Assistant Director, ESU & Manager, SBESO

*Applicants MUST submit a cover letter with resume to be considered.

*This position will require in-office presence. Hybrid work schedules may be possible based on specific job duties and consistent with ESD policy.

*Minorities, women, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

 Please contact Human Resources if you require an accommodation.

BASIC FUNCTION:  

Under the general direction of the Director of the Environmental Services Unit (“Unit”) at Empire State Development (ESD), the Assistant Director, ESU & Manager, Small Business Environmental Support Office will manage the new Small Business Environmental Support Office (“Office”) which is designed to assist small businesses with environmental regulation applicability determinations and environmental compliance related to state and federal requirements, including those associated with water, air, wastewater, solid waste, hazardous waste, and chemical/bulk storage. Additionally, the selected candidate will assist the Director in other operations of the Unit.

WORK PERFORMED:

• Manage daily operations of the new Office including but not limited to supervising staff, tracking Office workload and priority projects, seeking training opportunities, and ensuring the Office fulfills all legal responsibilities under Economic Development Law   
• Create and maintain short and long-term plans for the new Office
• Work with small businesses to interpret applicable environmental regulations for business processes and assist businesses in complying with applicable environmental regulatory requirements 
• Assists in investigating and resolving complaints and disputes, including enforcement actions, between small businesses and regulatory agencies
• Tracks and reviews new and amended environmental regulations and their potential impacts on small business sectors and the economy. Provides comments and recommendations to the US EPA and NYS DEC. 
• Works with associations and small businesses to improve voluntary compliance and solicit input on the development or modification of environmental conservation laws and regulations
• Identifies and leads outreach efforts to inform business owners and managers about their responsibilities and rights related to local, state, and federal environmental laws.
• Assists with coordination of other agencies, stakeholder groups, including providing webinars, and engaging in outreach events.
• Presents written and oral summaries of project activity to the Unit Director.
• Works collaboratively with peers, managers, clients, and regulators
• Provides guidance to Unit staff on policy implications, special requests, and complex projects.
• Serves as an ESD Sustainability Coordinator and assists the Director fulfilling Green NY reporting requirements under Executive Order 22. 
• Other assignments or special projects as directed by the ESU Director.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Undergraduate or graduate degree in environmental studies/science, political science, or closely related field. 
• Environmental compliance experience in applying various state and federal environmental regulations, particularly those applicable to New York.
• 5+ years supervisory experience 
• 5 + years public outreach experience 
• Proven track record in starting/managing new programs or major projects
• Strong leadership skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Proactive and diligent approach

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills