Director, Bureau of Environmental Sciences and Engineering

City of New York; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of New York seeks a leader for the Bureau of Environmental Sciences and Engineering to manage a team dedicated to water safety and public health. This role involves overseeing operations, regulatory compliance, and strategic research initiatives. Ideal candidates will possess a strong academic background in environmental sciences and experience in project management. Join us to make a meaningful impact on the health of NYC residents.

Benefits

Loan Forgiveness

Premium-free Health Insurance

Pension Plan

Wellness Resources

Work From Home Policy

Qualifications

• Master's degree required; doctorate preferred for higher levels.
• Minimum two years of relevant experience required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise a team of scientists and engineers.
• Guide strategic research on water safety and disease prevention.
• Coordinate NYC drinking water oversight and compliance.

Skills

Project Management

Regulation Enforcement

Environmental Investigations

Water Quality Monitoring

Interpersonal Skills

Communication Skills

Adaptability

Education

Master's Degree in Environmental Sciences

Doctorate in Public Health

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job Description

The Bureau of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (ESE) is a team of over 100 professionals committed to reducing environmental and engineered hazards in NYC. We oversee water systems in both natural and built environments, as well as radiological materials and equipment. The Office of Public Health Engineering (PHE) promotes water safety and prevention of waterborne diseases by monitoring NYC drinking water supply treatment and distribution, recreational water facilities (beaches, pools, and spas), nonpotable water reuse, and stormwater and sanitary sewage discharges.

DUTIES WILL INCLUDE BUT NOT BE LIMITED TO:

1. Lead and supervise a team of about 25 scientists, engineers, and analysts to manage day-to-day operations for PHE, including program management and resource allocation. Key activities include regulatory inspections, issuing orders, reviewing bathing establishments' engineering and safety, and overseeing drinking water projects and data surveillance.
2. Guide strategic research on water safety, reuse, and waterborne disease prevention to align with industry standards and improve operations.
3. Coordinate efforts to meet mandates of NYC drinking water oversight and requirements under the State Safe Drinking Water Enhancements Grant, including reviews related to Lead and Copper Program, water sampling, FAD compliance, and capital projects.
4. Provide regulatory oversight and sanitary surveys for NYC's drinking water system, including environmental and drowning investigations.
5. Lead beach monitoring programs, including inspections, sampling, and public notifications under the Beach Act Grant.
6. Manage research, assessment, and regulation drafting, including amendments to NYC Health Code and Rules, and analyze legislation for impact assessments.
7. Coordinate with agencies like US EPA, NY State Department of Health, NYC DEP, and others to achieve PHE's goals.
8. Oversee data management, reporting, and compliance with mandates, including performance metrics and publications.
9. Represent the agency at public forums, meetings, and conferences. Support recruitment, staff evaluation, wellness, and equity initiatives, and participate in emergency responses.

PREFERRED SKILLS:

• Academic or professional background in engineering, environmental science, marine science, environmental health, or public health.
• Experience in project management, regulation enforcement, environmental investigations, or water quality monitoring.
• Knowledge of relevant regulations and policies, with ability to analyze legislation.
• Strong interpersonal, customer service, and communication skills.
• Experience with environmental enforcement and research activities.
• Adaptability to a dynamic work environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.

Why you should work for us:

• Loan Forgiveness: Potential eligibility for federal/state loan forgiveness programs.
• Benefits: Premium-free health insurance, pension plan, savings programs, wellness resources.
• Work From Home Policy: Up to two days remote work depending on position.
• Job Security: More stability compared to private sector and opportunity to impact public health in NYC.

Established in 1805, the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene is dedicated to protecting and improving NYC residents' health through various programs and initiatives. Join us to make a difference in the lives of all New Yorkers!

Commitment to Equity: The City of New York is an inclusive employer committed to diversity and equal opportunity. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request.

Qualifications

For Assignment Level I: A master's degree in an appropriate field of physical, biological, environmental sciences, or public health. To qualify for Level II and above, candidates need a doctorate with one year of supervisory experience, or a master's with three years of research experience, or equivalent education and experience. All candidates must have at least a master's degree and two years of relevant experience. Two years at Level I can substitute for some experience requirements.

Note: Appointments are subject to a minimum one-year probationary period.

Additional Information

The City of New York is committed to diversity and provides equal employment opportunities. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities.