Library Planning Consultant, Accessibility and User Experience
Requisition ID: 16669
Department: Ottawa Public Library
Service: Client Services
Branch: Client Experience&Community Development
Employment Type: 1 Permanent Full Time Position
Work Hours: 35 hours per week
Affiliation: MPE
Salary Information: $81,359.46 - $102,891.88 annually (2025 rates of pay)
Location: Library, 120 Metcalfe Street
City: Ottawa, ON
Job Category: Ottawa Public Library
Application Close: 01/04/2025
JOB SUMMARY
Ottawa Public Library (OPL) provides accessible, innovative library and information services throughout the city of Ottawa, that meet the unique needs of diverse communities, delivered through facility, mobile, and virtual channels.
As the Accessibility & User Experience Strategist at the OPL, you will play a pivotal role in creating an inclusive and user-centered experience for all individuals. You will:
- take a leadership role in ensuring compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA), and improving overall accessibility of services, including coordinating and submitting mandated legislative reporting
- provide guidance on related industry trends and legislative requirements and their integration into organizational practices; and manage accessibility support for assigned programs and projects, collaborate with other units to align priorities, and advise and report on the accessibility of the procurement of goods and services
- develop and implement procedures and guidelines that prioritize equity in client experience
- collaborate with various departments to ensure new and existing projects and services align with UX, accessibility, and Equity, Diversity and Inclusivity (EDI) leading practices, providing expertise on inclusive UX and accessibility best practices;
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
4-year university degree in a field relevant to the key responsibilities of the position.
Minimum of 3 years of progressive experience in UX and/or accessibility, preferably in a library setting.
KNOWLEDGE
- Comprehensive understanding of OPL's mission, vision, values, governance structures, and familiarity with corporate policies and procedures of both OPL and City of Ottawa.
- Research, statistical analysis and report writing techniques and processes
- Program and project evaluation and performance measurement processes
- Adherence to the principles of intellectual freedom.
- Proficiency in computer applications, including MS Office and Project Management software.
- Understanding of environmental and industry trends impacting organizations and influencing the future of work and the workforce.
- Familiarity with project management principles and practices.
- Competence in strategic and operational planning.
- Knowledgeable in UX methodologies for identifying user needs, such as personas and journey mapping the UX.
- Advanced knowledge of usability and accessibility best practices and standards, specifically related to digital communications channels like websites, mobile, SMS, and email.
- Thorough understanding of digital marketing best practices, including responsive websites, online advertising, SEO/SEM, mobile marketing, email marketing, and social media.
- Knowledge of applicable legislation (e.g. Public Libraries Act of Ontario, Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act), and municipal/provincial codes, by-laws, policies and practices
COMPETENCIES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Personal Suitability
- Commitment to anti-racism, decolonization, and fostering an inclusive work environment aligned with justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- Understanding of change management principles and the benefits of change
- Collaboration skills, ability to work effectively in a team environment.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, leadership capabilities, and client service focus.
- Action-oriented, highly motivated, and energetic individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong conceptual, analytical, organizational, and planning skills to address complex issues.
- Effective time management skills, able to work under tight deadlines.
- Consistency, fairness, tact, empathy, and respect in interactions with others.
- High personal and professional standards, integrity, and positive rapport with a wide range of individuals.
- Commitment to an inclusive and community-focused approach in service design and delivery.
- Experience working in diverse communities and building relationships with stakeholders from various sectors.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
- Language Requirement: Designated Bilingual - specific level of language proficiency: French: oral, reading, writing required. English: oral, reading, writing required. Candidates who do not meet language requirements will be required to participate in training.
- Additional vacancies may occur during the competition process.
- Alternative educational credentials combined with job-related experience, demonstrated performance, and ability may be considered in lieu of stated academic requirements.
- Please save a copy of the job poster. Once the closing date has passed, it will no longer be available.
We wish to thank all applicants for their interest and effort in applying for this position. Only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.
The Ottawa Public Library promotes the principles of diversity and inclusion and adheres to the tenets of the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Ontario Human Rights Code. We encourage applications from members of Indigenous, Black and other racialized communities, persons with disabilities, women and non-binary persons, persons of all ethnic origins, religions, sexual orientations, classes, gender identities and expressions.
Candidates are encouraged to self-identify as a member of one or more designated employment equity groups in the self-identification questionnaire.
The Ottawa Public Library provides accommodation during all parts of the hiring process, upon request, to applicants with disabilities. If contacted to proceed to the selection process, please advise us if you require any accommodation.
Accessible formats and communication supports are available upon request. Please contact the HR Service Centre at 613-580-2424, extension 47411.