Administrative Assistant​/Trainee - NY HELPS

Job Duties

• Answer phones, give information, take messages and transfer calls.
• Distribute incoming mail and e‑mail, prepare packages, and order supplies.
• Use IT applications (email, database, spreadsheet, word processing); create, maintain, and update spreadsheets and databases; create conference or event materials.
• Manage paper and electronic filing systems and handle FOIL requests, uploading documents to GovQA.
• Operate office equipment (printers, scanners, copiers) and arrange repairs.
• Schedule and confirm appointments; coordinate meetings, conferences or special events; arrange travel for staff and submit travel expense reports.
• Compose, type, and distribute meeting notes, correspondences, and reports; take meeting minutes as requested.
• Review work for correct spelling and grammar, ensure office format policies are followed, and recommend revisions.
• Provide reception desk coverage when needed and greet visitors to the regional office.
• Supervise other clerical staff (as assigned).

• Participate in the NY‑HELPS Program – non‑competitive appointment; no examination required.
• Non‑competitive qualifications for NY‑HELPS:
• Administrative Assistant Trainee 1:
  Six months of experience in administrative support, including office software, customer service, business writing.
• Administrative Assistant Trainee 2:
  One year of experience in administrative support.
• Administrative Assistant 1:
  Two years of experience in administrative support.
• Competitive qualifications:
• Reassignment – currently in the title and a DEC employee.
• Reinstatement eligible – previously held the title on a permanent competitive basis.
• Transfer eligible – one year of permanent competitive service at Salary Grade 6 or higher and eligible under Section 70.1.

• Travel may be required.
• Telecommuting may be available up to 50% of the work schedule; will be discussed at interview.
• Full benefits package worth 65% of salary, including:
• Holiday & paid time off
• Public service loan forgiveness (PSLF)
• Pension from the New York State Employees’ Retirement System
• Shift and geographic pay differentials
• Affordable health‑care options
• Family dental and vision benefits at no additional cost
• NYS deferred compensation plan
• Access to NY 529 and NY ABLE college savings programs, and U.S. savings bonds
• The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.
• DEC does not use E‑Verify and will not provide sponsorship for employment visa statuses.
• Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check.