NYC Opens Doors to Public Safety Careers with New Civil Service Exam

Mayor Eric Adams announced a groundbreaking civil service exam to streamline hiring for nearly 900 public safety roles in New York City. This initiative, announced on Friday, November 15th, allows applicants to qualify for multiple positions, including School Safety Agents, traffic enforcement agents, and sanitation enforcement agents, with just one exam and a $47 fee. The application is open until November 29, 2024.

“This exam is more than just a test; it’s an invitation to make a real difference,” said Deputy Mayor Ana Parker. She encouraged New Yorkers to seize this opportunity to serve their communities while securing stable employment. Mayor Adams emphasized the dual benefits of public safety and economic mobility, stating, “The prerequisites to prosperity are public safety and justice, and public safety cannot exist without dedicated members of our community willing to make a difference.”

Candidates who pass the multiple-choice exam, starting January 10, 2025, will join a ranked eligibility list for hiring interviews. Successful applicants will receive competitive pay, pension benefits, and opportunities for advancement. New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) Commissioner Louis A. Molina highlighted the significance of this initiative, saying, “This exam creates multiple paths to meaningful careers in public safety.”

The city has launched a public awareness campaign, “Choose Your Character, Choose Your Badge,” to inspire diverse candidates from all five boroughs. This campaign aligns with Mayor Adams’ broader efforts to enhance workforce accessibility through programs like “Jobs NYC,” which has already connected over 8,500 New Yorkers to jobs and training resources this year.

Adams stated, “We want the best of the best working for New York City — and that includes hundreds of thousands of hard-working residents of the five boroughs. The new public safety combination exams will help recruit the talented and dedicated public servants we need, while ensuring that applying for a meaningful career makes our city more affordable for everyone.” 

The initiative not only simplifies the application process but also reduces financial barriers. Previously, candidates would pay $209 across four separate application fees. Now, applicants can qualify for roles across multiple agencies with a single test. Fee waivers are available for veterans and those on public assistance.

Commissioner Molina said, “Ensuring the safety of all New Yorkers has been the cornerstone of my professional journey; my roots in public safety are the foundation for my nearly 25-year career in city government. Now, it’s your turn to build your career and lay your first cornerstone in public safety, and it’s never been easier to join.” He continued, “With one civil service test, there are now multiple public safety paths to walk, complete with good pay, a pension, and the knowledge that you’re making a difference for your city. I encourage everyone interested in serving to sign up for the test today!”

There are nearly 900 vacant positions available within a wide range of city agencies, with Adams’ announcement listing the following departments and positions: New York City Police Department (NYPD) School Safety Agents, NYPD traffic enforcement agents, special officers of the Civilian Complaint Review Board, DCAS, the New York City Administration for Children’s Services, the New York City Department of Finance, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, New York City Department of Sanitation enforcement agents, the New York City Department of Social Services, the New York City Department of Transportation, the New York City Housing Authority, New York City Public Schools, NYC Health + Hospital, the Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings, the Bronx County District Attorney, the Kings County District Attorney, and the New York County District Attorney

This new program underscores the Adams Administration’s commitment to expanding career opportunities and bolstering public safety. Interested applicants can apply online through the New York City Online Application System or at DCAS’ testing centers. “This initiative ensures that everyone has a chance to contribute to our city while securing their future,” added Molina.