Job Description IF YOU ARE HIRED PROVISIONALLY IN THIS TITLE, YOU MUST TAKE AND PASS THE CIVIL SERVICE EXAM, WHEN IT BECOMES AVAILABLE, TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR CONTINUED EMPL The Research and Policy Development Unit (RPD), within the Office of Policy, Procedures, and Training, at the NYC Department of Social Services (DSS) Unit is the anchor that ensures that the most vulnerable New Yorkers receive the benefits and services they need to assist them on the path towards self-sufficiency. This unit is responsible for guaranteeing the programs overseeing these services and benefits are consistent with and are true to the intent of the governing laws. Under general direction of the Assistant Deputy Commissioner of Research Policy and Development, with very wide latitude for independent decision and action, the Senior Manager of Policy Compliance will direct research, conduct high level analysis, and manage the drafting of reports utilizing research methods and program evaluation techniques. The Senior Manager of Policy Compliance will provide technical guidance to agency stakeholders on social welfare research and programmatic alternatives in support of implementation of agency reforms in FIA and SNAP Centers and homelessness initiatives. The Office of Policy, Procedure and Training (OPPT) is recruiting for a City Research Scientist to function as a Senior Manager of Policy Compliance, who will: - Interpret results of research studies, rules and regulations in preparation for publication of official reports. Coordinate legislative compliance; ensure completion of related reporting for both HRA and DHS and respond to executive inquiries. Organize the collection of all mandated state and local plans such as the TANF Plan, the SNAP Plan, Biennial Temporary Assistance and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Employment Plan, the Homeless Services Plan, and the IVRS Annual Plan. - Serve as lead technical expert in support of identifying barriers to participation in NYC social services including SNAP, cash assistance and homeless services. Determine appropriate research method and conduct advanced program and policy analysis. Direct and design complex policy research projects on the effectiveness of social service programs and ways to improve access to services. - Analyze and coordinate the work of unit staff on drafting of waiver and demonstration project requests on highly technical regulatory provisions for appropriate state and/or federal agencies. Supervise, manage and mentor subordinate staff conducting research/investigations on policy and welfare program initiatives; instruct personnel in policy analysis and research methods and techniques. Provide direct supervision of subordinate staff to support execution of unit activities. - Analyze, study and report by applying qualitative research methods including interviews, surveys, observation, and focus groups on the effects of relevant federal, state, and local law and policy changes, publicly reported data, provider and advocate reports, budgets, and other legal and policy developments impacting access to public welfare programs. - Identify and investigate social welfare policy developments, topics and issue areas relevant to the Agency; coordinate with subject matter experts, internal and external to the Agency, for prompt analysis of the potential impact of proposed policies and legislation; conduct literature reviews to support recommendations for Agency positions; guide the Agency’s policy and regulatory work as well as the development of policy positions. - Develop policy and research briefs and memoranda as appropriate and conduct briefings for senior leadership. Leads and/or supports in executing policy, advocacy, and programmatic responses as appropriate, including reviewing proposed legislation, rules, and regulations. Lead the development and maintenance of the Agency’s legislative agenda, as well positions on pending legislative bills; contribute to the Agency’s regulatory and legislative work. - Identify, explore, monitor and develop new policies, programs, and initiatives to improve access to social welfare benefits for vulnerable populations. Work closely with Office of General Counsel to develop, organize, and guide implementation for Agency Initiatives. Provide regular updates at senior leadership meetings or as requested by the Assistant Deputy Commissioner or Deputy General Counsel on initiative progress or strategic milestones. - Assist on special projects as needed and performs additional duties as assigned. Work Location: 4WTC 150 Greenwich Street, New York NY Hours/Schedule: 9am - 5pm Qualifications 1. 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. To be appointed to Assignment Level II and above, candidates must have: 1. A doctorate degree from an accredited college or university 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 in the appropriate field of specialization; or 2. A master's degree from an accredited college or university with specialization in an appropriate field of physical, biological, environmental or social science and three years of responsible full-time research experience in the appropriate field of specialization; or 3. Education and/or experience which is equivalent to "1" or "2" above. However, all candidates must have at least a master's degree in an appropriate field of specialization and at least two years of experience described in "2" above. Two years as a City Research Scientist Level I can be substituted for the experience required in "1" and "2" above. NOTE: Probationary Period Appointments to this position are subject to a minimum probationary period of one year. Additional Information 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.