Forensic Interviewer - UPMC Child Advocacy Center

University of Pittsburgh Medical Center • Harrisburg, PA

390d

About The Position

The Forensic Interviewer at UPMC Child Advocacy Center plays a crucial role in addressing potential child abuse and neglect cases. This position involves conducting forensic assessments of children and their caretakers, collaborating with law enforcement and state agencies, and providing necessary documentation and support to ensure the safety and well-being of affected children. The role requires expertise in child investigative interviewing and the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a child-related, social service, or criminal justice field with three years of experience in the child welfare field.
• OR a Master's degree in a child-related, social service, or criminal justice field with a 6-month internship at an accredited Child Advocacy Center.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills to interact with children and caretakers in high-stress situations.
• Ability to function in a team setting and work well with a multidisciplinary team of professionals.
• Skilled professional writing capability for documentation of interviews and case findings.
• Knowledge of research in child abuse or related fields.
• Must complete National Forensic Interview Training within 1 year of hire.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in child welfare or related fields beyond the minimum requirements.
• Additional certifications related to child advocacy or forensic interviewing.

Responsibilities

• Function in a team setting to present cases and receive feedback from a multidisciplinary team of professionals.
• Complete follow-up calls to families to ensure their needs are being met and provide additional resources as needed.
• Maintain expertise in child investigative interviewing and related topics through ongoing training and research.
• Engage with UPMC legal and risk management teams regarding case activity when appropriate.
• Conduct forensic interviews with victims, families, and relevant professionals to gather sensitive information regarding abuse and neglect cases.
• Assess and evaluate circumstances using expertise and applicable law to complete assessments.
• Work with agencies and individuals to assist with case disposition and safety planning.
• Represent UPMC and Children's Hospital in legal settings, maintaining exceptional testimony skills.
• Complete intake assessments and coordinate scheduling with all parties involved with the family.
• Develop clear and concise documentation of evaluations and maintain accurate records.
• Complete and maintain tracking pertinent to patient cases as per policy.
• Provide service recommendations to assist families in achieving the best possible outcomes in cases.
• Conduct investigative interviews with non-offending caretakers as part of the forensic interview process.
• Utilize forensic photography for documentation as needed for evidence.
• Complete referrals to community agencies for counseling and victim services as necessary.
• Participate in on-call rotation to ensure availability of forensic interviews 24/7 for child protection services and law enforcement.
• Act as a resource regarding child abuse and related community resources.
• Follow all hospital and departmental procedures regarding referrals, reporting, and confidentiality in child abuse cases.
• Participate in ongoing education and peer review to enhance forensic skills.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage
• Dental insurance coverage
• Vision insurance coverage
• 401k retirement savings plan
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Professional development opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Hospitals
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree