Specialist, Investigations Expert, VAWC

International Justice Mission•Columbia, DC

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

International Justice Mission ( IJM ) is the global leader in protecting vulnerable people from violence around the world. Our team of over 1, 2 00 professionals are at work worldwide in over 3 0 offices. Together we are on a mission to rescue millions, protect half a billion, and make justice unstoppable. We are a global community that cares for one another. W e believe that the way we work is as important as the results we achieve. We provide professional excellence with joy and celebration to all those we serve. The Need For over 25 years, IJM has pioneered the work to protect vulnerable people from violence. 9 out of 9 times in the last decade, IJM’s Justice System Strengthening Projects have reduced slavery and violence between 50 and 85% for very large populations of people in poverty. As we grow to expand our impact to protect 500 million people from violence , we are see king a Specialist, Investigations Expert, Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) . This role will be instrumental in building the capacity of IJM staff and local justice actors and collaborating with IJM’s legal and aftercare teams to ensure comprehensive victim protection and perpetrator accountability. This position requires a commitment to IJM’s mission and values, exceptional investigative acumen, strategic vision, cross-cultural sensitivity, and the ability to operate effectively in challenging contexts. This position is hybrid (onsite Tuesdays and Thursdays) for candidates based in the Washington, DC area, or remote for non-local candidates within the U.S. We will also consider applicants located in Colombia, Guatemala, or Peru, where IJM has operations. Candidates must have valid work authorization in one of these countries. Please note: There is a strong preference for candidates based in the Washington, DC area but will consider candidates remotely in the US. Spanish language proficiency is highly preferred but not required.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice , Law Enforcement, International Relations, Human Rights, or a related field .
Minimum of 10 years of professional experience in criminal investigations, with a significant focus on complex cases involving sexual violence, child abuse, intimate partner violence and homicide.
Extensive experience working within law enforcement agencies (police, intelligence, or similar) at a senior level, with demonstrated leadership in investigations.
Experience working with civil society organizations who work with justice systems or in communities to create safe environments.
Proven experience in training and mentoring other investigators or law enforcement personnel.
Experience working in Latin America, Africa or other developing contexts, with a strong understanding of cultural nuances and justice system challenges.
Fluency in Spanish and English (written and spoken) is .
Exceptional investigative and analytical skills, with the ability to gather, interpret, and synthesize complex information.
Strong legal knowledge related to criminal justice, human rights, and VAWC legislation.
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and cross-cultural negotiation skills.
Proficiency in case management software and investigative tools.
Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team in a fast-paced, high-stress environment.
Demonstrates humility, patience, gentleness, kindness, self-control in all aspects of work, and is a servant leader.
Self-starter with strong initiative.
Disciplined with priorities.
Strong interpersonal skills and self-awareness.
Exceptional verbal and written communication.
Exceptional trainer and public speaker.
Flexible, collaborative and eager to support others.
Effective team player who fosters collaborative environment.
Adept at creative problem solving.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree or equivalent advanced training in criminal investigation, law, or related discipline preferred.

Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Program Development Contribute to the development and implementation of IJM’s VAWC strategy in Latin America and Africa, aligning with global objectives .
Identify opportunities for strategic partnerships with law enforcement agencies, government bodies, and non-governmental organizations ( NGOs ) to enhance investigative impact and systemic change.
Provide expert advice and guidance on complex VAWC investigations, ensuring best practices are applied and ethical standards are maintained .
Investigative Casework & Oversight Support critical VAWC investigations, advising about evidence collection, witness interviews, suspect identification, and case building.
Mentor and oversee the work of IJM ILED, ensuring high-quality investigative outcomes.
Develop and manage investigative budgets and resources for assigned cases and projects.
Ensure compliance with IJM’s investigative protocols, legal requirements, and victim-centered approaches.
Capacity Building & Training Support the LATAM and Africa Regions in designing and delivering specialized training programs for local law enforcement and justice officials on VAWC investigation techniques, forensic evidence, victim interviewing, and trauma-informed approaches.
Provide, with the national projects, ongoing mentorship and technical assistance to partners to strengthen their capacity to independently investigate and prosecute VAWC crimes.
Foster collaborative relationships with regional actors to promote systemic reform and effective responses to VAWC.
Advocacy & Communications Represent IJM at global forums, advocating for improved VAWC legislation, policies, and practices.
Contribute to IJM’s external communications by providing insights and case studies to raise awareness and support for VAWC initiatives.
Prepare detailed investigative reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.