ACCESSIBLITY CONSULTANT - SENIOR

Job Summary:

The Senior Accessibility Consultant will play a critical role in ensuring that healthcare facilities are designed and constructed in compliance with accessibility standards and regulations. The ideal candidate will have extensive expertise in accessibility codes, guidelines, and best practices, with a focus on creating inclusive environments for all users.

Accreditation with the Rick Hansen Foundation and knowledge of certification programs for buildings will be considered a significant advantage in this role.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide expert guidance and advice to project teams, including architects, designers, and engineers, on accessibility requirements for healthcare projects.
• Conduct thorough reviews and audits of architectural designs and construction documents to ensure compliance with local, provincial, and national accessibility codes and regulations.
• Collaborate with stakeholders, including healthcare professionals and end-users, to gather input and ensure the accessibility needs of diverse user groups are addressed.
• Assist in developing comprehensive accessibility plans and strategies for healthcare facilities, covering interior and exterior spaces, pathways, entrances, and other elements.
• Advise on the selection and placement of assistive devices, such as handrails, ramps, elevators, and accessible fixtures.
• Conduct site visits and assessments to evaluate the accessibility of existing healthcare facilities and propose recommendations for improvements.
• Keep abreast of changes in accessibility laws, codes, and guidelines to ensure the firm's designs remain current and compliant.
• Review and approve product specifications and materials to ensure they meet accessibility standards.
• Provide training and education to project teams and staff on accessibility requirements, best practices, and the importance of creating inclusive spaces.
• Serve as a liaison between the architecture firm and regulatory authorities to address accessibility-related inquiries and approvals.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture, Engineering, Accessibility, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience as an Accessibility Consultant, with a focus on healthcare projects in Canada.
• In-depth knowledge of accessibility codes, regulations, and standards in Canada, including AODA (Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act) and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).
• Professional Accessibility Consultant Certification or other relevant accessibility certifications are desirable.
• Accreditation with the Rick Hansen Foundation's Accessibility Certification Program is preferred.
• Strong understanding of healthcare design principles and the unique accessibility challenges within healthcare environments.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with an ability to effectively communicate complex accessibility requirements to diverse stakeholders.
• Proven track record of successfully advising on accessibility compliance for a variety of healthcare projects.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment and provide leadership on accessibility matters.
• Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and precision in accessibility reviews and audits.