Lead Software Engineer @ Opentext

OpenText is seeking a talented and personable Lead Software Developer - Accessibility Focus to lead the development and testing of accessible web and mobile applications. This role is crucial in ensuring our products are inclusive and usable by people of all abilities.

• You will be working with a team of UX designers and software developers for implementing accessibility best practices throughout the software development lifecycle and driving a culture of accessibility awareness within the organization.
• You will be a key contributor in designing, developing, and testing applications while adhering to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications), and other relevant accessibility standards.

What The Role Offers

Accessibility Champion:

• • Act as the primary accessibility expert within the UX design team, promoting awareness and understanding of accessibility principles.
  • Champion accessibility best practices throughout the entire software development lifecycle (SDLC).
  • Stay up to date with the latest accessibility standards, guidelines, and technologies (WCAG, ARIA, Section 508, etc.).
  • Advocate for accessibility considerations in design and product development processes.
  • Participate in accessibility-related conferences, webinars, and community events.
• Development and Implementation:
  • Design, develop, and maintain accessible web and mobile applications using various technologies.
  • Write clean, efficient, and well-documented code.
  • Implement accessibility features and ARIA attributes to ensure compatibility with assistive technologies.
  • Collaborate with UI/UX designers to ensure designs are accessible and user-friendly.
  • Participate in architectural discussions and contribute to the overall technical vision.

• Accessibility Testing and Remediation:
  • Develop and execute comprehensive accessibility testing plans for web and mobile applications.
  • Perform manual accessibility testing using assistive technologies such as screen readers (JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver), screen magnifiers, and speech recognition software.
  • Utilize automated accessibility testing tools (e.g., axe DevTools, WAVE, Lighthouse) to identify accessibility issues.
  • Analyze testing results and provide detailed reports outlining accessibility defects and recommendations for remediation.
  • Work with developers to resolve accessibility issues and ensure compliance with accessibility standards.
  • Conduct accessibility audits and provide guidance on remediation strategies.

• Documentation and Training:
  • Create and maintain accessibility-related documentation, including coding guidelines, testing procedures, and best practices.
  • Provide accessibility training to developers, designers, and other team members.
  • Develop and maintain a library of reusable accessible components.

• Leadership and Mentorship:
  • Work alongside a team of UX designers and collaborate with software developers, providing technical guidance, mentorship, and support.
  • Conduct code reviews and provide constructive feedback.
  • Delegate tasks and responsibilities effectively to team members.

• Collaboration and Communication:
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including product managers, designers, QA engineers, and stakeholders.
  • Communicate effectively with technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Participate in sprint planning, daily stand-ups, and retrospective meetings.
  • Provide clear and concise updates on project progress and accessibility-related issues.

What you need to succeed

• Bachelors degree in computer science, Software Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum 8+ years of experience in software development with a strong focus on web and/or mobile application development.
• Extensive experience (5+ years) in accessibility testing and remediation of web and mobile applications.
• In-depth knowledge of accessibility standards and guidelines, including WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications), Section 508, and related legislation.
• Proficiency in using assistive technologies such as screen readers (JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver), screen magnifiers, and speech recognition software.
• Experience using automated accessibility testing tools (e.g., axe DevTools, WAVE, Lighthouse).
• Strong understanding of web technologies such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and related frameworks (React, Angular, Vue.js).
• Solid understanding of software development principles and best practices.
• Experience with Agile development methodologies.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred Qualifications:

• IAAP certification (e.g., CPACC, WAS).
• Experience with accessibility testing APIs and frameworks.
• Experience with server-side development and databases.
• Contributions to open-source accessibility projects.
• Public speaking or training experience related to accessibility.