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Child Forensic Interview Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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Child Forensic Interview information

See Washington salary details

$28.9K

$69.3K

$107K

How much do child forensic interview jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for child forensic interview in Washington is $69,265.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,200.00 and $78,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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 popular job titles related to Child Forensic Interview jobs in Washington? For Child Forensic Interview jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities in Washington are hiring for Child Forensic Interview jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Child Forensic Interview job openings:
Child Forensic Interview jobs near you

Intern, Special Programs: Forensic Services

National Center for Missing & Exploited Children

Alexandria, VA • On-site

Full-time, Internship

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

POSITION: Intern, Special Programs: Forensic Services
DEPARTMENT: Missing Children Division
LOCATION: Alexandria, VA
SEMESTER: Fall 2026
NOTE: If the application deadline date has been reached and the position is still posted, please continue to apply as we are still accepting applications.
UNIT DESCRIPTION: The Forensic Services Unit (FSU) falls under the Missing Children Division (MCD). FSU maintains three core programs that encompass 1) biometrics, 2) forensics, and 3) a multidisciplinary team that works on unidentified deceased child cases and long-term missing child cases.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Interns will be assigned to the Forensic Services Unit and will be assigned to an FSU Case Manager to assist on one or more of the following duties with the potential to take on additional responsibilities.
  • Communicate professionally with law enforcement or other forensic professionals to help gather information and advance cases of missing children.
  • Review case files and identify relevant information to help determine need for resource application.
  • Prepare written supplemental progress reports on case activities and communications
  • Assist with the collection and documentation of information on special data projects
  • Help compose standardized reports detailing availability of biometrics on missing child cases
  • Participate in internal multidiscipline case reviews
  • Attend various on-site and virtual trainings and presentations as they are offered

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES
  • Must currently have or working towards a Master's Degree or other advanced degree related to Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, or a related field
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • Able to commit to a minimum of 20 hours per week
  • Ability to work in person at the Alexandria, Virginia office
  • Demonstrate ability to analyze written materials
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Knowledge and proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
  • Ability to work independently and as a part of a team
  • Ability to handle and maintain the confidentiality of highly sensitive information

SALARY
Although internships are unpaid positions, each intern will have the opportunity to acquire knowledge and hands-on experience in the position of his/her choosing and will receive academic credit through an approved program at his/her college or as a volunteer. Interns will be reimbursed for parking or public transportation expenses.
HOURS
The Forensic Services Unit intern is required to commit to a one or two semester internship term with a minimum of 20 hours per week, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, during Fall, Spring, or Summer semesters.
TO APPLY
Please visit our website at www.missingkids.org. An in-person or Zoom interview will be requested of most qualified applicants as part of the final selection process.

Apply