Forensic Interview Victim Witness Advocate Jobs

Description The County of Siskiyou is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employer We welcome applicants of any race, religion, or ancestry. For exact salary information please refer to the current salary schedule, County website General Statement of Duties: Under supervision, to provide a variety of services to victims and witnesses of crimes in accordance with the Victim/Witness Program in the County District Attorney's Office; to learn to interview victims and witnesses, assessing needs and making referrals; to assist with the development of community resources for victim/witness assistance; to represent the Victim/Witness Program with community organizations and agencies; and to do related work as required. This classification is a for cause, non-exempt position.

Distinguishing Characteristics: This is the entry and first working level in the Victim/Witness Advocate class series. Incumbents learn and perform a variety of basic victim/witness and program support services for the Victim/Witness Program. This class is distinguished from the Victim/Witness Advocate II in that incumbents perform a lesser scope of assignments which do not require the same level of knowledge of the Victim/Witness Program.

When an incumbent becomes familiar with department and the Victim/Witness Program policies and demonstrates good sustained work performance, he or she may be promoted to the Victim/Witness Advocate II level. Reports to: District Attorney Administrator - Criminal Division Classifications Supervised: This is not a supervisory class. Examples of Duties Essential Functions: Learns to interview victims and witnesses of crimes, advising them of restitution rights and the availability of services; learns to assess client's needs and make referrals to appropriate community resources and organizations; keeps program clients aware of the status and disposition of cases; provides transportation for persons unable to get to court; explains program procedures, policies, and services; learns to work with community organizations to develop resources and appropriate referral services for victims and witnesses; learns to make presentations as necessary; maintains liaison with law enforcement agencies; may provide some basic counseling and crisis intervention support for Program clients; maintains program records and enters data into a computer system; performs a variety of Victim/Witness Program administrative and support functions.

Knowledge of: Basic knowledge of rules and regulations governing victim/witness services and programs. Basic knowledge of the functions of public law enforcement agencies and the criminal justice system. Interviewing and record keeping techniques.

Desired Skills: Learn to provide a variety of client and program support services for the Victim/Witness Program. Learn to interview people, identify needs, and make appropriate referrals. Learn to analyze and interpret laws and regulations related to victim/witness services.

Gather, organize, analyze, and present a variety ofdata and information. Prepare, clear, concise and accurate records and reports. Communicate with others from diverse socio-economic and cultural backgrounds.

Elicit factual information from applicants and recipients in difficult circumstances of deprivation or emotional disturbance. Assist with development of community referral resources for the Victim/Witness Program. Learn to effectively represent the Victim/Witness Program in contacts with service providers, the public, community organizations, and other government agencies.

Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships. Typical Qualifications Training and Experience: Any combination of training or experience that would provide the knowledge and skills to successfully perform the listed duties is qualifying. A typical way, but not required, to obtain the required knowledge and skills would be: Previous responsible work experience in a social service/public assistance, criminal justice, or law enforcement agency.

Advanced training in social or behavioral science, criminology, or public administration is desirable. Special Requirements: Possession of a valid and appropriate driver's license and reliable transportation. Supplemental Information Typical Physical Requirements: Sit for extended periods; frequently stand and walk; normal manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination; lift and move objects weighing up to 25 pounds; corrected hearing and vision to normal range; verbal communication; use of office equipment, including computer, telephone, calculator, copiers, and FAX; and operate a motor vehicle.

Typical Working Conditions: Work is performed in an office environment; may occasionally drive to other locations; continuous contact with other staff and the public.