Open Job Positions
JOB TITLE: Forensic Interviewer/Family Advocate
PROGRAM: Leavenworth Atchison Child Advocacy Center
REPORTS TO: Child Advocacy Center Program Director
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PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:·
Minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in social work/welfare, criminal justice/law enforcement, mental health, or related field.·
Direct work experience within a multidisciplinary team responding to allegations of child maltreatment.·
Direct work experience with abused children and their families.·
Advanced knowledge of child abuse dynamics and trends.·
Knowledge of law enforcement, criminal and civil court systems and how to communicate with and function within these systems.·
Preferred Criminal and/or CINC Court testimony experience.·
Strong organizational and communication skills.·
Ability to engage children of all ages in interviews and mediate with parents in crisis.·
Familiar with National Children’s Alliance, Children’s Advocacy Center model.
CANDIDATES MUST:·
Be able to pass a background check.
No record of confirmed involvement with child abuse or neglect.·
Be willing to travel between Atchison and Leavenworth Counties as well as to in-state meetings/trainings and out of state trainings.·
Have a reliable vehicle, be able to drive, and have current driver’s license and insurance.·
Work effectively and respectfully with individuals from various economic, social and cultural backgrounds.·
Work in a confidential manner, ensuring information is shared with internal and external individuals in an appropriate manner.
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PURPOSE:
The Forensic Interviewer works as part of a multidisciplinary team responding to child sexual abuse and physical abuse allegations, using a children’s advocacy center (CAC) model. The Forensic Interviewer is responsible for understanding the dynamics of child abuse with an emphasis on child sexual abuse. This understanding is used to conduct child-focused, forensically-sound, legally defensible forensic interviews of alleged child victims referred to the Leavenworth Atchison Child Advocacy Center. The Forensic Interviewer testifies as a fact and expert witness in Court as requested through subpoena. All forensic interviews will be conducted according to current Leavenworth Atchison Child Advocacy Center Protocol and interview guidelines as well as National Children’s Alliance Standards of Accreditation.
The Family Advocate works as part of a multidisciplinary team responding to child sexual abuse and physical abuse allegations, using a children’s advocacy center (CAC) model. The Family Advocate provides comprehensive support, guidance, and resources to non-offending family members of children who have experienced abuse. The Family Advocate serves as a compassionate and knowledgeable liaison, helping families navigate the complex investigative and legal processes, ensuring their voices are heard, and their needs are met. By offering emotional support, information, and practical assistance, the Family Advocate plays a critical role in promoting the well-being and resilience of families during and after their involvement with the Child Advocacy Center. All Family Advocates will serve clients according to current Leavenworth Atchison Child Advocacy Center Protocols as well as National Children’s Alliance Standards of Accreditation.
This position will spend approximately 45% of time conducting forensic interviews and 55% of time providing supportive advocacy services.
RESPONSIBILITES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:·
Conduct child-focused, legally-defensible forensic interviews with children who may be victims or witnesses of sexual or physical abuse, or witnesses to violent crime.·
Testify in criminal and juvenile court, when requested by subpoena.·
Maintain strong level of child abuse and forensic interview expertise through local, national, and web-based skills-based trainings, journal article readings, and networking with other forensic interviewers.·
Complete timely, thorough and accurate documentation of activities through forensic interview summaries, NCAtrak data entry, and digital recordings.·
Provide advocacy and complete follow-up services to children and non-offending caregivers on case load.·
Assist families in understanding the process and steps that occur during the investigation of the crime.·
Collect all relevant child and family history, assess the needs of the family, and make appropriate referrals.·
Work closely with other victim advocacy services in the community to ensure seamless coverage and transition for clients.·
Attend annual skills-based training to remain abreast of latest research, trends, and best practice standards in cultural competency, child abuse medical evaluations, and advocacy.·
Assist in data collection and statistical information, data entry using the case tracking system, and generating statistical information from reports, logs, and databases.·
Collaborate with child protection workers, law enforcement, prosecutors, medical personnel, therapists and victim advocates to ensure quality services for all victims and families.·
Promote the agency within the community and educate the community about services offered and child abuse/neglect.·
Engage in process in which victims are treated with fairness, respect, and dignity as well as freedom from intimidation, harassment, or abuse.· Assist with and attend agency functions, special events, and meetings as assigned.·
Conduct self and work according to NCA accreditation standards and the Leavenworth Atchison Child Advocacy Center protocol.·
Other duties as assigned
Skills-
Experience in childcare, social work, or related field
Strong understanding of child welfare, family law, and child protective services
Ability to work effectively with diverse populations
Proficiency in conflict management and resolution
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Empathy, compassion, and a non-judgmental approach
Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $41,000.00 - $44,000.00 per year
Benefits:
401(k)401(k) matching
Flexible schedule
Health insurance
Mileage reimbursement
Paid time off
Schedule:
8 hour shift
Day shift
Monday to Friday
Education:
Bachelor's (Required)
Experience: social services/work with children: 1 year (Required)
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License/Certification:
Driver's License (Required)
Work Location: In person