Forensic Associate

Position Summary: 

Responsible for assisting with the coordination of DUHIDS activities and functions related to the Criminal Justice System to build a more effective and responsive system of services for people with serious mental illness, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders involved in the criminal justice system. The Forensic Associate provides support to initiatives that develop resources, improve services, and impact policies for justice-involved individuals with behavioral health needs. These functions are consistent with the philosophy and objectives of the Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual Disability Services. 

This is a part time position (20 hours/week) that will last approximately one year, though it may be extended to two years on a case-by-case basis. 

Duties and Responsibilities:

Support the work of BHJD in the development and oversight of the behavioral health — criminal justice continuum. Support the work of the various systems collaborations including the Criminal Justice — Behavioral Health Workgroup, OMHSAS, Philadelphia Forensic Task Force, Forensic Steering Committee, and other groups working to decrease the number of people with severe mental illness and co-occurring substance use problems involved in the criminal justice system and to ensure prompt, quality treatment and continuity of care for this population. Provide technical assistance, expertise, and problem-solving to the behavioral health — criminal justice system continuum. Facilitate communication among those involved in the BH-CJ continuum. Develop data and information sharing systems to assure a quality BH-CJ continuum and support decision making about policies and practices. Provide training to providers and agencies who treat and interact with individuals involved in the criminal justice system with severe mental illness and co-occurring disorders. Participate in Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training at the Philadelphia Police Academy (typically Monday afternoons) and other behavioral health literacy trainings for criminal justice partners. Conduct literature/research reviews, with a particular focus on applying research findings for practical use for treatment and policy professionals. Develop written proposals, reports, and presentations related to the projects and initiatives currently underway with BHJD. 

Education & Experience: 

This is a part-time position intended for individuals who are actively pursuing higher education degree in the social sciences and who have an interest in the intersection between the criminal justice system and the behavioral health system. As such, a high school diploma is necessary, with a preference for someone who has obtained a bachelor’s degree and is currently in a graduate program of study. Fields of study that may be particularly relevant include psychology, criminal justice, sociology, criminology, public health, public policy, social work, law, and anthropology. However, consideration is not limited to individuals studying in these fields. 

Physical Demands: 

Ability to physically perform the duties and to work in the environmental conditions required such as maneuvering in office space — reaching file cabinets, fax and copier machines when necessary. Must be able to sit for up to 2 hours looking at a computer monitor and using a keyboard and mouse to perform data entry functions. Able to travel locally via public transportation and on foot from 1601 Market Street to 1101 Market Street, CBH, and various other destinations as needed. Ability to pass all background checks required by the Philadelphia Prison System. Ability to effectively utilize computers, databases, and related common office software packages such as Microsoft Office. 

Other Job Requirements: 

Must have a valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record when operating a company/personal vehicle during work hours for work-related activities. Permission to operate a vehicle as part of your job duties will be contingent on your insurability as a driver consistent with PMHCC policy. 

Equal Opportunity Employment: 

PMHCC, Inc. is committed to equal opportunity. It is our policy to support equal employment for all employees and applicants without regard to race, religion, color, sex, sexual preferences, age, national origin, disability, behavioral health status, military status or any other characteristic protected by law. 

Americans with Disabilities Act: 

Employees as well as applicants who are currently, or become disabled, must be able to perform the functions of the job with either reasonable accommodation or unaided. PMHCC, Inc. will examine reasonable accommodations on a case by case basis in accordance with the law.