At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop and implement assistive technology solutions to enhance accessibility for Parliament staff.
- Company: Join the UK Parliament's Digital Delivery team, transforming democracy through technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy up to 35 days annual leave, flexible working, and a great pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by promoting digital confidence and independence for all users.
- Qualifications: Extensive knowledge of assistive technologies and accessibility standards required.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to inclusion and equality.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Assistive Technology specialist will develop and deliver initiatives to strengthen the assistive technology offer and support and enable Members (MPs and Peers) and Parliamentary staff with different accessibility needs in their work day-to-day. The role will sit at the intersection of technology, accessibility, and customer support.
Working in partnership with the Providing Digital Technology 'Value Stream' (multi-disciplinary working group), you will lead on the provision, development, and implementation of assistive technology solutions, ensuring accessibility is embedded into our provisioning and digital support offer. You will build internal capability and familiarity with a wide range of assistive software and hardware solutions. You will support the End User Service and other customer-facing teams to develop the skills needed to be able to recommend appropriate technologies, including assistive technologies to customers with accessibility requirements. You may also be required to provide support installing and using assistive technologies.
- Assess, recommend, and oversee assistive technology solutions (e.g. screen readers, voice input systems, alternative input devices, magnifiers) tailored to meet the diverse needs of users.
- Conduct expert in-depth user assessments to determine optimal assistive technology configurations that enhance accessibility and user independence.
- Partner with multi-disciplinary teams to embed accessibility considerations at every stage of product design and development, in line with WCAG and UK accessibility legislation.
- Collaborate with PDS's customers in both Houses (Commons and Lords) and the Administration to deliver tailored training and support, promoting digital confidence and independence among users of assistive technologies.
- Provide expert advice on reasonable adjustments, inclusive procurement practices, and end-to-end lifecycle management of assistive technologies.
- Lead and co-ordinate accessibility audits of software, systems, and hardware with a strong focus on compatibility with assistive technologies.
What You Need
- Extensive knowledge of assistive technologies and accessibility standards (WCAG 2.2, EN 301 549).
- In-depth understanding of common operating systems, digital platforms and how assistive technologies integrate.
- Able to assess the accessibility of tools and systems.
- Interest in emerging Assistive Technology solutions and understanding their potential in the organisational setting.
- Ability to understand and assess individual accessibility requirements.
- Can select appropriate technology to provide inclusive experiences and remove barriers.
- Able to diagnose issues with Assistive Technology tools and propose effective solutions.
- Able to engage with a broad range of colleagues and stakeholders including users, reasonable adjustment specialists, and occupational health.
- Experience advocating for accessibility outside of your team and managing differing perspectives.
- Excellent planning and organisational skills with a methodical approach to prioritising work to meet deadlines.
- Ability to work well within the immediate team (the Digital Accessibility Team) and the wider networks (e.g. Communities of Practise, Champions Network), upholding the values of equality, inclusion, and diversity.
- Ability to develop strong relationships with assistive technology suppliers, specialist partners, and internal teams and stakeholders.
- Able to keep up to date with advances in technology and manage the lifecycle of assistive technology solutions.
- The ability to pass security clearance, backed by the right to work in the UK.
About The Team
The Digital Delivery team in PDS is working to digitise our democracy by designing, supporting, and improving our products and services with the aim of making these easier and better for users. Our work spans a range of back-end and front-end products aimed at meeting the needs and expectations of Members of Parliament and their staff, alongside other important groups including Parliamentary staff, government officials, journalists, and the public. You will be part of the Digital Accessibility Team, contributing to the delivery of the Digital Accessibility Strategy, designed to deliver an inclusive digital environment where everyone can access Parliament's information and services.
About Us
UK Parliament is steeped in history and tradition. It is an important part of UK life and we need to ensure as many people as possible can engage with its work. This is why we are at the start of a huge transformation programme powered by technology. The Parliamentary Digital Service (PDS) works with the House of Commons and the House of Lords with all their IT and digital needs. We are here to realise the digital ambitions of a modern Parliament and welcome you to join us in building a digital democracy.
Our Package
Please refer to our Candidate Information Pack for a full list of our benefits which include:
- Up to 35 days annual leave in addition to bank holidays.
- Generous maternity pay policy up to 6 months full pay.
- Great pension scheme options (contributory and non-contributory).
- On-site subsidised gym, nursery, catering, post office, travel office and GP.
- Flexible options including hybrid working and family friendly policies.
How To Apply
Please make sure you're clear on the requirements of the role. These can be found in the Job Description and Candidate Information Pack. You will need to upload a CV and show how you meet criterions 1 and 2. Our application process is anonymous, so please remove any personal information from your CV.
Apply By: Interviews: 9th December 2025 Format: Presentation + Panel Interview (Remote)
Our Culture
For our people, we provide an amazing opportunity to bring their talents to an institution that sits right at the heart of society in the UK. We are helping to change UK Parliament and strengthen democracy. What matters here is your potential for growth and your commitment to playing your part in our ongoing success.
We are passionate about providing an environment which promotes inclusion, diversity and equality. Regardless of your age, gender, ethnicity, beliefs or any of the other things that make you, you. We welcome applications from people who feel under-represented in the workforce. This includes those who may feel disadvantaged because of their socioeconomic circumstances.
Accessibility Specialist (Assistive Technology) in Manchester employer: PARLIAMENTARY DIGITAL SERVICE
Contact Detail:
PARLIAMENTARY DIGITAL SERVICE Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Accessibility Specialist (Assistive Technology) in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the accessibility and assistive technology space. Attend events, join online forums, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can give you a leg up.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your experience with assistive technologies and accessibility projects. This could be case studies, presentations, or even a blog. It’s a great way to demonstrate your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on common assistive technology tools and their applications. Be ready to discuss how you would assess user needs and recommend solutions. Practise answering questions about your approach to accessibility challenges.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our mission to enhance accessibility in Parliament. Let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace Accessibility Specialist (Assistive Technology) in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know the Role Inside Out: Before you start writing, make sure you really understand what the Accessibility Specialist role is all about. Dive into the job description and highlight the key responsibilities and skills required. This will help you tailor your application to show how you fit the bill!
Showcase Your Experience: When you're crafting your CV, don’t just list your previous jobs. Instead, focus on specific experiences that relate to assistive technologies and accessibility standards. Use examples that demonstrate your knowledge and how you've made a difference in past roles.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure your CV and cover letter are customised for this role. Use keywords from the job description and align your skills with what they’re looking for. This shows us that you’ve put in the effort and are genuinely interested in the position.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right place. Plus, it’s a great way to keep track of your application status!
How to prepare for a job interview at PARLIAMENTARY DIGITAL SERVICE
✨Know Your Assistive Tech
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of assistive technologies and accessibility standards like WCAG 2.2. Be ready to discuss specific tools and how they can enhance user independence, as this will show your expertise and passion for the role.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've diagnosed issues with assistive technology tools in the past and proposed effective solutions. This will demonstrate your ability to think critically and adapt to different user needs, which is crucial for this position.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you would engage with a broad range of colleagues and stakeholders. Be ready to share experiences where you've advocated for accessibility or collaborated with others to implement inclusive practices. This shows you can work well within teams and across departments.
✨Prepare for the Presentation
Since the interview format includes a presentation, practice delivering your ideas clearly and confidently. Focus on how you would approach embedding accessibility into product design and development, as this will be key to impressing the panel.