Special Projects Specialist, Bureau of Alcohol and Drug Use

The Bureau of Alcohol and Drug Use (BADU) works to close gaps and reduce overall morbidity and mortality related to alcohol and substance use among New Yorkers. BADU develops, implements, and evaluates interventions and prevention strategies through contracting of treatment, recovery and support services; policy analysis and development; epidemiology and surveillance; dissemination of treatment and management guidelines; harm reduction initiatives; public and provider outreach and education; and community involvement and interagency collaboration. The Bureau amplifies the voices of those most impacted and focuses on inequitable structural, social, service, and communication factors that drive disparities. CITy Research Scientist – 21744 Duties and Responsibilities Support the implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and expansion of the Public Health Vending Machine Pilot Initiative, using a research and equity-informed approach. Support funded OOPPs by providing technical assistance, and conduct research efforts for the development, implementation, and evaluation of strategies to increase naloxone access in priority settings and neighborhoods. Support ongoing research efforts to enhance and expand pharmacy naloxone distribution and engagement. Provide technical assistance and programmatic support around community engagement across OENDU projects. Collaborate with other OENDU and BADU staff for ongoing development and enhancement of materials and resources aimed at preventing overdose and expanding strategic naloxone distribution efforts. Provide support for packing and mailing of naloxone kits and training related materials and maintain appropriate records for all kits and material mailed and dispensed. Participate in OENDU meetings, including facilitation on a rotating basis. Participate in bureau‑ and agency‑wide activities for advancing racial, gender, and social equity and support efforts to center equity in OENDU’s work. Represent OENDU in intra‑Bureau and Divisional workgroups and meetings and liaise and present to community coalitions. Other duties or tasks may be assigned on an as‑needed basis.

PREFERRED SKILLS

Knowledge of substance use and harm reduction practice and theory, including syringe exchange, overdose prevention and education for HIV and Hepatitis C prevention. Ability to work independently, have excellent oral and written communication and organizational skills, and be a flexible team player; detail‑oriented with outstanding organizational skills. Sensitivity to various ethnic, racial, and cultural backgrounds, gender identities, sexual orientations, and socioeconomic conditions. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Access, Outlook, and Word. Ability to multi‑task in a fast‑paced, high‑volume environment, managing multiple projects and tasks at once. Minimum Qualifications For Assignment Level I (only physical, biological and environmental sciences and public health) a master’s degree from an accredited college or university with a specialization in an appropriate field of physical, biological or environmental science or in public health. For Assignment Level II and above: a doctorate degree with specialization in an appropriate field of physical, biological, environmental or social science and one year of full‑time experience in a responsible supervisory, administrative or research capacity, OR a master’s degree with specialization in an appropriate field of physical, biological, environmental or social science and three years of responsible full‑time research experience, OR equivalent education and/or experience. All candidates must have at least a master’s degree and at least two years of experience described above. Two years as a City Research Scientist Level I can substitute for the required experience. Public Service Loan Forgiveness As a prospective employee of the City of New York, you may be eligible for federal loan forgiveness programs and state repayment assistance programs. For more information, please visit the U.S. Department of Education’s website at Residency Requirement New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment. City Employees in certain titles who have worked for the City for 2 continuous years may also be eligible to reside in Nassau, Suffolk, Putnam, Westchester, Rockland, or Orange County. To determine if the residency requirement applies to you, discuss with an agency representative at the time of interview. Benefits Loan Forgiveness: Potential eligibility for federal/state loan forgiveness and repayment assistance programs. Health insurance: Premium‑free plan that may save employees over $10K annually, per a 2024 assessment. Additional health, fitness, and financial benefits may be available based on the position’s associated union/benefit fund. Public sector defined benefit pension plan with steady monthly payments in retirement. Tax‑deferred savings program. Robust Worksite Wellness Program offering resources and opportunities to maintain health while serving New Yorkers. Work‑from‑home policy: Depending on the position, you may be able to work up to two days during the week from home. Job security: Compared to private‑sector employment, a City position offers more security and a chance to contribute to making NYC a healthier place. Commitment to Equity The City of New York is an inclusive, equal‑opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual’s sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement The NYC Health Department is an inclusive equal‑opportunity employer committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation to all individuals. To request reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, contact Sye‑Eun Ahn, Director of the Office of Equal Employment Opportunity, at View email address on click.appcast.io or View phone number on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr DEPT OF HEALTH/MENTAL HYGIENE