Victim of Crime Advocate

Nisqually Indian Tribe•Olympia, WA

17h•Onsite

About The Position

Provide victim/survivor assistance and services, including culturally sensitive legal advocacy, victim advocacy, medical advocacy, and general advocacy. This position ensures the confidentiality, security, and accuracy of records and promotes positive employee, customer, and community relations. Strong written and verbal communication skills are required, and outstanding customer service to fellow employees, customers, vendors, etc., is expected. Regular attendance is required, and on occasion, later hours or weekend time may be required with project deadlines, and a neat, well-groomed professional appearance is essential at all times.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree with major coursework in human services, social work, psychology, criminal justice, or a related field and/or at least two (2) years working in a Victims of Crime or similar program.
Two (2) or more years of experience providing direct services in a domestic violence, human services, social services, or criminal justice program.
Must have or complete Victim Advocacy Certification within 90 days.
Must possess a valid Washington State Driver's license and maintain a driving record that meets the minimum requirements established by Nisqually Indian Tribes vehicle insurance provider.
Successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen and criminal background check.
The ability to work with vulnerable populations, including adults and children.
Must pass a State and National (FBI) criminal history background check prior to employment.
Knowledge of principles and practices of victim counseling.
Knowledge of the operation of the criminal justice system and its procedures, as well as the role of the victim in that system.
Knowledge of all related policies, procedures, and laws applicable to crime victims.
Knowledge of Tribal, local, state, federal, and private program resources and agencies.
Knowledge of basic interviewing, diagnostic, and counseling techniques.
Knowledge of methods and resources for treatment of victims of crimes.
Skill in working with a variety of individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other office productivity tools, with aptitude to learn new software and systems.
Ability to maintain professionalism and strict confidentiality with all materials and exercise discretion at all times.
Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and the public from all backgrounds.
Ability to prepare and maintain detailed records of interactions with victims, which may be the basis of testimony in trial.
Ability to coordinate with various departments, including but not limited to the Nisqually Victim Assistance Program, Child Protective Services, and Behavioral Health Program.
Ability to work in a high-stress environment with victims and family members and respond appropriately in crises.
Ability to make sound casework decisions in dealing with angry and grieving victims.

Nice To Haves

Regular contact with or control over Indian Children and Vulnerable Adults.
Applicant must not have any felonious offense or two or more misdemeanor offenses under Federal, State, or Tribal law involving crimes of violence; sexual assault, molestation, exploitation, contact, or prostitution; crimes against persons; or offenses committed against children.

Responsibilities

Conduct in-take interviews and counsel victims, assess needs, develop client services plan, respond to crisis situations, provide resources, and make referrals for services.
Establish and maintain partnerships with other service programs and agencies, maintain awareness of available resources, and connect clients to services.
Provide various legal, medical, and general advocacy tasks to assist victim/survivor.
Assist with victim impact statements and ensure that notifications and updates are given to the victim/survivor.
Attend court hearings relative to domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking, child abuse and neglect and assist with procuring temporary or permanent protection orders.
Work closely with court staff, prosecutors, probation, corrections staff, and other service providers to ensure victims and their families are supported through the legal process.
Facilitate community classes and family-based activities to promote traditional values for raising healthy families and breaking cycles of generational and historical trauma.
Make presentations and provide training for how to recognize signs of and break cycles of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and related culturally appropriate services.
Conduct surveys of client satisfaction and need assessments annually.
Collect and record data in appropriate databases and files, generate and submit reports as needed.
Produce and distribute outreach and educational materials.
Attend and help coordinate events and educational activities hosted by the program and partners for clients and the community.
Attend training workshops, lectures, seminars, conferences, and grantee events.
Complete and maintain victim advocate certifications and keep up to date with annual certification requirements.
Perform other duties as assigned.