Chief Investigator; Human Rights Specialist

Duties Description

Reporting directly to the Assistant Commissioner, the Human Rights Specialist 3 will serve as the Chief Investigator, directing and planning anti‑discrimination investigations.

• Develops and implements investigation of individual claims of discrimination or suspected systematic forms of discrimination.
• Identifies any research, witnesses, or documentary evidence needed.
• Sets deadlines to secure and evaluate evidence and complete the investigation.
• Oversees the development of investigative reports, and ensures quality, completeness, and accuracy in such reports.
• Reviews complex case files and issues a determination based on the findings of the investigation as to whether probable cause exists to believe that unlawful discrimination has occurred.
• Develops and conducts outreach efforts to relevant communities and/or constituency groups to educate such communities and groups on the New York State Human Rights Law and the Division; ensures that operations and staff are in full compliance with all laws, policies, procedures, and standards, including requirements for the Division’s Case Management System.
• Responsible for the hiring of new investigators.
• Performs the full range of supervisory duties, including performance evaluations, employee selection, and time and attendance.
• Develops and delivers training programs for current and new investigators.

• Non‑Competitive
  
  Qualifications:
  
  Nine years of experience
  * in any combination of the following areas: field investigation or law enforcement investigation and the preparation of detailed narrative reports; planning, developing, implementing or enforcing a human rights, civil rights or housing and community development program; conducting discrimination or labor relations investigations; or litigation.
• Substitution: an associate’s degree in human rights, public administration, public policy, political science, psychology, public justice, criminal justice, pre‑law studies or international relations may substitute for two years of the required professional experience; a bachelor’s degree in the same fields may substitute for four years of the required professional experience; a master’s degree in the same fields or a Juris Doctorate may substitute for five years of the required professional experience;
  
  and a doctorate in the same fields may substitute for six years of the required professional experience.
• Transfer
  
  Qualifications:
  
  Current New York State employee with one year or more permanent, contingent‑permanent or 55b/c service as a Human Rights Specialist 3 and are interested in reassignment; OR Current New York State employee with one year or more of permanent, contingent‑permanent, or 55b/c service in a position eligible for transfer under Section 52.6 of the Civil Service Law.

• 2 – 5 years supervising and supporting a mid‑sized staff.
• Previous experience working for a government agency, whether City, State, or Federal, in particular United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, EEOC and local human rights commissions.
• Connections to the Fair Housing community in New York State.
• Intersectional and trauma‑informed approach to working with constituents.
• Demonstrated commitment to public service.
• Advanced degree in either law, writing, or a related field preferred.

• Holiday & Paid Time Off
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Pension from New York State Employees’ Retirement System
• Affordable Health Care options
• Family dental and vision benefits at no additional cost
• NYS Deferred Compensation plan
• Access to NY 529 College Savings Program

This position is eligible for $4000 location pay.

All people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.