Survivor Advocate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Overview & Summary

The Survivor Advocate provides crisis intervention, counseling, and advocacy to the survivors of, or those directly affected by: domestic/dating/intimate partner violence; sexual assault and rape; stalking; human trafficking; and child abuse. The Survivor Advocate provides comprehensive, trauma-informed care and assistance to survivors in a sensitive, respectful, and confidential manner; bringing community resources to the survivor and their family. Services are provided individually and through support groups; on-site and in community locations. This position shares in the paid rotation of after-hours hotline coverage to ensure coverage of the 24/7 crisis hotline (including accompaniment to medical services).

Duties & Responsibilities:

1. Provide one-on-one support to survivors, offering a safe space for them to share their experiences and feelings.

2. Maintain a calm, steady presence in high-stress and crisis situations to effectively support and reassure survivors.

3. Conduct assessments to identify the needs of survivors and develop personalized support and safety plans.

4. Utilize crisis intervention techniques to assist individuals in immediate distress.

5. Facilitate access to resources such as mental health counseling, legal services, financial assistance, affordable housing, and social work support.

6. Implement motivational interviewing strategies to encourage resilience and empower survivors to advocate for themselves.

7. Mentor survivors by sharing coping strategies and life skills that promote healing and recovery and educating them on the dynamics of sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, trafficking, child abuse, and bullying.

8. Accompany, support, and advocate for clients during the judicial and medical processes.

9. Respond in person to Newark Wayne Community Hospital for Sexual Assault Forensic Exams (SAFE) within 45 minutes of the request (as needed).

10. Collaborate with community organizations and service providers to enhance support systems for survivors.

11. Maintain accurate documentation of interactions and progress while adhering to confidentiality standards.

12. Cover the 24/7 Crisis Hotline, on a rotating basis (approximately 1 week out of every 6 weeks).

13. Attend ongoing trainings/conferences annually, and as assigned.

14. Maintain confidentiality of clients and SACFL records.

15. Attend agency and community meetings as scheduled.

16. Reliably perform all assigned duties.

17. Take initiative on assigned and unassigned tasks.

This role is essential for fostering resilience and empowering survivors, making it a rewarding opportunity for those passionate about advocacy and support.

Education, Experience, & Skills Required:

1. Strong interpersonal skills; including a demonstrated ability to listen actively, effectively convey complex information, maintain professional boundaries, and display compassion and empathy.

2. Ability to remain non-judgmental when working with all types of people and during complex situations.

3. A passion for serving, supporting, and empowering survivors.

4. Strong written skills; and clear, concise verbal telephone skills.

5. Ability to maintain client confidentiality.

6. Ability to work cooperatively as a team member.

7. Ability to respond effectively to unexpected situations.

8. Ability to work irregular hours and holidays, as assigned.

9. Must have an Associate’s Degree or above.

10. This position is subject to required background screening and a determination of suitability to work with minors and other vulnerable populations. Any employment offer will be contingent upon successful completion of all legally required screenings. A criminal conviction will not automatically disqualify an applicant unless applicable law, regulation, funding requirement, or governmental determination prohibits employment in the position. SACFL considers criminal-history information in accordance with applicable federal and New York State law.

11. Must have a valid New York State driver’s license, and the minimum auto insurance on personal vehicle (if used for work activities) that is deemed necessary in the SACFL Personnel Policy.

12. Upon Hiring: Completion of 40-hour NYS Rape Crisis Counselor Certification; 40-hour Domestic Violence Advocacy Training; and other trainings required by NYS, Grantors, and SACFL Training Manager.

Additional Qualifications:

1. Knowledge of domestic violence, child abuse, human trafficking, sexual assault, stalking, and/or bullying is preferred.

2. Experience in crisis intervention, crisis counseling, and/or advocacy in a human services setting is preferred.

3. Fluency in more than one language is a plus.