Assistive Technology Specialist

Ontario Tech University; Oshawa; On-site; CAD 78,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Canadian university in Oshawa seeks an Assistive Technology Specialist to support students with disabilities. This role involves assessing needs, providing training on assistive technologies, and coordinating access to learning materials in accessible formats. Candidates should have a background in social sciences or disabilities, along with understanding the legal requirements regarding accessibility. The position promotes students' successful academic transition through technological support and collaboration with faculty and staff.

Benefits

Equity, diversity, and inclusion commitment

Supportive work environment

Qualifications

• Experience advising and advocating for students with disabilities in a university environment.
• Knowledge of adaptive software used by individuals with various disabilities.
• Understanding of learning disabilities and sensitivity to student needs.

Responsibilities

• Assess technology needs for academic accommodation plans.
• Provide training on assistive software to students.
• Coordinate access to academic supports and financial assistance programs.
• Collaborate to ensure timely conversion of course materials into accessible formats.
• Monitor and troubleshoot computer equipment and software.

Skills

Understanding of legislative requirements of Canada Human Rights Code

Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills

Good judgment and decision-making skills

Excellent problem-solving skills

Competency in computer-based technology

Ability to work effectively in a team environment

Education

Post-secondary diploma or degree in social science, education, or disabilities

Tools

Clockwork database

Job description

Assistive Technology Specialist

Posting Date: December 22, 2025

Closing Date: January 14, 2026(7:00 pm EST)

Appointment Type: Full-Time Continuing 35 hrs

Hours of Work: 35 hours per week

Salary Range: Level 8- Starting Salary, Step 1$78,038

Location: Oshawa, Ontario, Canada

Job Summary

The Assistive Technology Specialist promotes the academic, personal, and professional development of students with disabilities at Ontario Tech University, focusing on assistive technologies and alternate formatting. Reporting to the Manager, Test Centre and Integrated Services, this position is accountable for coordinating, managing, and evaluating technologically driven accommodations to support and track students with disabilities and promote their successful transition and retention at Ontario Tech University.

The Specialist works closely with students, faculty, and staff across the university to coordinate access to course materials and learning technologies for students with disabilities. Responsibilities also include liaising and building relationships with publishers, vendors, and contractors to facilitate ongoing technological support.

The incumbent applies experience, understanding, sensitivity, and knowledge of the rights and responsibilities of individuals with disabilities under the Ontario Human Rights Code and the impact of disabilities on post‑secondary participation and success.

Responsibilities

Student Technological Support

• Work with specialists and advisors in Accessibility Services to assess and identify technology and equipment needs for individual students as part of their academic accommodation plans.
• Provide training and assistance to students individually and in groups on the use of assistive software and electronic tools, including online tutorials, videos, writing and organizational software.
• Develop and produce multimedia presentations, online learning activities, tutorials, and videos to support students’ use of assistive technologies in collaboration with Student Life staff.
• Coordinate students’ access to academic supports and financial assistance programs (e.g., OSAP Bursary for Students with Disabilities, Ontario Special Bursary Program).
• Create awareness of new developments in assistive technologies and their application to improve learning and development.
• Support other members of the Student Accessibility team by providing academic accommodations, alternative testing, and program delivery.
• Assist with departmental projects and other duties as assigned.
• Represent the university on campus committees and events.

Alternative Formatting

• Collaborate with instructors, faculties, the Bookstore, and other campus partners to ensure timely conversion of course materials into accessible formats (Braille, large print, closed captioning, electronic).
• Work with publishers, producers, and external agencies to ensure timely receipt of materials in accessible formats.
• Scan, transcribe, and produce accessible format materials not available through other means.
• Serve as a resource to instructors and Student Life staff to facilitate the development of accessible course materials.
• Coordinate access to materials under the Alternative Access to Educational Resources Ontario (AERO) program.
• Assist with note-taking programs as required.
• Maintain a searchable database of books, articles, and other course materials in accessible formats.

Learning Technologies

• Install and test adaptive software on student laptops and in test/exam centers to ensure system integrity and operational capability.
• Coordinate and track the use of assistive devices and adaptive technologies in classrooms (FM systems, audio/video recordings, adaptive hardware/software, specialized furniture).
• Communicate with IT, suppliers, and manufacturers regarding the purchase and maintenance of hardware and software.
• Assist instructors and support personnel in their use of assistive devices and adaptive technologies.
• Provide technical support, training, and advice to Accessibility Services staff and other campus providers.
• Maintain an inventory of technology assets, track warranties, and ensure equipment is in good working order.
• Monitor and troubleshoot computer equipment, software applications, and adaptive technologies.
• Stay abreast of new technologies for students with disabilities.

Electronic Records Management

• Maintain the CLOCKWORK license and troubleshoot issues with internal controls, IT, and the software provider.
• Collect and maintain student data and prepare reports, including Ministry reports for accessibility funds and grants.
• Coordinate student surveys and analyze data and trends.
• Maintain statistical information regarding the use of accessibility services and contribute to the annual Accessibility Report.

Required Skills

• Understanding of legislative requirements of the Canada Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, different disabilities and mental health issues, and useful techniques in assisting and supporting students with these issues.
• Demonstrated knowledge of adaptive software and its use by individuals with various disabilities.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills with the ability to collaborate and communicate effectively in all formats.
• Good judgment, decision-making, time management, and organizational skills.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, particularly when technology malfunctions or does not meet the needs of students.
• Ability to work effectively both individually and within a team environment.
• Competency in computer-based technology, software, and applications.
• Understanding of learning disabilities and adult students, with patience and sensitivity to varying student needs.
• Experience with database administration; knowledge and understanding of Clockwork database is a definite asset.
• Proven ability to multitask and work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment with strict deadlines.
• Demonstrated skills in and commitment to customer service and continuous improvement.
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative, problem-solve, exercise sound judgment, and respect the confidential nature of student information.
• Ability to travel to and work out of two locations.

Required Education

• Post‑secondary diploma or degree of three academic years in social science, education, or disabilities, combined with education and training in computer software systems, library science, information systems, or multimedia development.
• An equivalent combination of education and related experience may be considered.
• Verification of academic credentials may be required.

Required Experience

• Minimum of one to two years’ experience in advising and advocating for students with disabilities, preferably in a university environment.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit in electronic format a covering letter and their resume. Applications will be accepted until January 14, 2026 or until a suitable candidate is found. We appreciate all applications received; however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Employment Conditions

This position falls within the bargaining unit represented by the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) and will be subject to the terms and conditions of the collective agreement between the university and the OPSEU. To the extent that policies are not included in the collective agreement, employment will also be governed by the university’s policies which may also be found on our website ontariotechu.ca and which may be amended from time to time.

Employer Statement

Ontario Tech University is actively committed to equity, diversity, inclusion, indigenization and decolonization (EDIID), and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates, while especially encouraging applications from First Nations, Metis, Inuit peoples, Indigenous peoples of North America, racialized persons, persons with disabilities, and those who identify as women and/or 2SLGBTQ+. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens, permanent residents, Indigenous Peoples in Canada, and those eligible to work in Canada, will be given priority.

Ontario Tech University respects people's different needs and therefore will take all reasonable steps to ensure accommodation for applicants where appropriate. The University is also committed to ensuring that confidentiality is maintained throughout all aspects of the recruitment cycle.

If you require accommodation, please contact Julie Day, Health and Disability Management Specialist. For more information about the university’s policies for accommodating employees with disabilities please review the university’s Accessibility Policy.

The university acknowledges the lands and people of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation which is covered under the Williams Treaties. We are situated on the Territory of the Mississaugas, a branch of the greater Anishinaabeg Nation which includes Algonquin, Ojibway, Odawa and Pottawatomi.

Expected Start Date: 2/16/2026