Job
Description
Role Overview:
The Document Accessibility & Validation Specialist ensures that internal and external documents — including XML data, PowerPoint presentations, and PDF documents — meet accessibility standards. The specialist audits, tags/remediates, and validates documents so they are usable by people with disabilities using assistive technologies (screen readers, keyboard navigation, etc.).
Key Responsibilities: Audit and evaluate documents (XML files, PPT slides, PDFs) for accessibility compliance.
Validate structural correctness of XML documents (well-formedness, schema / DTD/ XSD validation where applicable).
For PPT / Office-based documents: run accessibility checks (e.g. using built-in Accessibility Checker in Office) before export to PDF or distribution. Microsoft Support+1
For PDFs: use accessibility tools (manual + automated) to check tagging, reading order, alt-text for images/graphics, tables, links, forms etc. Adobe Help Center+2Level Access+2
Remediate accessibility issues: add semantic tags, alt text, correct reading order, ensure color contrast, proper structure, navigation functionality, and compatibility with assistive technologies. AccessibilityChecker+2codemantra.com+2
Maintain documentation of accessibility audits, issues found, remediation actions, and final validation status — produce compliance reports. Indeed+2Level Access+2
Work closely with content authors, designers, and developers to guide creation of accessible documents from the start (often to avoid costly remediation later). pdfa.org+2pressbooks.library.torontomu.ca+2
Stay up-to-date with accessibility standards, guidelines, and best practices (e.g. WCAG 2.1, PDF/UA / ISO-14289, Section 508 if relevant). Wikipedia+2equalweb.com+2
If required: train or guide internal teams (content creators, designers) on accessibility best practices. pressbooks.library.torontomu.ca+2DigitalA11Y+2
Required Skills / Qualifications: Good understanding of document formats: XML, Microsoft Office (especially PPT), PDF.
Familiarity with accessibility standards — WCAG, PDF/UA (ISO 14289), Section 508 (or regional equivalents) depending on context. Wikipedia+2adobe.com+2
Experience using accessibility-checking tools (PDF checkers, Office Accessibility Checker, screen readers, etc.) and manual validation methods. Level Access+2Adobe Help Center+2
Strong attention to detail, especially around document structure, tagging, alternate text, navigation order, metadata.
Ability to write clear remediation/fix reports and compliance documentation.
Good communication and collaboration skills — working with authors/designers to rectify and prevent accessibility issues.
(Optional / Preferred) Additional ResponsibilitiesValidate XML content against schemas (XSD / DTD), ensure data integrity and proper tagging.
Convert documents between formats (e.g. PPT → PDF with accessibility in mind, XML → HTML/PDF, etc.) while preserving accessibility compliance.
Provide training, building internal guidelines or templates for accessible document creation.
Maintain version control and track document accessibility over time especially if documents are updated frequently.
