TITLE: Client Advocate III – Human Trafficking Task Force

HOURS: Fulltime; 40 Hours Per Week

Bilingual Required

Base Rate: $19.00

+$1.00 Bilingual Incentive with Certificate

This is an in-person position- Employee must report to their assigned worksites in Ventura County

JOB OVERVIEW:

The Ventura County Human Trafficking Task Force (VCHTTF) is an enhanced collaborative committed to serving justice and healing for victims and survivors of human trafficking in Ventura County. The HT Task Force Client Advocate III reports to the HT Task Force Program Manager and constitutes a member of the Human Trafficking Prevention & Intervention Department (HTPI). Provides trauma-informed, client-centered, culturally, and linguistically appropriate advocacy, case management, and support services for victims and survivors of human trafficking identified by the VCHTTF. This position responds out to all law enforcement and Task Force crisis needs for victim identification, advocacy, and support in Ventura County. This position serves as a Human Trafficking Caseworker under Evidence Code 1038.2, as well as a domestic violence counselor as stated in California Evidence Code 1037.1.

GENERAL DUTIES:

  1. Provides culturally and linguistically appropriate advocacy and case management services to help survivors heal from their trauma and establish their autonomy.
  2. Provides immediate in-person and over-the-phone crisis counseling through the 24/7 Domestic Violence & Human Trafficking Hotline and Engages clients in ongoing safety planning, assesses for basic needs including eligibility for public and community-based programs, and links to appropriate referrals including shelter, childcare, and legal assistance for Task Force referrals and clients. Coordinates application process, assistance, and support for clients needing Victims of Crime Compensation, Safe at Home, Domestic Violence restraining orders, etc.
  3. Participates in Task Force multidisciplinary subcommittee meetings.
  4. Serves as the point of contact during operations with law enforcement and other service providers (after-hours or weekend operations included) to provide victim advocacy and support to potential victims during law enforcement stings, court appointments, and operations planned through the Ventura County Human Trafficking Task Force.
  5. Conducts outreach to identify, build, and strengthen relationships with the community and service providers including housing, medical, dental, childcare, legal, transportation, and educational partners.
  6. Collaborates with other service providers to benefit each client’s success, including participation in treatment, team meetings with child welfare staff, the Interface youth shelter staff, and the client’s therapist, as appropriate.
  7. Uses effective communication skills such as active and reflective listening to engage and build rapport with clients. Utilize appropriate interventions, including motivational interviewing, to increase positive outcomes.
  8. Coordinates with Program Manager and provides in-person emergency response to victims, when requested by law enforcement, task force partners, and medical providers during assigned shifts. Provides on-call response from 7 pm-7 am once a week during a scheduled workday of their choice.
  9. Maintains confidential client files and completes and submits all required documentation, statistics, and evaluations.
  10. Maintains updated case notes, service logs, and other documentation as required.
  11. Maintains appropriate relationships and boundaries with clients.
  12. Maintains lines of communication with the supervisor and other program staff following each shift or for assistance when troubleshooting.
  13. Participates in community outreach and prevention/awareness activities including speaking engagements, trainings, and groups.
  14. Participates in planning sessions that contribute to the success of the program and the VCHTTF.
  15. Supports a positive working environment by demonstrating a professional demeanor and collaborative partnership with fellow team members, volunteers, partnering agencies, and community members.
  16. Participates in scheduled staff meetings and in-service training as required.
  17. Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in psychology, sociology, victimology, criminal justice, or a related field. 1-year minimum of case management experience and experience working with individuals with complex trauma due to exploitation. Bilingual fluency is required; English/Spanish or English/Mandarin written and oral communication skills. Bilingual testing will be provided by Language Testing International and is required within the first 30 days of employment with scoring and certification at an Advanced level or above. Ability to handle emergency/crisis situations and must possess strong decision-making, case management, conflict resolution, leadership, and excellent time management skills. Must maintain the confidentiality of the shelter locations as well as all information of clients receiving services. Requires ability to collaborate with agency staff and community partners while demonstrating exemplary customer service. Must be computer literate with Microsoft Office and the internet. The position may require evening/weekend shifts and the flexibility to respond outside of the normal schedule. Must be able to prioritize tasks, organize thoughts, communicate well both verbally and in writing, and work independently with minimal supervision. Must be sensitive and competent to serve clients from diverse cultures and languages. Familiarity with mandatory child abuse reporting requirements, motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed approaches is preferred. Must have completed or be available to complete the required Domestic Violence Counselor and Human Trafficking Caseworker Trainings pursuant to CA Evidence Codes 1038.2 and 1037.1 within 3 months of hire.

Successful background and criminal clearance required and maintained, including but not limited to California Department of Justice (DOJ), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI, Child Abuse Index, and Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).  Proof of a valid California Driver’s License, reliable transportation, proof of automobile insurance (listed as covered), pass and maintain driving approval as required by our insurer.

To apply for this job email your details to hrstaff@icfs.org