N.Y. Lab. Law § 18
The officers, deputy commissioners and employees of the department of labor in office when this section takes effect shall continue in office subject to the power of removal or the appointment of their successors as provided in this chapter. There shall be in such department and the commissioner may appoint such heads of divisions or bureaus and such inspectors, investigators, statisticians and other assistants and employees as he shall deem necessary for the exercise of the powers and the performance of the duties of the department.
The commissioner may transfer officers or employees from their positions to other positions in the department, or abolish or consolidate such positions. The commissioner may remove from office any officer or employee in the department. All such transfers, removal of employees or officers and abolishment or consolidation of positions shall be made in accordance with the provisions of the civil service law.
N.Y. Lab. Law § 18