Accessible Procurement Subject Matter Expert (SME)
Overview
The Contractor will serve as an Accessible Procurement Subject Matter Expert (SME) providing specialized consulting services to support procurement of accessible Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for the cliient’s system, including colleges, client, and other client’s entities.
The SME will operate with a high degree of autonomy, leading and delivering accessibility-related projects that strengthen compliance, build institutional capacity, and promote equitable access to digital technology.
client Section 508 program is seeking a contractor with accessibility expertise in the area of accessible procurement to provide guidance, deliver training, and conduct Accessible Capability Maturity Model Assessments. Estimated time to completion is 1960 hours working up to 40 hours/week. Work to be completed by June 30, 2027. Contract extension possible based on funding each fiscal year.
Key Deliverables:
Lead procurement section of the Accessibility Capability Maturity Model (ACMM).
Complete ACMM procurement section on ACMM Reports.
Provide guidance to client’s entities on accessible ICT procurement compliance with federal and state regulations (e.g., Section 508, WCAG, ADA).
Review, analyze, and evaluate vendor products and services for accessibility compliance for the Client’s Tech Center.
Provide consultation on Equally Effective Alternate Access Plans (EEAAPs) and accessibility mitigation strategies.
Deliver procurement and EEAAP portions of the ACMM Live training at in person district training.
Conduct virtual and in-person training sessions on accessible ICT procurement best practices.
Facilitate webinars and virtual workshops on accessibility integration into procurement workflows.
Provide recommendations to colleges and districts on ACMM Procurement next steps.
Provide ad-hoc technical assistance related to accessible procurement to client’s entities as requested.
Skills and Abilities
Required
Experience in coordinating complex projects that involve high levels of collaboration, including developing successful business processes involving accessible procurement
Working knowledge of pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures related to digital accessibility including, but not limited to: Section 508 of the U.S. Rehabilitation Act; Americans with Disabilities Act; California Government Code 11135 and 7405; Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act; Section 225 of the Telecommunications Act, WCAG 2.1, and other web accessibility legislation
Effective writing, presentation, facilitation, and communication skills
Ability to work collaboratively and independently
Ability to analyze and critically review information
Cultural competency and the ability to communicate effectively in a culturally sensitive manner with individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
Experience in ICT accessibility, procurement compliance, or related fields.
Demonstrated knowledge of Section 508, WCAG, ADA, and related accessibility and procurement standards.
Maintain current knowledge of accessibility legislation, standards, and best practices relevant to ICT procurement.
Preferred
Ability to adapt to changing accessibility initiatives and readily adapt behavior to maintain effective performance
Understand the long-term direction of the client’s Accessibility Center and can relate this to departmental area
Ability to adapt to new methodologies
Ability to identify and act on areas where change is appropriate
Strong understanding of capability maturity models and evidence requirements
Experience providing consulting or technical assistance in higher education environments.
Trusted Tester or comparable accessibility certification.
Familiarity with client’s procurement processes and accessibility initiatives.