Child & Family Advocate/Forensic Interviewer

Job Overview
We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Child & Family Advocate/Forensic Interviewer to join our team in supporting vulnerable children and families. The Child and Family Advocate provides victim-centered advocacy to children and non-offending caregivers seen at Children’s Advocacy Center of Independence County. The primary role is to provide support and education to the family to ensure the family’s needs are met, their voice is heard on the MDT, and they are engaged in the investigation process. Other vital duties include being Child First trained and conducting forensic interviews for children and adolescents from toddlers to 17 years of age who are alleged to be victims of physical and/or sexual abuse using research-based interview protocols and techniques in a developmentally appropriate manner to elicit truthful information. engagement.

Responsibilities

1.Provides crisis intervention, psychoeducation, risk assessment, safety planning assistance, and support to children and their non-offending caregivers. .

2. Provide services to families throughout the entire investigation and court process. Advocates provide active outreach and follow-up support services.

3. Assess family dynamics, family awareness of the report, developmental abilities, cultural considerations, and barriers to engagement upon the initial meeting with the family. Be present at the time of the forensic interview to participate in information sharing with the MDT.

4. Maintain appropriate documentation for each child. This includes data entry and records of follow-ups and referrals.

5. Coordinate with MDT agencies regarding child maltreatment cases during the investigation. Participates in case review meetings for all service areas in order to represent the needs and concerns of the family with the MDT.

6. Coordinate with on-site mental health therapists to ensure that families receive evidence- based, trauma- focused mental health care.

7. Coordinate with the on-site SANE to ensure families receive specialized medical care as needed.

8. Provide assistance in obtaining concrete services, such as: housing, protective orders, public assistance, transportation, etc.

9. Assist families with applications for Crime Victims Compensation.

10. Coordinate with the local Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for court education, courtroom tours, support, and court accompaniment.

11. Coordinate and conduct forensic interviews of alleged child/adolescent victims of abuse, as requested, on behalf of the multidisciplinary team members.

12. Maintain and update data for each case file, including brief written documentation pertaining to interviews conducted for case review purposes. Testify in civil and criminal court proceedings, as appropriate or requested, on the interview process and techniques as well as on specific interviews in individual cases.

13. Establish, maintain, and foster healthy working relationships with team and MDT members.

14. Consult with members of the multi-disciplinary team as requested or as deemed necessary.

Qualifications

1. Bachelor’s Degree in social work, psychology (or related experience)

2. Skilled in rapport-building with children and families.

3. Experienced in crisis intervention and remaining calm under stress.

4. Knowledgeable in child development and child abuse dynamics.

5. Understanding trauma in children and adults.

6. Strong communication and organizational skills.

7. Familiar with multi-disciplinary team approaches for child abuse cases.

8. Ability to testify effectively in civil and criminal proceedings.

9. Flexible schedules are required.

10. Team player, especially in stressful situations.

11. No criminal convictions or child maltreatment findings.

12. (Preferred) Two years of experience working with child victims of abuse.

Ability to handle emotionally charged situations with empathy, patience, and professionalism. This role is an essential part of our commitment to safeguarding children's well-being while supporting families through complex challenges. If you are passionate about advocating for children's rights and possess the skills to conduct thorough forensic interviews with integrity and compassion, we invite you to join our dedicated team!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $35,000.00 - $40,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• This position requires on-call rotation and occasional work outside of regular business hours (evenings, weekends, holidays). Are you able to meet this job requirement?

Work Location: In person