Child Care Investigator

City of New York; Lincoln (NE); Hybrid; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a dedicated team at a forward-thinking organization focused on ensuring the safety and health of children in childcare programs. As an Associate Investigator, you will play a crucial role in investigating allegations of unsafe practices, conducting thorough surveillance, and collaborating with various agencies to uphold regulations. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to public health and safety in a diverse and dynamic environment. With a strong commitment to equity and inclusion, this role not only provides job security but also allows you to make a meaningful impact in the community. If you're passionate about child welfare and investigative work, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Benefits

Premium-free health insurance

Pension plan

Tax-deferred savings program

Worksite Wellness Program

Remote work policy

Qualifications

• 5 years of investigative experience or equivalent education.
• Ability to work independently and in a team setting.

Responsibilities

• Investigate allegations of illegal childcare operations.
• Conduct surveillance and interview involved parties.
• Collaborate with investigative agencies.

Skills

Investigative Skills

Analytical Skills

Observational Skills

Communication Skills

Teamwork

Education

High School Diploma

Associate Degree

Baccalaureate Degree

Tools

Mobile Devices

Job description

ONLY PERMANENT EMPLOYEES IN THE TITLE AND THOSE THAT ARE REACHABLE ON THE ASSOCIATE INVESTIGATOR CIVIL SERVICE LIST ARE ELIGIBLE TO APPLY.

Division/Program Summary Description:

The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's Division of Environmental Health works to prevent and control illness and injury related to environmental and occupational health risks through outreach, education, surveillance, and enforcement. With staff of 1,000, the Division covers a broad range of subject matter, including oversight of environmental investigations, lead poisoning, injury prevention, occupational health, food safety, childcare, radiation control, recreational and drinking water quality, air quality, climate health, vector control, veterinary public health, and pest control.

The Bureau of Child Care ensures that childcare services in New York City operate in compliance with the New York City Health Code and New York State Social Service regulations and are licensed or permitted as required by law. The Bureau routinely monitors childcare programs to protect the health and safety of children and actively works to improve and expand access to high-quality programs supporting early childhood development and learning.

Position Summary:

The Bureau seeks to hire an Associate Investigator to respond to allegations of provider activity associated with childcare programs that are unsafe, unhealthy, or unregulated. The Child Care Investigator will also search for childcare providers operating illegally or unregulated, which could pose health and safety risks to children.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Investigate allegations of illegal childcare operations throughout the five boroughs of New York City.
2. Conduct surveillance in and around commercial and residential buildings of suspected illegal operations.
3. Interview childcare operators, staff, witnesses, families, and children involved in complaints.
4. Collaborate with other investigative agencies such as ACS, DOI, NYPD, FDNY.
5. Examine and analyze records of childcare programs to ensure compliance with regulations.
6. Maintain confidential records and files for all investigations.
7. Produce records and evidence to support legal processes.
8. Conduct public education and outreach on choosing licensed providers and reporting unsafe or illegal operations.
9. Travel throughout NYC using mass transit or a personal vehicle and carry approximately 15 pounds of inspection equipment.

Why you should work for us:

• Benefits include a premium-free health insurance plan, additional health, fitness, and financial benefits, a pension plan, a tax-deferred savings program, and a Worksite Wellness Program.
• Work From Home Policy allows up to two days remote work per week, depending on the position.
• Job security and the opportunity to contribute to a healthier NYC environment.

About NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene:

Established in 1805, the NYC Health Department is the oldest and largest in the U.S., dedicated to protecting and improving NYC residents' health through various programs and initiatives, serving as a global leader in public health.

Commitment to Equity:

The City of NYC is an inclusive, equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and a harassment-free work environment. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request.

Position: ASSOCIATE INVESTIGATOR (NOT PR - 31121)

Minimum Qualifications:

1. High school diploma and five years of investigative experience or equivalent.
2. Associate degree or 60 college credits and four years of experience.
3. Baccalaureate degree and two years of experience.
4. Equivalent education and/or experience.

Preferred Skills:

• Ability to work independently and in a team.
• Good observational and analytical skills.
• Ability to assess risks and describe observations in detail.
• Experience in investigations or child protective services is a plus.
• Computer skills including mobile devices.

Additional Program Information:

• This position is open to qualified persons with disabilities under the 55-a Program. Indicate interest at the top of your resume and cover letter.
• Eligible for federal and state loan forgiveness programs.
• NYC residency required within 90 days, with some exceptions.

Additional Information:

The NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene is an inclusive employer committed to diversity and equal opportunity, providing reasonable accommodations upon request.