Basic Purpose of the Job:
Under general direction, the Victim Advocate works closely with the officers of the Montrose Police Department. The advocate responds to requests from officers to assist with victims/witnesses at the scene, including calls on nights and weekends.
Essential Functions:
(Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following tasks, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. The list of tasks is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY, and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions in this class.)

• Respond to requests for assistance and ensure that victims of crimes and/or witnesses are informed of their rights under the Colorado Revised Statutes (24-4.1-301). Follow up with victims with information, assistance and/or other referrals.
• Coordinate and administer victims services programs including: assistance to victims of violent crimes, and assistance to victims of crime to regain financial losses.
• Offer individual and family support, assistance and information on the criminal justice system, support agency referrals, emergency shelter, and other immediate needs.
• Assist other agencies with victim advocacy. Train officers and staff on Victim's Rights. Inform staff of updates or changes to the Victim's Rights laws and procedures.
• Provide information to the general public concerning laws and policies pertaining to Victims Rights.
• Develop and update informational brochures.
• Contact crime victims for weekend advisements for police department and neighboring law enforcement agencies.

Core Beliefs:
Core beliefs are deeply held values and assumptions that guide individuals in the workplace. Core beliefs define how we do things. By establishing core beliefs, the City of Montrose is creating a common culture that shapes employee behavior in a positive and predictable manner. When these beliefs are shared, they create cohesiveness and mutual commitment in the organization and flexibility to changes as they occur.
Our core beliefs are centered on exceptional service and are based around treating our customers and fellow team members with dignity and respect. We value teamwork and recognize that we must continually strive to improve the customer experience. Every team member, regardless of job title, plays a part in creating a service environment and each are empowered to respond to the needs of our customers and teammates. We have six Core Beliefs: Respect, Ethics, Leadership, Accountability, Transparency, Excellence in Service (RELATE).
Job Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Sociology, or other related field with a Master's Degree preferred from an accredited college.
• Prior experience in the field of Victim's Rights, Victim's Advocacy or similar fields is preferred.
• A combination of experience and education may lower the education requirements.
• Must be available to respond to calls for assistance on a 24 hours a day 7 days a week basis, covering for other law enforcement agencies as needed. If the advocate is on any type of leave or out of town the advocate will make arrangements with their supervisor, and other victim advocates in the area to cover duties. Subject to non standard working hours. Primarily working days Friday through Monday.
• Fluent in Spanish preferred.

Licensures & Certificates (must be active and current.):

• Current Colorado driver's license with acceptable record.
• Ability to obtain the following Certifications: State CCIC/NCIC.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment 
Sedentary physical work requiring ability to lift a maximum of 10 pounds; occasional lifting, carrying, walking and standing, hand/eye coordination for operation of personal computer; vision for reading and preparing written reports and documents; frequent speech communication, hearing and listening to maintain communications with employees and citizens. Works primarily in clean, comfortable environment. Occasional outside work, with exposure to outside elements. Requires driving and walking during inclement weather. Subject to many interruptions and pressure due to multiple calls and inquiries. Must be able to remain calm in stressful situations; be able to cope with and work with irate citizens. Frequent exposure to demanding, high stress situations.
Late applications will not be accepted. All candidates are subject to a pre-employment background check and drug screen. The City of Montrose is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired.