Open Publishing Accessibility Assistant

The University Libraries Open Publishing Program is seeking applications from current undergraduate students interested in accessibility, publishing, and basic web design/content management to serve as the Open Publishing Accessibility Assistant.

The position will assist withPDF accessibility remediation for our Pennsylvania History journals. The position will assist with the accessibility of other journals or publications as needed. Accessibility work is primarily done using Adobe Acrobat Pro and CommonLook. This position will introduce the student to the work of a small publishing unit, and while the work will primarily focus on learning and applying accessibility knowledge, it will also familiarize the student with the academic publishing process for various types of publications.

The Penn State Open Publishing team currently publishes 18 open access journals, 13 bibliographies, four monographs, and two topical web portal publications, with more publications forthcoming. The journals are published in the Open Journal Systems (OJS) platform. This position would provide experience and skills for those interested in academic publishing, digital publishing, digital (web or document) accessibility, open access, communications fields, and web content management.

While no prior experience is necessary, any experience with office productivity software and Adobe Acrobat Suite, an interest in, or a basic understanding of, HTML/CSS and digital accessibility standards is preferred. While these skills and interests are preferred, we will also take into consideration any lived or personal experience that may relate to an applicant's experience and interest in digital accessibility. Successful candidates will also be able to communicate effectively, manage their time well, and have the ability to work independently on assigned tasks.

All applicants should submit their resume and a brief (approx. 250-500 words) cover letter expressing their interest, experience, and qualifications when applying.

This position may be remote, hybrid or in person at University Park campus. This position is for 10-15 hours a week between 8am to 5pm Monday through Friday.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

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