Chief Investigator (Human Rights Specialist 3)

About the role

Reporting directly to the Assistant Commissioner, the Human Rights Specialist 3 will serve as the Chief Investigator, directing and planning anti-discrimination investigations.

Responsibilities

• Develops and implements investigation of individual claims of discrimination or suspected systematic forms of discrimination.
• Identifies any research, witnesses, or documentary evidence needed.
• Sets deadlines to secure and evaluate evidence and complete the investigation.
• Oversees the development of investigative reports, ensuring quality, completeness, and accuracy.
• Reviews complex case files and issues a determination based on the findings of the investigation as to whether probable cause exists to believe that unlawful discrimination has occurred.
• Develops and conducts outreach efforts to relevant communities and/or constituency groups to educate them on the New York State Human Rights Law and the Division.
• Ensures that operations and staff are in full compliance with all laws, policies, procedures, and standards, including requirements for the Division’s Case Management System.
• Responsible for the hiring of new investigators.
• Performs the full range of supervisory duties, including performance evaluations, employee selection, and time and attendance.
• Develops and delivers training programs for current and new investigators.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Eight years of experience* in any combination of the following areas:

• Field investigation or law enforcement investigation and the preparation of detailed narrative reports.
• Planning, developing, implementing, or enforcing a human rights, civil rights, or housing and community development program.
• Conducting discrimination or labor relations investigations.
• Litigation.

Substitution: An associate degree may substitute for two years of specialized experience; a bachelor's degree may substitute for four years; a master's degree may substitute for five years; a J.D. may substitute for six years; a Ph.D. may substitute for seven years.

Transfer Qualifications

Current New York State employee with one year or more permanent, contingent-permanent, or 55b/c service as a Human Rights Specialist 3 and interested in reassignment.

Preferred Qualifications

• 2 – 5 years supervising and supporting a mid-sized staff.
• Previous experience working for a government agency, whether City, State, or Federal, particularly the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, EEOC, and local human rights commissions.
• Connections to the Fair Housing community in New York State.
• Intersectional and trauma-informed approach to working with constituents.
• Demonstrated commitment to public service.
• Advanced degree in law, writing, or a related field.

About the Division

The New York State Division of Human Rights is a nation-leading civil rights enforcement agency tasked with combating hate, bias, and discrimination through the enforcement of the New York State Human Rights Law—one of the most expansive state-level civil rights laws in the country. The Division is committed to creating an environment where employees and the New Yorkers we serve feel they belong, and recognizes that diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility are foundational to every aspect of civil rights work.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package, including holiday and paid time off.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
• Pension from the New York State Employees’ Retirement System.
• Affordable health care options.
• Family dental and vision benefits at no additional cost.
• NYS Deferred Compensation plan.
• Access to NY 529 College Savings Program.

Specific benefits and programs may vary based on negotiating unit, current contract, and length of State service.

Pay

Salaries are non-negotiable. Candidates with no previous state service will begin at the starting rate of the posted salary range.