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Forensic Interviewing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Guidance Center

Supervisor, Kids-TALK

Southgate, MI · On-site

$32.72/hr

Experience with the Michigan Forensic Interviewing Protocol and/or child and family advocacy, including training individuals in these skill sets is strongly preferred. * Must possess the ability and ...

Wacounty

Digital Forensics Investigator

Beaverton, OR

$110K - $133K/yr

The Digital Forensic Investigator uses a variety of highly specialized software and technical ... Personnel assigned to the division are highly trained in investigative techniques, interviewing ...

State of Arkansas

CHILD ABUSE INVESTIGATOR

Lowell, AR · On-site

$52K - $77K/yr

Familiarity with forensic interviewing techniques and child development principles.Ability to interview children, witnesses, and family members in a sensitive and trauma-informed manner.Strong ...

State of Arkansas

CHILD ABUSE INVESTIGATOR

Springdale, AR · On-site

$52K - $77K/yr

Familiarity with forensic interviewing techniques and child development principles.Ability to interview children, witnesses, and family members in a sensitive and trauma-informed manner.Strong ...

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Forensic Interviewing information

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$25.5K

$61.2K

$94.5K

How much do forensic interviewing jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic interviewing in the United States is $61,156.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forensic Interviewer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic Interviewer, you need a background in psychology, social work, or criminal justice, along with specialized training or certification in forensic interviewing techniques. Familiarity with digital recording equipment, case management systems, and legal documentation protocols is typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, active listening, and the ability to build rapport with vulnerable individuals are crucial soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure interviews are conducted ethically, accurately, and in a manner that preserves the integrity of the information for use in investigations or legal proceedings.

What are some common challenges faced by forensic interviewers when working with children, and how are they addressed?

Forensic interviewers often encounter challenges such as building rapport with children who may be frightened or reluctant to share sensitive information. Additionally, ensuring that questions are non-leading and developmentally appropriate is crucial to maintain the integrity of the interview. To address these challenges, interviewers receive specialized training in child psychology and trauma-informed practices, and they frequently work in multidisciplinary teams with law enforcement, social workers, and mental health professionals to provide a supportive environment for the child.

What does a forensic interviewer do?

A forensic interviewer conducts interviews with children or vulnerable individuals to gather information about suspected abuse or neglect, often using specialized techniques to obtain accurate and detailed accounts. They work in settings such as child advocacy centers and may require training in trauma-informed interviewing and certification in forensic interviewing methods.

Can you be a forensic interviewer without a degree?

Forensic interviewers typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent, but many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related field. Certification and training in forensic interviewing techniques are often required or highly recommended, regardless of formal education level.

How do you become a forensic interviewer?

To become a 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 experience working with vulnerable populations is valuable.

What is the difference between Forensic Interviewing vs Child Advocacy Specialist?

AspectForensic InterviewingChild Advocacy Specialist
CredentialsTraining in forensic interviewing techniques, certifications in child abuse investigationBackground in social work, counseling, or psychology, often with child advocacy certifications
Work EnvironmentInterview rooms, law enforcement agencies, child protective servicesCommunity centers, courts, child advocacy offices
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement, child protective services, forensic unitsNonprofits, government agencies, legal systems
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding forensic interview techniques, investigative rolesChild support, advocacy, legal proceedings

While both roles focus on child welfare, forensic interviewers specialize in conducting legally sound interviews to gather evidence, whereas child advocacy specialists provide support and advocacy for children involved in legal or protective processes.

How much does a forensic interviewer make?

In Texas, forensic interviewers typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and the organization. Salaries may vary based on location, certifications, and whether the role is full-time or part-time.

What is forensic interviewing?

Forensic interviewing is a specialized method of interviewing individuals, often children or vulnerable adults, who may have experienced or witnessed a crime or traumatic event. The purpose is to gather accurate and reliable information in a neutral, non-leading, and legally sound manner that can be used in investigations and court proceedings. Forensic interviewers are trained to minimize trauma and ensure the interview is conducted ethically and effectively. These interviews are usually recorded and may be observed by law enforcement or child protection professionals.
More about Forensic Interviewing jobs
What cities are hiring for Forensic Interviewing jobs? Cities with the most Forensic Interviewing job openings:
What states have the most Forensic Interviewing jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensic Interviewing jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Interviewing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Interviewing jobs are:
Forensic Interviewing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Interviewing job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,156 per year, or $29.4 per hour.
Supervisor, Kids-TALK

Supervisor, Kids-TALK

The Guidance Center

Southgate, MI • On-site

$32.72/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

As a recognized leader in our field, The Guidance Center provides a broad range of services that have helped children, adults and families unlock potential and build better lives since 1958. With 25 programs we offer treatment, prevention, growth and education services to more than 14,200 people annually. Together we: Nurture development. Foster resilience. Cultivate well-being.
We have a market-based compensation structure. The estimated salary for this position will vary based on a candidate's transferable work experience and qualifications. This is a salary grade 109. Rates start at $32.72 per hour. The range provided is just one component of total compensation including a comprehensive benefit package of affordable medical plans, employer paid dental, vision and long-term disability, 401(K) with employer contribution, flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent, paid time off, 11 paid holidays.
As a Supervisor in the Kids- TALK Program, you will be responsible for the following:
  • Provide supervision, guidance, training, and support to the Forensic Interview, Child and Family Advocate, and Intake departments at either the Detroit or Southgate location of the CAC, ensuring the continued professional development of the team members.
  • Ensure the departments follow industry and research best practices when providing trauma-informed services to children and families. Engage in the development and implementation of innovative service delivery to survivors of child maltreatment and trauma based on the needs of children and their families.
  • Actively identify and implement quality improvement initiatives within the department. Monitor the implementation and adherence to identified requirements of the CAC and quality initiatives.
  • Responsible for ensuring children and their families and other guests who visit Kids-TALK CAC consistently receive exceptional customer service and are provided with a safe, welcoming, and trauma-informed environment by employees who are provided with the necessary training, support, and guidance.
  • Manage the staff and department within span of control, including but not limited to: making recommendations as to the interviewing, selecting, hiring, and termination of staff; setting and adjusting hours of work; onboarding and training staff; directing work and assignments; appraising and evaluation of staff work performance; handling of staff complaints and grievances; and disciplining employees.
  • Work collaboratively with the other departments at the CAC to ensure seamless, efficient, and effective service delivery for children and families while working to identify and eliminate barriers to services.
  • Responsible for day-to-day functioning of the department, including maintaining the forensic interview and medical schedules.
  • Ensure the proper functioning of the forensic interview equipment. Promote Kids-TALK CAC services to all Multidisciplinary Team members and provide input/expertise at the Kids-TALK CAC Case Review.
  • Coordinate the development and implementation of the Multidisciplinary Team process, assisting to create protocols and policies for the program, Multidisciplinary Team and other agencies involved in providing services to the target population.
  • Maintain confidentiality of all case information and content of treatment.
  • Participate in committees, task forces, or other public forums or partnerships whose aims are to enhance the health and well-being of families and develop effective systems of care as requested.
  • Conduct direct service as necessary and required.
  • Ensure documentation is completed in a thorough and timely manner consistent with the policies and procedures of The Guidance Center, the CAC and all requirements of the CAC and funding sources
  • Complete 25 hours of staff development training annually.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements
To qualify for this position, you will need the following:
  • Master degree in a human services related field or a Bachelor degree in a human services related field and 5 years of relevant experience is required.
  • Experience within the fields of child maltreatment and/or interpersonal trauma required.
  • At least two years of experience in leading, coaching, and/or guiding others is preferred. Individuals who have worked within the Children's Advocacy Center model are priority candidates.
  • Experience with the Michigan Forensic Interviewing Protocol and/or child and family advocacy, including training individuals in these skill sets is strongly preferred.
  • Must possess the ability and willingness to recognize, respect, and effectively advocate for children of different races, ethnicities, cultures, religions, sexual orientation, and socio-economic backgrounds.
  • A nonjudgmental approach that reflects cultural competency and sensitivity to the unique needs and diverse experiences of individual children and their families is required.
  • The capability and desire to lead a coordinated and collaborative Multidisciplinary Team is required.
  • Experience in advocating and communicating with professionals across disciplines in a diplomatic manner is required.
  • Must have the ability to develop and strengthen the CAC's collaborative relationships, demonstrate highly effective interpersonal communication skills, and possess a willingness to be flexible, creative, and solutions-focused, as well as committed to the strategic initiatives of the CAC.
  • Must espouse the Kids-TALK CAC values of Diversity, Respect, and Teamwork and encourage the growth and development of the Kids-TALK CAC team through support and accountability.
  • Candidate must lead in a way that supports the CAC's commitment to ensuring that decisions are made through the lens of what is in best interest of the children, families, and professional partners that we serve.

The Guidance Center believes that our team members are our most valuable resources, and we invest in them accordingly. We offer our employees a competitive salary, flexible scheduling opportunities, a team-oriented work environment and much more!
The Guidance Center is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a welcoming place for everyone.

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