Northeastern University·Boston, Massachusetts
The Disability Specialist formulates and implements student-centered services and accommodations for students with disabilities. This includes counseling students, advocating with faculty, and conducting outreach to improve university accessibility.
About the Opportunity
Under the general direction of the Director, the Disability Specialist is responsible for the formulation, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of appropriate services for students with disabilities with a focus on maintaining cutting-edge student-centered services.
Key responsibilities & accountabilities
1) Direct Service to Students
Counsel and advise students; provide specialized skills and compensatory strategies for students with disabilities. Advocate for students with disabilities with faculty, administrators and parents. Guide faculty to an understanding of how to make accommodation for students in their classes. Support student advocacy and learning strategies.
2) Outreach and Training
Under the direction of the Director, participate in education efforts to assist departments within the University to understand the policies and procedures involved in providing access individuals with disabilities and to improve the quality of access and services at Northeastern University. Participate in outreach and training efforts to students eligible for services through Disability Access Services (DAS).
3) Review and Establish Services for Students with Disabilities
Determine eligibility for services; approve services and accommodations; communicate with students, maintain current on complete records. Assist current and prospective students and their families through the process of acquiring appropriate documentation and registering for services.
4) DAS Committees and Miscellaneous.
Participate in departmental committees. Additional duties and projects as assigned by the Director.
Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.
Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ [https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/] for more information.
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Compensation Grade/Pay Type: 107S
$53,615.00 - $75,728.75
With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.
Requires a Master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling, Educational Psychology, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Candidates must have at least two years of experience providing advocacy and support services in a post-secondary education setting.
Market context
In Massachusetts, Disability Specialist roles are typically tied to post-secondary student support, where demand is driven by institutions needing staff who can coordinate accommodations and advocacy. These positions are competitive because employers often look for a master’s degree in a related field plus at least two years of experience in a college or university setting. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then tailor your application to show direct experience with accommodation processes and student advocacy.