Government > Departments > Administrative Services

Administrative Services

Overview

This department includes the offices of Personnel/Civil Service, Purchasing, Equal Employment Opportunity and Central Services.

Personnel Office
The Personnel Office is responsible for developing, administering and maintaining a citywide personnel policy.  The Director serves as the chair of the Personnel Council and secretary to the Municipal Civil Service Commission, thus insuring that jobs are filled as required by law.  In addition, the Office is responsible for administering employee benefits relating to health insurance, retirement, EAP and Workers' Compensation.  This Office also maintains a computerized time record-keeping system to track accrued benefits, and organizes training programs for City employees.  During 2006, a Personnel Assistant position was added.

Purchasing Office
The Purchasing Office is responsible for the acquisition of all City supplies and services, which do not require formal public bidding.  Such purchases are done by quotation or informal bid in conformance with law.  The Department also assists in other City departments by working with them to formulate specifications for equipment and supplies, which will be placed for public bid.  In addition, it is responsible for the disposition of unnecessary City supplies, materials and equipment, and conducts public auctions and sales for their disposal.

Central Services
As part of the Purchasing Office, this until provides copying and mailing services for City departments.

Civil Service Commission
The Civil Service Commission is responsible for the administration of the Civil Service Law for municipal employees, as well as the protection of their rights.  The Commission maintains employee records, and arranges with the State Department of Civil Service to conduct examinations, and prepare eligibility lists to provide candidates for municipal employment.

EEO/Human Rights Commission
Office of Equal Opportunity oversees the City's Affirmative Action Plan which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, age, gender, national origin, disability, political orientation or affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, ex-offender status and status as a Vietnam Era Veteran. This policy applies to all aspects of the City's personnel policies, programs, practices and operations.

This office also has responsibility for enforcing the City's Human Rights Ordinance and monitoring fair housing laws and policies. Accordingly, this office handles complaints of discrimination and when appropriate refers them to a agencies such as: The City of Albany Commission on Human Rights, New York State Civil Rights Bureau, New York State Division of Human Rights, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Contact Information

Department of Administrative Services

City Hall Room 301
24 Eagle Street
Albany, NY 12207

(518) 434-5284 main

Personnel & Civil Service

(518) 434-5049
employment@ci.albany.ny.us

EEO/Fair Housing

(518) 434-5127
affirmativeaction_fairhousing@ci.albany.ny.us