Accessibility Test Lead

The Accessibility Test Lead at Solirius Consulting holds a crucial role in managing accessibility testing efforts across various projects. Key responsibilities include leading the design and implementation of accessibility testing strategies in line with WCAG 2.2 AA/AAA standards, conducting manual and semi-automated testing, engaging with developers and Agile teams, and delivering training on accessibility best practices. The Lead also acts as the primary contact for accessibility-related queries and ensures that inclusivity is prioritized throughout the project lifecycle.

To be considered for the Accessibility Test Lead position at Solirius Consulting, candidates should possess a degree in a relevant field or have over 5 years of experience as an Accessibility Specialist. Proven experience in accessibility testing, a thorough understanding of WCAG standards, along with skills in manual testing and assistive technologies, are crucial. Strong communication and leadership abilities are also essential, as the role involves mentoring junior team members and conveying complex concepts to a diverse audience.

An Accessibility Test Lead at Solirius Consulting should be proficient in a variety of accessibility testing tools and technologies. This includes manual testing with assistive technologies like NVDA, JAWS, and screen readers, as well as semi-automated tools like Axe and WAVE. Familiarity with automated testing tools, such as Pa11y and aXeCore, is also important. Additionally, understanding of Agile development processes to effectively integrate accessibility testing into workflows is essential for success in this role.

Solirius Consulting is dedicated to the professional growth of its team members, including the Accessibility Test Lead. The company offers up to 10 days of allocated development training per year, access to mentorship opportunities, and encourages attendance at workshops and seminars related to accessibility and inclusivity. This commitment to development not only helps individuals hone their skills but also fosters a productive and knowledgeable team environment focused on high-quality service delivery.

The work environment at Solirius Consulting is collaborative and supportive, designed to empower team members to operate independently while promoting a strong culture of teamwork. As an Accessibility Test Lead, you will have the flexibility to work from home and will be encouraged to participate in monthly company socials and annual away days. The flat organizational structure fosters open communication and innovation, allowing you to share your insights and shape best practices in accessibility.

In previous roles, I have extensively worked with the WCAG standards by incorporating them into testing checklists and protocols. I ensure compliance by conducting thorough manual accessibility tests and utilizing tools that automatically validate conformance. I believe in the importance of continuous education and staying updated with the latest WCAG guidelines, which helps me maintain compliance in all projects.

I am most familiar with tools like Axe and WAVE for semi-automated testing. I use these tools to identify potential accessibility issues during the development process, allowing my team to remediate issues before they become larger problems. I also pair automated testing with manual checks to ensure a comprehensive assessment of usability for diverse user groups.

I advocate for accessibility within a project team by engaging stakeholders early in the process and emphasizing the importance of inclusive design. By presenting data and case studies that highlight the impact of accessibility on user experience and project success, I build a strong case for integrating accessibility considerations into the project lifecycle, and I demonstrate how it can enhance overall product quality.

One complex issue I encountered involved a dynamic content-rich application where screen reader users experienced difficulty accessing information. I organized a testing session where we observed users interacting with the application, which revealed several navigation barriers. I then collaborated with the development team to implement ARIA roles and landmarks, and we conducted follow-up tests to confirm the effectiveness of these solutions.

I keep up with the latest trends and changes in accessibility standards by actively following industry leaders, participating in webinars, and being a member of professional organizations dedicated to accessibility. I regularly review whitepapers, reports, and engage in online communities where these topics are discussed, ensuring that I can incorporate new knowledge into my work.

My approach to training team members involves a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical exercises. I start with foundational principles and then engage the team in hands-on activities, such as evaluating their own projects for accessibility compliance. Encouraging questions and discussions fosters a supportive learning environment, which I believe is crucial for effective knowledge transfer.

Collaboration is key in my accessibility testing process. I work closely with designers, developers, and product managers throughout the project lifecycle. By fostering open communication, I ensure that everyone understands their responsibilities regarding accessibility and how their work impacts the final product. This collaborative approach not only improves testing outcomes but also enhances the overall team dynamic.

In one of my previous positions, I integrated accessibility testing into an Agile framework by aligning testing checkpoints with sprint cycles. This involved creating a specific backlog for accessibility issues which was prioritized alongside other development tasks. I facilitated meetings to review accessibility test results and established a ‘Definition of Done’ that included accessibility compliance, ensuring it became an integral part of our Agile practices.

I measure the success of my accessibility testing efforts by tracking metrics like the number of identified issues, resolution rates, and user feedback from those with disabilities. I also look at compliance levels with accessibility standards before project launches and assess usability post-launch, ensuring continual improvement and stakeholder satisfaction.

To keep myself organized during accessibility testing, I rely on structured testing plans and checklists that outline specific criteria and user scenarios. I also use project management tools to track progress, document findings, and allocate responsibilities among team members. Regular check-ins and status reports help to maintain transparency and ensure that the team stays on track with our accessibility goals.