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.
DUTIES CONTINUES UNDER THE EDUCATION SECTION.
Requirements
Conditions of employment
Conditions of Employment
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).
- Within 60 days of appointment to a Position of Trust and Moderate Risk; the employee must have a favorable completion and award of a Tier 3 background investigation and continuously maintain as directed by DoD and NGB to conduct duties and responsibilities as a SAPR Professional. In accordance with governing regulations, additional checks will be performed on a recurring basis. Incumbents in these positions are required to self-report civilian arrests, the filing of criminal charges, and/or convictions of any criminal offense to their supervisors and security office.
- Within six (6) months of appointment, must graduate from required SAPR training courses and be awarded the DoD Sexual Assault Advocate Certificate. An active D-SAACP certification must be maintained for this position.
- Incumbent must maintain an active D-SAACP certification in accordance with (IAW) Section 584 of Public Law 112-81 and DoD Instruction (DoDI) 6495.03 as a condition of employment. In the event that D-SAACP certification expires, is suspended or is revoked, the individual is not authorized to serve in any SAPR position or perform SAPR duties until D-SAACP certification is reinstated. Failure to maintain certification may result in disciplinary and/or adverse action up to removal from federal service.
- Facilitate the planning, scheduling, and delivery of SAPR training for diverse stakeholders and local populations, covering SAPR policies, procedures, reporting options, and other pertinent topics delegated by the Supervisory Principal SARC in compliance with DoD and Service policy. Locate and reserve training sites for SAPR annual training and briefs, to include the coordination of audio-visual support and equipment and that necessary training materials are present. Record training attendance, disseminate, collect, and support analysis of course evaluations, coordinate guest speakers, and support marketing and communication efforts.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT CONTINUED UNDER THE BENEFITS SECTION.
Qualifications
GENERAL EXPERIENCE:
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.
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.
Education
Educational Requirement: Degree: behavioral or social science; or related disciplines appropriate to the position. 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. OR Four years of appropriate experience that demonstrated that the applicant has acquired knowledge of one or more of the behavioral social sciences equivalents to a major in the field.
DUTIES CONTINUED
Inform victims of the resources available to report instances of sexual assault related retaliation, reprisal, ostracism, maltreatment, sexual harassment, or to request a transfer.
Provide each victim tailored comprehensive referrals to on-installation and off-installation resources to include victim advocacy, legal, and medical/mental healthcare. Ensure victims have an understanding of what military and civilian resources are available, what each resource can provide for the victim, and limitations and/or exceptions to services available, and confidentiality that may apply to each resource.
Develop and maintain ongoing working relationships with available military and civilian resources to aid with the process of providing a warm hand-off telephonically, virtually, or in-person, with the victim's consent and preference, as applicable. Referral actions must be carefully tracked to ensure that victim support services are timely and acceptable. Apply professional tact and diplomacy during interactions with internal and external officials during difficult or sensitive circumstances to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
Develop detailed case management plans with short and long-term goals and objectives and engage in ongoing support activities tailored to the victim's needs. This includes but is not limited to continuous risk screenings and non-clinical safety assessments, updates to victims and sexual assault Case Management Groups on case progress, and referrals and information for resources as needed, ensuring that victim care, safety, and support needs are met in response to a sexual assault in accordance with law, policy, regulations, and DoD Sexual Assault Advocate Certification Program Professional Code of Ethics.
Collaborate closely with victims to develop and adapt safety plans and needs assessments to prioritize and address potential risks and vulnerabilities, applying trauma-informed best practices and understanding the importance of informed consent throughout the process.
Collaborate and partner, as a member, with the sexual assault CMG members and the High-Risk Response Team to address and mitigate identified risks, safety concerns, and coordinate support services.
Ethically and collaboratively support and assist victims in identifying strategies that promote self-determination while addressing presenting risk factors to support continuous victim care and safety.
Safeguard the interests, rights, and privacy of victims who lack the capacity to make informed decisions independently during and after the course of the professional relationship.
Collaborate with victims to assess their readiness for case closure and develop a comprehensive closure plan, inclusive of completing a final safety assessment, applying transition strategies, and providing resources for continued care or needs.
Assist the SARC in the management and maintenance of up-to-date case files in Defense Sexual Assault Incident Database (DSAID), as applicable, ensuring compliance with legal, privacy, and organizational policies and victim advocacy professional standards within the applicable timeframes per guidance.
Employ complex trauma-informed practices to provide tailored emotional support, ensuring victims feel respected, heard, and understood.
Provide culturally informed services that empower marginalized individuals and adapt support strategies to align with the cultural, social, and personal contexts of each victim.
Assist the SARC with developing and collaborating with relevant stakeholders on SAPR public awareness campaigns including planning local events for Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, representing the SAPR program in community outreach efforts, and assisting the SARC with ensuring that outreach efforts align with the SAPR program's strategic goals as assigned by the Supervisory Principal SARC.
Ensure the response to the victim includes assessing if the victim has been sexually harassed or if the sexual assault was perpetrated by an intimate partner and assist the victim using the "No Wrong Door" approach to get the victim to the more appropriate service provider. The initial assessment would also need to include determining the status of the victim, e.g., if they are a DoD federal civilian, technician, or other applicable status.
Collaborate and consult with other SAPR personnel in the state to ensure efficient service delivery, manage caseloads, and meet reporting requirements. Demonstrate proactive awareness of vicarious trauma and support efforts to address and build individual and organizational resilience.
Facilitate the planning, scheduling, and delivery of SAPR training for diverse stakeholders and local populations, covering SAPR policies, procedures, reporting options, and other pertinent topics delegated by the Supervisory Principal SARC in compliance with DoD and Service policy. Locate and reserve training sites for SAPR annual training and briefs, to include the coordination of audio-visual support and equipment and that necessary training materials are present. Record training attendance, disseminate, collect, and support analysis of course evaluations, coordinate guest speakers, and support marketing and communication efforts.
Successfully complete DoD-approved training and professional development to stay informed about best practices and emerging issues and maintain D-SAACP certification.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Additional information
Veteran Preference may apply if the first area of consideration are not met.
Veterans Information: Veterans' information must be validated by formal submissions including all necessary supporting documentation. You must provide acceptable documents for eligibility. Acceptable documentation may be:
1. A copy of your DD-214, "Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty," which shows dates of service and discharge under honorable conditions.
2. A "certification" that is a written document from the armed forces that certifies the service member is expected to be discharged or released from active duty service in the armed forces under honorable conditions not later than 120 days after the date the certification is signed.
3. You may obtain a letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs reflecting your level of disability for preference eligibility by visiting a VA Regional Office, contacting a VA call center or online. If claiming over 30% disability a SF-15 is required to be submitted with your letter.
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.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT CONTINUED.
- Establish and maintain connections with internal and external stakeholders, including law enforcement (to include the Special Victim Investigation and Prosecution), legal professionals (to include Judge Advocates and SVCs), healthcare providers, Chaplains, Integrated Primary Prevention Workforce members, leaders, and community organizations, fostering collaboration, open communication, and a cohesive approach in sexual assault cases to support SAPR program initiatives and case management.?
- Incumbent must be able to work other than normal duty hours, to include evenings, weekends, and holidays, on an on-call or rotational basis. The on-call or rotational status requires that SAPR VA work hours could vary, to include a requirement to be available 24/7, to respond to calls received via the helpline, from military or civilian law enforcement or from the military treatment facility or local hospital.
- This position may require temporary duty (TDY) business travel up to 25% of the time; Must possess a valid driver's license and have the ability to operate a motor vehicle should the need arise to operate a government vehicle/motor pool vehicle. May require travel by car, in military and/or commercial aircraft, and by other means of transportation as appropriate to perform temporary duty assignments.
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.
Your qualifications will be evaluated on the above general and specialized experience and the following competencies knowledge, skills, abilities (KSAs):
- 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.
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. The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to make sure you have included other documents required for your application.
a. A copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify)
b. SF-50's (current/former Federal employees)
c. DD-214
d. Other Veterans Document
e. SF-15 (VA Disability Form)
f. SF-50 (Mandatory for Internal Announcements)
RESUME REMINDER- Your resume must include the following information for each job listed: Job title Duties (be as detailed as possible) Month & year start/end dates (e.g. June 2007 to April 2008) Full-time or part-time status (include hours worked per week) Series and Grade, if applicable, for all Federal positions you have held. Be sure that your resume clearly supports your responses to all of the questions in the assessment by addressing your work experience in detail. Recommended: Even though we do not require a specific resume format, your resume must be clear so that we are able to fully evaluate your qualifications. To ensure you receive appropriate consideration, please list the duties you performed under each individual job title. If we are unable to match your experiences with the positions held, you may lose consideration for this vacancy. We cannot make assumptions regarding your qualifications.
DO NOT COPY THE GENERAL, SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS AND KSAs WORD FOR WORD AND PLACE INTO YOUR RESUME; YOU MUST DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL EXPERIENCE AS IT PERTAINS TO EACH STATEMENT.
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.