Support and compliance specialist

Location

Denver, CO | United States

Job description

THIS ANNOUNCEMENT WILL REMAIN OPEN FOR THE SPECIFIED TIME AND IS OPEN ONLY TO CURRENT RESIDENTS OF COLORADO

 
Posting will close on March 17, 2024 at 11:59 PM.

 
INNOVATE. SERVE. BALANCE. IMPROVE. THRIVE.
Are you looking for a career that allows you to improve your world and the world around you? The Colorado Department of State (CDOS) is seeking diverse individuals from all backgrounds to apply for a position that makes a direct impact on enhancing the lives of Coloradans.

 
If your goal is to build a career that makes a difference through the work you do each day, consider joining the dedicated employees of the Colorado Department of State. Whether working from your home or collaborating onsite, your professional experience will be connected and meaningful. Our office offers an RTD Eco-pass (currently free of charge) and is conveniently located near Civic Center Station, RTD light-rail lines, and the 16th Street Mall. In addition to a great location and fulfilling, impactful work, we offer:

 

• Employee wellness programs and an on-site fitness center
• 12 paid holidays per year plus generous personal time off and sick leave
• Access to a diverse array of technical, leadership and supervisory training opportunities
• Strong, yet flexible retirement benefits including a choice of the PERA Defined Benefit Plan or the PERA Defined Contribution Plan, plus optional 401K and 457 plans
• Medical and dental health plans
• Paid life insurance
• Automatic short-term (and optional long-term) disability coverage
• Excellent work-life balance through flex schedules, flexplace/remote work, and ad-hoc arrangements

Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, go to:

 
Important Note - this position:

• will have the option to work at the office location on certain days and remotely on other days, as part of a hybrid flexible work arrangement.
• offers excellent work-life balance through flex schedules, flexplace/remote work, and ad-hoc arrangements.

Our mission is to make government easy and accessible for people to further democracy, support economic opportunity for all Coloradans, and demonstrate a standard of integrity and excellence. Our vision is to ensure all Coloradans have a voice in our future, help Coloradans and their businesses thrive, and be the best at what we do.

 
What We Believe
The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer. At the Colorado Department of State, we are dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We are committed to building work environments that are inclusive and reflect our communities and the diverse talents of all people. We highly encourage people from all backgrounds, identities, and abilities to apply.

 
Our agency website: Colorado Secretary of State's Office   Elections Division
The Elections Division supervises elections in the State of Colorado. The Division supports 64 counties in planning and executing elections that comply with relevant federal and state election laws.
 
Elections Security & ADA Compliance Unit
The work unit has the dual responsibility of overseeing and assisting counties to improve their election security and working to improve the Department's physical and technical election security. This unit’s major external function is to develop and implement a plan to identify county election security vulnerabilities, as well as working with counties to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements for county election facilities. A major internal function is communication of major security-related ideas and ADA responsibilities, both to elections officials, as well as the public. The work unit interacts directly with the Colorado security community, including Colorado Department of Homeland Security, the Colorado National Guard, the Colorado Governor's Office, and other groups to improve the Department's security standing among those stakeholders. It also interacts directly with Colorado’s ADA compliance community, including Disability Colorado, the federally designated agency that oversees election ADA compliance. This work unit partners with major stakeholders, including County Clerk and Recorder Offices, County Commissioners, agencies that provide or consume election data, ADA compliance agencies, and political parties.
 
As the ADA Support and Elections Compliance Specialist, you will be a valued member of the Elections Security Team, which oversees and assists counties to improve their election security and works to improve the Department's physical and technical election security. You will be responsible for accessibility assessments and compliance monitoring, coordinating with election officials and county authorities, providing issue response, serving as the Title II ADA Coordinator for the Colorado Department of State (CDOS) Elections Division, creating and delivering training related to election office, polling place, and drop box accessibility, and serving as the division liaison for Disability Advocacy groups and public outreach communications. 
The ideal candidate will be a critical and creative thinker with strong problem-solving skills. To succeed in this role, it is important that you have outstanding written, verbal, and interpersonal skills. 

 
Illustration of some of your duties:

• Accessibility Assessments & Compliance Monitoring – You will create, modify, and distribute polling place and ballot drop box accessibility surveys, ensuring legal requirements and best practices are included; review and analyze accessibility surveys submitted by county clerks, identifying concerns and deficiencies; make recommendations for mitigation, remedy, or escalation; communicate approval or needed mitigation to county clerks; periodically perform polling place and election office site visits in person to assess physical layout, entrances, exits, parking, interior, and overall accessibility; document findings, take photographs if necessary, and maintain detailed records of the accessibility assessment; analyze statewide polling place and election office accessibility compliance; prepare written reports regarding the state’s accessibility status and emerging trends; communicate mitigation, remedy, or escalation recommendations timely, both informally and in writing, using the most appropriate method based on the compliance status of polling places, drop boxes, and election offices; review and stay informed of federal, state, and local laws and regulations related to accessibility and ADA compliance; maintain comprehensive documentation of compliance with ADA standards for all county polling places and drop boxes, including audit reports, assessments, and corrective actions taken.
• Create & Deliver Training Related to Election Office & Polling Place Accessibility – You will assess the specific training needs of election judges and county staff; partner with county clerks to identify and implement accessibility improvements; provide training to counties and election judges on how to assist voters with disabilities; organize both in-person and remote training sessions to accommodate different learning preferences and ensure broader participation; ensure that training materials are provided in accessible formats; ensure that training sessions cover relevant legal requirements; incorporate interactive elements into training sessions; include training on cultural competence; offer ongoing support and resources to poll workers after training; provide training for election judges on the significance of clear and accessible signage, and the importance of assisting voters, especially those with disabilities, in navigating the polling place.
• Serve as the Division Liaison for Disability Advocacy Groups & Public Outreach Communication – You will serve work with, and learn from, disability advocacy; attend and host group meetings and conferences; monitor programs and laws in other states and at the federal level to identify problem areas and emerging best practices in accessibility; make written recommendations regarding legislation promoting voters with disabilities’ rights, access, and ease of use of election services; establish multiple communication channels to reach voters with disabilities; collaborate on public awareness campaigns to inform voters about accessible features at the polling place and the availability of accommodations; engage with local disability advocacy groups and organizations; establish a mechanism for collecting feedback from voters with disabilities about their voting experience; ensure that outreach materials and communication are available in multiple; conduct training sessions or workshops to educate voters with disabilities.
• Coordination with Election Officials & County Authorities –  You will   collaborate with relevant election officials and county authorities to address accessibility concerns and implement necessary accommodations; consult with county clerks on accessibility improvements and communicate with county boards of commissioners or other appropriate governing body to advocate for necessary funding for clerks to achieve or improve accessibility compliance; establish effective and continuous communication channels with election authorities; consult with county clerks on the selection of accessible polling places; collaborate with election officials and county authorities to secure funding, including grants, for accessibility improvements and accommodations, ensuring that resources are allocated appropriately.
• Issue Response – You will establish a mechanism for prompt reporting of accessibility issues; thoroughly investigate reported issues, assessing the nature and extent of the problem to determine appropriate solutions; collaborate with election officials to coordinate efforts in resolving issues and implementing necessary changes to improve accessibility; assist county election officials with temporary solutions when immediate fixes are necessary, ensuring that they comply with ADA standards and do not compromise accessibility; create detailed records of reported issues, investigations, and resolutions for documentation and future reference, maintaining those records in accordance with law.
• Professional Development & EDI (Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion) –  You will seek out professional development opportunities that enhance knowledge of position and assist in completing the mission of the Department and Division; attend and pass in-person or virtual classes as offered, or assigned, by management; be aware of, observe, and comply with all relevant State and Department policies, particularly regarding confidentiality, professional conduct, and professional practices; complete outside training opportunities when offered/required; attend and complete all EDI training and participate in EDI office-wide initiatives; model respectful and appropriate behaviors learned through EDI trainings; be committed to advancing a diverse and inclusive workplace by being open to and valuing new views and opinions and being ready to seek them out and bring down barriers that may be keeping these diverse perspectives out of programs or initiatives.

A Human Resources Specialist will only review the work experience/job duties sections of the online job application to determine whether you meet the minimum qualifications for the position for which you are applying. Include any relevant unpaid work, trainings, or certifications, as these may apply toward minimum qualifications. Work experience and qualifications must be specifically documented on your online application, as experience will not be assumed or inferred. Do not use "see resume" or "see attached" statements on your application. Resumes WILL NOT be reviewed for minimum qualification screening. Cover letters and resumes WILL NOT be accepted in lieu of the official State of Colorado online application but may be attached. Part-time experience will be pro-rated. Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications to continue in the selection process for this position. If it is determined that you meet the minimum qualifications, your application may also be used as part of the comparative analysis process to identify a top group for further consideration.

 
A wide salary range is posted for this position and any job offer is based upon a salary analysis to comply with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act. The salary analysis considers relevant experience, education, certifications, and state seniority as compared to others doing substantially similar work. While all offers are compliant with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act, there is no guarantee an offer will be at the top of the posted range based on the salary analysis.

 
This position requires a total of six (6) years in applicable professional experience and/or education in a field of study related to the work. To be considered for this position, your application must clearly demonstrate that you meet one of the following options  outlined below:

 
OPTION 1 -  Experience

 
Six years of professional experience as an ADA Coordinator, an Accessibility Coordinator for a local election office, or working in disability services or advocacy with an emphasis on legal compliance and policy development, training and education, collaboration or stakeholder engagement, or accessibility assessment and remediation.

 
OR
 
OPTION 2 - Education and Experience – Be sure you’ve attached a copy of your unofficial transcript to qualify for this option.

 
At least two years of professional experience as an ADA Coordinator, an Accessibility Coordinator for a local election office, or working in disability services or advocacy with an emphasis on legal compliance and policy development, training and education, collaboration or stakeholder engagement, or accessibility assessment and remediation.

 
AND

 
At least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Human Resources Management, Public Administration, Social Work, Psychology or Counseling, Law, Disability Studies, Healthcare Administration, Public Health, or Communications.

 

• An unofficial copy of transcripts must be submitted at the time of the application, if applicable. 

 
REQUIRED COMPETENCIES: 

• Communication Skills - Ability to effectively communicate with diverse groups of people, including voters with disabilities, poll workers, election officials, and community members.
• Knowledge of ADA Compliance - A thorough understanding of the ADA, specifically Title II (covering state and local governments) regulations and requirements pertaining to polling places and voting accessibility.
• Collaboration Skills - Capability to collaborate with election officials, disability advocacy groups, community organizations, and other stakeholders to enhance accessibility and inclusivity in the electoral process.
• Customer Service Orientation - Dedication to providing excellent customer service to all stakeholders, including those with disabilities.
• Advocacy - A commitment to advocating for the rights and inclusion of individuals with disabilities in the electoral process and other aspects of public life.
• Empathy and Sensitivity -  Capacity to understand the needs and concerns of voters with disabilities and approach interactions with empathy, respect, and sensitivity.
• Training and Education - Ability to create training materials and train people on ADA requirements, disability awareness, and best practices for accommodating voters with disabilities.
• Accessibility Expertise - Knowledge of accessibility standards and best practices, including those related to physical access, communication, and technology.
• Commitment to Equity and Inclusion - Dedication to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion in the electoral process, particularly regarding access to voting for individuals with disabilities.

• Preference will be given to those candidates with previous State Service related to the work assigned to the position.
• Professional certification in ADA compliance, disability management, or related areas. Certifications such as the Certified ADA Coordinator (CAC) offered by the National Association of ADA Coordinators (NAADAC).
• Professional experience as an ADA Coordinator.
• Professional experience as  an Accessibility Coordinator for a local election office.  
• Professional experience interpreting and applying federal, state, and local laws related to disability rights, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Rehabilitation Act, and other relevant legislation.
• Professional experience creating training materials and providing training.
• Professional experience documenting accommodation requests, accessibility measures, and compliance efforts.
• Professional experience in Human Resources.
• Professional experience researching and administering grants and grant applications.
• Demonstrated experience working collaboratively with diverse teams.
• Demonstrated problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Professional experience using assistive technologies, accessibility software, or other tools to support individuals with disabilities and ensure digital accessibility.
• Demonstrated commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace or in society more broadly.

• Travel across the State will be required for on-site visits, meeting and coordinating with external stakeholders, providing training, and possibly for professional development. 
• This position will be required to successfully pass a background check.
• Must be a Colorado resident at the time of application.

If you receive notice that you have been eliminated from consideration for this position, you may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board or request a review by the State Personnel Director.
An appeal or review must be submitted on the official appeal form, signed by you or your representative. This form must be delivered to the State Personnel Board by email ([email protected]), postmarked in US Mail or hand delivered (1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203), or faxed (303.866.5038) within ten (10) calendar days from your receipt of notice or acknowledgement of the department’s action.
For more information about the appeals process, the official appeal form, and how to deliver it to the State Personnel Board; go to spb.colorado.gov; contact the State Personnel Board for assistance at (303) 866-3300; or refer to 4 Colorado Code of Regulations (CCR) 801-1, State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures, Chapter 8, Resolution of Appeals and Disputes, at spb.colorado.gov under Rules. Notifications
All correspondence regarding your status in the selection/evaluation process will be via email. Include your current working email address on your application and check your email frequently as you could receive time sensitive correspondence regarding this position. We highly recommend that you set up your email to accept messages from “coloradosos.gov” and [email protected] addresses. It’s your responsibility to ensure that your email will accept these notices and review your junk mail and spam filtered email.

 

• A Human Resources Specialist will only review the “Work Experience” and “Education” sections of the online job application to determine whether you meet the qualifications for this position.
• Cover letters and resumes will NOT be accepted in lieu of the official State of Colorado application form.
• Cover letters and resumes may be attached to the application as supplemental information.
• The minimum qualifications listed in the announcement are NOT optional.
• To move forward in the hiring process, you must document that you meet the minimum qualifications on the online State of Colorado application form.
• Do not use “see resume” or “see attached” in the State of Colorado online application.

• The comparative analysis process is used to identify candidates that will move forward in the selection process.
• The comparative analysis may consist of application reviews, phone screens, structured interviews, and any other method determined to be valuable in identifying the right candidate.

It is very important that you fill out the application completely and give a detailed description of your education and work experience. Failure to do so may result in rejection of your application during the minimum qualification review or subsequent comparative analysis. Your application should address the education, experience, required competencies and preferred qualifications. Ensure that you have included all required attachments, including your transcript if applicable.

 
FAILURE TO DOCUMENT YOUR EXPERIENCE OR EXCLUDING INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE APPLICATION MAY RESULT IN YOUR APPLICATION BEING REJECTED.

 
ADAAA Accommodations and Equal Opportunity Employment
The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.

 
The Department of State is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment, including completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or to perform essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to our ADAAA Coordinator, Laura Darby, at [email protected] or call (303) 894-2200 ext 6113 or Kathryn Mikeworth, at [email protected] or call (303) 894-2200 ext 6312.

 
E-verify
The Department of State participates in E-Verify in accordance with the program’s Right to Work for all newly-hired employees. Employees are queried through the electronic system established by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA) to verify identity and employment eligibility. You may complete section 1 of the I-9 form upon your acceptance of a job offer letter, but no later than your first day of employment and in addition, on your first day, but no later than the third day, you will be required to submit original documents to verify your eligibility to work in the U.S. Learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities at .

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