Review Vacancy
TitleState EMS Public Health and Safety Branch Chief (Health Systems Specialist 4) - 51196
Occupational CategoryOther Professional Careers
Bargaining UnitPS&T - Professional, Scientific, and Technical (PEF)
Salary RangeFrom $96336 to $121413 Annually
Appointment Type Contingent Permanent
Duties Description The Public Health and Safety Branch Chief (Health Systems Specialist 4) directs all programs, personnel, and operations within the Public Health and Safety Branch. The Branch Chief oversees statewide administration of the Public Function Permitting Program, regulating approximately 1,500 large-scale events each year, and manages the Public Access Programs, which ensure the placement and maintenance of lifesaving devices such as automated external defibrillators (AEDs), epinephrine auto-injectors, and rescue inhalers in community settings.
The position leads the implementation of existing statutory mandates, development of new public access initiatives arising from legislation, and the creation of regulations, policies, and guidance that enhance community readiness. The Branch Chief ensures compliance with public safety laws, directs enforcement actions, coordinates multi-agency planning, and provides strategic leadership for the evolving portfolio of programs under the Branch.
The position requires independent judgment in applying statutory and regulatory authority to complex and high-visibility programs affecting public safety statewide. Work involves multifaceted program administration, legislative interpretation, cross-agency coordination, and the supervision of professional staff. Decisions frequently impact public health outcomes, emergency preparedness, and interagency coordination during large public events. The position requires leadership in interpreting policy, prioritizing resource allocation, and addressing emerging risks in dynamic environments.
MAJOR FUNCTIONS AND ASSOCIATED DUTIES
- Program Leadership and Administration: Directs all operations of the Public Health and Safety Branch, establishing strategic goals, performance measures, and resource priorities; ensures consistency and quality across statewide program activities and supervises assigned staff.
- Public Function Permitting Program Oversight: Administers the statewide permitting process for large-scale public events; coordinates multi-agency planning and risk assessments; ensures compliance with safety standards; and represents the Division in operational coordination during high-profile or high-risk events.
- Public Access Program Management: Oversees statewide AED, epinephrine auto-injector, and rescue inhaler initiatives; maintains registries, monitors compliance, and directs public education and outreach to improve community readiness and lifesaving capacity.
- Legislative and Regulatory Development: Serves as subject matter expert for laws and regulations governing public function safety and public access programs; contributes to policy development, legislative analysis, and interagency alignment on public safety initiatives.
- Compliance and Enforcement Coordination: Guides surveillance and enforcement activities; analyzes event and inspection data to identify risks and trends; supports investigations, corrective actions, and collaboration with the Division of Legal Affairs on enforcement matters.
- Stakeholder Engagement and Emergency Coordination: Represents the Division in partnerships with local and state emergency management agencies, venue operators, and associations; develops and delivers training and outreach; and supports emergency operations through coordination and subject matter expertise.
Minimum Qualifications Permanent Transfer Candidate: Current NYS Department of Health employee with one year of permanent or contingent permanent, competitive, service as a Health Systems Specialist 4, SG25 OR a NYS employee SG23 or higher and eligible to transfer under Section 70.1 of the NYS Civil Service Law.
Candidates may be required to pass the federal Surveyor Minimum Qualifications Test after appointment.
Preferred Qualifications: Certifications / Licenses: New York State Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or Paramedic certification preferred; FEMA ICS-300 and ICS-400, plus Professional Development Series; CLEAR National Certified Investigator & Inspector Training (NCIT); Completion of a recognized supervisory or leadership-development program.
Experience: Leading multidisciplinary teams regulating public events or safety programs; Managing complex investigations, enforcement actions, or compliance initiatives; Developing or revising regulations, policies, or guidance related to EMS or public safety; Coordinating with federal, state, and local agencies, private partners, and community organizations.
Knowledge / Skills / Abilities: Comprehensive knowledge of New York State Public Health Law Articles 30 and 30-B; Expertise in risk assessment, emergency planning, and incident command; Strong analytical, investigative, and report-writing skills; Demonstrated leadership, staff development, and project management ability; Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
Additional Comments Health Emergency Management Statement: All Division of State Emergency Medical Services staff are expected to participate in emergency management activities as part of their roles. While not all positions require regular deployment to disaster sites, all employees may be subject to 24/7 recall for emergency operations. This may involve irregular work hours, duties outside of the official position description, and assignments at locations other than the designated duty station. Travel in support of emergency operations may be extensive (lasting from days to weeks), with little advance notice, and may involve relocation to sites with physically demanding and challenging operational conditions.
This position may require travel throughout New York State including overnights to areas not served by public transportation.
The NYS Department of Health is committed to making New York a safer, healthier, and more equitable place to live. Understanding health equity, social determinants of health and health disparities is critical to accomplish our goal of eliminating health disparities. For more information on the NYS Department of Health’s Mission, Vision, Values and Strategic Plan, please visit: https://health.ny.gov/commissioner/index.htm
If you require reasonable accommodation to complete a job application, a job interview or to otherwise participate in the hiring process, please contact by phone 518-486-1812 or email doh.sm.reasonable.accommodation@health.ny.gov to make a request.
NYS Department of Health does not participate in E-Verify and does not sponsor visa applications.
For new State employees appointed to graded positions, the annual salary is the hiring rate (beginning of the Salary Range) of the position. Promotion salaries are calculated by the NYS Office of the State Comptroller in accordance with NYS Civil Service Law, OSC Payroll rules and regulations and negotiated union contracts.
Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.
Name Human Resources Management Group
Email Address resume@health.ny.gov
Address
Street Room 2217, Corning Tower Building, Empire State Plaza, Albany, New York 12237- 0012
Notes on ApplyingPlease submit your resume and cover letter through the online portal using the link below:
https://apps.health.ny.gov/pubpal/builder/survey/EMS040.2510
Alternatively, resumes and cover letters may also be submitted by:
Email to: Resume@health.ny.gov using PC/HSS4/51196 in the subject line.
Mail to: Human Resources Management Group, PC/HSS4/51196, Rm 2217, Corning Tower Building, Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12237-0012
Fax to: (518)473-3395