Program Manager, Accessibility Standards & Integration

Located on the Trent-Severn Waterway in the heart of the Kawartha tourism region, Peterborough is a unique community known for its exceptional quality of life and beautiful setting. Peterborough has it all – a multitude of recreational opportunities, a diverse industrial, commercial and agricultural base, quality health care and excellent schools – including two outstanding post-secondary institutions. Peterborough is just one hour from the Greater Toronto area.

Job Details

The Program Manager, Accessibility Standards and Integration is responsible for leading and implementing accessibility initiatives across the organization. This includes conducting audits, implementing accessibility standards, managing compliance reporting, coordinating training, and delivering public awareness campaigns. The role ensures that City programs, services, and facilities meet or exceed legislative requirements under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), the Ontario Human Rights Code, and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, while also managing the Accessibility Fund and responding to public inquiries and complaints. The Program Manager possesses subject matter expertise in all five AODA standards: customer service, employment, information and communication, transportation, and design of public spaces.

The Program Manager provides strategic guidance and subject matter expertise to City departments, leadership, and the Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC). The role leads the development of corporate accessibility policies, advises on inclusive design and service delivery, and collaborates with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) teams to ensure accessibility strategies are intersectional and community-informed.

Qualifications

A post-secondary degree in Social Sciences, Public Policy, Community Development, Urban Planning, Accessibility Studies, or a related discipline is required. Additional certifications or training in accessibility legislation, inclusive design, or human rights law are considered strong assets. A solid academic foundation in policy development, legislative interpretation, and community engagement is essential to support the strategic and operational demands of the role.

The role requires a minimum of three (3) years of progressive experience in accessibility (with demonstrated application of equity and human rights principles), preferably within a municipal or public sector environment. Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing accessibility policies, conducting compliance audits, and managing cross-departmental projects is essential. Experience working with advisory committees, liaising with government bodies, and applying for accessibility-related funding is highly valued.

An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered. This could include extensive experience in accessibility coordination, equity and inclusion program delivery, or human rights advocacy in a public sector, nonprofit, or institutional setting. Candidates with a background in project management, policy development, or community engagement paired with demonstrated knowledge of accessibility legislation and inclusive design principles may also be considered. 

The role requires strong organizational, analytical, and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet legislative deadlines. Excellent communication, facilitation, and interpersonal skills are required to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders, including staff, elected officials, and community members. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Adobe Pro, and web content management systems is required, along with working knowledge of WCAG 2.0 standards, the Ontario Building Code, and the development planning process as it relates to accessibility.

Salary

$109,261-$119,429

Application Information

Qualified applicants are invited to submit one file containing a résumé and cover letter (ensure your name is in the title of the document) quoting file number 25-P-92 on the file as well as in the subject line, no later than 12:00 p.m. on Friday, August 8 2025 to People and Culture, recruiting@peterborough.ca. Applications will be kept on file for six months.

The personal information submitted for employment is collected under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and will be used to determine eligibility for employment. We thank you for your application, but advise that only those selected for an interview will be contacted.