Position Title:            Victim Advocate

Department/Division:        Investigative Services

Reports to:            Chief Operating Officer

Status:                Full-Time/Exempt

Location:            New York, New York

Job Summary

The Victim Advocate collects and gathers information from victims and other community members regarding alleged abusers in an effort to assist in building a case, and supports victims through the process of navigating relevant law enforcement agencies.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain communication and working relationships within and outside the agency, particularly with professionals associated with law enforcement investigations.
• Conduct in-depth interviews to obtain information needed to determine immediate or long-term risks of children in danger.
• Guide and support victims through the legal process.
• Liaise with law enforcement as requested and as necessary.
• Enter data into case tracking system (CRM) and ensure information is filed correctly and accurately, in a timely fashion.
• Prepare and provide sufficient case documentation (including forms and narratives) to provide a complete and accurate record of cases.
• Conduct fact-finding interviews with complainants, respondents, witnesses, and other parties with knowledge relevant to allegations.
• Collect and analyze witness statements, records, documents, and other evidence relevant to the fact-finding process.
• Compose comprehensive written investigative reports to include a clear identification of allegations investigated, a summarization of evidence, applicable regulations, overall investigation findings and recommendations for complaint resolution.
• Research alleged abusers to obtain information and history necessary for verification of the case details.
• Identify and contact others who may have been victimized.
• Identify and contact potential witnesses and parties involved in cases.
• Maintain effective communication with complainants, respondents, witnesses, etc. throughout the investigative process, notifying them of their rights and responsibilities.
• Assist with the preparation of written summaries of interviews.
• Respond to subpoenas and testify as needed.
• Participate in case reviews and present cases when requested.
• Participate in JCW-sponsored activities and attended meetings on behalf of JCW.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education, Experience, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Bachelor’s degree in human service field, criminal justice or law.
• At least 2 years of experience working with victims of sexual abuse preferred.
• Knowledge criminal and civil law relating to sexual abuse of minors a plus.
• Skills in forensic interviewing of children and adults a plus.
• Ability to evaluate investigation records in relation to the department standards for quality.
• Ability to analyze reports and produce comprehensive documents regarding findings.
• Must understand victimization and demonstrate practices sensitive to sexual abuse issues.
• Excellent communication skills required to maintain quality documentation with the ability to develop and convey thoughts clearly, logically and concisely both orally and in writing, using appropriate grammar and command of the English language—Hebrew and Yiddish are a plus.
• Ability to work both independently and with others to resolve issues and maintain composure and professionalism in an environment of changing and/or multiple priorities.
• Strong work ethic with the ability to maintain a high activity level.
• Ability to tolerate stressful situations and maintain a professional demeanor during times of stress.
• Must have exceptional internal and external customer service orientation.
• Must have demonstrated computer skills including Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook and be familiar with entering data into on-line systems.
• Experience in the daily use of a CRM software, preferably SalesForce.
• Must have working knowledge of organizational policies and procedures.
• Ability to maintain social, ethical and organizational standards in job related activities, at work and in the community.
• Ability to maintain workplace confidentiality and take ownership/accountability for own actions and aspects of the job.
• Well-organized, detail-oriented, flexible self-starter with the ability to set and adhere to priorities and schedules.
• Possess strong initiative and a proactive work style and strong interpersonal, intercultural, and collaborative skills.
• Demonstrated ability in maintaining confidentiality on sensitive matters.
• Creative thinking skills and a strong professional demeanor.
• Must be self-motivated, solution oriented, and have excellent follow-through skills.
• Appreciation for the mission of the organization and the sensitivity and confidentiality required.
• Must be legally eligible for employment in the U.S.

Licenses/Certifications

• Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license/auto insurance and have access to own transportation.

Physical Demands

• Moderate physical activity, which includes standing, sitting, lifting and/or walking.
• Ability to see within normal parameters.
• Ability to hear within normal parameters.
• Requires local travel to meetings.
• Ability to maintain emotional control under stress.

Environmental Factors

Work is primarily indoors in a climate-controlled building.

Contact with Others

Position involves regular contact with clients (victims, families, and others), law enforcement, legal counsel, contractors and JCW staff.

Performance Criteria

Related to job responsibilities, core competencies, and performance goals set annually in consultation with supervisor.

Other Information

All employees are expected to comply with JCW’s employment policies while carrying out their work. The range of responsibilities outlined above may change from time to time to reflect the changing needs of the organization.

Confidentiality

All employees are required to work in a confidential manner in all aspects of their work.

Proof of Eligibility to Work in the United States

All employees must submit proof of identity and their legal authorization to work in the United States.  (If a prospective employee fails to submit this proof of work authorization, federal law prohibits JCW from hiring the person.)

Interested parties should email: hr@jewishcommunitywatch.org