Job Specification Details

The victim services director is responsible for program development, delivery of services to crime victims and their families, systems advocacy and case consultation work for the Vermont State Police. The victim services director will work with others in the victim services unit to ensure case coverage and service delivery.

Development of policies and procedures for the delivery of services to victims of violent crime whose cases are being investigated by the Major Crime Unit. Direct intervention with victims of crime and their families. Services include crisis counselling and stabilization, grief counselling, safety planning, coordinating with emergency services, crime scene cleanup agencies, local animal shelters and/or Veterinarians, housing programs and landlords, insurance agencies, Department of Children and Families, provide assistance with applying for compensation through the victim's compensation program and information and advocacy with funeral homes and insurance claims. The Victim Services Director will often accompany Vermont State Police members to a death notification.
    
Assessment of the victim's psychological status and development of an individualized case plan to address longer term needs for social services and counseling. Assistance with securing other needed social services and counseling for the victim and victim's family.

Providing information about the resources and services available to victims of crime and their rights as a crime victim.

To be available outside of normal working hours for surviving families of homicides and/or victims. It is not uncommon to be activated on weekends, or late/middle of the night to respond to a homicide or other major cases where your service is critical to serving families, and/or victims when they are in crisis and in the immediate aftermath of a homicide or major case.

To be available outside of normal working hours for victims. Victims often have needs, concerns or need to be informed of ongoing investigative activities, press releases and media attention outside of regularly scheduled hours.

Serves as a liaison between crime victims and investigative staff of the Major Crime Unit. Provides information and explanation of case status. Coordinates these services with the Attorney General's or State's Attorneys' victim advocates when the case goes to prosecution.

Identification of systemic issues affecting crime victims and problem solving with stakeholders to ensure crime victims receive comprehensive and trauma informed services.

Provides case consultation with Major Crime Unit staff regarding trauma informed responses to crime victims, their families and community. Maintains statistical data on crime victims served and completes federal VOCA quarterly program report for submission to the VT Center for Crime Victim services.

Duties are performed under the general direction of the Major Crime Unit Captain.

Duties are performed in a standard office setting as well as field and courtroom settings. Travel is required for which private means of transportation must be available. Must be able to work under pressure and deal with victims in emotionally charged circumstances. There will exposure to dangerous persons including violent offenders in courtroom settings.

Understanding of victimology and trauma-informed responses to crime victims. 

Have a high level of clinical knowledge regarding trauma, traumatic responses and techniques that mitigate traumatic symptoms.

The Victim Services Director often provides clinical intervention including mindfulness, de-escalation and emotional regulation.

Clinical assessment skills and development of appropriate case plans.

Managing a complex and diverse caseload.

Understanding of the criminal justice system, criminal laws and law enforcement practices.

Problem solving and conflict management.

Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate with other victim services providers

Master’s degree or higher in social work, mental health counseling, or related field AND three (3) or more years of experience in clinical social work.

OR

Bachelor’s degree or higher in social work, mental health counseling, or related field AND five (5) years or more of experience in clinical social work.

Vermont Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) or Vermont Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).

Experience working in the criminal justice system.
 

Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position to include Motor Vehicle/Criminal Records, Personal History, Credit and any additional background check(s).