FORENSIC INTERVIEWER

The mission of BraveBe Child Advocacy Center is to respond to child abuse through a team approach designed to reduce trauma, seek justice, and provide hope and healing for children and their families.

SUMMARY OF THE POSITION

The Forensic Interviewer is responsible for serving as part of the multi-disciplinary team in child abuse investigations by facilitating and conducting forensic interviews of children, participating in pre and post interview meetings with caregivers and multidisciplinary team members, completing case documentation, and participating in ongoing peer review. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Perform the intake function for the Child Advocacy Center by receiving referrals from law enforcement and Department of Health and Human Services
• Successfully complete basic interview training at the National Children’s Advocacy Center consisting of 32 hours of instruction and practice in evidence-supported interview protocol
• Conduct recorded forensic interviews with children who are alleged to be victims of abuse or neglect in a manner that is trauma focused and assesses for medical and mental health need
• Consistently demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the National Children’s Advocacy Center Forensic Interview Structure, a nationally recognized, evidence-supported interview protocol
• Participate in pre and post interview meetings with multidisciplinary team members to discuss the current allegation, relevant history, and specific needs of the team
• Meet with non-offending caregiver prior to interview to discuss the nature of allegations, circumstances surrounding the disclosure, family composition, social history, developmental and cultural considerations, etc. and to answer any questions about the forensic interview process.The Forensic Interviewer may also provide referrals to treatment and/or community resources to the family.
• Update case tracking system
• Provide statistical information required by funders
• Participate in a structured peer review process
• Testify as subpoenaed or requested on the interview protocols and to the extent they are able on the child’s disclosure. In doing so, the Forensic Interviewer must demonstrate knowledge of not only the interview protocols, but child development, question design, dynamics of abuse, the disclosure process, cultural competency, suggestibility and be familiar with current research and practice.
• Foster open and positive relationships with law enforcement, Health and Human Services and the prosecuting attorney while promoting best practices for child abuse investigation, prosecution and treatment in Southeast Nebraska

• Maintain familiarity with investigative protocols
• Actively participate in weekly case review and supervision 

Leadership and Collaboration

Leadership exists within all levels of our organization. The Forensic Interviewer must ensure culturally competent services are provided to all families served without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, socioeconomic status, disability, gender, or sexual orientation. The Forensic Interviewer must promote a positive image of BraveBe Child Advocacy Center in the community and participate in special events and fundraising efforts.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

The employee customarily and routinely exercises independent discretion and judgment in the performance of his or her duties and supervises volunteers and interns as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education: LMHP, PLMHP, or LCSW required.Bilingual is preferred.

Experience: Two years of professional experience working with children and families who have either experienced or witnessed trauma is required.Previous professional experience in working with the criminal justice or child welfare system, conducting forensic interviews, testifying in court and working as a member of a multidisciplinary team is preferred.

OTHER

The Forensic Interviewer rotates on-call responsibilities to provide after-hours forensic interviews in emergency situations. All employees must have access to a vehicle, possess a valid driver’s license and provide proof of insurance. This position involves occasional travel throughout Southeast Nebraska to support satellite facilities.All employees must submit to a criminal history background check prior to being hired. 

REVISED 

February 2024

This job description is meant to describe the general nature and duties that may be required of this position within BraveBe Child Advocacy Center. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities associated with this job. Nothing in this job description restricts your supervisor’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. All employment relationships at BraveBe Child Advocacy Center are of an at-will nature and may be terminated at any time, with or without cause, and with or without notice. This job description does not constitute a contract of employment.