Summary The position serves as an Assistive Technology Specialist which is located in the Patron Engagement Section of the Patron and Network Engagement Division in the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled in the Library Collections and Services Group. The position reports directly to the section head. Is an expert in assistive technologies available to blind, visually impaired, physically disabled and reading disabled individuals, focusing on reading and information access. Responsibilities Serves as an expert in assistive technology, advises NLS and network on use and appropriateness of the spectrum of assistive technologies as they relate to reading and information access by people with print disabilities. Keeps current on changes and advances in assistive technologies. Provides periodic briefings on various aspects of assistive technology and information access; consults with network library staff on specific situations regarding information access. Presents in-depth information to NLS and its network at conferences, webinars and other venues in order to keep staff apprised of advances and changes in options for patrons. Works directly with NLS management in planning program delivery, enhancements and innovations. Provides in-depth analysis of the need for and role of assistive technology in the NLS program, including both internal and outward-facing aspects. Plans and carries out demonstrations of a variety of approaches to complex access and use requirements for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Coordinates closely with specialists to plan and produce best practices and effective training for NLS products and services. Creates training materials and writes documentation pertaining to assistive technology or mainstream accessible technology. Leads projects to test NLS systems and products for usability by people with print disabilities, including software system development for internal NLS use, and use by NLS contractors, network libraries and patrons. Ensures accessibility and usability of all NLS systems and products both internal and outward-facing. Tracks product development to ensure accessibility throughout the entire development cycle. Manages or supports NLS beta tests and conducts focus groups. Works with the Library to ensure the accessibility of systems used by staff with disabilities. Performs other duties as assigned. The position description number for this position is 425176. The salary range indicated reflects the locality pay adjustments for the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan area. This is a bargaining, non-supervisory position. The incumbent of this position will work a Flextime work schedule. This is a non-supervisory, bargaining unit position (AFSCME Local 2910). Relocation expenses will not be authorized for the person(s) selected under this vacancy announcement. Requirements Conditions of Employment Conditions of Employment Library of Congress employees are prohibited from using illegal drugs, including marijuana. The Library is part of the Federal Government and abides by federal law, so regardless of individual state or District of Columbia laws, marijuana use is illegal, considered criminal activity, and can affect your employment at the Library. In addition, past or current drug use and activities (e.g., selling or distributing) may deem you ineligible for employment. This is not a remote position. Qualifications Applicants must have had progressively responsible experience and training sufficient in scope and quality to furnish them with an acceptable level of the following knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the position without more than normal supervision. Ability to conduct user research, usability testing, and software development.** Ability to interact collaboratively with others in providing consultation, advice and/or liaison services.** Knowledge of assistive technology used by people with print related disabilities.** Ability to plan, organize, and coordinate work. Ability to communicate in writing. Ability to communicate effectively other than in writing. Education Additional Information Although it is the Library's policy to afford the maximum pay benefit to employees when setting rates of pay, a new appointee who has had no previous Federal service will generally be paid at step one of the grade. The Library of Congress is an equal opportunity employer. Women, minorities, and persons with disabilities who meet eligibility requirements are strongly encouraged to apply. Applicants must submit a complete application package that is received by the closing date of this announcement. Appointment/retention is subject to a favorable evaluation of an appropriate personnel security/suitability investigation. For more information, please see: Vetting Process This agency provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please email ADA@loc.gov. The decision on granting reasonable accommodation will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Applicants with disabilities may be considered under special hiring procedures and must submit an appropriate certificate of eligibility when applying for this position. The proof or disability/certification may be issued by the State Vocational Rehabilitation Office, Disability Services or Career Services office of the applicant’s college or university, or the Department of Veterans Affairs. The letter must verify that the applicant has a severe disability and must be dated within three years of the date of the application. Certification from health care providers are not accepted. For more information contact the Library's Office of EEO/Diversity Programs at 202-707-6024 or email spp@loc.gov. FAILURE TO SUBMIT YOUR CERTIFICATION WILL CAUSE YOUR APPLICATION TO NOT BE CONSIDERED UNDER THE SELECTIVE PLACEMENT PROGRAM. The Library of Congress is the national library of the United States and is part of the Legislative Branch of the Federal government. As such, all positions are in the excepted service. The Library reserves the right to fill a lesser or greater number of vacancies indicated during the life of this vacancy announcement. Initial permanent appointments to the Library of Congress require completion of a one-year probationary period. Probationary periods served at other Federal agencies do not count toward this requirement. The Library of Congress may offer repayment for all or part of federally insured student loans. However, not all service units within the Library of Congress participates in the repayment of federally insured student loans. Therefore, determination to repay a federally insured student loan is subject to approval by the appropriate service unit. A “Not to Exceed" (NTE) status is used to identify an appointment with a specific ending date. However, the Library has the right to separate a NTE employee at any time due to either performance issues or budget constraints. Are you a veteran? Please indicate the type of veterans' preference you are claiming in your application materials and/or applicant profile and provide the appropriate supporting documentation to validate your claim. Those applying for 5-point preference must submit Member Copy 4 of your DD 214. Those applying for 10-point preference must fill out an SF-15 (click here for the form) and provide the required documentation listed on the back of the form. If required supporting documentation is not attached, Veterans' Preference will not be considered in the application process.