Governor Kathy Hochul has announced substantial pay increases for engineers and related licensed positions across New York State agencies, marking a strategic move to bolster recruitment and retention efforts for public sector roles critical to infrastructure development and maintenance.
The pay hikes, ranging from $7,000 to $13,500, will benefit approximately 2,600 employees across 18 state agencies and the New York State Thruway Authority. The adjustments, effective December 5, aim to attract top talent in professional fields such as engineering, architecture, and land surveying, addressing challenges in a competitive job market.
“Engineering and the licensed positions that support it are some of the most competitive jobs in the world,” Governor Hochul said. “This investment in geographic pay differentials is a smart investment in the future of the Empire State.”
The increases come amid ongoing efforts by the Hochul administration to rebuild and modernize infrastructure, improve economic resilience, and prepare for climate challenges. Key agencies expected to see the greatest impact include the Department of Transportation (1,620 employees), the Department of Environmental Conservation (542 employees), and the Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation (70 employees).
State officials have hailed the move as pivotal. Timothy R. Hogues, Commissioner of the New York State Department of Civil Service, noted the initiative would help secure “the skills and talents of those professionals who improve and maintain the built and natural environments that make New York State such a special place.”
Marie Therese Dominguez, Commissioner of the Department of Transportation, emphasized the importance of retaining skilled workers, stating, “New Yorkers rely on the skills and expertise of our engineers… This investment will allow us to attract a world-class talent pool to our state ranks.”
In addition to the pay increases, the New York State Thruway Authority approved a new pay differential to enhance recruitment and retention. The initiative, set to take effect in early 2025, builds on previous adjustments for highway maintenance roles and highlights the administration’s commitment to fortifying public sector employment.
The pay adjustments are part of a broader workforce strategy. Earlier this year, the state launched the New York Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide (NY HELPS) program to streamline the hiring process and waived civil service exam fees through December 2025. These initiatives, coupled with targeted marketing campaigns, are designed to attract new talent and elevate public service careers.
Governor Hochul also underscored the role of public workers in safeguarding New York’s infrastructure and ensuring the state’s resilience. “This initiative will provide a major boost to our workforce recruitment and retention efforts at a time when we are experiencing complex challenges,” she said.
As New York continues to invest in its workforce, state agencies are working to support professionals who are vital to public safety, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.
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