Accessibility Specialist (A11Y) – Design Systems

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Accessibility Specialist (A11Y) – Design Systems

Company: M&T Bank

Location: Buffalo, NY, United States of America

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Design Systems & Accessibility Operations

Date Posted: April 22, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (3-7 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Serve as the primary accessibility owner for M&T Bank's Enterprise Design System, establishing and advancing inclusive practices for digital experiences.

• Define, evolve, and embed accessibility standards and best practices into UI components, patterns, and documentation, ensuring compliance with WCAG and enterprise-wide strategies.

• Partner closely with design, engineering, product, and Enterprise Accessibility teams to integrate accessibility into the system's foundation and enable product teams to deliver accessible digital experiences at scale.

• Advocate for accessibility as a core system capability, driving proactive integration throughout the design and development lifecycle rather than a post-hoc compliance activity.

• Develop and document system-level expectations for keyboard navigation, focus management, screen reader behavior, and other critical accessibility considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is crucial for operationalizing accessibility within a large enterprise, focusing on the foundational elements of a design system. It requires a blend of technical understanding, strategic thinking, and strong advocacy skills to ensure accessibility is not an afterthought but a built-in quality of digital products. The emphasis on "Design Systems" and "Enterprise" suggests a need for scalable solutions and robust documentation.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Own and evolve the accessibility strategy for M&T Bank's Enterprise Design System, aligning with enterprise and cross-platform accessibility goals.

• Define and document accessibility standards, guidelines, and best practices for UI components, patterns, and system-level content.

• Integrate accessibility considerations into the design and development lifecycle of new and existing design system assets, providing early feedback during design exploration (e.g., Figma).

• Conduct accessibility reviews and audits of design system components and patterns, collaborating with Enterprise Accessibility and external vendors as needed.

• Develop clear and practical guidance for design system consumers (product teams) on implementing accessible practices, differentiating between system-provided features and application-level responsibilities.

• Partner with engineering and Enterprise Accessibility to refine and implement robust accessibility testing approaches, including keyboard navigation and interaction patterns, as part of the "definition of done."

• Identify accessibility risks and gaps within the design system and drive sustainable solutions through collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

• Establish standards for accessible system-level content, emphasizing plain language, semantic structure, and inclusive writing practices to support diverse audiences and screen reader scannability.

• Promote inclusive and culturally sensitive language practices, avoiding ambiguous or visually dependent instructions.

• Act as a subject matter expert and accessibility advocate within the design system team, enabling other teams through documentation, guidance, and consultation.

• Foster deep partnerships with Content Strategy/Design and other cross-functional teams to ensure holistic accessibility adoption.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a proactive and systemic approach to accessibility, moving beyond individual product audits to embedding inclusive design principles at the core of the design system. This requires strong collaboration and communication skills to influence multiple teams and ensure consistent application of standards.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Computer Science, Human-Computer Interaction, Design, or related discipline) OR

Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years of demonstrated experience applying WCAG-aligned accessibility principles to digital products or platforms, including native iOS and Android experiences.

• Experience working with design systems, component libraries, or shared UI platforms at an enterprise level.

• Proven experience in writing accessible UX content, including plain language, semantic structure, and inclusive guidance.

Required Skills:

• Deep understanding and practical application of Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) principles (e.g., WCAG 2.1 AA).

• Working knowledge of front-end technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) sufficient to review implementations, evaluate accessibility behavior, and define system-level standards.

• Familiarity with industry-standard accessibility tools and testing methods:

  • Screen readers (e.g., JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver)
  • Automated testing tools (e.g., axe, WAVE)
  • Manual testing techniques and keyboard navigation testing.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify accessibility issues and propose effective solutions.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate technical concepts and advocate for accessibility.

Preferred Skills:

• CPACC (Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies) or WAS (Web Accessibility Specialist) certification.

• Experience in financial services or other highly regulated industries.

• Familiarity with modern design tools (e.g., Figma) and component-based front-end ecosystems (e.g., React, Angular, Lit).

• Experience collaborating with enterprise accessibility or governance teams.

• Understanding of content strategy, plain language principles, and inclusive language best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of technical understanding (HTML, CSS, JS, testing tools) and practical application within a design system context. Experience with specific accessibility certifications and familiarity with modern design/development tools are highly valued, indicating a need for a candidate who can hit the ground running within a sophisticated tech stack.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrated examples of accessibility integration within design system components or shared UI platforms.

• Case studies showcasing how accessibility standards were defined, documented, and applied to UI elements and patterns.

• Evidence of collaboration with design and engineering teams to embed accessibility into the development lifecycle.

• Documentation samples illustrating clear, actionable accessibility guidance for designers and developers.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase of how accessibility was incorporated into design system workflows, from initial concept to component delivery.

• Examples of accessibility review and audit processes, including methodologies and tools used.

• Documentation outlining the definition of done for design system components, specifically addressing accessibility requirements.

• Examples of training materials or guidance provided to product teams on leveraging accessible design system components.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is critical for this role. Candidates should prepare to showcase tangible evidence of their impact on accessibility within a design system context. This includes not only identifying issues but demonstrating how they were resolved systemically and how others were enabled to follow accessible practices.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $74,600.00 - $124,400.00 Annual (USD)

Benefits:

• Medical insurance coverage.

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401(k) with company match).

• Paid volunteer time off.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, likely 40 hours per week.

• The hybrid work arrangement suggests a degree of flexibility, with expectations for in-office presence on designated days.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is competitive for a mid-level specialist role in a major metropolitan area like Buffalo, NY, especially considering the specialized nature of accessibility within design systems. The benefits listed are standard but may be supplemented by additional offerings common in the financial services industry.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Financial Services (Banking)

Company Size: Large (M&T Bank is a top 20 U.S. bank, indicating a significant employee base and complex organizational structure).

Founded: 1856 (This long history suggests a stable, established organization with potentially deep-rooted processes and a commitment to long-term growth and customer trust).

Team Structure:

• This role is part of the Enterprise Design System team, which likely includes designers, developers, and potentially content strategists focused on creating reusable UI components and patterns.

• The Specialist will collaborate closely with the broader Enterprise Accessibility team, which sets company-wide accessibility standards and governance.

Methodology:

• The role emphasizes embedding accessibility into existing design and development workflows (e.g., Figma, component-based development).

• A data-driven approach is implied through the focus on WCAG compliance, auditing, and measuring impact.

• Process optimization is key, aiming to make accessibility a seamless part of the design system's lifecycle.

Company Website: https://www.mtb.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: M&T Bank's position as a top 20 U.S. bank implies a culture that values stability, regulatory compliance, and customer trust. Accessibility is framed not just as a regulatory requirement but as a critical component of delivering trustworthy experiences, suggesting it's a strategic priority. The design system team likely operates with a focus on efficiency, scalability, and consistency across the enterprise.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-Level Specialist / Individual Contributor. This role is focused on deep expertise in a specific domain (accessibility within design systems) and applying it operationally across the enterprise.

Reporting Structure: The Accessibility Specialist likely reports to a lead or manager within the Design System team, with a dotted line or close collaboration with the head of Enterprise Accessibility.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts the usability, inclusivity, and regulatory compliance of M&T Bank's digital platforms. By embedding accessibility into the design system, the Specialist enables thousands of product developers and designers to create experiences that are usable by all customers, reducing legal risk and enhancing brand reputation. Success means accessibility becomes an inherent quality of the digital products, driving operational efficiency by preventing costly retrofits.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced accessibility topics, emerging standards, or specific platform accessibility (e.g., mobile, emerging technologies).

• Leadership: Transition into a lead accessibility role within the design system or Enterprise Accessibility team, managing strategy and mentoring junior specialists.

• Cross-functional Influence: Expand influence to other operational areas, advising on accessibility integration in broader product development processes or vendor management.

• Formal Training/Certification: Pursue advanced accessibility certifications (e.g., IAAP certifications beyond CPACC/WAS) or specialized training.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for specialization within the high-demand field of digital accessibility, particularly within a large financial institution. Growth opportunities focus on deepening expertise, taking on more strategic responsibilities, and influencing broader organizational practices related to inclusive design operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid. This indicates a blend of remote work and in-office collaboration, likely requiring employees to be present at the Buffalo, NY office for a set number of days per week.

Office Location(s): Buffalo, New York, United States of America. This is the primary location for the role, suggesting a significant presence for M&T Bank in this region.

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid model likely offers flexibility while emphasizing the importance of in-person collaboration for design system work, which often involves whiteboarding, ideation, and direct team interaction.

• Expect a professional corporate environment typical of a large financial institution.

• Access to modern design and development tools will be provided, supporting the hybrid work model.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with design system engineers, product designers, and accessibility experts will be frequent.

Work Schedule: Standard business hours, likely with some flexibility. The hybrid nature may require adherence to specific team schedules or core working hours for optimal collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid environment in Buffalo suggests a need for strong self-management and communication skills, especially for coordinating efforts between remote and in-office team members. The focus on design systems implies a need for collaborative spaces and tools that facilitate shared design and development processes.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review applications and potentially conduct a brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience, and interest.

2. Technical/Skills Assessment: This may involve a take-home assignment or a live coding/design challenge focused on accessibility principles, interpretation of WCAG, or reviewing a component for issues.

3. Panel Interview: A more in-depth interview with key stakeholders, likely including members of the Design System team, Enterprise Accessibility team, and potentially product design/engineering leads. This stage will focus on behavioral questions, problem-solving scenarios, and how candidates approach accessibility challenges.

4. Portfolio Review: Candidates will be asked to present their portfolio, walking through relevant case studies and demonstrating their experience in applying accessibility principles, defining standards, and collaborating with teams.

5. Final Interview/Offer: A final discussion, potentially with senior leadership, to confirm fit and extend an offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Show, Don't Just Tell: Prepare specific examples of accessibility integrations within design systems, component libraries, or complex digital products.

• Focus on Impact: Clearly articulate the problem, your approach, the solutions implemented, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., improved WCAG scores, reduced bug reports, enhanced user satisfaction, successful audits).

• Demonstrate Process: Explain how you defined accessibility standards, documented them, and integrated them into design/development workflows. Highlight your collaboration with designers and engineers.

• Showcase Content Skills: Include examples of accessible UX content you've written or guided, emphasizing plain language and inclusivity.

• Be Ready for Technical Questions: Anticipate questions about WCAG conformance, specific testing tools, and front-end technologies.

Challenge Preparation:

• WCAG Mastery: Review WCAG 2.1 AA guidelines thoroughly. Be prepared to explain specific success criteria and how they apply to UI components.

• Design System Context: Understand how accessibility needs to be addressed at a system level versus an application level. Think about how to provide flexibility while maintaining compliance.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Practice articulating how you would approach common accessibility challenges, such as ensuring proper focus management, designing accessible forms, or providing text alternatives for complex visuals.

• Communication: Prepare to explain technical accessibility concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily weigh practical experience and the ability to articulate how accessibility is operationalized within a design system. A well-prepared portfolio that highlights systemic impact and collaborative problem-solving will be key to success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Tools: Figma (for design exploration, component review, and collaboration).

• Accessibility Testing Tools:

  • Screen Readers: JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver (essential for manual testing).
  • Automated Scanners: axe DevTools, WAVE (for initial checks and regression testing).
  • Browser Developer Tools (e.g., Chrome DevTools, Firefox Developer Tools) with accessibility extensions.

• Documentation Platforms: Confluence, internal wikis, or design system documentation sites (e.g., Storybook).

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this role's core function, but familiarity with how design systems integrate into broader product development lifecycles is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with Figma and a deep understanding of various accessibility testing tools (both automated and manual) are paramount. Familiarity with documentation platforms used for design systems is also crucial for effective knowledge sharing.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Inclusivity: A fundamental commitment to ensuring digital products are usable by everyone, regardless of ability.

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on working together across design, engineering, product, and accessibility teams to achieve shared goals.

• Quality & Excellence: A dedication to high standards in both design system components and the accessibility practices embedded within them.

• Proactiveness: A focus on integrating accessibility early and continuously, rather than as a reactive compliance measure.

• Continuous Improvement: An ongoing effort to refine standards, processes, and documentation based on feedback and evolving best practices.

Collaboration Style:

• Partnership-Oriented: Working closely with design and engineering to co-create accessible solutions.

• Advocacy: Championing accessibility principles and educating stakeholders.

• Guidance & Support: Providing clear documentation and consultation to enable other teams.

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively participating in design reviews, sprint planning, and other development processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely values a proactive, collaborative, and quality-driven approach. The Accessibility Specialist will need to be a strong advocate, able to influence without direct authority and foster a shared sense of responsibility for accessibility across different teams.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Scaling Accessibility: Ensuring consistent application of accessibility standards across a large, diverse enterprise with numerous product teams.

• Balancing Standards and Flexibility: Defining system-level accessibility that is robust yet adaptable enough for various product use cases.

• Advocacy and Buy-in: Continuously educating stakeholders and securing buy-in for accessibility as a core requirement, not an add-on.

• Keeping Pace with Evolving Standards: Staying current with WCAG updates, new assistive technologies, and best practices.

• Integrating with Existing Processes: Seamlessly embedding accessibility checks and guidance into established design and development workflows.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Accessibility Certifications: Pursuing IAAP certifications (e.g., ADS - Accessible Document Specialist, CPWA - Certified Professional in Web Accessibility).

• Industry Conferences: Attending events like axe-con, CSUN, or others focused on accessibility and inclusive design.

• Specialized Training: Deep dives into specific areas like ARIA, mobile accessibility, or accessible rich media.

• Mentorship: Learning from senior accessibility leaders within M&T Bank or the broader industry.

• Exposure to New Technologies: Understanding how emerging technologies impact accessibility and how to address them within design systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge is operationalizing accessibility at scale within a large organization. Growth opportunities are centered on deepening expertise, gaining leadership experience, and becoming a recognized authority in digital accessibility within the financial services sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to advocate for an accessibility improvement that faced resistance. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Preparation: Focus on communication, data-driven arguments, and finding common ground.)

• "How would you define accessibility standards for a new UI component in our design system, considering different use cases?" (Preparation: Outline a process involving WCAG analysis, component functionality, user needs, and documentation.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in accessibility within a design system specifically at M&T Bank?" (Preparation: Research M&T Bank's commitment to customer experience and its role in financial services. Connect your passion for accessibility to their mission.)

• "How do you see accessibility contributing to M&T Bank's mission of delivering trustworthy digital experiences?" (Preparation: Frame accessibility as a key factor in trust, reliability, and customer satisfaction.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by case study, clearly outlining the problem, your role, the accessibility challenges, your proposed solutions, the implementation details, and the results/impact.

• Highlight Systemic Impact: Emphasize projects where your work influenced broader processes or multiple teams, not just isolated fixes. Showcase examples of documentation and guidance provided.

• Showcase Content Skills: Dedicate a section or slide to your experience with accessible UX content, plain language, and inclusive messaging.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical aspects of your work, including WCAG criteria, testing methodologies, and front-end considerations.

• Collaboration: Explicitly detail how you partnered with designers, developers, and other stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical experience, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of how to operationalize accessibility within a design system context. Case studies that highlight systemic impact and collaborative problem-solving will be highly effective.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Accessibility Specialist position:

• Submit your application through the M&T Bank careers portal via the provided URL.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight experience with WCAG, design systems, front-end technologies (HTML, CSS, JS), accessibility testing tools (screen readers, automated scanners), and accessible UX content creation. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Reduced WCAG violations by X%," "Developed accessibility guidelines adopted by Y teams").

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a portfolio that showcases your most relevant work. Prepare specific case studies demonstrating your ability to define, implement, and advocate for accessibility within design systems or complex digital products. Ensure it includes examples of documentation and collaboration.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral scenarios related to accessibility advocacy, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration. Practice explaining technical concepts clearly.

• Company Research: Understand M&T Bank's mission, values, and its position in the financial services industry. Research their existing digital presence and any public statements on accessibility or customer experience.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.