508 Compliance Tester

The 508 Compliance Tester at Peraton will be tasked with leading the execution of comprehensive accessibility testing across various platforms. This includes designing and implementing test strategies, analyzing test results, and ensuring digital products meet Section 508 compliance standards. Additionally, you'll be involved in writing user stories and acceptance criteria while effectively communicating with various team members.

To apply for the 508 Compliance Tester position at Peraton, candidates should ideally hold a Bachelor’s degree related to the field with 5-7 years of experience, or a Master’s with 3-5 years of experience. A high school diploma accompanied by 4 years of relevant experience may also be acceptable. Certifications in accessibility, such as CPACC or WAS, are preferred along with extensive experience in accessibility testing.

As a 508 Compliance Tester at Peraton, familiarity with various accessibility testing tools is essential. This includes utilizing screen readers like JAWS and NVDA, browser extensions such as Axe and WAVE, as well as automated testing tools like Accessibility Insights and pa11y. Effective use of these tools is critical in validating compliance with accessibility standards.

Yes, the 508 Compliance Tester position at Peraton offers a hybrid work environment, allowing you to balance remote work with in-office collaboration. This setup is aimed at fostering both productivity and teamwork, ensuring that you remain engaged with your colleagues while also enjoying the flexibility of working from home.

An active security clearance, specifically a Secret level, is crucial for the 508 Compliance Tester role at Peraton due to the sensitive nature of the projects with the Department of State. Having this clearance ensures that you can handle confidential information and contribute effectively to security-related compliance projects.

When answering this question, highlight your hands-on experience with tools like JAWS, NVDA, or Axe. Discuss specific projects where you utilized these tools, what features you tested, and the results of your testing, emphasizing your ability to ensure compliance with accessibility standards.

Section 508 refers to the part of the Rehabilitation Act that requires federal agencies to make their electronic and information technology accessible to people with disabilities. In your response, underscore its importance in promoting inclusivity and ensuring that all individuals have equal access to technology.

You should convey your proactive approach to professional development, such as attending relevant workshops, participating in online forums, and following industry leaders in accessibility. Mention any specific resources, such as websites or publications, that you refer to regularly.

Provide a specific example of an accessibility challenge, detailing the context, your approach to resolving it, and the outcome. This not only shows your problem-solving skills but also your commitment to improving digital accessibility.

Discuss principles like perceivability, operability, understandability, and robustness. Provide examples of how these principles guide your testing and implementation strategies, ensuring that all users, regardless of their abilities, can effectively access web content.

Illustrate your ability to prioritize tasks by discussing how you communicate with your team, use project management tools, and adapt to changing requirements. Mention specific techniques you employ to stay organized and ensure project goals are met.

Emphasize your ability to simplify technical jargon into understandable terms for stakeholders. Share examples of previous reports or presentations you've delivered, focusing on the clarity of your communication and your ability to engage your audience effectively.

Express your understanding of the significant link between user experience and accessibility. Discuss how accessibility testing helps create a better user experience for all individuals, especially those with disabilities, enhancing usability and satisfaction.

Explain that automated testing involves using software tools to evaluate accessibility compliance without manual intervention. Share your experience with specific automated testing tools, the advantages and limitations they carry, and how they complement manual testing efforts.

Describe the systematic approach you would employ: documenting the failures, analyzing root causes, collaborating with developers to implement fixes, and re-testing. Highlight the importance of a feedback loop and continuous improvement in the testing process.