ARIA
ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) is a set of special features that make websites more usable for people with disabilities. Think of it as adding extra labels and instructions to websites that help screen readers and other assistive technologies better explain the content to users who can't see or use a mouse. It's like adding invisible signs and directions that make websites more accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities. When you see ARIA mentioned in resumes or job descriptions, it usually means the developer is experienced in making websites that everyone can use, which is increasingly important for businesses to comply with accessibility laws and reach all potential customers.
Examples in Resumes
Implemented ARIA labels and landmarks to improve website accessibility for visually impaired users
Enhanced web applications with ARIA attributes to meet WCAG 2.1 compliance standards
Upgraded legacy web forms with ARIA roles and states for better screen reader compatibility
Typical job title: "Accessibility Specialists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Accessibility Specialists
Online Communities
Professional Resources
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you implement ARIA in a complex single-page application?
Expected Answer: A senior developer should explain how to maintain accessibility when content updates dynamically, including live regions, proper focus management, and ensuring screen reader compatibility across different sections of the application.
Q: How do you handle accessibility testing in your development process?
Expected Answer: Should discuss various testing approaches including automated tools, manual testing with screen readers, involving users with disabilities in testing, and implementing regular accessibility audits.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are ARIA landmarks and when should you use them?
Expected Answer: Should explain how landmarks help users navigate websites, common landmarks like main, navigation, and search, and when to use them to structure a page properly.
Q: How do you make custom components accessible?
Expected Answer: Should describe adding proper roles, states, and properties to custom elements, managing keyboard interactions, and ensuring screen reader compatibility.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is ARIA and why is it important?
Expected Answer: Should explain that ARIA helps make web content more accessible to people with disabilities by providing additional information to assistive technologies.
Q: What are some common ARIA attributes you've used?
Expected Answer: Should mention basic attributes like aria-label, aria-hidden, and aria-expanded, with simple examples of when to use them.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of web accessibility
- Knowledge of common ARIA labels and roles
- Familiarity with screen readers
- Basic accessibility testing
Mid (2-4 years)
- Implementation of complex ARIA attributes
- Accessibility testing with various tools
- Creating accessible forms and navigation
- Understanding of WCAG guidelines
Senior (4+ years)
- Advanced accessibility architecture
- Training teams in accessibility practices
- Creating accessibility strategies
- Complex application accessibility solutions
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic accessibility principles
- Unfamiliarity with screen readers or assistive technologies
- No experience with WCAG guidelines
- Lack of understanding about keyboard navigation
- No practical experience implementing ARIA in real projects
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
How to Choose the Right AI-Powered ATS for Your Company
Your Next Job Might Be Chosen By AI: The Mind-Blowing Future of HR Is Already Here
AI and Recruitment: How Natural Language Processing Improves Candidate Screening
