Job Specification Details

A Corrections Victim Services Director is responsible for managing and overseeing programs and services that support victims of crime within the corrections system. The role involves ensuring that victims receive the necessary support, information, and assistance throughout the post-adjudication process.

Program Development and coordinating work at a professional level involving the implementation of programs and protocols in the delivery of services to victims of crimes committed by offenders associated with the Department of Corrections. Duties involve the provision of a system in which victims are a primary consumer of correctional services, in conjunction with the promotion and leading of restorative justice processes in all field sites. Functional supervision is exercised over all field and facility superintendents, CRSU supervisors, and managers. Extensive interaction occurs with program directors, treatment and victims' services providers, and support groups, and with field management and staff in program development, training, and delivery. Work is performed under the general direction of higher level administrative positions within the Department of Corrections.

All employees of the Agency of Human Services perform their respective functions adhering to four key practices: customer service, holistic service, strengths-based relationships and results orientation.

Ability to design, implement, and manage victim services programs within the corrections environment in conjunction with the restorative justice system currently in place. Develop and maintain partnerships with community organizations and service providers to enhance victim support. Design, implement and manage the Vermont Victim Notification System to ensure that it is working properly, and it is meeting our statutorily mandated notifications to victims. Design, implement and manage the Victim Services Unit practices to ensure they align with the Vision Mission and Values of the Department. Implement, develop and manage best practices of Victim Services to ensure the Department is meeting the complex needs of victims who interact with our system. Provides overall supervision and coordination of program elements by establishing policies and procedures, providing training, and maintaining communication between staff from different areas. Reviews individual guidelines that exist within correctional facilities, Community Correctional Service Centers, Court and Reparative Services Units, and victims' services agencies. Ensures useful, effective methods of organizing and maintaining records, including materials from the caseworkers, clinicians, and assessors. Develops new programs and statistical methods for monitoring program effectiveness. Develops budgetary requirements and monitors such. Writes, administers, and monitors a variety of grants. Attends meetings and conferences as required and develops and implements training programs and performance measures to ensure that programs developed are implemented with maximum effectiveness at the line level. Meets regularly with victims' advocacy groups and with management of the Department of Corrections on budgetary and program and policy development. Performs related duties as required.

Advocate for the rights and needs of victims within the corrections system. Advocate for system specific legislative changes to enhance victims’ rights within corrections system in Vermont this may include testimony to the legislative bodies. Work closely with criminal justice agencies to ensure victims are treated with dignity and respect. Amplify the victims voice throughout the post-adjudication process and ensure that the Vision Mission and Values are aligned with best practice.

Develop and conduct training programs for correctional staff on victim services and related issues. Develop public awareness campaigns that will educate corrections staff on current best practice and issues including sexual assault awareness, domestic violence awareness and crime victims’ rights. Engage in community outreach and education to raise awareness of available services for victims around the state which requires extensive knowledge of the system of care for victims along the criminal justice continuum. 

Develop and implement crisis response protocols to address the immediate needs of victims within the corrections facility. Develop and implement tools to provide crisis intervention and support for victims and their families.

Collaborate with other victim service providers, law enforcement agencies, and legal professionals to enhance comprehensive victim support. Coordinate with corrections staff to ensure a victim-centered approach throughout the criminal justice process.

Maintain accurate and confidential records of victim interactions and services provided. Ensure that appropriate record retention is happening within the unit. Implement and design tools that ensure appropriate documentation of victim work is utilized within the unit. Prepare reports on program effectiveness and outcomes for management and stakeholders.

Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations governing victim services. Stay informed about emerging trends and best practices in the field of victim services.

Duties are performed primarily in a standard office setting, but with frequent travel required, for which private means of transportation must be available. Incumbents must be able to interact, work, and deal with all level of Department staff, the general public, and state and local officials. Strong difference of opinion may occur in emotionally charged situations. Some meetings may take place in correctional facilities. Occasional work outside of normal hours may be required.

It's important for a Corrections Victim Services Director to be compassionate, empathetic, and dedicated to supporting the rights and well-being of crime victims and the people in the unit and corrections system who are working with them

In-depth understanding of victimology, trauma, and the impact of crime on victims.

Knowledge of relevant laws, statutes, regulations, and policies/directives related to victims' rights and services.

Strong coaching and crisis intervention skills.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with victims, correctional staff, and other stakeholders.

Considerable knowledge of issues affecting victims of crime.

Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of public administration.

Working knowledge of individual and group dynamics, particularly as they relate to victims' issues and reparative services. 

Awareness of supervisory principles and techniques.

Working knowledge of training principles and practices.

Ability to conceptualize program goals, resources needed, and methods of structuring resources into an effective operational program.

Ability to recognize and assess the social, emotional, and economic factors influencing behavior and attitudes of individuals, families, and communities.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Ability to communicate effectively as required in the class role.

Ability to provide leadership and accountability within the framework of the four key practices of the Agency of Human Services: customer service, holistic service, strengths-based relationships and results orientation.

Five (5) years or more of experience in criminal justice or the broad field of human services AND  two (2) years or more of planning, policy, or supervisory experience.

Bachelor's degree or higher in criminal justice or a human services field

One (1) year or more of experience in victim services, social work, or a related field.

Previous experience working within the criminal justice system, particularly in a corrections setting.

Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position. In accordance with AHS Policy 4.02, Hiring Standards, Vermont and/or national criminal record checks, as well as DMV and adult and child abuse registry checks, as appropriate to the position under recruitment, will be conducted on candidates, with the exception of those who are current classified state employees seeking transfer, promotion or demotion into an AHS classified position or are persons exercising re-employment (RIF) rights.