Wave Engineering is an independent, employee owned, consulting firm specializing in acoustics, noise and vibration. We provide consulting services to a diverse client base that includes architects, contractors, engineers, corporations, school districts, developers, government agencies, institutions, and private individuals. Wave Engineering  is committed to delivering practical, cost-effective solutions that maximize value while meeting each client's unique project objectives. Our office is located in Littleton, Colorado, just minutes from its vibrant downtown, which offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and convenient light rail service to downtown Denver. The nearby Rocky Mountains provide year-round opportunities for hiking, skiing, biking, and other outdoor recreation. With its highly regarded schools, welcoming community, and exceptional quality of life, Littleton is an outstanding place to live, work, and raise a family. Job Description: Wave Engineering is seeking a talented and motivated individual to join our growing team. Our work spans a diverse range of projects in architectural acoustics, environmental noise, and vibration consulting. We are looking for someone who enjoys collaborating with colleagues and clients to develop practical, effective solutions to complex challenges. Success in this role requires strong technical skills as well as creativity, adaptability, resourcefulness, and sound problem-solving abilities. Excellent communication skills are essential, including the ability to convey technical information clearly through both written English and graphical presentations. Candidates must also be highly organized, capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously, and able to prioritize competing responsibilities while consistently meeting deadlines. The successful candidate must demonstrate authorization to work in the USA through EVerify and will be subjected to a background check. NDAs are often required and will be enforced. This is a full-time position in Littleton. It is NOT a remote job. However, there is the possibility of working from home one day per week. Education: Bachelor’s degree in engineering or science - Acoustics, Architecture, Mechanical, Electrical or other discipline with coursework related to acoustics and vibration. Direct experience in consulting is preferred. Experience: Acoustical Technician: (0-3 years experience minimum)  Responsibilities include, but are not limited, to following:

• Reading architectural/mechanical/structural/civil drawings for use in acoustical work.
• Assisting with acoustic testing. Acoustical measurements in the field are sometimes scheduled outside of normal business hours and under physically demanding conditions. This work can require climbing ladders, walking to remote off-road locations, navigating obstacles, and carrying equipment that can weigh up to 50 pounds. Access to a vehicle may be required for some assignments. Some overnight travel may be required.
• Assisting other staff with reviewing and drafting reports (or parts of reports), drawings, details, and specifications.
• Set up and/or deploy sound and/or vibration test equipment.
• Learning LEED, IBC, HUD, ANSI, ASTM, and ISO standard acoustic requirements and applying them to projects.
• Using software that may include Microsoft Office, Bluebeam, Datakustik CadnaA, SoundPlan, INSUL, V-A Design, and EASE
• Assist with the maintenance and organization of equipment, project files, etc.
• Assisting with marketing functions such as developing social media content, blog posts, etc.

Salary Range: ($65,000 - $75,000) Compensation will be commensurate with experience. Wave offers a competitive benefits package and opportunities for career growth through mentorship, training and professional development opportunities. Apply by submitting a resume and cover letter outlining how your skills and experience address the needs of the position. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential for this position.  Ability to write effectively is an absolutely critical skill for the successful candidates and you will be asked to provide writing samples. Must be able to demonstrate at the time of hire proof of permission to work permanently in the US, pass a background check and hold a valid driver’s license. Contact Ben Seep, Vice President BenS@WaveEngineeering.US 1100 W. Littleton Blvd., #420 Littleton, CO 80120 (720) 446-9283

Wave Engineering is an independent, employee owned, consulting firm specializing in acoustics, noise and vibration. We provide consulting services to a diverse client base that includes architects, contractors, engineers, corporations, school districts, developers, government agencies, institutions, and private individuals. Wave Engineering  is committed to delivering practical, cost-effective solutions that maximize value while meeting each client's unique project objectives. Our office is located in Littleton, Colorado, just minutes from its vibrant downtown, which offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and convenient light rail service to downtown Denver. The nearby Rocky Mountains provide year-round opportunities for hiking, skiing, biking, and other outdoor recreation. With its highly regarded schools, welcoming community, and exceptional quality of life, Littleton is an outstanding place to live, work, and raise a family. Job Description: Wave Engineering is seeking a talented and motivated individual to join our growing team. Our work spans a diverse range of projects in architectural acoustics, environmental noise, and vibration consulting. We are looking for someone who enjoys collaborating with colleagues and clients to develop practical, effective solutions to complex challenges. Success in this role requires strong technical skills as well as creativity, adaptability, resourcefulness, and sound problem-solving abilities. Excellent communication skills are essential, including the ability to convey technical information clearly through both written English and graphical presentations. Candidates must also be highly organized, capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously, and able to prioritize competing responsibilities while consistently meeting deadlines. The successful candidate must demonstrate authorization to work in the USA through EVerify and will be subjected to a background check. NDAs are often required and will be enforced. This is a full-time position in Littleton. It is NOT a remote job. However, there is the possibility of working from home one day per week. Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in engineering or science - Acoustics, Architecture, Mechanical, Electrical or other discipline with coursework related to acoustics and vibration. Direct experience in consulting is preferred. Experience: Staff Acoustical Consultant: (2 – 5 years experience minimum)  Responsibilities include, but are not limited, to following:

• Writing high-quality architectural and environmental acoustics reports. Mark up details and images and provide sketches when needed to supplement reports and specifications.
• Performing acoustics/noise/vibration field measurements. These can require work outside of normal working hours and may require overnight travel, sometimes to other parts of the country. Field work can result in long days and can require climbing ladders, walking long distances over rough terrain, navigating obstacles and carrying equipment that can weigh up to 50 pounds. Access to a vehicle may be required for some assignments.
• Reviewing, interpreting and applying LEED, IBC, HUD, ANSI, ASTM, and ISO acoustic standards.
• Determining relevancy of and interpreting state and local noise codes and building codes.
• Reading architectural/mechanical/structural/civil drawings for use in acoustic work.
• Performing HVAC and mechanical noise calculations as well as reverberation and other architectural acoustic calculations.
• Analyzing acoustic solutions using computer modeling software. Software packages include Datakustik CadnaA, SoundPLAN, INSUL, EASE, V-A Design DataPhysics SignalAce, Microsoft Office and Bluebeam.
• Observing on-site construction to review the implementation of acoustical solutions.
• Managing project costs and schedules.
• Marketing functions, including generating content for social media, blog posts, newsletters, etc.

 Salary Range: ($75,000 - $90,000) Compensation will be commensurate with experience. Wave offers a competitive benefits package and opportunities for career growth through mentorship, training and professional development opportunities. Apply by submitting a resume and cover letter outlining how your skills and experience address the needs of the position. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential for this position. Candidates must be able to communicate clearly, accurately, and professionally, and will be required to submit writing samples as part of the application process. At the time of hire, candidates must provide proof of authorization to work in the United States, successfully pass a background check, and possess a valid driver's license. Contact Ben Seep, Vice President BenS@WaveEngineeering.US Wave Engineering, Inc. 1100 W. Littleton Blvd., #420 Littleton, CO 80120 (720) 446-9283

Shen Milsom & Wilke is a global consulting firm offering innovative technology design solutions and expert guidance. We specialize in audiovisual and multimedia, information technology, security, medical equipment planning, and acoustics, ensuring all services meet client compliance requirements.   Position Overview: We are seeking an experienced Acoustic Consultant with 8 to 15 years of relevant experience to join our Denver, Colorado office. Responsibilities include working on high-profile projects, conducting field measurements, developing acoustic computer models, and providing consulting to optimize acoustic performance and reduce noise and vibration. The ideal candidate will have a background in consulting and acoustic engineering, with a strong understanding of acoustic principles and their application in building and environmental acoustics. Proficiency with sound and vibration testing equipment, as well as the ability to measure and analyze results, is required. Responsibilities include conducting field noise and vibration measurements, analyzing and evaluating data, reviewing design documents and specifications, and preparing reports. Experience in education, healthcare, government, commercial, residential, or hospitality sectors is highly valued. Project management experience, involvement in multi-disciplinary design teams, and coordination with architects, engineers, project managers, and developers are essential. We value qualities and experience that strengthen client service and management. SM&W follows a hybrid work policy. This role requires on-site presence in the Denver office or at a project site for three days each week, with the option to work remotely for two days. Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide acoustic consulting in architectural & mechanical acoustics, & environmental noise control, and vibration isolation projects.
• Manage all aspects of your assigned projects and work closely with the project team from beginning to end, focusing on budget, scheduling, design, client and consultant communication, and coordination.
• Play an integral role in the project coordination, acting as the primary point of contact between the design team and the user/client to ensure a successful implementation of acoustic design elements.
• Interact with vendors to facilitate design details for the project team and proper specification of acoustic systems and products.
• Collect and analyze noise and vibration data. Perform calculations and site surveys/construction administration punch-lists.
• Familiarity with Bluebeam, AutoCAD/BIM, EASE, Sound Plan, and Microsoft application suite.
• This role may involve 5-15% travel, both domestically and internationally.

  Skills and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, architectural acoustics, physics, audio technology, or a similar degree with coursework in architectural acoustics.
• 8+ years’ experience
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with demonstrated experience in developing relationships with staff and clients.
• Client focus, with a commitment to quality and problem-solving.
• Functional knowledge of the Bluebeam PDF software
• Proficiency in Microsoft Suite/Office 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, etc.)
• Project Management Certification is a plus.

Career Growth: Tremendous opportunities to grow within an organization that is amongst the most recognized, innovative, and trusted multidisciplinary consulting service firms in the world. We are a firm that values and respects our staff, fosters an environment that encourages learning and growth, and is committed to the success of our employees. Health Benefits / Work-life balance: We encourage our employees to lead a healthy and balanced life. Our comprehensive benefits include:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Individual and Dependent Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Short & Long Term Disability
• A generous Paid Time Off Program (PTO)
• Hybrid work schedules – 3 days in the office or on the job site, 2 days remote

Professional Development: We view our professional development programs as strategic investments in our future. As part of the firm’s commitment to licensure and professional development, SM&W offers:

• Training and professional development programs and incentives
• Continued Professional Development
• SM&W University Learning & Development Program
• Mentoring Programs

  Annual Salary Range: $95,000- $115,000. The salary range provided represents only one aspect of the overall employee compensation package. Individual compensation determinations are influenced by various factors, including experience, position level, skill sets, geographic location, and the need to maintain internal equity among peers within the organization. We acknowledge that the candidate selected may have either less experience or higher seniority than suggested in the job posting. In such cases, the revised salary range will be communicated to the candidate. Contact Information: For immediate consideration, please e-mail your resume to careers@smwllc.com. Ref: CO AC  

Acentech, a multidisciplinary design consulting firm specializing in acoustics, vibration, audiovisual systems, IT and security system design seeks to hire a senior- to principal-level consultant to work with our Noise and Vibration team. The position can be located at any of our offices in Cambridge, MA; Philadelphia, PA; Fairfax, VA; or Los Angeles, CA, or staff locations in Chicago, IL; Houston, TX; Charlottesville, VA; or Huntsville, AL, but other remote locations will also be considered. We’re building a diverse and inclusive workforce; be part of our growth! In this position, you will have the opportunity for hands-on consulting for the full range of our projects, including environmental, data centers, science and biotech, construction, commercial, energy, industrial, healthcare and education. You’ll manage projects, communicate with clients, lead proposals, conduct measurements and modeling, prepare technical reports, and contribute to mentoring and internal research and development. Salary Range: $115,000 – $145,000 The ideal candidate has: Greater than five years of experience working in environmental noise. Degree in engineering or science, with coursework or specialization in acoustics and/or vibration, or equivalent experience Consulting and project management experience. Familiarity with acoustics or vibration measurement instrumentation and related data processing, analysis and modeling. Strong presentation, interpersonal, and communication skills – written and verbal, including the ability to communicate technical concepts clearly to clients, agencies, and public audiences. Strong organizational skills and self-motivation. Ability to work both in teams and on your own on multiple, simultaneous projects. Experience working within project budgets and timelines. Experience managing project teams and developing client relationships. Passion for their work and attention to detail. Familiarity with modeling software (such as CadnaA). Willingness to travel and conduct field work (sometimes on nights and weekends). Acentech’s consultants are enthusiastically involved in professional societies and industry associations (ASA, INCE, and others). With over 65 consultants, Acentech is one of the largest organizations of its type. We foster a collaborative environment of diverse talent, and encourage people of color, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and non-binary people, neurodivergent, veterans, parents, and individuals with disabilities to apply. Acentech is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team. If you need reasonable accommodation at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States. Please reach out to bmarkham@acentech.com with any questions.

Entry- to Mid-Level Acoustical Consultant Summary DLAA is seeking an acoustical consultant/engineer for a staff consultant position in the firm’s Denver, Colorado office. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field of acoustics, engineering, architecture or science and a minimum of 2 years acoustical consulting experience. As a staff consultant you will be an active member of our technical staff and will work under the direction of the firm’s Senior and Principal Consultants. He or she will be responsible for the following:

• Conducting acoustical analyses and developing recommendations for room acoustics, airborne and structure-borne sound insulation, and HVAC system noise and vibration control engineering.
• Preparing design documents, writing reports, participating in design team meetings, coordinating with other design team members concerning acoustical design details, and developing acoustical criteria for different types of facilities.
• Conducting field measurements (sound transmission loss, impact noise insulation, reverberation time, environmental noise, etc.)
• A working knowledge of acoustical modeling software such as EASE, Cadna-A, AIM, and TRANE is a definite plus.

About Us Since 1979,  D. L. Adams Associates (DLAA) has provided acoustical, theatre, and audio-video consulting and design services to the design and construction industry.  DLAA provides world class acoustical consulting to create exceptional experiences on the stage, in the classroom, on the factory floor and beyond.  DLAA has successfully completed acoustical projects throughout the Rocky Mountain region, throughout the United States, and as far as Chile, South Korea, Guam, and Japan. DLAA has offices in Denver, CO, Kailua, HI, and Lenexa, KS. Requirements:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a field of engineering or science
• Minimum 2 years of experience in architectural acoustics consulting or similar field
• Excellent verbal and writing skills
• Exceptional people skills

Duties and Responsibilities Include:

• Read and review design documents including architectural, structural, and mechanical plans.
• Writing and editing reports.
• Coordinating with other design team members concerning design details.
• Developing acoustical criteria for different types of facilities.
• Direct contact and communication with clients.
• Some travel can be expected, as we work nationally and internationally.
• Ability to relocate to Denver, Colorado.

Compensation

• Competitive compensation aligned with the Denver AEC market. Salary range $65,000-$90,000 commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Hybrid work schedule
• 401(k) with company matching
• Paid time off, sick leave, and paid holidays

Please send your resume to Ben Bridgewater at bbridgewater@dlaa.com. For more information, visit our website at www.dlaa.com and www.avantacoustics.com.   DLAA is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a protected veteran or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable Federal, State or Local law. 

Cavanaugh Tocci, a prominent consulting firm in the field of acoustics, noise control, audiovisual, and theatrical systems design, is seeking a highly motivated, organized, collaborative, and accomplished acoustic engineer to join our environmental team. The environmental team provides a full suite of services including design, noise/vibration monitoring, computer noise modeling, public outreach, and post-construction studies. We pride ourselves on providing excellent customer service informed by practical application of engineering principals. Located in a suburb of Boston, our firm is well known in the architectural and engineering community with a fifty-year history of providing elegant engineering solutions. We have worked on many award-winning projects at large corporations, prominent universities, and other institutions. Job Description

• Provide collaborative guidance and leadership in the environmental acoustics team.
• Foster ongoing commitment to engineering principles, client service and company culture.
• Use your consulting expertise, engineering knowledge, and problem-solving skills to design and engineer acoustic solutions for our valued clients.
• Attend client meetings with engineers, architects, and owners.
• Work with environmental team to complete measurements, analyses, modeling, and reporting.
• Mentor junior staff.
• Analyze and interpret modeling results, evaluate mitigation measures, and document results through development of technical reports.
• Provide technical expertise in the analysis and measurement of building MEP systems and environmental noise.
• Model and process complex data using Microsoft Excel, GIS, and Cadna/A.
• Lead business development efforts including proposal writing and project scoping.
• Present at public meetings and appear as expert witness
• Represent company and participate in professional society activities and conferences.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or physics required. Master’s degree preferred. Specialization or coursework in acoustics is preferred.
• Professional certification such as INCE Board Certification or P.E. preferred.
• Minimum ten years’ experience in acoustic consulting with an emphasis on environmental sound evaluation.
• Peer review and code analysis experience a plus.
• Strong capabilities with sound and signal analysis instrumentation.
• Experience managing teams.
• Experience reading architectural/engineering drawings and site plans.
• Experience with acoustic modeling software (CadnaA) and data management tools to support acoustic/noise analyses SQL, Python, GIS).
• Experience interpreting noise regulations, building codes, and relevant test standards.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to conduct field work at remote sites, which can require air travel.
• Must demonstrate, at hire, proof of permission to work permanently in the United States.

Cavanaugh Tocci offers a competitive salary and generous benefits package. We strongly support professional development and our staff is very active in professional societies. Qualified candidates please send your resume to jobs@cavtocci.com

Ready to shape the future of sound? RSG is looking for a talented Managing Consultant to join our forward-thinking Acoustics team and redefine what's possible. This role is fully remote and candidates within the contiguous United States are encouraged to apply. If you are ready to make an impact, please submit your application, along with your resume and cover letter HERE.

PRIMARY PURPOSE

Managing Consultants are subject matter experts who plan and manage small teams responsible for complex and large-scale project portfolios. They are responsible for the performance of the team and growth of existing portfolios. Additionally, you will have direct project management and work product responsibilities ensuring on time and on budget project delivery that results in high client satisfaction and excellent business performance outcomes.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Team Leadership and Management

• Lead multiple project teams in executing consulting engagements on time and on budget with RSG’s high standard for delivery.
• Contribute insights to project strategies, considering client objectives and industry trends.
• Ensure effective communication and collaboration within the team.
• Guide project managers in managing project resources efficiently, including human capital and other project-related assets.
• Actively participate in the recruitment, selection, and management of staff, including mentoring and development of staff.
• Mentor and provide guidance on project tasks and professional growth (interpersonal and technical).

Business Development and Client Relations

• Build and maintain relationships with clients.
• Understand client needs and contribute to solution development.
• Identify growth opportunities within existing client organizations and build new client relationships.
• Maintain knowledge and information about industry trends and best practices to contribute valuable insights to clients and RSG’s planning processes.
• Actively participates in activities/industry events to advance the RSG brand.

Project Management

• Manage project budgets, timelines, and resources to ensure successful delivery of projects.
• Oversee project delivery to meet client expectations, ensuring a high level of client satisfaction.
• Efficiently allocates resources, monitors and reports on key performance indicators for project success.
• Lead contingency planning and issue mitigation (e.g., difficult client conversations).
• Assist in developing project roadmaps.
• Performs project-related tasks.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of bachelor's degree in relevant field of study
• 10+ years of professional experience
• PE and/or INCE Board Certification preferred

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple competing projects, priorities, and deadlines.
• Demonstrated experience with managing project teams and drive accountability for quality outcomes.
• Demonstrated experience supervising and mentoring staff (e.g. setting goals and providing feedback).
• Driven with an achievement orientation to develop new innovative processes in emerging fields.
• Demonstrated professionalism and poise.
• Familiarity with applicable national and international monitoring and modeling standards.
• Experience conducting interior and exterior sound level measurements.
• Software tools such as Cadna/A and/or Soundplan Proficiency in relevant sound measurement techniques and equipment.
• Experience doing live testimony.
• Proven ability to provide technical guidance to employees, colleagues and/or customers.
• Demonstrated excellence in communications, both verbal and written.
• Advanced data management and analytics skills (e.g., SQL, Python, R).
• Demonstrated ability to develop new customer relationships and build business opportunities.
• Demonstrated executive presence and ability to present in larger groups or forums.
• Communicate complex technical materials in concise and meaningful ways to project team members and clients.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Requires periodic travel.
• Frequently involves standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
• Operates a computer and other office machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine or computer printer.
• Frequently communicates with colleagues and clients. Must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations.
• Ability to uphold the stress of traveling.
• Ability to hike to remote locations carrying equipment up to 50lbs.

BENEFITS

• Competitive salary range of $117k - $146k/year (Compensation within the posted range is based on multiple factors including geographic location, experience, internal equity, and qualifications. Offers are typically not made at the top of the range).
• 100% employee-owned company with employee stock ownership plan (ESOP).
• Award-winning culture and workplace flexibility.
• Competitive 401(k) with matching, medical with HSA, dental, vision, disability, and other insurance coverage.
• Professional Development opportunities.

RSG is not currently accepting H-1B applicants for this position. EEO/AA Employer/ Vet/ Disabled. Please reach out to indi.savitala@rsginc.com with any questions.

Position Summary  We are looking for mid or senior level acoustical consultant who takes ownership, enjoys learning in a collaborative environment, and builds trust with coworkers and clients. Our acoustics team addresses noise isolation, HVAC noise and vibration, environmental noise, and room acoustics in a wide variety of projects including healthcare, education, industrial, worship, corporate, environmental, and more.    About Us  ABD Engineering & Design is a woman-owned acoustical consulting and audiovisual design firm with offices in Grand Rapids, MI and Portland, OR. We strive to create a future where every day spaces meet the acoustical and audiovisual needs of every person. We are committed to fostering an open and inclusive workplace where individuals from all backgrounds feel valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. We offer competitive salaries based on qualifications.  Benefits include paid time off, ten paid holidays, eighty hours of paid sick leave, health, dental, and vision insurance, commuter benefits, 401k plan, life and disability insurance, flexible work schedule, and hybrid work environment with three days per week in the office. Anticipated salary range is $75,000 to $120,000 annually, commensurate with experience.  Minimum Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architectural Acoustics, Engineering, Physics, or related field with emphasis on acoustics. 

• Minimum of 3-5+ years of experience in acoustical consulting, acoustical engineering, or related occupation. 

• Authorization to work in the U.S. without sponsorship. 

  Duties and Responsibilities (include but not limited to the following): 

• Read and review architectural, mechanical, and structural plans and consult on space design, material selection, and mechanical systems noise. 

• Measure and analyze the impact of noise and vibration on interior and exterior environments and ensure acoustical compliance with noise ordinances, building codes, and standards. 

• Attend meetings, internal as well as with clients and prospects as needed. 

• Write technical reports and explain technical concepts to clients. 

• Manage projects, client expectations, and deadlines. 

• Mentor junior staff. 

  Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

• Excellent problem solving, time management, and organizational skills. 

• Experience with sound and vibration test equipment. 

• Solid understanding of acoustic principles and real-world application of building and environmental acoustics.  

• Experience in AutoCAD systems and acoustical modeling software including EASE, HVAC Noise Modeling software, SoundPLAN, Cadna-A, or equivalent. 

• Rigorous data processing and analysis skills, excellent verbal and written communication skills, and outstanding teaming skills. 

• Ability to travel as needed. 

• Ability to relocate to Portland, Oregon. 

Please send your resume to Marci Boks at mboks@abdengineering.com.  For more information, visit our website at abdengineering.com.     ABD is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a protected veteran or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable Federal, State or Local law.