Position Information Position Information Posting Title Victim Services Counselor Job Requisition Number COA079058 Position Number 116551 Job Type Full-Time Division Name Police Headquarters Minimum Qualifications Masters Degree from an accredited college or university in Mental Health Oriented Science or in a field related to the job, plus two (2) years experience in mental health crisis and trauma counseling. Licenses or Certifications: Valid Class C Drivers License Notes to Applicants The Victim Services Counselor provides support, crisis counseling, and advocacy to victims of sexual assault, human trafficking, vehicular homicide, family violence, and other types of violent crimes shortly after the crime has been committed. Counselors orient victims to the criminal justice system, answer questions and consult with law enforcement to provide accurate information. Refer clients to external agencies for additional follow-up needs and assist them with Crime Victims Compensation. The counselor also assists law enforcement in determining victims psychological readiness to provide a statement and develop a safety plan. One of the positions will be part of the Crisis Response Team, providing on scene support, crisis counseling, and advocacy to victims of crime and others experiencing tragic events. A detailed and complete employment application is required to help us better evaluate your qualifications, and will be used to determine salary if you are selected for this position. A resume must be submitted to be considered for this position, but will not substitute for a complete employment application. Please verify the employment history dates on your resume exactly match the online application. If you are notified and requested to come in for an interview please bring your proof of education (copy of transcript or diploma), and contact information for at least four references. These positions require travel between various worksites as part of the essential duties. A valid Texas driver license and current driving record that meets the requirements of the City of Austin Driver Safety Program are required for this position. Information regarding the Citys Driver Safety Program standards can be found here: http://www.austintexas.gov/sites/default/files/files/Employment/new_hire_driver_safety_standards.pdf. A driving record check will be conducted at time of employment per City policy. These are grant funded positions. Pay Range $22.83 to $28.69 Hourly rate Hours For three positions: Days/hours may vary, but are typically Monday-Friday between 8am and 6pm Weekend and Holiday work may be required For one position: Thursday-Sunday (may vary but must include Saturday and Sundays) 2pm-12am (may vary) Requested to work some Holidays Job Close Date 11/09/2018 Type of Posting External Department Police Regular/Temporary Regular Grant Funded or Pooled Position Grant Funded Category Professional Location 4201 Ed Bluestein Blvd, Austin TX Preferred Qualifications Ability to effectively communicate in both English and Spanish. Duties, Functions and Responsibilities Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned. Provides psychological, emotional, cognitive, and physical assessments of individuals of crime, trauma, or crisis situations; either on scene of the incident or at a later time when the person is located. Formulates and implements clinical intervention strategies until stabilization occurs. Provides support and assistance to victims and witnesses throughout the criminal justice process serving as a liaison and advocate with law enforcement and other agencies. Delivers death notifications for all APD related cases as requested by the Travis County Medical Examiners office and other outside agencies across the country. Prepares for and testifies in court as a fact witness or as an expert witness. Plans, develops, and conducts trainings, presentations, and educational sessions to law enforcement, other outside agencies and the community. Serves as the Crime Victim Liaison for the Austin Police Department, providing information about victims rights and Crime Victims Compensation to victims of crime and law enforcement personnel. Conducts media interviews in collaboration with the Public Information Office. Compiles data and information for reports. Assists other public safety agencies. Conducts debriefings, group counseling, and/or diffusings to law enforcement, other public safety agencies, other agencies, and the community after critical incidents, large scale events, and disasters. Responsibilities - Supervision and/or Leadership Exercised: None Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed. Knowledge of counseling, theoretical frameworks, and techniques. Knowledge of mental health issues, trauma, and victimology. Knowledge of Critical Incident Command. Knowledge of police operations and investigative procedures. Knowledge of Victim Assistance best practices. Skill in oral and written communications. Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing. Skill in using computers and related software applications. Skill in data analysis and problem solving. Skill in planning and organizing. Skill in trauma and crisis counseling. Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities. Ability to train others. Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with other City employees, external agencies, and the public. Does this job require a criminal background investigation? This position requires a criminal background investigation EEO/ADA City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call (512) 974-3210 or TTY (512) 974-2445. The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individuals AIDS , AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk. Information For City Employees: If you are an employee within the department, are in good standing and meet both the minimum and preferred qualifications, then you will receive an initial interview.