Equal Specialist - Albany

Job Overview

Under the direction of a supervisor within the Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Access (ODEIA), the Equal Opportunity Specialist 1 will collect and analyze data related to agency diversity and inclusion and equal opportunity programs.

• Conduct comprehensive analysis of data related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and equal opportunity programs, and produce reports to inform strategic planning.
• Perform ongoing assessments using analytics tools to evaluate program effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
• Utilize advanced data analytics techniques to monitor trends and outcomes, supporting continuous improvement efforts.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations for leadership to facilitate informed decision‑making.
• Advise agency management on diversity and inclusion, equal opportunity policies, and best practices, including articulating agency goals and objectives.
• Make determinations on requests from employees and clients for reasonable and religious accommodations pursuant to federal and state laws.
• Investigate employee discrimination complaints and findings, ensuring fair treatment and compliance with legal standards.
• Investigate discrimination complaints related to the provision of services to agency clients and provide recommendations to management.
• Develop and implement programming aimed at enhancing employees’ cultural awareness.
• Represent the agency at events focused on diversity, equity, inclusion, and equal opportunity.
• Meet with advocacy groups to exchange information on policies, procedures, and practices.

• Six years of experience in equal opportunity, diversity and inclusion, or human rights.
• Substitutions: associate’s degree
  * may substitute for two years of experience; bachelor’s degree for four years; and J.D. or master’s degree for five years.
• Degree must have been awarded by an accredited college or university. If awarded outside the United States, provide independent verification of equivalency. (Information can be found at http://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). Candidates are responsible for the evaluation fee.)

• Degree in Data Science, Statistics, Sociology, Public Policy, or a related field.
• Knowledge of federal and state laws and regulations related to reasonable accommodations, equal opportunity, and language access.
• Proficiency in data analysis software and tools such as Excel (advanced functions, pivot tables), SQL, Python (Pandas, Num Py), R, or similar.
• Experience with program/project management tools and record‑keeping skills.
• Expertise in information systems, platforms, and related technology.
• Intermediate level computer skills in Microsoft Office Suite including Outlook, Word, and Excel.
• Excellent spoken and written communication skills, with the ability to explain complex data to diverse audiences.
• Ability to exercise independent judgement, problem‑solving, critical thinking, and decision‑making skills.
• Ability to initiate and maintain relationships across a diverse set of stakeholders.

• Candidates with no previous state service will begin at the starting rate of the salary range listed above.
• For current NYS employees: contact the Business Services Center (BSC): , BSCHR.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.
• Due to operational requirements and funding considerations, unit assignments may change in the future. This will not impact your title, salary, or location.

• 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…