At the City of St. Catharines, we are committed to realizing the vision outlined in The City of St. Catharines - Strategic Plan 2023 to 2027. Our goal is to cultivate a city that thrives on safety, innovation, sustainability, and caring, not just for today, but for generations to come. Join our team and be part of a meaningful journey to shape the future of our community, leaving a lasting impact that extends far beyond the present.
About the Role:
The Accessibility Coordinator will act as the subject matter expert and play a key role in promoting accessibility within the City of St. Catharines. This position focuses on ensuring compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and other relevant legislation, while providing expertise and support to enhance accessibility across municipal programs, services, and facilities.
What You Will be Doing:
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Lead the development and implementation of comprehensive accessibility policies and long-term strategies that align with the City’s mission to ensure equitable access for all employees and residents.
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Regularly assess City facilities and services, including public spaces, programs, and activities to identify opportunities for enhanced accessibility.
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Develop City programs and initiatives to ensure compliance with the AODA, the Ontario Human Rights Code and other relevant legislation.
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Develop, implement, and facilitate accessibility-related training programs.
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Design and deliver impactful public awareness campaigns aimed at engaging and informing the community on accessibility related programs, policies, and initiatives.
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Support the Accessibility Advisory Committee and other advisory committees by organizing meetings, setting agendas, preparing minutes and facilitating discussions to address accessibility and inclusion challenges and opportunities as identified by council and/or staff.
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Address public inquiries and complaints related to accessibility, ensuring timely and effective communication and response.
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Lead the development, communication, and execution of the Multi-Year Accessibility Plan (MYAP), including tracking progress - of projects and initiatives defined in the plan, and preparing annual progress reports.
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Assist in the development and implementation of the City’s DEI Action Plan, currently in progress.
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Explore grant opportunities and work collaboratively with internal departments and outside organizations, where applicable, to apply for funding to improve accessibility in the City.
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Collaborate with regional partners and other municipalities to drive the progress of accessibility initiatives and projects
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Perform other duties as assigned.
These responsibilities outline the principal functions of the position and serve as a guiding vision for the role's impact and contribution.
About You:
Qualifications:
- Post secondary education in Equity Studies, Social Science, Human Rights, Humanities, Social Services, Accessibility Studies, Disability Studies, or concentration in accessibility, equity, disability, or social justice.
- Three (3) years of demonstrated experience researching, developing and implementing accessibility and inclusion strategies and programs.
- Experience working with persons with disabilities and other equity-deserving groups.
- Thorough understanding of Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), Ontario Human Rights Code and related legislation.
- Expertise in policy development and implementation, ensuring compliance and promoting inclusivity.
- Familiarity with resources, services, and organizations that assist with accessibility matters, such as adaptive technologies and accommodations.
Skills:
- Experience in developing and delivering communication and training programs, with excellent communication and presentation skills.
- Proficiency in project management, including planning, execution, and monitoring of accessibility initiatives.
- Strong facilitation and conflict resolution skills to effectively manage and resolve issues and complaints.
- Consensus building skills to influence cooperation among individuals and groups with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
Other Requirements:
- Proficient in Microsoft Office 365 and quick to learn new software and tools.
- Passion for advancing accessibility and removing barriers for individuals with disabilities and a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
- A demonstrated commitment to enhancing a safety culture.
- Proven completion of Ministry of Labour Worker Health and Safety Awareness training.
- Ability to travel between City work locations may be required.
- Proof of education will be required upon hire.
What’s in it for you:
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Salary & Benefits: Get a competitive salary plus health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage.
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Pension Plan: Enjoy enrollment in the OMERS pension plan with matched contributions for a secure retirement.
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Flexibility: Achieve work-life balance with our hybrid work environment (for eligible positions).
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Training: Access training and development funds to support your career growth.
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Make Your Mark: Share your ideas, drive change, and leave a lasting impact through modernization efforts.
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Great People: Work with a supportive team and leadership focused on your success.
Other Job Details:
Salary Range: $74,256 - $86,887
Employee Group: Non-union
Division: Office of the Chief Administrative Officer
Department: CAO Office
Position Type: Full-time, Permanent
Work Mode: Hybrid
Work Location: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Hours of Work: 35
Number of Openings: 1
Job ID: 2025-71
Posted Date: February 26, 2025
Application Deadline: Open until filled.
