Special Projects Specialist, Bureau of Alcohol and Drug Use, Prevention, Care, and Treatment

NYC Department of Social Services; New York (NY); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The NYC Department of Social Services is seeking a Special Projects Specialist to support initiatives aimed at preventing opioid overdose deaths. This role involves community engagement, technical assistance, and collaboration on resource development. The ideal candidate will have a Master's degree and a strong background in substance use and harm reduction practices, with a commitment to equity and diversity.

Benefits

Loan Forgiveness programs

Comprehensive benefits including health insurance

Pension and wellness programs

Work From Home options

Job security

Qualifications

• Master's degree in relevant fields for Level I.
• Doctorate or equivalent experience for higher levels.

Responsibilities

• Support projects related to opioid overdose prevention and naloxone distribution.
• Provide technical assistance to funded OOPPs and develop strategies.
• Research to expand pharmacy naloxone distribution.

Skills

Knowledge of substance use

Harm reduction practices

Overdose prevention practices

Excellent communication

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Sensitivity to diverse backgrounds

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Ability to manage multiple projects

Education

Master's degree in relevant fields

Doctorate or equivalent experience

Job description

Special Projects Specialist, Bureau of Alcohol and Drug Use, Prevention, Care, and Treatment

Division/Program Summary:
The Bureau of Alcohol and Drug Use Prevention, Care and Treatment (BADUPCT) aims to reduce morbidity and mortality related to alcohol and substance use among New Yorkers. It oversees prevention, treatment, harm reduction, recovery services, policy analysis, epidemiology, surveillance, and community engagement.

The Overdose Education and Naloxone Distribution Unit (OENDU) develops initiatives to prevent opioid overdose deaths, providing naloxone, training, and technical assistance across NYC.

Position Summary:
The Special Projects Specialist will support projects related to opioid overdose prevention, naloxone distribution, and community engagement, aiming to prevent overdose deaths.

Job Duties include:

• Supporting the Public Health Vending Machine Pilot Initiative.
• Providing technical assistance to funded OOPPs and developing strategies to increase naloxone access.
• Research to expand pharmacy naloxone distribution.
• Supporting community engagement efforts.
• Collaborating on material development and resource enhancement.
• Assisting with packing and mailing naloxone kits and maintaining records.
• Participating in meetings and representing OENDU in various forums.
• Supporting efforts to promote racial, gender, and social equity.

Note: Occasional travel within NYC required.

Preferred Skills:

• Knowledge of substance use, harm reduction, and overdose prevention practices.
• Ability to work independently, with excellent communication, organizational skills, and attention to detail.
• Sensitivity to diverse backgrounds and identities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

Why work with us:

• Loan Forgiveness programs.
• Comprehensive benefits including health insurance, pension, and wellness programs.
• Work From Home options.
• Job security and opportunity to contribute to public health.

About NYC Health Department:
Established in 1805, dedicated to protecting and improving NYC residents' health through various programs and initiatives.

Commitment to Equity:
The department promotes diversity and inclusion, providing accommodations for applicants as needed.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Master's degree in relevant fields for Level I.
• Doctorate or equivalent experience for higher levels, with specific experience requirements.

Additional details include probation, residency, and employment conditions.