Job Description

SUMMARY OF THE POSITION

The Forensic Interviewer is responsible for serving as part of the multi-disciplinary team in child abuse investigations by facilitating and conducting forensic interviews of children, participating in pre and post interview meetings with caregivers and multidisciplinary team members, completing case documentation, and participating in ongoing peer review.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work closely with the direct services team on intake functions for First Light Child Advocacy Center by receiving and reviewing referrals from law enforcement and the Department of Health and Human Services.
• Successfully complete basic interview training at the National Children’s Advocacy Center, consisting of 32 hours of instruction and practice in evidence-supported interview protocol.
• Conduct recorded forensic interviews with children alleged to be victims of abuse or neglect in a trauma-focused way and assesses medical and mental health needs.
• Consistently demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the National Children’s Advocacy Center Forensic Interview Structure, a nationally recognized, evidence-supported interview protocol.
• Participate in pre and post interview meetings with multidisciplinary team members to discuss the current allegation, relevant history, and specific needs of the team.
• Meet with non-offending caregiver prior to interview to discuss the nature of allegations, circumstances surrounding the disclosure, family composition, social history, developmental and cultural considerations, etc. and to answer any questions about the forensic interview process
• Update case tracking system.
• Provide statistical information required by funders.
• Participate in a structured peer review process.
• Testify as subpoenaed or requested on the interview protocols and to the extent they are able on the child’s disclosure. In doing so, the Forensic Interviewer must demonstrate knowledge of not only the interview protocols, but child development, question design, dynamics of abuse, the disclosure process, cultural competency, suggestibility and be familiar with current research and practice.
• Foster open and positive relationships with law enforcement, Health and Human Services and the prosecuting attorney while promoting best practices for child abuse investigation, prosecution, and treatment in Central Nebraska.
• Maintain familiarity with investigative protocols.
• Actively participate in weekly case review and supervision.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education: LMHP, PLMHP, or LCSW preferred, a bachelor’s degree in social work, criminal justice, psychology, human services, or a related field is required. Bilingual is preferred.

Experience

Two years of professional experience working with children and families who have either experienced or witnessed trauma is required. Previous professional experience working with the criminal justice or child welfare system, conducting forensic interviews, testifying in court and working as a member of a multidisciplinary team is preferred.

Special Qualifications

Exempt employees must be able to work flexible hours and to be on-call for emergency situations. Evening and weekend hours are routinely required.

CAREER DEVELOPMENT

First Light employees are provided with the opportunity to gain specialized training and grow their professional skills across various areas. Employees are encouraged to attend local, regional, and national conferences as funding sources and operational needs allow.

As part of the onboarding process, First Light will provide the Forensic Interviewer with a minimum of 32 hours of initial instruction as outlined in the National Children’s Alliance Standards. The Forensic Interviewer must also successfully complete basic interview training at the National Children’s Advocacy Center consisting of 32 hours of instruction. The Forensic Interviewer must show participation in ongoing education in child maltreatment and/or forensic interviewing, consisting of at least 8 contact hours annually, and must meet requirements to maintain clinical licensure.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

The Forensic Interviewer customarily and routinely exercises independent discretion and judgment in the performance of his or her duties.This individual does not supervise direct reports but will consistently supervise clients, volunteers, and interns.

CLASSIFICATION

The Forensic Interviewer is an exempt position under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This role is full-time at 40 hours per week. The salary range for this position starts at $50,000 annually. The Forensic Interviewer reports to the Executive Director.

OTHER

First Light is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace that is free from discrimination of any kind. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations. We strive to attract, develop, and retain a talented and diverse workforce and actively promote diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our organization.

The Forensic Interviewer will primarily work weekdays from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm in the office environment, however exempt employees must be able to work flexible hours and this role will often require evening and/or weekend hours. Employees must have access to a vehicle, possess a valid driver's license and provide proof of insurance. The position may involve occasional travel throughout Central Nebraska. Employees must submit to a criminal history background check prior to being hired and bi‑annually thereafter.

The Forensic Interviewer position requires the ability to sit and stand for extended periods while providing support to clients of varying ages and energy levels. Strong emotional intelligence and communication skills are essential, as this individual will engage in long conversations that require active listening and response to clients in emotional situations. The role involves frequent walking to attend meetings and client appointments, as well as the capacity to lift and carry up to 20 pounds, including informational materials and supplies. Additionally, this position requires clear vision and frequent sitting at a desktop computer for coordination and documentation preparation and review.

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