Victim Assistance Coordinator

Salary: $43,527

SUMMARY: The purpose of this position is to provide a high level of support to the entire office in Victim Assistance and Victim/Witness Travel Coordination. This is accomplished by working and corresponding with victims and their families, distributing restitution to victims, and coordinating travel for victims.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Communicate and provide assistance to victims of family violence and child abuse with regard to ongoing cases.
• Send victim letters.
• Notify victims and explain to them Victim's Rights under the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure.
• Provide follow-up with victims to ensure open communication and facilitate understanding throughout the criminal justice process.
• Notify victims when defendant is up for parole based on TDCJ parole notifications received on upcoming and/or paroled defendants.
• Contact victims when Emergency Protective Order is received.
• Contact victims within 24 hours of receiving case referral from law enforcement.
• Prepare quarterly report on crime victims for the State.
• Complete victim/witness reimbursement paperwork for the State when traveling out of county; making reservations for lodging; and presenting for Judge's signature.
• Assist with Grants.
• Coordinate travel arrangements for witnesses.
• Prepare all paperwork pre- and post- travel for submission to the State Comptroller's Office.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY/BUDGET RESPONSIBILITIES:

This position has no supervisory or budget responsibilities.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of legal terminology and criminal justice system practice and procedures.
• Ability to utilize effective organizational time management skills.
• Knowledge of correct English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
• Ability to multi-task and work well under pressure and short deadlines.
• Detail oriented.
• Effective interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to provide support and encouragement to victims in highly traumatic and/or stressful situations is crucial.
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality when interacting with victims of crime.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum two (2) years' experience as a Victim Assistance Coordinator or equivalent responsibilities preferred.
• Experience with survivors of domestic violence and/or training in the dynamics of domestic violence and trauma informed response preferred.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, and data entry/spreadsheets.
• High School diploma or equivalent.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Position is located in an office environment with little or no exposure to environmental conditions. Health and safety hazards are minimal. No protective equipment is required. Fine dexterity, sitting, hearing, talking and vision are constantly required. Frequently, walking, lifting, carrying, reaching, handling, pushing and pulling are required. Occasionally, bending and standing are required.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

• Must successfully complete a pre-employment drug screen.
• Must successfully complete a background investigation.