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Child Forensic Interview Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Family Law Paralegal

Orlando, FL · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

You will assist attorneys across all stages of family law matters, including divorce, child custody ... Liaise with third-party professionals, including forensic accountants, real estate appraisers ...

Child Forensic Interview information

What is a child forensic interview?

A Child Forensic Interview is a structured conversation with a child conducted by a trained professional to obtain information about possible events the child may have experienced or witnessed, such as abuse or other crimes. The goal is to gather accurate and reliable information in a manner that is developmentally appropriate and minimizes trauma to the child. These interviews are typically part of investigations by law enforcement or child protective services and are often recorded to preserve the child's statement for legal proceedings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a child forensic interviewer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Child Forensic Interviewer, you need a background in psychology, social work, or criminal justice, along with specialized training in forensic interviewing and child development. Familiarity with recording equipment, case management systems, and protocols such as the National Children's Alliance standards is typically required. Exceptional communication, empathy, and the ability to build trust with children while remaining neutral are crucial soft skills. These skills and qualifications are essential for eliciting accurate information in a sensitive manner, ensuring child safety, and supporting effective investigations.

What are some common challenges faced by child forensic interviewers, and how can they be addressed?

Child Forensic Interviewers often encounter challenges such as building trust with children who may be scared or traumatized, navigating interviews with children of varying developmental levels, and managing emotionally difficult subject matter. These challenges can be addressed through specialized training in trauma-informed interviewing techniques, ongoing supervision and peer support, and self-care practices to prevent burnout. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including law enforcement and social services, also helps ensure interviews are conducted ethically and effectively while supporting the child's well-being.

What is the difference between Child Forensic Interview vs Child Therapist?

AspectChild Forensic InterviewChild Therapist
CredentialsTypically requires a background in psychology, social work, or criminal justice; often certified in forensic interviewing techniquesRequires a degree in psychology, social work, or counseling; licensure or certification in therapy or counseling
Work EnvironmentConducted in forensic or investigative settings, such as law enforcement agencies or child advocacy centersPerformed in clinical settings, schools, or private practices, focusing on therapy and mental health
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement, child advocacy, forensic agenciesHealthcare, mental health clinics, private practice

While both roles involve working with children, Child Forensic Interviewers focus on gathering information for legal cases using specialized interview techniques, whereas Child Therapists provide mental health treatment to support emotional well-being.

Are child forensic interviewers in demand?

Child forensic interviewers are in increasing demand due to the need for specialized skills in interviewing children involved in abuse or neglect cases. Employment opportunities are often available in law enforcement agencies, child advocacy centers, and social services, with a focus on training in interview techniques and child development. The role requires strong communication skills and adherence to legal and ethical standards.

How do I become a child forensic interviewer?

To become a child forensic interviewer, individuals typically need a background in social work, psychology, or criminal justice, along with specialized training in interviewing techniques and child development. Certification programs, such as those offered by the National Children's Alliance, are often required or preferred, and candidates must pass background checks and gain experience working with children in related settings.

What does a child forensic interviewer do?

A child forensic interviewer conducts interviews with children who may have experienced abuse or neglect to gather information for investigations. They use specialized techniques to ensure the child's comfort and to obtain accurate, reliable testimony, often working closely with law enforcement, social services, and mental health professionals. The role requires strong communication skills, knowledge of child development, and adherence to legal and ethical standards.

What job categories do people searching Child Forensic Interview jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Child Forensic Interview jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Child Forensic Interview jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Child Forensic Interview job openings:

Infographic showing various Child Forensic Interview job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Child Abuse Pediatrics Clinical Faculty Position - Assistant/Associate/Full Professor

Tampa, FL


University of South Florida
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

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Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

The Department of Pediatrics in the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine is seeking a clinical faculty member who is fellowship-trained and/or board-certified in Pediatrics, Family Medicine or Emergency Medicine with experience working in Child Abuse Pediatrics. BC/BE in Child Abuse Pediatrics is preferred, but not required. 

This position will join a growing team at Muma Children's Hospital at Tampa General Hospital (TGH). Muma Children's Hospital at TGH is establishing a The Child WellBeing Center of Excellence (COE), as a firstinFlorida, statewiderecognized regional hub for pediatric trauma, child protection, and injury prevention. As part of the only ACSverified Level I Pediatric Trauma Center in West Central Florida, this physician will help lead a multidisciplinary program dedicated to improving outcomes for vulnerable children across Hillsborough, Polk, and surrounding counties.

The physician will provide comprehensive clinical services-including inpatient consultations, outpatient evaluations, forensic assessments, and multidisciplinary team collaboration - while working closely with the Department of Children and Families (DCF), child advocacy centers, law enforcement, and our hospital partner. 

In addition to direct patient care, the physician will contribute to program growth, support ACS Pediatric Level I Trauma requirements, engage in teaching and academic activities with USF Health, and participate in research and quality initiatives.

This role offers a unique opportunity to help build Florida's first Child WellBeing Center of Excellence and shape a regional model of care for vulnerable children. 

Working at USF

With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF's rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida's best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state's 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.

About USF 

The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF's Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu.

Compliance and Federal Notices

This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws: 

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law.  The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law.  The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.  This job description does not constitute an employment contract.  

Minimum: 

  • Medical degree from an accredited institution or the highest degree appropriate in the field of specialization with a demonstrated record of achievement in teaching, academic research, and service. Must meet university criteria for appointment to the rank of Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor. For Associate/Full Professor - Normally will have produced creative work, professional writing or research in refereed and other professional journals, and be a recognized authority in the field of specialization.
  • Board Certified in Pediatrics, Family Medicine or Emergency Medicine with prior experience working in Child Abuse Pediatrics with demonstrated expertise in managing child abuse and neglect cases
  • Completion of a 3-year, ACGME accredited Child Abuse Pediatrics fellowship is preferred, but not required.

Additional Minimum: 

  • Must hold or be eligible for a full, unrestricted Florida Medical License or foreign equivalent required. To perform this position, the candidate will need to obtain and maintain a full un-restricted FL Medical License, maintain credentials in the USF Health faculty practice plan, and be a medical staff member in good standing at the hospitals he/she is assigned to perform clinical duties. 

  • The candidate will participate in the teaching of residents, fellows, and medical students in clinical medicine.

  • CLINICAL: The position includes both outpatient care and inpatient consultative services. Clinical duties include call coverage per the Child Abuse Program call schedule. Outpatient care is primarily based out of Mary Lee's House in Tampa, FL. 
  • TEACHING: The selected candidate will be expected to contribute to departmental teaching programs involving residents, medical students, and house staff.  He/she will participate in the preparation/organization of new educational programs as well as participation in the university/college assigned committees.  The individual will be expected to effectively utilize his/her clinical practice as a teaching resource. Both students and residents will attend the outpatient clinics. 
  • RESEARCH: Collaborative effort within the Department and the University will be encouraged.
  • OTHER: Other duties as assigned. Responsible to a Chair or other appropriate higher-level administrator of a State university. Responsible for teaching, research, service, and related administrative activities.Responsible for academic advising and related activities. May represent the university, college/school, or department.

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About University of South Florida

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The University of South Florida (USF), located in Tampa, FL, US, is a highly respected, long-standing institution specializing in teaching, research, and public service. It operates within the higher education industry and offers over 180 undergraduate, graduate, specialist, and doctoral degree programs, across disciplines ranging from arts and sciences to business, engineering, and healthcare. Founded in the year 1956, USF has relentlessly strived to develop an environment conducive to learning and research, which over the years, has earned it a preeminent status among public universities across the globe. USF's mission is to foster a vibrant, student-centric learning environment that instills an expansive intellectual foundation to drive success. USF is known for its considerable impact on regional and state economies, contributing $5 billion annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Tampa, FL, US

Year founded

1956

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Hours and flexibility

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