Immigrant Workers Specialist 1 - Williamsville

Description Duties Description Provides outreach to agricultural employers and workers to inform them of the services, resources and programs provided by DOL through field visits to farms across the state. Reviews and investigates complaints against agricultural employers suspected of violating State labor laws and other regulations by interviewing employers, employees and witnesses. Evaluates complaints based upon investigative findings and makes initial determinations and recommendations. Coordinates with other Department programs to investigate and resolve complaints, and when necessary, forwards information to enforcement agencies for determination and assessment of civil penalties. Follows up with workers to ensure resolution of their complaints and determines whether satisfactory progress is being made and needed services are being provided. Provides outreach to non‑agricultural employers and workers to inform them of the services, resources and programs provided by DOL. Holds workshops to enhance immigrant workers’ understanding of their rights under State and federal labor laws, rules and regulations, and ensures that they are aware of the Department’s resources. Performs inspection and investigation activities regarding employment and housing of farm workers to ensure compliance with applicable regulations. Provides technical assistance to agricultural employers seeking foreign labor and answers questions on State and federal labor laws, rules, and regulations regarding employment. Determines whether customers are domestic, guest worker, year‑round, migrant, or seasonal farm workers and explains their rights as farm workers and directs them to supportive services in the area. Maintains contact with community agencies, governmental agencies, and employers to inform them of immigrant workers in the area and to collect information. Attends immigrant community events and meetings to stay informed of current news, problems, trends and issues in immigrant communities. Conducts community outreach activities and serves as DOL Liaison to immigrant workers and related advocacy groups to identify and address their needs, priorities, and concerns; and ensures equitable access to Department programs, services, facilities and other resources. Establishes and maintains working relationships with other State and federal agencies to provide information to assist immigrant workers in gaining access to available programs and services. Promotes the use of DOL programs and services in the rural sector with an emphasis on protecting the rights, safety, and dignity of immigrant farm workers. Assists in developing awareness campaigns and assesses the services provided by the DOL targeted at existing and emerging immigrant populations. Works with Department programs to translate brochures, pamphlets, posters, and other literature into languages spoken by immigrant and migrant populations. Works to improve the cultural competency of Department staff to improve responsiveness to the needs and interests of immigrant workers. Targets outreach to immigrant populations statewide, based upon current census data, resettlement data and concentrations of affected populations. Measures effectiveness of the Department’s immigrant outreach efforts through process and outcome evaluation. Analyzes reports, census data, and other statistical information regarding immigrant population trends, issues, and concerns. Responds to correspondence, prepares letters, and issues papers regarding immigration issues. Prepares reports and memoranda outlining immigrant workers needs and concerns and describing the Department’s outreach activities and their outcomes. In collaboration with various anti‑trafficking coalitions and the internal Labor Trafficking Response Unit, educates the public about labor trafficking, and how to identify trafficking victims and their families. Also works with the unit to identify areas and individuals where attention and resources may be needed. Advocates for appropriate services for trafficking victims and their families. Qualifications Minimum Qualifications As this position requires travel, the appointee must have a valid license to operate a motor vehicle in New York State and have a motor vehicle or otherwise demonstrate their capacity to meet the transportation needs of the position. Non‑Competitive: bachelor’s degree and two years of experience providing assistance, direction or support to improve, protect, and preserve the rights of workers and/or immigrants, or assisting clients in understanding and participating in public or private programs. The experience must include involvement in public education, communications, or community outreach activities. Substitution: a master’s degree or law degree may substitute for one year of experience for all levels. Note: It is essential that you describe your qualifying education and/or experience as completely as possible on your application; your application should describe in detail the kind of service and information you provide to the general public. Omissions or vagueness may not be interpreted in your favor. Additionally, in accordance with Civil Service Law, provisional service immediately prior to a permanent appointment to this title is now credited towards the completion of probation upon permanent appointment. Preferred Qualifications Ability to initiate and maintain relationships across a diverse set of stakeholders. Additional Comments Position specific job duties may include occasional altered work schedule or job assignments which require availability and willingness to work occasional evenings and/or out‑stationed assignments. Candidates with no previous state service will begin at the starting rate of the salary range listed above. If you are a current NYS employee and have questions regarding salary, please contact the Business Services Center (BSC): View phone number on click.appcast.io, View email address on click.appcast.io. Telecommuting is available and can be discussed during the interview. NYS Department of Labor does not participate in E‑Verify and does not sponsor visa applications. Employment at the Department of Labor is contingent upon the maintenance of a valid work authorization and necessary documentation to work legally in the United States. Please note: Due to operational requirements and funding considerations of various divisions/positions, there could be occasions in the future where unit assignments may change. Should this occur, it will not impact your title, salary or location. Benefits 13 paid holidays, 5 personal days, and a minimum of 13 vacation days per year Paid sick leave (CSEA and PEF employees‑ 13 days; M/C employees‑ 8 days plus free enrollment into the Income Protection Program for short‑term and long‑term disability coverage). Choice of several affordable and competitive health insurance plans Dental and vision insurance plans at no additional cost Membership in the NYS Employee’s Retirement System NYS Deferred Compensation Investment Plan Eligibility to apply for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) (full‑time employees) Eligibility to apply for tuition reimbursement for qualifying employees and courses Paid Parental Leave Our mission is to provide outstanding services to our customers - the workers and business that call New York home. We help New Yorkers find careers they will love. We build and support New York’s businesses. We empower and protect New York’s workers. To learn more about our mission and the exciting work of the DOL, please visit: DOL is committed to fostering employee engagement and work‑life balance. We offer telecommuting and alternative work schedules to eligible employees. Eligible employees may be approved to telecommute, if operationally feasible, up to 2 days per regular work‑week, and not to exceed 4 days per two‑week pay period. Telecommuting can be discussed at the time of interview. Our exciting training and development opportunities, including Coursera and our formal Employee Recognition Program allow us to develop, recognize, and celebrate our workforce. Please note that specific benefits and programs may vary based on negotiating unit, current contract, length of State service, and program area. #J-18808-Ljbffr