Review Vacancy
AgencyEnvironmental Conservation, Department of
TitlePublic Participation Specialist 1 - NY HELPS
Occupational CategoryOther Professional Careers
Bargaining UnitPS&T - Professional, Scientific, and Technical (PEF)
Salary RangeFrom $66951 to $85138 Annually
Duties Description The PPS 1 position will support the public outreach activities of the Central Office Bureau of Public Outreach (BPO) within the Division of Communication, Education, and Engagement (DCEE).
The PPS 1 will rely on their broad knowledge of environmental topics as well as Department programs, policies, regulations and procedures to respond to requests from program staff as well as the public. They must have excellent communication skills (both verbal and written), be able to work under deadlines, and should be willing to learn how to use virtual meeting platforms. They will schedule and facilitate public meetings and hearings (both in-person and virtual) and other outreach events, as well as oversee outreach initiatives in support of agency programs. They support the regional staff with responses to inquiries from the press and the public.
Typical Duties:
1.Work with the public to ensure understanding of Department programs, through responses to public phone calls, emails and in-person or virtual events. Solicit, collect and summarize public input.
2.Work with DEC programs, divisions and regions in developing and producing informational materials, press releases and website content to support Department initiatives.
3.Work with program staff to develop and implement rollout plans for comprehensive outreach campaigns on agency initiatives.
4.Prepare for and lead public meetings and other events by making site arrangements, preparing agendas, publicizing the event and facilitating question and answer sessions with the public.
5.Promote DEC initiatives and messages and coordinate agency participation at outreach events such as sportsman shows, outdoor expos and the State Fair. Develop rollout plans for outreach events and activities.
6.Coordinate with the press office as needed.
7.Maintain knowledge of the most current and important public issues and programs of the Department, New York State, and DEC Regional offices.
Minimum Qualifications This title is part of the New York Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide Program (NY HELPS).
For the duration of the NY HELPS Program, this title may be filled via a non-competitive appointment, which means no examination is required but all candidates must meet the minimum qualifications of the title for which they apply.
To be eligible for appointment under NY HELPS, candidates must meet the minimum qualifications below:
NON-COMPETITIVE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Six years of experience in the areas of natural resources management, environmental planning, urban planning, environmental regulation development, environmental interpretation, public policy analysis, public information, or public relations and outreach, which included developing and delivering professional presentations to technical or lay audiences or moderating, coordinating, facilitating, or leading public or stakeholder group meetings, or developing and presenting training or educational materials; developing and delivering professional presentations to public audiences, and planning and conducting public meetings; developing and presenting training and educational materials; or developing and implementing public involvement programs or activities.
*An associate degree may substitute for two years of experience; a bachelor’s degree may substitute for four years of experience; a master’s degree may substitute for five years of experience; and a doctorate may substitute for six years of experience.
COMPETITIVE QUALIFICATIONS:
Reassignment - Currently in the title and an employee of DEC
or
Reinstatement Eligible - Previously held the title on a permanent competitive basis or held a title as indicated under the transfer eligible section on a permanent competitive basis.
or
Transfer Eligible - One year of permanent competitive service at Salary Grade 16 or higher and either:
Eligible for transfer under Section 70.4: Must meet the open competitive minimum qualifications below;
or
Eligible for transfer under Section 70.1: Permanent competitive service as a Public Participation Specialist 1, Environmental Educator 2 or Environmental Program Specialist 1.
55-b/55-c Candidates must meet the open competitive minimum qualifications below and include with their resume or application, a copy of the letter from Civil Service which indicates approval for the 55-b/55-c program:
Six years of experience in the areas of natural resources management, environmental planning, urban planning, environmental regulation development, environmental interpretation, public policy analysis, public information, or public relations and outreach, which included developing and delivering professional presentations to technical or lay audiences or moderating, coordinating, facilitating, or leading public or stakeholder group meetings, or developing and presenting training or educational materials; developing and delivering professional presentations to public audiences, and planning and conducting public meetings; developing and presenting training and educational materials; or developing and implementing public involvement programs or activities.
*An associate degree may substitute for two years of experience; a bachelor’s degree may substitute for four years of experience; a master’s degree may substitute for five years of experience; and a doctorate may substitute for six years of experience.
Additional Comments Must have a valid driver’s license or demonstrate the ability to meet the transportation needs of the position.
Travel may be required.
Overtime may be required.
Overnight travel may be required.
Weekends and holidays may be required.
Telecommuting may be available, will be discussed at interview.
We offer a work-life balance and a generous benefits package, worth 65% of salary, including:
• Holiday & Paid Time Off
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Pension from New York State Employees’ Retirement System
• Shift & Geographic pay differentials
• Affordable Health Care options
• Family dental and vision benefits at no additional cost
• NYS Deferred Compensation plan
• Access to NY 529 and NY ABLE College Savings Programs, and U.S. Savings Bonds
• And many more...
For new State employees appointed to graded positions, the annual salary is the hiring rate (beginning of the Salary Range) of the position. Promotion salaries are calculated by the NYS Office of the State Comptroller in accordance with NYS Civil Service Law, OSC Payroll rules and regulations and negotiated union contracts.
The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Our work would not be possible without the diverse backgrounds, experiences, ideas, and abilities of our employees. DEC is committed to developing a workforce which represents the diverse population of New York State. DEC embraces a diverse and inclusive work environment by encouraging all individuals, including those with disabilities, to apply to open positions at the agency.
Please be advised, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation does not use E-Verify, and we are unable to provide sponsorship for employment visa statuses (i.e. H-1B, Self-Sponsorship, STEM OPT).
Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.