1

Victim Witness Assistance Program Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Victim/Witness Advocate

Ukiah, CA · On-site

$47K - $57K/yr

District Attorney - Victim/Witness Assistance Opening Date: 05/14/2026 Closing Date: 6/11/2026 11 ... EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM For the most current information regarding Employee Assistance please ...

Victim Witness Coordinator

Rochester, MN · On-site

$32.07 - $53.58/hr

... assistance for juvenile and criminal cases within the County Attorney's office. Establishes ... Examples of Work Administers programs and implements policies to keep victims and witnesses ...

Provide victim assistance services to a broad base of the public via self-initiated activities. Contact public departments and private agencies to inform them of Victim Witness Program and to solicit ...

Victim Witness Advocate

Gloucester, VA · On-site

$41K - $50K/yr

Employee must exercise considerable tact, courtesy, and discretion in frequent contact with program ... victim assistance materials; recommending written interagency service agreements; maintaining a ...

... Program. Refers victims to appropriate agencies for a broad range of services and resources ... Provides assistance, escort and support to victims/witnesses for court appearances and interviews.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Victim Witness Assistance Program information

See salary details

$29K

$39K

$48.5K

How much do victim witness assistance program jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for victim witness assistance program in the United States is $39,005.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,000.00 and $39,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Victim Witness Assistance Program?

A Victim Witness Assistance Program (VWAP) is a service provided by many law enforcement agencies and prosecutors' offices to support victims and witnesses of crime throughout the criminal justice process. The program offers resources such as counseling, information about the court process, crisis intervention, and assistance with filing for compensation or protection orders. VWAP staff help ensure that victims and witnesses understand their rights, are kept informed about case developments, and receive the emotional and practical support they need during a difficult time.

What is the difference between Victim Witness Assistance Program vs Victim Advocate?

AspectVictim Witness Assistance ProgramVictim Advocate
CredentialsVaries by agency; often requires knowledge of criminal justice and counselingSimilar; may require certification or training in victim support
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, courts, law enforcement settingsNonprofits, government agencies, legal settings
Employer & IndustryPrimarily public sector, criminal justice systemPublic and private sectors, legal and social services
Common Search/ComparisonVictim Witness Assistance Program vs Victim Advocate

The Victim Witness Assistance Program and Victim Advocate roles both support crime victims, often working in similar environments like courts and law enforcement. While their core functions overlap, the program typically refers to a specific government-funded initiative providing comprehensive support, whereas a victim advocate may work in various settings offering personalized assistance. Both roles require knowledge of victim rights and support services, making them closely related but distinct in scope and employment context.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a Victim Witness Assistance Program, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in a Victim Witness Assistance Program often encounter emotionally charged situations, as they support individuals who have experienced trauma or crime. Balancing empathy with professional boundaries can be challenging, as can managing a high caseload and the need for timely communication with law enforcement and legal teams. Effective self-care strategies, regular supervision, and ongoing training in trauma-informed care are essential for staying resilient in this role. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams also helps share responsibilities and provide comprehensive support to victims and witnesses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Victim Witness Assistance Program role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Victim Witness Assistance Program role, you need a background in criminal justice, social work, or psychology, along with knowledge of legal procedures and victim rights. Familiarity with case management systems, court documentation software, and optional certifications like Certified Victim Advocate are often required. Compassion, strong communication, and crisis intervention skills are vital for supporting victims and collaborating with law enforcement. These competencies ensure that victims receive proper advocacy, emotional support, and access to justice throughout the legal process.
What cities are hiring for Victim Witness Assistance Program jobs? Cities with the most Victim Witness Assistance Program job openings:
What states have the most Victim Witness Assistance Program jobs? States with the most job openings for Victim Witness Assistance Program jobs include:
Infographic showing various Victim Witness Assistance Program job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,005 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Victim/Witness Advocate

County of Mendocino, CA

Ukiah, CA • On-site

$47K - $57K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Salary : $47,548.80 - $57,782.40 Annually
Location : Various locations throughout the County, CA
Job Type: Full-time Permanent
Job Number: 26.154
Department: District Attorney - Victim/Witness Assistance
Opening Date: 05/14/2026
Closing Date: 6/11/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
The Position
The current vacancy is in Ukiah and Fort Bragg. This position supports victims and witnesses of crime, including survivors of human trafficking, by providing court accompaniment, safety planning, and connections to emergency housing, victim compensation, and other supportive services.
The list developed from this recruitment will be used for a limited period to fill open and promotional, regular full-time, and part-time positions, should they occur. Pursuant to current bargaining unit agreements, employees regularly assigned to the coastal region or in Covelo are eligible to receive a 5% assignment premium
Under general supervision provides a wide range of direct services to victims, witnesses and their families involved in the criminal justice system; work consists of responsible paraprofessional and administrative duties.
Bilingual English/Spanish encouraged to apply. Se buscan personas bilingües en inglés y español. Para recibir una solicitud en español, llame a Recursos Humanos al 234-6600.
Job Requirements and Minimum Qualifications
All responsibilities may not be performed by all incumbents:
  • Responds in person or by telephone to victim's immediate needs; provides emergency assistance in response to a victim's immediate needs
  • In emergencies, refers or places victims of crimes of domestic violence in a temporary, safe living environment.
  • Contacts victims and provides assistance with financial losses that result from the commission of a crime, including claims with Victims of Crime Program.
  • Refers victims to appropriate agencies for a broad range of services and resources, including medical or therapeutic treatment.
  • Assists law enforcement and District Attorney's Office in interviewing crime victims, providing emotional support and physical resources as necessary.
  • Arranges transportation for victims and witnesses; coordinates their excused absence from employment; arranges lodging and other accommodations.
  • Assists in obtaining the return of a victim's property held as evidence.
  • Provides information to victims/witnesses about the criminal justice system; provides information regarding the status and disposition of cases.
  • Provides assistance, escort and support to victims/witnesses for court appearances and interviews.
  • Notifies and informs families and friends of the status and condition of victims of crime.
  • Intercedes on victim's behalf informing creditors of the victim's inability to meet current financial obligations and informing providers of services of the status of the victim's claim with Victims of Crime Compensation Program.
  • Intervenes on behalf of the victims in informing employers of temporary inability to meet employment obligations due to proceedings related to the criminal justice system.
  • Assists with the arrangement of temporary child care while a victim or witness is taking part in the criminal justice process.
  • Provides crime prevention information through brochures, counseling, public presentations and/or referrals to appropriate criminal justice agencies.
  • Provides aid and information to victims and witnesses in completing forms necessary for obtaining temporary or ex-parte restraining orders.
  • Develops a strong liaison with law enforcement and human service agencies to provide effective service to victims.
  • Advocates for victims' rights in contacts with criminal justice representatives, community organizations and/or the public.
  • Notifies witnesses of known cancellation or changes in scheduled court appearances
  • Assists a deceased victim's immediate family member with funeral arrangements.
  • Assists with Sexual Assault Response Team coordination, scheduling exams and chairing meetings as needed.
  • Maintains records; prepares memorandums, letters, reports and/or other documents.
  • Reads and reviews crime reports.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED
Education and Experience:
Associate's degree or equivalent from a two-year college in criminal justice, behavioral science, social science or a related field; and, two (2) year of experience providing supportive counseling to victims and witness of crime, or related work in a private or public agency working with the criminal justice system; or, any combination of higher education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
Licenses and Certifications:
Valid Driver's License
Successful completion of Entry Level Advocate Training within one (1) year of hiring.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of:
  • Dynamics of victimization and domestic violence, child abuse survival and the stages of grieving following a homicide.
  • Basic functions of public law enforcement agencies and the criminal justice system.
  • General office procedures, policies and practices, as well as basic knowledge of general office equipment
  • Record keeping, report preparation, filing methods and records management techniques.
  • Applicable state, federal and local ordinances, laws, rules and regulations.
  • All computer applications and hardware related to performance of the essential functions of the job.

Skill in:
  • Using tact, discretion, initiative and independent judgment within established guidelines.
  • Organizing work, setting priorities, meeting critical deadlines, and following up on assignments with a minimum of direction.
  • Using a computer terminal to accurately and rapidly enter and retrieve data and information.
  • Communicating clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Preparing clear and concise reports, correspondence and other written materials.
  • Maintaining professional ethics and personal boundaries.

Mental and Physical Abilities:
  • Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
  • Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
  • Ability to speak effectively before groups and respond to questions.
  • Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions.
  • While performing the essential functions of this job the employee is regularly required to sit, use hands to finger, handle, or feel, reach with hands and arms, and speak and hear.
  • While performing the essential functions of this job the employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, and lift and/or move up to 20 pounds.

Selection Procedure & Other Important Information
Important Application Information:
  • It is your responsibility to demonstrate through your application materials how you meet the minimum qualifications of the position/s for which you apply.
  • You must complete all sections of the application. A résumé or other information you feel will help us evaluate your qualifications may be attached to your completed application, but will not be accepted in lieu of completing any part of the application. Blank applications that contain only a résumé or those that reference "see résumé" will be rejected as incomplete.
  • Check your application before submitting to ensure it is complete and correct; no new or additional information will be accepted after the closing date.
  • Inquiry will be made of your former and current employers; please provide the names and telephone numbers of supervisors on your application.
  • You must provide the names and contact information of at least three (3) references (not relatives) that have knowledge of your job skills, experience, ability and/or character.
  • Application materials are the property of Mendocino County and will not be returned.
  • It is your responsibility to keep your NEOGOV profile updated, including any changes to your telephone number or address. Failure to do so may result in missed notification of exams or interviews.
  • The exam process listed on this flyer is tentative. Mendocino County reserves the right to make necessary modifications to the examination plan. Such revisions will be in accordance with approved personnel standards. Should a change be made, applicants will be notified.
  • The provisions of this job bulletin do not constitute an expressed or implied contract.

Examination Process: All complete applications will be reviewed; incomplete applications will not be considered. Based on the number of qualified candidates, applicants meeting the job requirements and qualifications will be invited to participate in an oral examination (weight 100) or an application appraisal exam, consisting of an evaluation of education and experience as stated on the application form. The examination process will test the knowledge and abilities described above. A minimum score of 70 must be attained for placement on the employment list.
Special Testing: The County of Mendocino is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and California's Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), if special accommodations for a disability or religious conviction are necessary at any stage of the application and/or testing process, please notify the Human Resources Department in advance at (707) 234-6600. Reasonable notice is required to allow adequate time for review and evaluation of your request.
Special Requirements: Employment in some County departments or positions may require the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background, which may include fingerprinting, and/or a medical examination, which may include drug screening.
This announcement is a synopsis of duties and requirements of this job. To review the complete classification specification and benefits, please see the HR website. Applications must be submitted to the Human Resources Department by the final filing date.
The County of Mendocino participates in the E-Verify program to confirm employment eligibility. If hired, the information you provide on your Form I-9 will be used to verify your authorization to work in the United States.
Learn more:
  • E-Verify Notice of Participation
  • Right to Work

The County of Mendocino is an Equal Opportunity Employer
This information is a summary of general benefits. Benefits listed in Mendocino County Resolutions or Memorandums of Understanding prevail over this listing. This information is not legally binding, nor does it constitute a Contract.
SALARY
Compensation is based on a five-step salary range, with annual merit-based increases within the salary range.
RETIREMENT
Covered under Social Security and the 1937 act; both employees and the County pay into the retirement fund. For the most current information regarding County Retirement please go to:
HOLIDAYS AND PERSONAL LEAVE
Mendocino County observes 11 paid holidays per year. Employees are granted 24 - 48 hours of personal leave annually, depending upon Bargaining Unit.
VACATION
Accrues at the rate of two weeks per year for three years. Three weeks per year after three years, four weeks after eight years and five weeks after 15 years.
SICK LEAVE
Paid sick leave accrues at the rate of 1.25 days per month, or 15 days per year. Accruals are pro-rated for part-time employees working at least 20 hours per week. Part-time employees working less than 20 hours per week, and extra-help employees receive up to 24 hours (or 3 days) of paid sick leave annually.
MEDICAL, DENTAL, VISION, AND LIFE INSURANCE
The County and the employee share the cost of an employee selected health care plan; enrollment in the plan includes $20,000 Life Insurance.
HEALTH INSURANCE
For the most current information regarding Health Insurance please go to:
EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
For the most current information regarding Employee Assistance please go to:
EMPLOYEE WELLNESS PROGRAM
For the most current information regarding Employee Wellness please go to:
LABOR CONTRACTS
For the complete list of most current labor agreements please go to:
01
To qualify for this classification, you must meet the required minimum qualifications posted on the recruitment flier and class spec under the Minimum Qualifications Required section. This includes proof of the required educational transcripts, degree, licensure, or certification. This does not include a high school diploma or G.E.D, or driver's license.If you submit this application without the required proof of education, licensure or certification, your application will be rejected as an incomplete application and will not move forward in the recruitment process.
  • I have attached the required proof of education, licensure and/or certification
  • I have not attached the required proof of education, licensure and/or certification and understand my application will not move forward in the recruitment process.

Required Question