Immigrant Workers Specialist 1 - Rochester

Description Duties Description As an Immigrant Workers Specialist 1, under the guidance of an Immigrant Workers Specialist 2 the incumbents’ duties are as follows, but not limited to: 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 effected 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 experiencefor 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 QualificationsAbility to initiate and maintain relationships across a diverse set of stakeholders.Additional CommentsPosition 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): 518-457-4272, BSCHR@ogs.ny.gov.Telecommuting is available and can be discussed during the interview.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.