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Child Care Investigator - job 1 of 2

Job Description

ONLY PERMANENT EMPLOYEES IN THE TITLE AND THOSE THAT ARE REACHABLE ON THE ASSOCIATE INVESTIGATOR CIVIL SERVICE LIST ARE ELIGIBLE TO APPLY.

Division/Program Summary Description:
The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's Division of Environmental Health works to prevent and control illness and injury related to environmental and occupational health risks through outreach, education, surveillance and enforcement. With staff of 1,000, the Division covers a broad range of subject matter, including oversight of environmental investigations, lead poisoning, injury prevention, occupational health, food safety, childcare, radiation control, recreational and drinking water quality, air quality, climate health, vector control, veterinary public health and pest control.

The Bureau of Child Care ensures that childcare services in New York City operate in compliance with the New York City Health Code and New York State Social Service regulations and are licensed or permitted as required by law. The Bureau routinely monitors childcare programs to protect the health and safety of children while in the childcare environment, and actively works to improve and expand access to high quality programs which early childhood development and learning.

Position Summary:
The Bureau seeks to hire an Associate Investigator to respond to allegations of provider activity associated with childcare programs that are unsafe, unhealthy or unregulated. The Child Care Investigator will also search for childcare providers who are operating illegally, unregulated, and thus more likely to create an environment with health and safety risks to children.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:
- Investigate allegations of illegal childcare operations throughout the five boroughs of New York City.
- Conduct intense surveillance in and around commercial and residential buildings of suspected illegal operations.
- Interview childcare operators, staff, witnesses, families and children involved in complaints involving allegations of illegal operations.
- Collaborate with other investigative agencies such as ACS, DOI, NYPD, FDNY.
- Examine and analyze records and files of the childcare program to ensure compliance with regulations.
- Maintain confidential records and files for all investigations performed.
- Must be prepared to produce all required records and evidence to substantiate related legal processes.
- Conduct public education and outreach efforts conveying the importance of choosing licensed providers and reporting to the NYC Health Department programs that may be unsafe, unhealthy or operating illegally.
- Travel throughout New York City using mass transit or a personal car and carry approximately 15 pounds of inspection equipment.

Why you should work for us:
- Benefits: City employees are entitled to unmatched benefits such as:
o a premium-free health insurance plan that saves employees over $10K annually, per a 2024 assessment.
o additional health, fitness, and financial benefits may be available based on the position’s associated union/benefit fund.
o a public sector defined benefit pension plan with steady monthly payments in retirement.
o a tax-deferred savings program and
o a robust Worksite Wellness Program that offers resources and opportunities to keep you healthy while serving New Yorkers.
- Work From Home Policy: Depending on your position, you may be able to work up to two days during the week from home.
- Job Security - you could enjoy more job security compared to private sector employment and be able to contribute to making NYC a healthy place to live and work.

Established in 1805, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (NYC Health Department) is the oldest and largest health department in the U.S., dedicated to protecting and improving the health of NYC. Our mission is to safeguard the health of every resident and cultivate a city where everyone, regardless of age, background, or location, can achieve their optimal health. We provide a wide array of programs and services focused on food and nutrition, anti-tobacco support, chronic disease prevention, HIV/AIDS treatment, family and child health, environmental health, mental health, and social justice initiatives. As the primary population health strategist and policy authority for NYC, with a rich history of public health initiatives and scientific advancements, from addressing the 1822 yellow fever outbreak to the COVID-19 pandemic, we serve as a global leader in public health innovation and expertise.

Come join us and help to continue our efforts in making a difference in the lives of all New Yorkers!

Commitment to Equity:

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.

The NYC Health Department is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation to all individuals. To request reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, contact Sye-Eun Ahn, Director of the Office of Equal Employment Opportunity, at [email protected] or 347-396-6549.

ASSOCIATE INVESTIGATOR (NOT PR - 31121

Qualifications

1. A four-year high school diploma or its educational equivalent and five years of satisfactory, full-time experience as an investigator evaluating credit worthiness, searching for assets, verifying information concerning education, experience, and other personal qualifications bearing upon character and fitness for employment, or performing investigations involving the research, compilation and/or location of evidence or information in order to build a case or uncover activities of a criminal, corrupt, unlawful or unethical nature; or
2. An associate degree or 60 semester credits from an accredited college and four years of satisfactory, full-time experience as described in "1" above; or
3. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college and two years of satisfactory, full-time experience as described in "1" above; or
4. Education and/or experience equivalent to "1", "2", or "3" above.

Additional Information

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.

What You Should Know About Child Care Investigator, City of New York

Are you passionate about keeping children safe? Join the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene as a Child Care Investigator! In this critical role, you'll be a vital part of the Bureau of Child Care, investigating allegations of illegal or unsafe childcare operations throughout the vibrant boroughs of New York City. Your journey will involve hands-on investigations where you’ll conduct interviews with childcare operators, staff, and families, ensuring that our youngest New Yorkers can thrive in a safe and secure environment. Your keen eye for detail will be essential as you analyze records to ensure compliance with health codes, all while collaborating with other agencies like ACS and NYPD. This isn't just a job; it's a commitment to protecting the health and safety of children. With unmatched benefits such as a premium-free health insurance plan and opportunities for a healthy work-life balance, this role offers job security and a chance to make a genuine difference in your community. If you're ready to embark on a rewarding career where your efforts directly impact the lives of children and families, apply today and be part of New York City's mission to create a healthy future for us all!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Child Care Investigator Role at City of New York
What are the main responsibilities of a Child Care Investigator at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene?

As a Child Care Investigator at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, your primary responsibilities will include investigating allegations of illegal childcare operations, conducting thorough surveillance, and ensuring compliance with health regulations. You will collaborate with various agencies to gather information and take action against unsafe childcare practices, contributing significantly to community health.

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What qualifications do I need to become a Child Care Investigator with the New York City Health Department?

To become a Child Care Investigator with the New York City Health Department, you need a high school diploma and experience in investigations, or an associate or bachelor's degree combined with fewer years of experience. This could include work related to evaluations and evidence gathering, which prepares you for the investigative demands of the role.

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How does the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene support the work-life balance of Child Care Investigators?

The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene values work-life balance and offers a flexible work-from-home policy, allowing Child Care Investigators to work from home a couple of days per week. This flexibility enables you to manage your personal and professional responsibilities effectively.

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What types of collaboration can a Child Care Investigator expect at the New York City Health Department?

Child Care Investigators at the New York City Health Department often collaborate with key agencies such as the Administration for Children’s Services (ACS), the Department of Investigation (DOI), and the New York City Police Department (NYPD). These collaborations are crucial for comprehensive investigations and ensuring community safety.

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What are the benefits of working as a Child Care Investigator for the New York City Department of Health?

Working as a Child Care Investigator for the New York City Department of Health comes with exceptional benefits, including premium-free health insurance, retirement plans, and a robust Worksite Wellness Program. This role not only offers financial security but also allows you to be part of a mission-oriented department that impacts the lives of children and families every day.

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Common Interview Questions for Child Care Investigator
Can you describe your experience with investigative work related to childcare regulations?

When answering this question, detail your specific experiences in investigations, focusing on instances where you've ensured compliance with regulations. Highlight methodologies, tools used, and the outcomes of your investigations to show your expertise in the field.

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How would you handle an allegation of illegal childcare operations?

The best approach involves maintaining professionalism while gathering all necessary evidence. Describe a systematic plan that includes performing surveillance, interviewing witnesses, and working in collaboration with related agencies to address the issue effectively.

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What do you believe are key factors of a safe childcare environment?

Key factors include adherence to health regulations, proper staffing levels, safeguarding procedures, and regular inspections. Ensure your answer reflects your understanding of these elements and how they relate to child safety.

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How do you prioritize your tasks when managing multiple investigations?

Emphasize your ability to organize and prioritize based on urgency and impact. Discuss using tools like case logs, technology for tracking progress, and how effective time management contributes to thorough investigations.

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Explain how you ensure confidentiality during investigations.

Discuss protocols you follow to maintain confidentiality, such as restricted access to sensitive information, guidelines for information sharing, and training you've undergone related to confidentiality in investigations.

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What methods do you use to communicate findings to stakeholders?

Effective communication is key. Explain your approach, emphasizing clear and concise reporting, the use of visual aids, and the importance of feedback from stakeholders during debriefing sessions to foster understanding and action.

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Can you share an example of a challenging case you’ve handled?

When sharing a challenging case, explain the context, your thought process, the actions taken, and the final outcome. Focus on problem-solving skills and how this experience enhanced your investigatory abilities.

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How do you stay updated with changes in childcare regulations?

Mention resources such as professional organizations, continuing education courses, and industry publications that you follow. Show your commitment to remaining informed and compliant with evolving standards.

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What role do you think public education plays in preventing unsafe childcare operations?

Public education is critical in raising awareness about safe childcare practices. Discuss strategies you've seen or would implement to inform parents and the community, thereby reducing the risk of unlicensed operations.

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Why do you want to work for the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene?

Share your passion for public health and community safety. Emphasize the alignment of your personal values with the department’s mission and your desire to contribute to the well-being of New Yorkers.

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Our Mission To work to eliminate ageism and ensure the dignity and quality-of-life of New York City’s diverse older adults, and for the support of their caregivers through service, advocacy, and education. Strategic Goals To foster independence...

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DATE POSTED
April 4, 2025

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