Forensic Interviewer (District Attorneys Office)

POSITION SUMMARY

Responsible for providing developmentally sensitive, culturally appropriate, legally defensible forensic interviews of children and adolescents when an allegation of abuse has been made or a traumatic event witnessed. The Forensic Interviewer conducts these digitally recorded interviews at the request of and in consultation with Law Enforcement and Child Protective Services. In addition to other requested activities, the Forensic Interviewer participates in bi-monthly Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) case reviews; regularly takes part in peer review; responds to subpoenas and testifies upon request. Forensic Interviewers must understand the criminal justice system, dynamics of child abuse, crisis development and resolution, effective listening techniques, the impact of trauma on a child, the rights of crime victims, cultural considerations, and intervention strategies.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

Essential Functions The duties and responsibilities of this position include, but are not necessarily limited to: Interview children, as well as adults with disabilities, who have potentially been victimized and/or witnessed a crime and/or violence. Responsible for following the National Child Advocacy Centers (NCAC) protocol for interviewing children who are suspected victims of child abuse (sexual or physical) and/or witnesses of abuse and/or violence. Testify in civil and criminal court proceedings as required. Function as an effective member and facilitator of a multidisciplinary team including law enforcement personnel, case workers, prosecutors, medical and mental health personnel. Participate in case review meetings with members of the multidisciplinary team. Participate in Local, State and National Peer Review meetings on a bi-annual basis to give and receive feedback about Forensic Interviews. Participate in National Journal Club phone call to discuss the most up to date research within the field of Forensic Interviewing and Child Advocacy Centers. Enter case tracking into case tracking system. Schedule and coordinate appointments. Complete other duties and responsibilities as assigned. Train to provide back-up to other positions, as needed. Occasionally travel on an as-needed basis for training and to complete assigned duties.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Social Services, Child Development, Criminal Justice, or closely related subject. Two years of direct experience working with abused children and their families in a similar capacity. Forensic Interviewer certification. Successful completion of employment background check, including NCIC criminal check. Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Knowledge and understanding of child development, child abuse dynamics and the impact of trauma. Ability to delicately work with children and their families, and people with disabilities who have faced trauma and/or abuse. Excellent communication, listening and interpersonal skills. Thorough working knowledge of general office practice. Fluent in the English language; Spanish language skills desirable. Ability to effectively communicate with the public and government officials in a highly charged, emotional setting. Excellent communication, listening and interpersonal skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a Multidisciplinary Team collaboration with a wide range of professionals including, but not limited, to law enforcement, child protection, attorneys, medical and mental health providers. Adaptable and resourceful. Excellent organizational skills with an attention to detail, accuracy and time management. Ability to work well under stress & handle emergencies. Proficiency with Microsoft Windows, Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Outlook and Adobe. Ability to handle stress. Physical presence in the office is required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Work involves walking, talking, hearing, using hands to handle, feel objects, tools, or controls, and reaching with hands and arms. Vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds a distance of fifteen feet or less.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

Normal office environment This position description serves as a guideline for communicating the essential functions and other information about the position to the applicant/employee. It is not intended to create a binding employment contract nor cover every detail of the position and may be changed where appropriate.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

The County of Berks provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, political affiliation or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

About Us:

Berks County is a combination of rich farm country, industry, beautiful parks, entertainment, and top-notch educational institutions. Whether you are interested in County services, the availability of our parks, tax rates, or other county information, this is the place to start.

Mission Statement:

It is the mission of Berks County government and all County employees to administer and deliver services to the citizens of the County in the most effective, efficient and professional manner possible within the constraints of the financial resources available.