Forensic Interviewer

Kids Hub Child Advocacy Center; Hattiesburg (MS); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Kids Hub Child Advocacy Center seeks a Forensic Interviewer to conduct developmentally appropriate, trauma-informed interviews with children in a safe, child-friendly environment. You will gather information for investigations and court, ensuring interviews are unbiased, recorded, and aligned with state guidelines and the Child First Interviewing Protocol.

The role requires collaboration with the Multidisciplinary Team, including law enforcement, child protective services, prosecutors, medical

Qualifications

• Master's degree preferred in Social Work, Psychology, Criminal Justice, or related field.
• Bachelor's degree required with at least 1 year post-degree experience.
• Knowledge of child development and forensic interviewing.
• Ability to provide clear, concise reports.

Responsibilities

• Conduct forensic interviews with children/adolescents following protocols.
• Receive and coordinate referrals with MDT partners.
• Coordinate with MDT to schedule/prep interviews and staffings.
• Provide timely written interview summaries to investigative agencies.
• Ensure interviews are recorded/stored per guidelines.
• Maintain confidential records and collaborate with MDT members.
• Provide testimony in court as needed; prepare professional reports.

Skills

Communication skills

Discretion

Trauma-informed practice

Team collaboration

Court testimony readiness

Education

Master's degree in Social Work or Psychology

Bachelor's degree in related field

Tools

MS Office

Case management system

Job description

The Forensic Interviewer plays a vital role in obtaining developmentally appropriate, and culturally sensitive statements from children and adolescents in a legally defensible manner. This position is responsible for conducting forensic interviews with children who have disclosed or are suspected of experiencing sexual abuse, severe physical abuse, severe neglect, or who have witnessed violent crimes. Interviews are conducted in a supportive, child-friendly environment and recorded for investigative purposes. The Forensic Interviewer works closely with the Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) - including law enforcement, child protective services, prosecutors, medical providers, and mental health professionals to ensure interviews are conducted in a coordinated, non-duplicative, and victim-centered manner. This role requires strict adherence to professional protocols, ongoing peer review participation, and the ability to provide fact and/or expert witness testimony in court when needed.

Key Responsibilities

Forensic Interviewing & Case Coordination

• Conduct forensic interviews using the Child First Interviewing Protocol to ensure interviews are unbiased, legally sound, and trauma-informed.
• Receive and coordinate referrals from partner agencies in collaboration with the Family and Victim Advocate.
• Coordinate with MDT members to schedule and staff interviews, including pre- and post-interview case discussions.
• Provide timely written interview summaries to appropriate investigative agencies.
• Ensure forensic interviews are recorded and stored in compliance with agency protocols and state guidelines.

Documentation & Data Management

• Accurately document case information and input statistics into the agency’s web-based case tracking system.
• Maintain organized, confidential records of interviews, case notes, and communications with partner agencies.
• Collaborate with MDT members to ensure all informational needs are met for ongoing investigations.

Court & Testimony

• Provide testimony in court as a fact and/or expert witness, when subpoenaed or requested.
• Prepare professional reports and respond promptly to legal inquiries regarding interviews.

Training, Peer Review & Professional Development

• Regularly participate in statewide peer review coordinated by the Children's Advocacy Centers of Mississippi.
• Attend professional trainings and educational seminars as directed by the Director of Programs and/or CEO.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of current trends, research, and best practices in forensic interviewing and child abuse investigations.

Organizational & Community Engagement

• Assist with fundraising events, outreach activities, and community engagement opportunities as requested.
• Uphold the highest ethical standards and maintain strict confidentiality regarding child victims, caregivers, and alleged perpetrators.
• Support the mission, policies, and values of Kids Hub Child Advocacy Center.

Qualifications & Requirements

Education & Experience

• Master's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Criminal Justice, or related field preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Criminal Justice, or related field required, with at least one (1) year of post-degree experience.
• Advanced knowledge of child development, child abuse dynamics, and forensic interviewing practices.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to provide clear and concise reports.
• Ability to demonstrate discretion, maturity, integrity, and compassion when handling sensitive issues.
• Effective organizational and problem-solving skills with the ability to prioritize in high-pressure situations.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary professionals, children, and caregivers.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and ability to work with web-based data tracking systems.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of children and families.

Additional Requirements

• Valid driver's license and proof of automobile insurance.
• Successful completion of national, state, and child abuse registry background checks.