Forensic Services Director/Forensic Interviewer

The Forensic Services Director oversees the operations of the VSS Child Advocacy Center and SANE forensic services, including forensic interviews and forensic medical exams. Additionally, the FSD maintains professional relationships with community partners serving survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse while ensuring client/patient confidentiality and no conflicts of interest. Duties may include upkeep with NCA accreditation standards, evidence records/logs, and training personnel in both programs. The FSD is also responsible for conducting developmentally and age-appropriate interviews of children who are alleged victims of abuse or witnesses to violent crimes when requested by relevant authorities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Specific training required in various areas within one year of employment (documented in personnel file).
• Exercise leadership role in representing VSS CAC and SANE unit in the community.
• Coordinate with SANE Coordinator, CAC Coordinator, Executive Director, and Medical Director.
• Coordinate with VSS administrative staff on equipment, repairs, stocking, and supplies.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team case review meetings and DV/SA Taskforce meetings.
• Cultivate communication, collaboration, and cooperation among all CAC staff, and partner agencies.
• Compile, complete, or review statistical reports, client and MDT survey data, and other information.
• Assist with training and supervising certain staff and volunteers.
• Maintain strict confidentiality and cross-cultural awareness.
• Attend specialized training and peer review meetings.
• Adhere to professional ethics and standards.
• Supervise CAC/SANE Coordinators, Forensic Interviewer, MDT Specialist, and Forensic Service Advocates
• Participate in community awareness events and abuse prevention presentations.
• Conduct sensitive and thoroughly recorded forensic interviews with children or adults with developmental delays or mental challenges.
• Ensure information from interviews is securely entered into the data tracking system.
• Testify in court when subpoenaed.
• Assist in identifying client needs and encourage participation in recommended services.
• Provide trauma-informed and client-centered general advocacy for SANE patients.
• Responsible for necessary agency referrals, paperwork, and client files.
• Coordinate with other VSS program components in referrals and case management.
• Be cross-trained in other areas of the agency’s support services.
• Available to assist with the agency’s other support services when necessary.
• Data entry, filing, scheduling, answering phones, and other general office duties.
• Must have training as a Forensic Interviewer, with yearly peer review, two minimum
• Must be trained CAC, NMCSAP, Mandated Reporter, CYFD Trauma Trainings
• Willingness to take on new challenges, responsibilities, and assignments as needed or assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in child development, psychology, social work, or related field
• 5 or more years of experience in the field.
• Forensic Interview Training/Certification required to be completed in the first year.
• Must be team-focused and work well with co-workers and partner agency members.
• Must have the ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
• Ability to perform effectively and calmly in crisis situations.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Ability to interact with clients in a caring manner while maintaining boundaries.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office or similar software and operating systems such as Windows and MacOS.
• Must be able to complete specific training in the following areas within one year of employment with training documented (when possible) in personnel file:
• Child abuse and neglect laws and referral procedures, symptoms, and dynamics.
• Communication skills and techniques.
• Conflict resolution.
• Knowledge of abusive family dynamics.
• Other appropriate topics.
• Maintains good physical and emotional well-being.
• Demonstrates personal qualities such as good judgment, responsibility, and an ability to relate effectively with clients and family members.
• Passionate about helping children and families overcome abuse.
• Committed to the mission of the VSS.
• Basic knowledge of child development, memory, recall, trauma, cultural awareness, and linguistics.
• Excellent facilitation skills.

Pay: $72,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• How many years of experience do you have with diverse population?
• Have you ever experienced secondary trauma? How did you handle it?

Language:

• Spanish (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $72,000