Special Needs Officer

Canadian University Dubai

Job Description


Canadian University Dubai invites applications for the position of Special Needs Officer within
the Student Affairs Department. The successful candidate will play a central role in supporting students of determination by promoting
equitable access to academic and campus resources while fostering an inclusive and supportive learning
environment.

Position Summary

The Special Needs Officer supports the academic success and holistic
development of students of determination by coordinating accessibility services and individualized accommodations. Working collaboratively
with students, faculty, and staff, the role aims to ensure that every student receives the support needed to participate fully in the
university experience. The Officer will provide ongoing case management, advocacy, and outreach while contributing to a culture of inclusion
across the campus community.

Key Responsibilities

Student Support and Case
Management
Support in conducting intake assessments and gathering documentation to understand student needs, assist with
developing and implementing accommodations such as adaptive technologies or extended exam time, serve as a point of contact for students
seeking guidance, and provide ongoing mentorship to support students in navigating academic and personal challenges.

Faculty
and Staff Collaboration
Work closely with faculty to communicate approved accommodations and support their implementation during
classes and exams, provide resources and guidance on inclusive teaching practices, and facilitate communication between students and
instructors to address accessibility related matters.

Campus Accessibility and Policy Development
Collaborate
with relevant units to review and recommend improvements to campus facilities and technologies, support the development of inclusive
policies for students of determination, and coordinate with ICT and facilities management to ensure accessibility and adaptive technologies
are available and functional.

Program Development and Outreach
Partner with the Student Success Center to ensure
students with special needs receive academic tutoring support, collaborate with Student Life and student societies to deliver awareness
programs and workshops led by internal or external experts, establish peer mentoring or support groups, and maintain a resource library on
adaptive technologies and related support materials.

Advocacy and Compliance
Advocate for the rights and needs of
students with special needs within the university community and serve as a liaison with external organizations that provide relevant support
services.

Record Keeping and Reporting
Maintain confidential records of student cases, accommodations, and
services provided, prepare reports on service utilization and program effectiveness, and assess accommodation outcomes for continuous
improvement.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in education, counseling,
  psychology, social work, or a related discipline with specialization or experience in special needs preferred.
• Minimum of one to two
  years of experience in special education or a related field,
• Preferably experience in higher education or academic support roles,
  familiarity with inclusive teaching practices, and certification in special needs or related areas.

Skills and
Knowledge

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work effectively with diverse populations,
  
• Knowledge of assistive technologies and accessibility tools such as screen readers and text to speech software,
• Strong
  organizational abilities to manage multiple cases in a dynamic environment.
• Empathy, patience, and a genuine commitment to
  supporting students with special needs,
• Strong problem solving skills, and a collaborative mindset dedicated to fostering an
  inclusive university community.

Why Join Canadian University Dubai?

At Canadian University Dubai
(CUD), we offer more than just a job, we offer a mission. As one of the UAE's leading higher education institutions, we combine
Canadian academic excellence with a vibrant, inclusive, and innovative campus experience. Here's why you'll love working
with us:

• A culturally diverse and collaborative academic environment
• A mission-driven institution focused on empowering
  future leaders
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth
• Strong ties to Canada and international education
  standards