Summary
THIS IS A NATIONAL GUARD TITLE 5 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION.
This National Guard position is for a SEXUAL ASSAULT PREVENTION RESPONSE VICTIM ADVOCATE (SAPR VA) (T5), Position Description Number T5922000 and is part of the AL JFHQ AL Command Administrative Office, National Guard.
ORGANIZATION: 20 SPECIAL FORCES GROUP, BIRMINGHAM, AL
SELECTING OFFICIAL: MRS. K. MCKINNEY
This job is open to
The public
U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.
Federal employees - Competitive service
Current federal employees whose agencies follow the U.S. Office of Personnel Management's hiring rules and pay scales.
Federal employees - Excepted service
Current federal employees whose agencies have their own hiring rules, pay scales and evaluation criteria.
Veterans
Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces or a spouse, widow, widower or parent of a veteran, who may be eligible for derived preference
Military spouses
Military spouses of active duty service members or whose spouse is 100 percent disabled or died on active duty.
National Guard and reserves
Current members, those who want to join or transitioning military members.
Clarification from the agency
Title 5 NON MERIT
CAT 1- All Preference eligible qualified applicants that are claiming 5 points or more veterans preference.
CAT 2- All qualified Non-Preference eligible applicants if the preference eligible list has no qualified applicants or there was a Passover request done.
Duties
Perform essential victim service, advocacy, and support duties; provide a non-clinical response that is trauma-informed, gender-responsive, culturally responsive, and recovery-oriented, and without prejudice to adult victims of sexual assault. Demonstrate understanding of trauma related to sexual violence and related complexities. This work involves Privacy Act and Controlled Unclassified Information and is therefore highly sensitive in nature.
Apply basic strategies for skilled communication, including developing rapport and actively listening, to provide initial victim advocacy services and crisis intervention support for adult victims of sexual assault and comply with mandated timeframes for responding to requests and completing required documents within those timeframes. Conduct mandated initial risk screening; non-clinical safety assessment and planning; and coordinate medical, legal, and civilian and military law enforcement resources to address immediate risk, safety, and supportive service needs in accordance with applicable policy, prioritizing confidentiality and informed consent. Coordinate which cases can be managed independently with the SARC, employing judgement and problem-solving skills to identify a victim's specific needs and service delivery.
Accept official reports of sexual assault by assisting the victim in completing the Defense Department (DD) Form 2910 and other official Department of Defense (DoD) forms as applicable, taking sensitive care of handling personally identifiable information when it is disclosed, as well as covered communications. Ensure to communicate with the victim an understanding of the SAPR VA role in the reporting process, subsequent processes associated with their election to file a report in accordance with DoD and Service level policies and regulations and provide tailored referrals and resources as applicable. Assist the victim in prioritizing actions and identifying short and long-term options to support needs and recovery.
Demonstrate expertise in offering comprehensive guidance to victims on reporting options (Restricted and Unrestricted), to include options for those not ready to report, explaining exceptions and limitations for each, and ensuring understanding of the eligibility criteria for Special Victims' Counsel (SVC). Uphold the rights and confidentiality preferences of victims consistently throughout the reporting process. Support victims when contacting appropriate offices and facilitate warm hand-offs as requested. Ensure victims of sexual assault receive information and support during administrative, medical, investigative, and legal procedures to support victim self-determination and informed decision making.
Perform a series of complex assessments using trauma-informed approaches for all reports of adult sexual assault. Apply research informed practices associated with victim advocacy, social service principles, and behavioral theories to include mandatory administration of standardized risk screenings and non-clinical safety assessment(s), thoroughly addressing all presenting safety concerns through use of risk mitigation strategies and techniques, developing an individualized safety plan with each victim, and conducting ongoing needs assessments and planning to address victim safety and support needs. Demonstrate highly adaptive application of strategies and skilled advocacy practices in identifying, establishing, and modifying victim advocacy support and assistance.
Implement mandatory standardized risk screening protocols to address immediate risk and safety concerns and apply strategies to develop tailored interventions that address the needs of individual victims. Provide assistance to victims in securing medical treatment for physical and psychological injuries; safe shelter; protective orders; support before, during, and after trials; educational services; transportation; financial services; and any other services identified and requested by the victim.
Value and prioritize confidentiality and informed consent standards when advising the victim on the purpose of any information shared during each interaction, ensuring to advise the victim on the protections and exceptions to confidentiality for all covered communications, to include Restricted and Unrestricted Reporting, per Military Rules of Evidence 514 "Victim Advocate - Victim Privilege" and DoD Sexual Assault Advocate Certification Program (D-SAACP) Professional Code of Ethics, and applicable guidance.
Independently prepare and submit to the SARC the "Victim Advocate Recommendations to the Commander" package within 24 hours of all Unrestricted Reports being filed, which contains recommendations to the victim's Commander on immediate and ongoing care, to include any known risk and safety concerns, information about retaliation, and requirements to maintain the victim's rights, privacy/confidentiality, and safety.
PLEASE CONTACT HRO FOR COMPLETE POSITION DESCRIPTION.
Requirements
Conditions of employment
- Federal employment suitability as determined by a background investigation.
- May be required to successfully complete a probationary period.
- Participation in direct deposit is mandatory.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain the appropriate security clearance of the position.
- May occasionally be required to work other than normal duty hours; overtime may be required.
Qualifications
EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: Each applicant must fully substantiate (in his/her own words) that he/she meets the requirements of the Specialized Experience listed below: Otherwise, the applicant will be considered unqualified for this position. DO NOT COPY THE VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT OR THE POSITION DESCRIPTION. DOING SO MAY RESULT IN DISQUALIFICATION FOR THE POSITION.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: 1 year specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level. Experience, education or training analyzing problems, identifying significant factors, gathering pertinent data and recognizing solutions; preparing reports, plans, policies and various correspondence; evaluating objectives and develop plans to facilitate the availability and effective utilization of various social science resources. Must have knowledge of the organization and its mission and utilized the organizational staff procedures. Experience applying analytical and evaluative techniques to issues or studies concerning the efficiency and effectiveness of social science program operations carried out by administrative or professional personnel, or substantive administrative support functions.
KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:
-Knowledge of the DoD and Service-specific programs and structure, along with local, state, and federal laws; and military regulations, policies, and executive orders pertaining to sexual assault victim advocacy.
-Diverse knowledge of accepted practices and procedures associated with victim advocacy, social services delivery systems, principles, and behavioral theories relating to victim advocacy, sexual assault, and other acts of interpersonal violence.
-Ability to reach independent and authoritative conclusions as to appropriate actions needed to provide crisis intervention support and assess victims' needs, safety, and levels of risk in serious and complicated circumstances.
-Comprehensive knowledge of essential support and advocacy services, liaison resources, community networks, and best practices for aiding victims of sexual assault, adhering to established procedures.
-Proficiency in data entry, organization, report preparation, and information development to ensure effective handling and utilization of information related to victim advocacy.
-Knowledge of training and education techniques to implement and deliver sexual assault training and brief installation leadership, other SAPR VAs, first responders, and other stakeholders on the policies, practices, procedures, issues, and concerns associated with sexual assault and victim advocacy.?
-Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing with all levels of management, staff, and military personnel and their families.?
-Expertise in applying varied methods of sexual assault victim advocacy, including crisis intervention, situational assessment, and needs analysis to provide tailored support and assistance and evaluate safety and levels of risk.
-Demonstrated skill in employing tact and diplomacy in challenging and sensitive scenarios; fostering productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders; and establishing effective partnerships to identify, modify, and deliver victim support and assistance.
-Ability to develop trusting relationships within the scope of supporting sexual assault victims. This may include cultivating relationships with stakeholders in and outside of the SAPR program.
-Skill in providing culturally informed services that empower marginalized individuals and adapt support strategies to align with the cultural, social, and personal contexts of each victim.
-Possess comprehensive knowledge of on-installation and off- installation resources within the direct geographical region to offer each victim tailored comprehensive referrals to SAPR services. This includes, but is not limited to, victim advocacy, legal services, and medical/mental health support services. Knowledge level requires an understanding what military and civilian resources are available, what each resource can provide for the victim, and limitations and/or exceptions to services available, confidentiality that may apply to each resource.
-Knowledge of the duties, priorities, commitments, policies, and program goals of the SAPR program sufficient to provide available and appropriate resources.
-Ability to define scope and parameter of the SAPR VA role to empower victims from initial response to termination of the professional relationship.
Education
Degree: behavioral or social science; or related disciplines appropriate to the position that included at least 24 semester hours of course work in the behavioral or social sciences.
or
Combination of education and experience that provided the applicant with knowledge of one or more of the behavioral or social sciences equivalent to a major in the field that included at least 24 semester hours of course work in the behavioral or social sciences.
or
Four years of appropriate experience that demonstrated that the applicant has acquired knowledge of one or more of the behavioral or social sciences equivalent to a major in the field.
You must provide transcripts or other documentation to support your Educational claims. To receive credit for Education, you must provide documentation of proof that you meet the Education requirements for this position.
Additional information
If you are a male applicant who was born after 12/31/1959 and are required to register under the Military Selective Service Act, the Defense Authorization Act of 1986 requires that you be registered or you are not eligible for appointment in this agency (https://www.sss.gov/RegVer/wfRegistration.aspx).
**This position may be authorized a recruitment or relocation incentive for up to 25%. All incentives must be approved prior to the employee in processing.**
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
Once the announcement has closed, your resume and supporting documentation will be used to determine if you meet the qualifications listed on this announcement. If you are minimally qualified, your resume and supporting documentation will be compared to your responses on the assessment questionnaire to determine your level of experience. If you rate yourself higher than is supported by your application package, your responses may be adjusted and/or you may be excluded from consideration for this position. If you are found to be among the top qualified candidates, you will be referred to the selecting official for employment consideration.
Required Documents
To apply for this position, you must submit a complete Application Package which includes:
1. Your resume showing work schedule, hours worked per week, dates (including Month and Year, e.g., 02/2017, Feb 2017, etc.) of employment and duties performed.
2. Other supporting documents: SF-50s, transcripts, VA documentation, SF-15s and DD 214s are recommended, but not required.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from
schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
How to Apply
To apply for this position, you must complete the online application/Occupational Questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. To view the Occupational Questionnaire, click the following link: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12856767
A complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on the closing date of the announcement to receive consideration.
To begin, click Apply to access the online application. You will need to be logged into your USAJOBS account to apply. If you do not have a USAJOBS account, you will need to create one before beginning the application.
Follow the prompts to select your resume and/or other supporting documents to be included with your application package. You will have the opportunity to upload additional documents to include in your application before it is submitted. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process.
After acknowledging you have reviewed your application package, complete the Include Personal Information section as you deem appropriate and click to continue with the application process.
You will be taken to the online application which you must complete in order to apply for the position. Complete the online application, verify the required documentation is included with your application package, and submit the application.
To verify the status of your application, log into your USAJOBS account (https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login), all of your applications will appear on the Welcome screen. The Application Status will appear along with the date your application was last updated. For information on what each Application Status means, visit: https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/how-to/application/status/.
VETERAN'S PREFERENCE: In order to adjudicate your Veterans' Preference claims, please upload all supporting documentation. Such as: DD214s and/or SF-15, etc
A. ARE YOU A VETERAN CLAIMING SOLE SURVIVORSHIP PREFERENCE OR 5-POINT VETERANS' PREFERENCE?
You should provide legible copy/copies of the following: DD-214 (member 4 copy), "Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty," showing all dates of service, as well as character of service (Honorable, General, etc.) or Statement of Service/Proof of Service (in lieu of a DD-214) from your command or local Personnel Support office. The Statement of Service/Proof of Service must provide all dates of service, the expected date of discharge and anticipated character of service (Honorable, General, etc.). If you have more than one DD-214, you are strongly encouraged to upload all your DD-214s.
B. ARE YOU A DISABLED VETERAN or CLAIMING 10-POINT VETERANS' PREFERENCE?
Disabled veterans, veterans, widows, spouses or the mother of a veteran, who are eligible for 10-point veterans' preference, should provide legible copies of the following: Applicable supporting documents as noted on Standard Form-15 (SF-15). To obtain a copy of SF-15, go to http://www.opm.gov/forms/pdf_fill/SF15.pdf.
C. ARE YOU UNSURE AS TO WHETHER YOU QUALIFY FOR VETERANS' PREFERENCE?
Please review the OPM Vet Guide to determine if you qualify for Veterans' Preference. Please visit: https://fedshirevets.gov/Index.aspx.
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. Your application will be evaluated by the Human Resources Office to determine your eligibility for the position. After the evaluation is complete, you will receive another notification regarding the status of your application.