill in Microsoft Office Suite.
Work Environment:
Work is performed under typical office conditions, with little exposure to occupational risks; has interruptions during the day from inquiries by the general public, business organizations or contacts and other city personnel.
Operates computers, computer software such as Microsoft Suite systems, printers, facsimile machine, copier, calculator, and standard office equipment. Will have contact with the general public, other City departments and officials, outside agencies, businesses, vendors, and other governmental organizations and attorneys, etc. Communication is by means of telephone, personal discussion, and correspondence and involves discussing routine information requiring patience and courtesy.
Inspects sites and attends meetings related to ADA accessibility issues at various locations and times, including in the evenings outside of regular work hours. Site inspections may require the ADA Coordinator to visit construction sites, outdoor locations, etc. with exposure to the elements. May require maintaining physical condition necessary for walking, sitting, or driving a vehicle for prolonged periods of time.
Physical requirements
(The physical demands described here represent those requirements that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.)
Tasks require the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of light weight (5 - 10 pounds). Tasks may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard or workstation. Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate sounds and visual cues or signals. Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally. Requires the ability to operate, maneuver and/or control the actions of equipment, machinery, tools, and/or materials used in performing essential functions, including operating a computer and reading a computer screen or typewritten page; frequently communicates with diverse populations; ability to move between work sites.
Performance Standard
Employees at all levels are expected to effectively work together to meet the needs of the community and the City through work behaviors demonstrating the City’s values. Employees are also expected to lead by example and demonstrate the highest level of ethics.
(This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.)
THE CITY:
The City of Newton is a wonderful place to live and work. Newton has safe and attractive neighborhoods, an excellent public school system, an active community life, multiple transportation systems, proximity to Boston and a well-managed and financially strong City government. The City of Newton has a population of approximately 88,900, with 32,600 housing units and occupies a land area of 18.3 square miles. Newton is principally suburban-residential in character. Unlike many other communities that are established around a single Main Street or downtown, Newton is comprised of thirteen distinctive villages. Newton has a diversified economic base with approximately 4,700 establishments employing approximately 79,500 people. Newton is special in many ways. It is home to a variety of private secondary and post-secondary schools including a portion of Boston College, Lasell University, William James College, Hebrew College, and the UMass Amherst – Mount Ida Campus. The longest stretch of the Boston Marathon runs through the City, including the well-known Heartbreak Hill. Newton-Wellesley Hospital, part of the Mass General Brigham health care system, serves as an important partner to the City. In September 2018, Newton was again ranked #1 in Massachusetts as the best place to live and #12 in the U.S.
OUR GOVERNMENT:
Newton has what is known as a “strong Mayor” form of government with the Mayor having the executive and administrative powers of the City. The legislative branch is comprised of 24 City Councilors. Mayor Marc C. Laredo was sworn in on January 1, 2026 after serving on the City Council. The City of Newton was evaluated by Moody’s Investors Services in February 2020 and assigned its highest rating of AAA. Newton was thus well-positioned to weather the pandemic and economic downturn.
AS AN EMPLOYER:
The City of Newton believes that its employees are its greatest asset. To that end, we are committed to supporting our employees by providing competitive wages and growth, a comprehensive benefits package which includes a defined municipal pension plan, quality health and dental insurance plans, generous paid leave benefits, paid holidays, and access to supplemental benefits such as deferred compensation, short term disability plans, flexible spending accounts, and other employee benefits. We also provide access to an Employee Assistance Program and access to employee training and professional development opportunities. We continuously work to review and expand upon our benefit offerings. We encourage you to visit our Human Resources Department website to learn more about our organization and benefits which are available to our employees. And as always, you are encouraged to reach out to our dynamic HR Team by emailing hr@newtonma.gov.
Human Resources Diversity Statement
We recognize our workforce is a source of strength that is vital to our ability to effectively serve the City of Newton’s diverse community. We will:
The targeted salary range reflects what the City of Newton reasonably and in good faith expects to offer for this position at the time of posting, but the final salary determination may be within or outside this range based on various factors, including, but not limited to, experience, skills, education, and market factors. The range will be reviewed regularly and is subject to change.