Victims' Advocate, Limited Duration

Deschutes County Human Resources • Bend, OR

9d • Onsite

About The Position

This position is funded through the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) grant program. Current funding is secured through September 30, 2026. Continued employment beyond that date is dependent on the availability of future VOCA funding; however, VOCA is a non-competitive grant and may provide ongoing support pending annual allocations. As a Victim Advocate, you will work alongside Deputy District Attorneys to provide information and support to crime victims throughout the criminal justice system. Victim Advocates will be expected to work in the field and be on-call for a small duration each month. This is a full-time position based in a professional office environment, with required availability Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Alternative scheduling options may be considered when operational needs allow but are not guaranteed.

Goals for the EAP VA Support restorative justice outcomes. Ensure victims know their rights and their rights are upheld. Maintain community safety and justice. Improve victim (harmed party) outcomes. Reduce young adult cases entering the traditional criminal justice system. To achieve these goals, the EAP VA will work in partnership with EAP DDA and management analyst at the DA's Office, and our partners’ EAP team members who include Thrive Central Oregon’s support specialist; and Restorative Justice and Equity’s director, restorative justice specialist, and EAP coordinator; Deschutes Defenders defense attorney; as well as a team of community volunteers that serve as co-circle keepers. This collaborative inter-disciplinary team develops, implements, and tracks the EAP restorative justice grant program.

Requirements

• Knowledge of or experience with: The criminal justice system.
• Resources available to assist people.
• Vulnerable populations or individuals who have experienced trauma.
• Operating a personal computer utilizing standard and specialized software, and entering information into a computer system with speed and accuracy.
• Understanding complex legal systems.
• De-escalation.
• Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Social Services, or related field; AND one (1) year of social services case management or criminal justice system experience; OR any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience that provides the required skills and knowledge to perform the essential functions of the job.
• Driving is a requirement for this position.
• Possession of or ability to obtain a valid Oregon driver's license within 30 days of hire date.
• Law Enforcement Data System (LEDS) and CJIS certification from the State of Oregon are required within six months of hire.
• Must pass a pre-qualifying driving record review and criminal history background.
• A successful candidate will complete a full background investigation prior to receiving a conditional job offer.

Nice To Haves

• Bilingual in English and Spanish.
• Candidates with two (2) or more years of victim advocacy experience.
• Candidates with experience supporting survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, or other violent crimes.
• Demonstrated knowledge of and ability to apply trauma-informed practices.

Responsibilities

• Provide information to crime victims about their rights throughout the criminal justice system.
• Work alongside Deputy District Attorneys, DA staff, and law enforcement to provide support and service referrals to crime victims.
• Assist with collecting restitution documentation.

Benefits

• Excellent County benefit package when eligible.
• Robust healthcare package covers medical, prescription, dental, and vision coverage at a minimal cost of $100 for employee only and $121 per month for employee plus dependents, which includes an innovative on-site clinic, pharmacy, and wellness and wellbeing services.
• Life insurance
• Retirement (PERS)
• Generous paid time-off (14-18 hours/month to start, pro-rated for part-time)
• Holidays
• Professional development opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level