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New York State Digital Service Puts Out Call for Technologists

Applications are being accepted for a New York State Digital Service program, which seeks "mid-career technologists" to drive efforts to modernize state government. Applications will be accepted through April 10.

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The state of New York is turning to the tech community for recruiting “mid-career technologists” into a new pilot program aimed at modernizing the state’s digital services and abilities.

The New York State Digital Service will recruit technologists to serve 18-month tours with state government to help improve digital services and “make information provided by the state more engaging and easier to find,” according to a press release from the New York State Office of Information Technology Services (ITS) and Office of General Services.

The specialists recruited for the new pilot will have expertise in human-centered design, product management and software development. The initial hire will include three specialists, to be in place by September 2020, said Scott Reif, a spokesman for ITS. 

According to the state's press release, Jennifer Pahlka, founder of Code for America, will be involved in the selection process.

“Government services are among the most important in our lives. Yet, until the advent of teams like the United States Digital Service, government hasn’t been positioned to take advantage of the benefits of the digital revolution,” said Pahlka, in the release. “The creation of the New York State Digital Services program will enable New York to use the principles and practices of the digital age to serve its people better, faster, and cheaper while strengthening trust in government at a time when it is badly needed.”

Applications are due by April 10, 2020.

Skip Descant writes about smart cities, the Internet of Things, transportation and other areas. He spent more than 12 years reporting for daily newspapers in Mississippi, Arkansas, Louisiana and California. He lives in downtown Yreka, Calif.