Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon Portland Community College

Alternate Media Formats Technician

  • Title: Alternate Media Formats Technician
  • Class: Classified
  • Exempt Status: Non-exempt
  • Grade: 17

Job Summary

Responsible for converting printed, digital, video or multi-media material into a variety of alternate media formats for students with disabilities or for ensuring those materials meet appropriate Web Accessibility Guidelines. Ensures that reformatted materials are available in a timely manner in compliance with federal, state and local regulations. This work may be performed in an environment in which technical supervision is not available and the incumbent is the primary source for technical information. Incumbent is responsible for training and guiding student or casual help and/or reviewing their work.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Converts printed, digital, video or multimedia material and specially encrypted publisher files into a variety of alternative media formats. Obtains copyright permission from publishers. Ensures students can access materials in a timely manner.
  2. Works directly with students, staff or faculty to provide the alternative media in a mode that meets students’ individual needs. Periodically checks with students to ensure that alternative format accommodations are effective in meeting their needs.
  3. Develops, implements, evaluates, reviews and revises alternate media formats as necessary for ADA compliance.
  4. Trains students, faculty and staff in the use of alternative media format systems.
  5. Monitors equipment usage to ensure that accommodation demands are met. Ensures that alternative format-related equipment is replaced, upgraded, repaired, and maintained appropriately.
  6. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

Work is performed both in the Central Office for Disability Services and Distance Education. Exposure to video display terminals occurs with high frequency. Prolonged sitting may be required. Learned physical skill required to perform keyboarding function. Regular lifting of equipment and materials used is required.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma and two years of college-level course work. Relevant experience may substitute for the post high school education on a year-for-year basis. One year of experience with alternative media format systems is required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of:
  • Current computer software packages and a variety of alternative media format systems that may include Kurzweil, ABBYY Fine Reader, Dolphin Producer, and DAISY;
  • Current systems such as MP3, web downloads, and WAV;
  • Techniques to train individuals who experience a variety of cognitive, sensory, physical, and psychiatric disabilities.
Skills in:
  • Organizing and keeping records.
Ability to:
  • Learn new computer systems as advances in technology are made;
  • Train individuals in the use of adaptive systems;
  • Remain current on adaptive technology trends;
  • Effectively communicate technical and complex information both in writing and verbally;
  • Be an active listener;
  • Be detail oriented;
  • Remain calm under high pressure situations;
  • Analyze and resolve problems with minimal supervision;
  • Meet college expectations regarding customer service;
  • Interact effectively with students, the public, and college staff members;
  • Work with multiple priorities in a fast-paced and changing environment.

Reviewed: 12/2018

  • Revised: 4/2015; 11/2012
  • New: 12/2007