Chief of Staff to the Chief Administrative Officer

About the Role

The New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) is dedicated to ensuring the safe, efficient, and environmentally conscious movement of people and goods throughout New York City. It plays a crucial role in maintaining and improving transportation infrastructure integral to the city's economic vitality and residents' quality of life. As an inclusive and equal opportunity employer, the DOT is committed to fostering a diverse workforce and creating an open working atmosphere.

The Chief of Staff to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) is a pivotal position responsible for overseeing several key administrative departments that facilitate the agency's mission. These departments include Human Resources & Facilities Management, Budget and Capital Program Management, the Agency Chief Contracting Officer, Federal & State Grants Administration, Fiscal Affairs, Information Technology and Telecommunications, Analytics and Performance Management, as well as the Auditor General.

This role requires close collaboration with the Commissioner’s and First Deputy Commissioner’s offices to help drive agency priorities forward and address challenges promptly. Key duties include planning and managing meetings, capturing detailed notes, ensuring follow-up on decided actions, drafting and revising important memos, correspondence, reports, and PowerPoint presentations intended for diverse stakeholders. Additionally, the Chief of Staff acts as a liaison between various City entities, including other agencies and City Hall.

Confidentiality and sound judgment are essential traits, particularly in determining when to escalate issues.

Minimum Qualifications

• A master's degree in disciplines such as economics, finance, accounting, business or public administration, public health, human resources management, management science, operations research, organizational behavior, industrial psychology, statistics, personnel administration, labor relations, psychology, sociology, human resources development, political science, urban studies, or a Juris Doctor from an accredited law school, plus at least two years of relevant full-time professional experience. This experience must include at least eighteen months in executive, managerial, administrative, or supervisory roles with oversight of professional staff engaged in the related fields.
• Alternatively, a bachelor’s degree with four years of similar professional experience including the required supervisory experience;
• Or an associate degree or completion of 60 college credits with six years of pertinent full-time professional work including the supervisory component;
• Or a high school diploma with eight years of related full-time experience, including the supervisory period described above;
• Or an equivalent combination of education and experience, where college credits may be substituted for work experience at the rate of 30 semester credits per year. In all cases, a high school diploma and at least two years of relevant experience, including eighteen months supervisory experience, are mandatory.

Preferred Attributes

• Exceptional organizational skills and high motivation.
• Strong written and verbal communication capabilities.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Analytical and strategic thinking combined with a keen familiarity of the NYC budgetary process.
• Prior knowledge of DOT structures and internal operations is strongly preferred.

Program Inclusion

This role is open to individuals with disabilities eligible under the 55-a Program. Interested applicants should note their intent to apply through this program in their resume and cover letter.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

As a City employee, you may qualify for federal loan forgiveness and state repayment assistance programs. Applicants are encouraged to explore these options via the official federal student aid website.

Residency Requirements

New York City residency is typically required within 90 days of appointment. Exceptions may apply for employees who have served for two continuous years in specific titles, enabling residence in surrounding counties such as Nassau, Suffolk, Putnam, Westchester, Rockland, or Orange. Candidates are advised to clarify applicable residency rules during their interview.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The City of New York promotes an inclusive work environment free from discrimination or harassment on any legally protected basis, including sex, race, ethnicity, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.