Advocacy Specialist 2 (hourly)

Duties Description Serve as the liaison of the NYS Justice Center for vulnerable individuals who have been alleged to have been victims of abuse and neglect and their families; Advise and consult with the individual receiving services, parents and guardians with respect to any complaints or issues; review and answer questions with respect to specific complaints by consulting with responsible and appropriate staff; and perform other duties as assigned by the, Unit director; Provide information, resources and referrals at conferences, information sessions and presentations. Provide information regarding legal and investigative process and resources (service providers, treatment and education programs, legal assistance, and financial assistance). Respond to referrals, to provide information, referral and linkage to services and programs based on their need. Provide victims and their families with information regarding their rights and other relevant information related to abuse/neglect cases. Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to promote the Agency’s mission. Provide emotional support and crisis intervention. Proficiency with electronic databases and entry of information. Attend quarterly staff meetings and other trainings as required at statewide regional offices. Assist with coverage in other regional offices as needed. Minimum Qualifications Non-competitive: Six years of experience* as a professional advocate or service provider in rehabilitation, developmental disabilities, mental health, child welfare, juvenile justice, or homeless youth. Substitution: An associate degree may substitute for two years of general experience; a bachelor’s degree may substitute for four years of general experience; a master’s degree may substitute for five years of general experience; or a doctorate may substitute for six years of general experience. Additional Comments Established in 2013 by the Protection with Special Needs Act; The New York State Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs (Justice Center) is charged with protecting over one million New Yorkers under the care or jurisdiction across six State Oversight Agencies. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including: Holiday & Paid Time Off Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Pension from New York State Employees’ Retirement System Affordable Health Care options Family dental and vision benefits at no additional cost NYS Deferred Compensation plan Access to NY 529 College Savings Program Please note that specific benefits and programs may vary based on negotiating unit, current contract, and length of State service. NOTE ON TELECOMMUTING: Employees are required to apply and obtain approval through management to telecommute according to the Justice Center’s Telecommuting Program Guidelines. NOTE ON FINGERPRINTING: Please be advised that should you accept a job offer with this agency, you may be required to be fingerprinted and pay for the cost of the fingerprinting fee. The New York State Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Our agency does not discriminate based upon age, race, creed/religion, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, military or veteran status, sex, disability (including pregnancy-related conditions), predisposing genetic characteristics, familial status, marital status, status as a victim of domestic violence, prior arrest or conviction record, citizenship/immigration status, or any other applicable legally protected characteristics. The Justice Center is committed to creating and sustaining a culture of inclusion while continuing to build a diverse workforce. Our agency seeks candidates dedicated to working in and contributing to an environment of inclusion that affirms and celebrates the backgrounds, learned and lived experiences, whole identities, and individual perspectives of our staff. The New York State Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs (Justice Center) provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify the Office of Human Resources via email at View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr New York State Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs