OPS VICTIM ADVOCATE - 76808157

State of Florida • Brent, FL

8d

About The Position

The Florida Highway Patrol’s Bureau of Special Operations is seeking a compassionate, skilled Victim Advocate to provide essential services to primary and secondary victims of crimes. The role assists victims of fatal crashes, DUI crashes, and other crimes by referring them to specialized services for needs such as shelter and financial assistance. It also involves notifying next of kin in fatal traffic crashes, serving as a liaison between victims or families and other organizations, updating victims on the progress of FHP investigations and prosecutions, and assisting with victim compensation claims. The position requires multitasking, attention to detail, the ability to work under high-stress conditions, and accurate recordkeeping.

This is an Other Personal Services (OPS) opportunity with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Applicants must clearly document qualifying answers, software systems, actual work experience, and years of employment in their employment history. Employment is subject to Level 2 background screening and Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) clearance. The incumbent must maintain a valid driver’s license in good standing under the stated driving-record requirements.

Requirements

• Knowledge of appropriate state and local laws related to crime victims.
• Knowledge of legal terminology, court procedures, and practices.
• Compassionate communication skills.
• Problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work as a team member and establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to interview victims to obtain relevant information.
• Ability to handle stressful, crisis situations.
• Ability to serve as a liaison between victims, victim services, and the Florida Highway Patrol.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to multitask, work under high-stress conditions, and maintain attention to detail.
• Must obtain Level 2 background clearance and Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) clearance, including a fingerprint-based FBI criminal-record check.
• Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license in good standing. The posting specifies no cancellations, suspensions, or revocations during the three years before employment and throughout employment, and no more than three chargeable crashes or any violation of Chapter 316, Florida Statutes, during any consecutive three-year period before and throughout employment.
• Must be a U.S. citizen or lawfully authorized to work in the United States; the agency does not sponsor work visas or CPT/OPT employment authorization.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in human services, social services, psychology, criminal justice, or a related field.
• Two years of professional work experience in human services, social services, psychology, criminal justice, or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Provide essential services and referrals to primary and secondary victims of fatal crashes, DUI crashes, and other crimes.
• Assist victims with needs that may include shelter and monetary assistance.
• Notify victims’ next of kin in fatal traffic crashes.
• Serve as a liaison between victims or their families and other organizations.
• Provide victims with updates on the progress of Florida Highway Patrol investigations and prosecutions.
• Assist victims with victim compensation claims.
• Create and maintain accurate records.

Benefits

• State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan
• Workers’ Compensation
• Reemployment Assistance (Unemployment Compensation)
• Participation in certain State Group Insurance benefits, subject to eligibility requirements
• Deferred Compensation
• Employee Assistance Program
• Competitive medical and life insurance
• Retirement benefits
• Vacation and sick leave
• Paid holidays
• Educational assistance

What This Job Offers

• Education Level: No Education Listed