Adapt or Displace? Policy Choices That Decide Who Stays in the Path of Rising Seas
As seas rise and storms intensify, the real story of coastal resilience is not only told in elevation models, seawall heights, or engineering schematics, but in living rooms, church basements, and neighborhood meetings where people quietly decide whether to stay, move, rebuild, or retreat. Who understands the risk, who can afford insurance or a safer home, who trusts government promises, and who gets a voice in planning processes often matters as much as any technical fix in determining which communities weather the coming changes and which are left behind. By weaving together human perception, social vulnerability, political power, and local knowledge, coastal resilience planning can move from a narrow focus on protecting property to a broader, more just project of protecting people and the places they call home.
Integrating Human Dimensions into Coastal Resilience Planning
Addressing sea level rise requires more than engineering solutions and climate projections. It calls for a deep understanding of how people perceive risk, what resources they have to respond, and how social and economic factors shape their choices. The concept of human dimensions helps bridge these gaps by examining the intersection of public awareness, socioeconomic status, and local knowledge. Research shows that individuals from low-income or historically marginalized communities often lack access to the financial resources and technical information needed to prepare for or respond to environmental threats like sea level rise (Moser and Boykoff 2013)1.
Effective resilience planning must incorporate this understanding to avoid reinforcing existing disparities. For example, while some residents may have the means to elevate their homes or purchase flood insurance, others face financial or legal barriers such as rental status, language limitations, or distrust of government programs. Tailoring outreach, support programs, and infrastructure investments to meet these realities can help close adaptation gaps. Community-based planning processes that include residents in decision-making are also more likely to result in equitable and sustainable outcomes (Archer et al. 2014)2.
Socioeconomic and Geographic Vulnerabilities
Vulnerability to sea level rise is not evenly distributed across urban landscapes. Coastal zones often include a mix of high-value real estate and lower-income neighborhoods, with the latter frequently located in lower-lying, flood-prone areas. In cities such as Miami and New York, studies have documented that these neighborhoods experience disproportionately high exposure to flood risks, yet they have fewer resources to prepare or recover (Hauer, Evans, and Mishra 2016)3. This disparity is compounded when public investments prioritize more affluent areas, further marginalizing already vulnerable populations.
Geographic information systems (GIS) and social vulnerability indices can be used to identify where these compounded risks exist. Integrating this data into planning allows local governments to target investments more effectively and equitably. For example, resilience projects such as green infrastructure, seawalls, or home retrofits should be accompanied by policies that protect renters from displacement and ensure that benefits reach those most at risk. Prioritizing vulnerability mapping and community engagement ensures that adaptation strategies do not inadvertently contribute to environmental gentrification or social inequities (Shi et al. 2016)4.
Behavioral Responses and Communication Strategies
Public perception of sea level rise significantly influences how communities prepare and respond. Despite increasing evidence of climate-related flooding, many residents still underestimate their personal risk or rely on past experiences that are no longer relevant due to accelerating climate impacts. Behavioral science research indicates that people are more likely to act when information is localized, personally relevant, and delivered by trusted sources (Weber 2010)5. This highlights the need for communication strategies that go beyond technical reports and instead focus on storytelling, visual tools, and trusted messengers within communities.
Cities can enhance community resilience by investing in tailored risk communication programs. These might include neighborhood-based workshops, translated materials for non-English speakers, and partnerships with local leaders, schools, and faith organizations. For example, participatory mapping exercises can help residents visualize future flood risks and explore adaptation options in a collaborative setting. These efforts also build social capital, which is a critical factor in disaster response and recovery (Cutter et al. 2010)6. When people understand the risks and trust the information, they are more likely to support policy changes and participate in resilience initiatives.
Policy Tools for Supporting Adaptive Capacity
Local governments have a range of policy instruments at their disposal to support conservation and environmental resilience. Zoning regulations, building codes, land acquisition programs, and tax incentives can all be used to guide development away from high-risk areas and encourage adaptive practices. For instance, coastal land use policies that restrict new construction in flood-prone zones can reduce future exposure, while buyout programs can help relocate residents from areas that are no longer tenable. However, these tools must be implemented with attention to equity and community priorities to avoid unintended consequences such as displacement or loss of cultural heritage (Siders 2019)7.
In addition to regulatory approaches, cities should leverage partnerships with academic institutions, non-profits, and the private sector to expand technical capacity and funding opportunities. Integrating environmental data into planning systems allows for dynamic risk assessments and better tracking of adaptation outcomes. Programs like living shorelines, urban wetlands restoration, and permeable pavement installations not only reduce flood risk but also provide ecological and recreational benefits. These nature-based solutions are often cost-effective and can be scaled to fit different contexts, making them a strategic investment in long-term resilience (Arkema et al. 2013)8.
Building Institutional Capacity for Long-Term Resilience
Sustained climate adaptation requires institutional capacity that spans departments and election cycles. Environmental and emergency management staff must coordinate with housing, transportation, economic development, and public health agencies to ensure that adaptation is integrated into all aspects of urban governance. One effective approach is the creation of cross-sector resilience teams or offices that facilitate collaboration, track progress, and engage with stakeholders. For example, cities that have adopted resilience officers or climate adaptation coordinators often report improved interagency coordination and more consistent policy implementation (Rosenzweig and Solecki 2018)9.
Training and professional development also play a key role in building staff capacity. Investing in workshops, certification programs, and peer learning networks helps ensure that staff are equipped with the latest science, tools, and best practices. Additionally, institutionalizing community input through advisory boards or participatory budgeting processes can enhance legitimacy and responsiveness. These mechanisms are especially important in communities that have historically been excluded from decision-making. Building long-term resilience is not only about infrastructure but also about cultivating transparent and accountable institutions that can adapt as conditions change.
Bibliography
Moser, Susanne C., and Maxwell T. Boykoff. 2013. Successful Adaptation to Climate Change: Linking Science and Policy in a Rapidly Changing World. New York: Routledge.
Archer, Diane, Sarah Colenbrander, David Dodman, and Marcus Mayr. 2014. “Responding to Climate Change in Cities: The Case of Informal Settlements.” Environment and Urbanization 26(1): 156-159.
Hauer, Mathew E., Jason M. Evans, and Deepak R. Mishra. 2016. “Millions Projected to Be at Risk from Sea-Level Rise in the Continental United States.” Nature Climate Change 6(7): 691-695.
Shi, Linda, Eric Chu, and J. Timmons Roberts. 2016. “Climate Adaptation and Equity: Advancing the Debate.” Current Opinion in Environmental Sustainability 19: 134-140.
Weber, Elke U. 2010. “What Shapes Perceptions of Climate Change?” Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews: Climate Change 1(3): 332-342.
Cutter, Susan L., Lindsey Barnes, Melissa Berry, et al. 2010. “A Place-Based Model for Understanding Community Resilience to Natural Disasters.” Global Environmental Change 18(4): 598-606.
Siders, Anne. 2019. “Managed Retreat in the United States.” One Earth 1(2): 216-225.
Arkema, Katie K., Greg Verutes, Sarah Wood, et al. 2013. “Coastal Habitats Shield People and Property from Sea-Level Rise and Storms.” Nature Climate Change 3(10): 913-918.
Rosenzweig, Cynthia, and William D. Solecki. 2018. “Action Pathways for Transformative Urban Climate Governance.” Nature Climate Change 8(9): 756-759.
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ABOUT THE ROLE - Agency: City of Wichita, Wastewater Treatment Division - Bargaining Unit: Employee Council - Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm - Overview: Performs advanced professional engineering duties with an emphasis on Biological Nutrient Removal treatment processes at three plants. Optimizes, investigates, and develops solutions for complex chemical and biological systems, and plans or pilots water reuse projects. - Note: The posting may close at any time. The City of Wichita is not an E-Verify employer. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Ensure efficient and compliant operation of treatment plants, conveyance systems, and biosolids handling. - Evaluate process technologies and direct testing from jar testing to pilot testing. - Identify and investigate problems such as process upsets, odors, and industrial discharges. - Monitor and analyze operator reports, energy and chemical usage data, and lab data. - Analyze conveyance and influent pump station flow reports to characterize system performance. - Manage large-scale planning, modeling efforts, and complex engineering projects. - Consult with project managers and engineering design firms, and oversee engineering consultants. - Analyze new or proposed legislation to determine impact on operations and permit compliance. - Perform data control activities and review process data reports for accuracy. - Serve as a resource to staff, external stakeholders, vendors, and consultants regarding treatment processes. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's degree in civil engineering, environmental engineering, and/or chemical engineering. - Two years of experience in the design of wastewater treatment systems. - Must be eligible to obtain a Kansas Professional Engineer license within one year of hire. - A valid driver's license. - Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Thorough knowledge of wastewater engineering, design, Biological Nutrient Removal processes, and project management. - Ability to read and interpret building, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and system control plans. - Ability to traverse uneven terrain, climb steps or ladders, and tolerate environmental nuisances. - Physical ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds, bend, stoop, walk, and reach overhead. - Must obtain certification as a Class IV Wastewater operator within two years of hire. - Preferred qualifications include current Class IV certification, a Kansas Professional Engineer license, and two years of design, construction, or operational experience. SELECTION PROCESS - Offers of employment are contingent upon passing a pre-employment physical, which includes drug screening. - Offers are contingent upon a satisfactory evaluation of a criminal record check. - The posting may close at any time without prior notice. HOW TO APPLY 1. Submit an application through the City of Wichita careers portal. 2. Ensure all required documents are submitted before the posting closes, as it may close at any time. 3. Await contact from the hiring department for further selection steps. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Position is part of the Employee Council bargaining unit. - Starting pay for current City employees will be determined by City of Wichita policy or applicable bargaining unit agreement. - The City of Wichita is not an E-Verify employer. - Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws, including FMLA, EEOC, and EPPA.
ABOUT THE ROLE Working under the general supervision of the Land Use Bureau Chief, the Land Use Planner performs advanced planning and zoning tasks, manages assigned projects, and conducts unique analyses and studies. This role represents the department on land use and zoning matters with various Land Use Boards, governmental commissions, community groups, and stakeholders, while also overseeing fund programming activities. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide direct support to Land Use Boards, including the Planning Board, Zoning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, Environmental Protection Board, and Historic Preservation Advisory Commission - Analyze and prepare written reviews of complex land use and project development applications, monitoring completion through the permit administration process - Liaise with Land Use staff, other City departments, applicants, and Boards to ensure expedient and thorough application reviews - Attend meetings with various boards, civic groups, and officials to work toward long-term land use solutions, including nights and weekends if required - Prepare and administer illustrated guidelines for urban design, architectural conservation, and streetscape improvement programs - Assist City departments and the public in reviewing development proposals for regulatory compliance - Prepare complex written, graphic, and oral analyses of planning and zoning projects - Perform reviews of zoning regulations and prepare necessary updates - Coordinate land use and zoning studies, including the Comprehensive Plan, neighborhood plans, and housing plans - Interpret, apply, and explain local, state, and federal laws, rules, and zoning regulations - Develop and coordinate complex work programs, research projects, and analytical studies - Write grant applications and prepare Requests for Proposals as needed MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree in Planning, Landscape Architecture, Architecture, or a closely related field - Five years of progressively responsible professional planning experience - Note: A Master's degree in Planning or a related field, or membership in the American Institute of Certified Planners, may substitute for one year of work experience SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Knowledge of planning theory, methods, procedures, and zoning and environmental regulations - Knowledge of land use problems associated with sustainable urban growth and comprehensive planning - Ability to conduct independent research, field surveys, zoning analyses, and land use studies - Ability to understand, summarize, interpret, and apply complex planning, zoning, and legal information - Ability to assess the social, transportation, economic, and land use consequences of planning actions - Knowledge of Geographical Information Systems and graphic communication software such as Adobe Creative Suite and Tableau - Political acuity and awareness of societal issues - Ability to effectively communicate orally, in writing, and graphically with diverse stakeholders SELECTION PROCESS - Specific selection steps are not detailed in the job posting HOW TO APPLY - Specific application instructions are not provided in the job posting - Candidates should refer to the official municipal or city government careers portal for application submission details EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Reports to: Land Use Bureau Chief - Schedule: Standard hours, but may require attending meetings at night and on weekends as required by board and community schedules
ABOUT THE ROLE The NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) protects public health by managing water, wastewater, and stormwater. The Bureau of Environmental Planning and Analysis (BEPA) implements the Unified Stormwater Rule to protect city infrastructure and improve waterway quality. The Stormwater Permitting Team is seeking a Civil Engineer 3 to serve as the Permit Closeout and Inspection Supervisor at the Queens headquarters. The selected candidate will supervise Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) closeouts, issue Maintenance Permits, and oversee inspections for active construction sites and long-term stormwater management practices. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Performs mathematical calculations. - Works with minimal supervision to oversee intern and assistant level civil engineers, project managers, and associate project managers. - Provides direction and engineering oversight for the review of stormwater pollution prevention plans and coordinates field inspection staff for implementation and enforcement. - Checks and oversees the checking of as-built plans submitted by applicants to show conformance with rules. - Participates in field survey operations as instrument person, rodman, chainman, or chief of party to determine if practices are constructed according to approved plans. - Inspects premises, witnesses soil testing, and monitors construction, demolition, or alteration of structures for compliance with laws and regulations. - Reviews maps, plans, drawings, and specifications for construction, demolition, or alteration of structures related to NYC Stormwater Construction and Maintenance Permits. - Prepares associated reports and correspondence and maintains records. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. A valid New York State Professional Engineer License and four years of full-time experience in environmental engineering. A master's degree in environmental engineering from an accredited college will be accepted as equivalent to one year of full-time experience. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Assignment Level II or III eligibility requires at least one year within the last three years of experience as a major contributor or project leader on a complex project requiring specific expertise. - May be required to possess and maintain a valid New York State Motor Vehicle Driver License. - Preferred skills include: ability to prioritize and perform multiple tasks under strict deadlines, strong written and oral communication skills, ability to read and understand construction drawings, good understanding of hydrology and hydraulics, experience using TR55, HEC, Hydro CAD or similar software, and ability to work well with staff and the public. - This position is open to qualified persons with a disability eligible for the 55-a Program. SELECTION PROCESS Exam may be required. Title classification is Competitive-1. HOW TO APPLY Apply through the official job posting (Job ID: 793297). If applying through the 55-a Program, indicate this at the top of your resume and cover letter. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: Department of Environmental Protection (Municipal & Industrial Program) - Location: Queens, NY (59-17 Junction Blvd, Corona, NY) - Employment Type: Full-Time - Number of Positions: 1 - Experience Level: Experienced (Non-Manager) - Job Level: 03 - Residency Requirement: New York City residency is not required. - Posting Deadline: 10/23/2026 - Benefits: Eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness and state repayment assistance programs. - The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse workforce free from discrimination and harassment.
ABOUT THE ROLE This position administers, manages, and coordinates the operations of the Stormwater Division. Reporting to the Public Works Director, the role involves planning, designing, scheduling, reviewing, and managing assigned Transportation and Public Works projects. Responsibilities include preparing and approving division budgets, coordinating and supervising division personnel, approving purchase requests, and administering relevant ordinances. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Plan, direct, supervise, and evaluate assigned personnel, including handling employee concerns and completing performance appraisals - Oversee day-to-day operations of the Stormwater Management Program, including plan review, permitting, inspection, and infrastructure inventory - Administer and ensure regulatory compliance of the County's NPDES Phase II MS4 permit, including annual reporting to GAEPD - Develop recommendations for stormwater land development best management practices and update technical standards - Administer erosion control, floodplain, and stormwater ordinances, serving as the Point in Charge for the Local Issuing Authority - Respond to citizen and commission requests, including developing agenda items, presentations, and ordinance modifications - Oversee Stormwater Utility operations, including audits, adjustment requests, credit applications, and collections - Direct the County's Watershed Management Program, including field activities and water quality data analysis - Conduct and review modeling, planning, and engineering studies in support of capital projects and land development plan reviews - Prepare, review, and approve studies, plans, reports, and the division's annual budget - Approve purchasing requests, payroll, and personnel actions MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's degree in civil engineering, environmental engineering, or a related discipline - Five years of experience in public works administration and the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of stormwater management systems - Professional Engineer (PE) license required - Three years of supervisory experience required - Must possess a valid driver's license - Certification as a Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission Level 1A required SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Not designated as a safety-sensitive position - May be required to work on religious holidays - Regular and predictable attendance is required - Must abide by the county's safe driving policy when operating vehicles - Physical requirements involve sedentary work, occasionally exerting up to 10 pounds of force, and requires walking, standing, bending, stooping, and using general office equipment HOW TO APPLY Not explicitly specified in the provided description. Applicants should contact the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County Human Resources Department for application instructions. For reasonable accommodation requests during the application process, contact Leah Jagatic, HR Coordinator, at 762-400-6370 or leah.jagatic@accgov.com. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County - Location: Transportation and Public Works Stormwater - 120 West Dougherty Street, Athens, GA - HR Address: 375 Satula Avenue, Human Resources Department, Athens, Georgia, 30601 - Job Type: Full Time - Job Number: 2026-2609 - Department: Public Works, Stormwater Division - Opening Date: 05/06/2026 - Closing Date: 9/6/2026 11:59 PM Eastern - FLSA Status: Exempt - Executive - Classification: Regular Non-Merit - Serves at the discretion of the Department Director - Pay Grade: 126
ABOUT THE ROLE The City of Portland is seeking skilled Tree Inspectors to support a citywide effort to care for public street trees, funded by the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund. This program will inspect and maintain approximately 330,000 public street trees to improve tree health, public safety, and neighborhood livability. Inspectors will perform systematic inspections, risk assessments, create work orders, and manage contractors. The role requires extensive public communication, collaboration with various agencies and stakeholders, and operates under the guidance of Portland Parks & Recreation leadership. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Perform timely evaluations, field assessments, and inspections for tree preservation, removal, pruning, chemical application, planting, and root pruning. - Provide technical program and arboricultural expertise through clear, detailed written responses to diverse urban forest stakeholders. - Respond to inquiries from residents, property owners, and internal stakeholders to provide education and information on tree regulations. - Maintain accurate records of tree conditions, inspections, and actions taken, and utilize City tree management software to develop work orders. - Maintain professional working relationships with City contractors, holding them accountable and communicating needed corrections respectfully. - Collaborate with supervisors, the City Forester, infrastructure bureaus, and public agencies to implement the Street Tree Maintenance program. - Participate in fostering a positive, equitable work culture that values safety, diversity, inclusion, and productivity. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Knowledge and technical expertise in inspecting and evaluating trees in an urban environment, including extensive experience performing whole tree and tree root inspections to detect hazardous conditions. - Experience applying arboricultural best practices and principles of urban forest management, including tree risk assessment, to independently evaluate urban trees. - Ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences, both verbally and in writing, exercising tact and diplomacy. - Experience interpreting work plans, reviewing professional reports, and utilizing modern database systems to accurately input and analyze data. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Valid state driver's license and an acceptable driving record at the time of hire. - Ability to obtain and maintain an ISA Certified Arborist credential within nine months of hire. - Ability to obtain and maintain an ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) within nine months of hire. - Ability to obtain and maintain Electrical Hazard Awareness Program (EHAP) certification within nine months of hire. - Ability to obtain and maintain a public pesticide applicator license or pesticide consultant license within nine months of hire. SELECTION PROCESS 1. Application Review (Week of August 31st): Review of application materials to ensure minimum qualifications are met. 2. Notice/Feedback (Week of September 7th): Email notification of review results, with a 14-day window to request a review if disagreeing. 3. Selection Process (Late September): Hiring bureau reviews qualified applications, conducts interviews, and checks references. 4. Conditional Job Offer (October): Final candidates may undergo a background or driving record check. HOW TO APPLY - Submit a resume and responses to supplemental questions via the City of Portland's online portal by the closing date (8/31/2026 11:59 PM Pacific). - Do not include age, date of birth, or school attendance/graduation dates unless specifically requested. - Optional: Submit Veterans' Preference documents (DD214-Member 4 and/or VA Benefit Letter) if applicable. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: Delta Sports Complex, 10850 N Denver Ave, Portland, OR 97217-7728. Primarily in-person at field locations throughout the City. - Job Type: Full-Time, Limited Duration. - Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 7:00 am - 3:30 pm. - Bureau: Portland Parks & Recreation. - Union Representation: Portland City Laborers 483. - Remote Work: Limited remote work may be available based on operational needs, but must be performed within Oregon or Washington. - Additional Benefits: May be eligible for Language Pay Differential.
About the Role The County of San Diego Planning and Development Services is seeking dynamic professionals to join as Associate Planners. This role involves conducting cutting-edge planning and environmental studies, developing goals and policy recommendations, and managing moderately complex projects with public controversy to support the long-term health and sustainability of 29 unincorporated communities. Key Responsibilities - Conduct planning and environmental studies, including major use permits, variances, and environmental impact reports. - Make recommendations for rezones, Countywide policy and ordinance changes, and General Plan updates. - Review privately initiated discretionary projects for compliance with Federal, State, and Local ordinances. - Manage new development projects, including affordable and market housing, renewable energy, and commercial projects. - Maintain long-range land use documents, develop programs, and formulate policies in accordance with regulations. - Engage with the public, stakeholders, and consultants, and present to appointed and elected officials. Minimum Qualifications - Education and Experience Option 1: Bachelor's degree in city/regional planning, urban planning, landscape architecture, geography, biology, geology, ecology, zoology, environmental science, or related field, AND two years of progressively responsible professional experience in environmental analysis, planning, and research. - Education and Experience Option 2: Master's degree in one of the fields listed above, AND one year of progressively responsible professional experience. - Experience Option 3: One year of experience as an Assistant Planner with the County of San Diego. - Note: Professional level land use or environmental planning experience may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis for up to two years. Special Requirements - Ideal Experience: Updating General and Community Plans, implementing Climate Action Plans, and preparing CEQA/NEPA documents. - Skills: Strong analytical, facilitation, public engagement, and presentation skills. Ability to prepare graphic displays. - Work Location: County Operations Center in Kearny Mesa, a modern LEED Certified complex with an employee gym. - Work Schedule: Hybrid schedule consisting of teleworking and working at the County Operations Center. - Disaster Service: Public employees are designated as disaster service workers and must participate in assigned disaster activities. Selection Process 1. Blind Applicant Screening: Personally identifiable information is removed to ensure a fair and equitable process. 2. Automated Evaluation: Supplemental questionnaire and application are reviewed using an automated system. 3. Individual Review: Applications are reviewed individually to confirm accuracy and qualifying information. 4. Interviews: Conducted on an ongoing basis for the most highly qualified candidates. 5. Background and Medical: Successful candidates undergo a background check, fingerprinting, and a pre-employment medical screening. How to Apply - Submit a complete online application through the County of San Diego careers portal. - Ensure all experience meeting minimum requirements is detailed in both the Work Experience section and the Supplemental Questionnaire. - Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the application Work History or supplemental questionnaire. - If referred by a current County employee, indicate their name on the application for the Employee Referral Reward Program. Employment Details - Department: Planning and Development Services, with potential future vacancies in Public Works and Parks and Recreation. - Position Type: Full-Time - Work Schedule: Hybrid schedule available. - Equal Opportunity: The County of San Diego is committed to valuing diversity, practicing inclusion, and offers preferential credits for military service through the Veteran's Preference Policy.
ABOUT THE ROLE The Office of Environmental Health and Safety (OEHS) is seeking an Assistant EHS MS Data Coordinator for the Performance Measurement & Strategic Planning Section in Flushing, Queens. This role supports the oversight and management of the agency’s EHS Audit Program, Process Safety Management, and Risk Management programs. The coordinator will perform scientific and applied research and analysis in EHS, with latitude for independent judgment under the supervision of the EHS MS Data Analyst. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Support strategic development and implementation of EHS management systems, including ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 standards - Assist in all agency EHS MS development activities - Conduct technical review and interpretation of EHS incident and compliance data (incident reporting, workplace violence, notices of violation, fleet safety data) for executive leadership and monthly metrics - Maintain and manage multiple EHS datasets, conduct Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) activities, and develop QA/QC reports - Assist in developing agencywide EHS policies, procedures, benchmarking studies, management system training, and presentations - Develop EHS performance metrics from compliance information systems - Prepare technical reports, executive summaries, memoranda, and training presentations on EHS topics - Maintain strong technical proficiency with laptops, tablets, and software - Participate in special projects mandated by OEHS MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Assignment Level I: A master's degree from an accredited college or university with a specialization in physical, biological, environmental science, or public health. - Assignment Level II and above: A doctorate degree with specialization in an appropriate science field and one year of full-time responsible supervisory, administrative, or research experience; OR a master's degree with three years of responsible full-time research experience; OR equivalent education/experience. All candidates must have at least a master's degree and two years of relevant experience. Two years as a City Research Scientist Level I can substitute for the required experience. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Probationary Period: Appointments are subject to a minimum one-year probationary period. - Residency Requirement: New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment. Employees with 2 continuous years of City service may be eligible to reside in Nassau, Suffolk, Putnam, Westchester, Rockland, or Orange County. - Preferred Skills: Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), knowledge of OSHA, NYS/DOL-PESH, USEPA, NYSDEC, NYCDOB, and NYCFDNY regulations, experience with EHS incident management systems, professional certifications (e.g., CSP, ASP, CPEA, CIH, CHMM, ISO Lead Auditor), strong communication and technical report writing skills, and ability to manage multiple tasks under pressure. SELECTION PROCESS - No civil service exam is required for this position (Non-Competitive-5 classification). HOW TO APPLY - Apply through the official NYC job portal using Job ID 777685. - Application period is open until 09/23/2026. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: Department of Environmental Protection (Environmental Health/Safety) - Location: Queens (59-17 Junction Blvd, Corona, NY) - Job Type: Full-Time - Experience Level: Experienced (Non-Manager) - Number of Positions: 1 - Category: Health - Benefits: Eligible for federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness and state repayment assistance programs. - The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse workforce free from discrimination and harassment.
SALARY $60,996 to $83,148 annually. Starting salary is $60,996 for minimum requirements, or $66,534 with a Class I Stationary Engineer's License. Includes a $1,500 hiring incentive upon completion of the probationary period. ABOUT THE ROLE Incumbents operate, maintain, and repair stationary engines and mechanical equipment to provide utilities or power for buildings and industrial processes within the Water Division. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Operate large electrified pump units (4600 h.p.) and related equipment in two large pump stations - Maintain and adjust distribution system pressures within standards - Monitor, operate, and maintain the plant electrical distribution system - Monitor and operate plant pumps to maintain sufficient water flow for treatment - Monitor security operations and support security as required - Follow all Safety Rules and Regulations and report significant events to supervision - Communicate in a courteous, professional manner with all internal and external customers MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. Current Stationary Engineer's License (at least Class II Restricted) issued by the City of St. Louis. 2. Valid driver's license at the time of filing the application. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Ability to perform mid-level data analysis and exercise independent judgment - Ability to operate and repair complex equipment and machinery such as personal computers, HVAC systems, piping, and air compressors - Mathematical aptitude involving basic algebra and geometry - Physical requirements include lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling 20 to 50 pounds, and performing moderately physically demanding work involving climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling - Exposure to adverse environmental conditions such as dirt, dust, fumes, noise extremes, machinery, vibrations, electric currents, and toxic or pathogenic agents - Work involves shift, weekend, and holiday assignments, with a shift differential paid for evening and night shifts - City residents receive a five-point preference on the exam, plus one additional point if receiving another preference - Veterans preference points are available upon submission of a DD 214 SELECTION PROCESS 1. Application Evaluation: Experience and Training are scored at 100 percent weight. 2. Background Investigation: Pass or fail assessment. 3. Medical Examination: Pass or fail assessment. HOW TO APPLY 1. Submit a fully completed Employment Application through the City of St. Louis portal, as resumes will not be accepted as a substitute. 2. Thoroughly describe your education, training, and experience in the Employment History and Educational/Training History sections. 3. Clearly note your Stationary Engineer's license and driver's license details on the Employment Application. 4. Submit a copy of your DD 214 Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty with the application to be eligible for veteran's preference points. 5. Contact the Office on the Disabled if you require assistance or accommodations with the job application. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of St. Louis, Water Division - Position Grade: 36T - Job Type: Full-Time (Permanent) - Location: Water Division - St. Louis, MO - Examination Number: EX1662 - Incentives: $1,500 Hiring Incentive upon completion of the probationary period; shift differential for evening and night shifts - Benefits: Not specified in the posting