LEXIPOL

Forensic Interviewer

City of Avondale | Avondale, AZ

Posted Date 6/16/2025
Description

The City of Avondale is currently seeking a Forensic Interviewer to join the Avondale Police Department. This is a FLSA exempt, full-time position with benefits.

Conducts electronically recorded forensic interviews of children and adults who are victims or witnesses of physical and/or sexual abuse using the Maricopa County Forensic Interview Protocol. Provides expert witness testimony in criminal and civil matters in a court of law and participates in case staffing, pre and post-interview meetings, and case reviews.

Conducts forensic interviews with victims and/or witnesses from different cultural backgrounds, including preschool and school-aged children, children and adults with physical developmental disabilities, mentally challenged children and adults, and adults of all ages. Participates in case staffing, pre and post-interview meetings, and case reviews.

Trains and mentors staff as appropriate in forensic interviewing. Provides expert court testimony related to forensic interview strategies and general characteristics of abused children and adults. Responds to subpoenas and testify as requested.

Completes all statistical and case-tracking paperwork using the Southwest Family Advocacy Center's database. Prepares written documents, including case reports, court documents, program goals, training curriculum, and articles. Prepares timely and professional interview reports within two weeks of each forensic interview.

Coordinates and participates in monthly peer review sessions. Conducts literature and research reviews of forensic interviewing and child abuse on an ongoing basis. Performs ongoing research reviews of professional materials, publications, police reports, court documents, and policies.

Interacts with the Southwest Family Advocacy Center's multidisciplinary team and maintains good interpersonal relations with peers, other professionals, and staff when completing peer review and staff training.Bachelor's Degree in Social Work, Counseling, Criminal Justice, or a related field. Master’s Degree is preferred.

Knowledge of child development, child and adult abuse dynamics, child and adult sexual abuse, human behavior, elements of a crime, criminal justice system, and the Maricopa County Forensic Interview Protocol.

Three (3) years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced abuse, violence, or trauma, including experience in child and adult forensic interviewing or comparable related work.

Valid Arizona Operator’s Driver's License or the ability to obtain one by the time of hire.

Completion of Advanced Forensic Interviewing Training (AFIT) is preferred.

Must be able to successfully pass a comprehensive background check and a psychological exam.

Bilingual skills in English/Spanish is preferred.Ability to maintain confidentiality of information; obtain pertinent information during interviews with victims and witnesses; sense and interpret nonverbal behavior; and provide expert testimony in a court of law.

Work requires writing reports, memos, and general correspondence. Demonstrated ability to write clearly, concisely, and effectively to convey complex information in a meaningful and organized manner. Skilled in summarizing and documenting facts, events, or situations in a way that is logical, accurate, and easily understood by the intended audience.

Work requires analysis and judgment to accomplish diverse duties. Work requires independent thinking within the limits of policies, standards, and precedents. Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks, manage competing deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Demonstrated ability to interact effectively and compassionately with children and adults who have experienced or witnessed abuse. Exhibits patience, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain composed in high-stress situations. Proven team player with a self-motivated approach and strong interpersonal skills to collaborate with peers, professionals, and staff in fulfilling job responsibilities.

Promote stable and cooperative working relationships between the Family Advocacy Center and other multi-disciplinary agencies.

Employee must maintain regular attendance. Ability to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner.
Salary74,838.43 - 112,257.65 Annual
Field
Police

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