Web Accessibility Consultant

Part-Time Accessibility Website Specialist
Organization
Tennessee State Government – Department of Human Resources (HR), Strategic Communications Division
Summary
The Accessibility Website Specialist (Contractor) supports the Tennessee State Government Department of Human Resources in modernizing and maintaining accessible, user-centered HR websites. This role is responsible for ensuring ADA Level AA compliance across both internal (teamtn.gov/hr) and external (tn.gov/hr) platforms while improving content quality, usability, and engagement.
The position contributes directly to the State's digital accessibility goals by identifying and remediating barriers, implementing best practices in inclusive design, and supporting the Centers of Excellence service delivery model. This role differs from traditional web content roles by emphasizing accessibility compliance, governance processes, and cross-functional training.
This is a time-limited contractor position (9 months), part-time (approximately 25 hours per week), focused on content refinement, accessibility compliance, website modernization initiatives, and graphic design support.
Key Responsibilities

1. Website Accessibility Compliance
   Conduct audits and implement updates to ensure internal and external HR websites meet ADA Level AA and WCAG standards, including remediation of accessibility issues.
2. Content Refinement and Optimization
   Review, edit, and restructure web content to improve clarity, usability, and accessibility for diverse audiences, including employees and the public.
3. Website Redesign Support
   Collaborate with stakeholders to modernize website structure, navigation, and design aligned with user-centered design principles and the Centers of Excellence model.
4. Accessibility Training and Guidance
   Provide training and resources to HR staff and content contributors on accessibility standards, inclusive design, and compliant content practices.
5. Governance and Review Processes
   Establish and document ongoing accessibility review processes, content standards, and maintenance workflows to ensure sustained compliance.
6. User Experience (UX) Enhancement
   Analyze user behavior and feedback to recommend improvements that increase engagement, usability, and customer satisfaction.
7. Graphic Design Support
   Develop or refine visual elements (graphics, layouts, templates) to ensure accessibility compliance and alignment with branding standards.

Background
Who we are / What we do
The Department of Human Resources supports Tennessee State Government employees through policy development, talent management, and service delivery via Centers of Excellence. The HR websites serve as critical platforms for employees, job seekers, and the public to access HR services, resources, and information. This role partners with HR functional teams, communications staff, and IT to deliver accessible, user-friendly digital experiences.
How do you make a difference in this role?
This position directly impacts the accessibility and usability of HR digital services across the State. By ensuring ADA compliance and improving content design, the contractor helps eliminate barriers, enhances equitable access to information, and strengthens public trust. This role also contributes to long-term operational improvements by establishing sustainable accessibility and content governance practices.
A day in the life
A typical workday includes reviewing web pages for accessibility issues, collaborating with HR teams to update content, testing user experience improvements, and developing guidance for content creators. The contractor may conduct accessibility scans, participate in redesign discussions, create accessible graphics, and provide training sessions. This is a part-time role (25 hours/week) with a flexible schedule, primarily remote, with occasional coordination meetings.

Qualifications
Minimum Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in web design, Digital Media, Communications, Information Technology, or a related field; or equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
• 3+ years of experience in website management, digital accessibility, UX design, or content strategy.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Qualifications (NSQs):

• Demonstrated experience implementing ADA/WCAG 2.0 or 2.1 Level AA accessibility standards.
• Experience with Adobe Experience Manager (AEM) and website governance practices.
• Familiarity with accessibility testing tools (e.g., WAVE, Axe, Siteimprove, or similar).
• Strong understanding of user-centered design and plain language principles.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Accessibility certifications (e.g., CPACC, WAS, or equivalent).
• Experience working in government, public sector, or large enterprise environments.
• Experience supporting intranet platforms and external public-facing websites.

Competencies

1. Customer Focus – Ensures digital services meet the needs of diverse users, including individuals with disabilities.
2. Communicates Effectively – Clearly conveys accessibility standards and content guidance to stakeholders.
3. Manages Complexity – Navigates technical, regulatory, and organizational requirements to deliver compliant solutions.
4. Drives Results – Implements timely accessibility improvements and content enhancements.
5. Instills Trust – Demonstrates accountability in ensuring compliance and equitable access to information.

Knowledge

1. ADA and WCAG 2.1 accessibility standards and guidelines
2. Web content management systems and digital publishing workflows
3. User experience (UX) and information architecture principles
4. Plain language and inclusive content design practices
5. Accessibility testing methodologies and tools

Skills

1. Accessibility auditing and remediation
2. Content editing and optimization for the web
3. UX evaluation and usability testing
4. Graphic design with accessibility considerations
5. Stakeholder training and facilitation

Abilities

1. Ability to identify and resolve accessibility barriers in digital content
2. Ability to translate technical standards into practical guidance
3. Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a part-time capacity
4. Ability to collaborate across cross-functional teams
5. Ability to analyze data and user feedback to inform improvements

Tools & Equipment

1. Accessibility testing tools (e.g., WAVE, Axe, Siteimprove)
2. Content Management Systems (CMS) platforms
3. Web analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics)
4. Design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Figma)
5. Microsoft Office/collaboration tools (Teams, SharePoint)