Specialized Criminal Justice Navigator

Position Title:Specialized Criminal Justice Navigator

Reports To: Program Supervisor

Status: 1 FTE (40 hrs/week)

Location: Wetaskiwin

Position Summary:

The Specialized Criminal Justice Navigator will play a crucial role in enhancing our organization's ability to support victims of crime as they navigate the Criminal Justice System. The Navigator will serve as the primary point of contact for victims of crime, conducting thorough needs assessments and developing personalized support plans tailored to each victim's unique circumstances. The Navigator will serve as a compassionate and empathetic resource for victims, ensuring they receive the assistance they need during this challenging process.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Comprehensive Victim Needs Assessment & Support: Conduct thorough needs assessments for victims, identifying their immediate and long-term requirements. Develop personalized support plans tailored to each victim's unique circumstances, providing dedicated support, addressing their immediate needs and concerns, and providing a compassionate and empathetic presence throughout their involvement with the Criminal Justice System.

2. Information and Guidance: Provide victims with clear and concise information about the Criminal Justice process, their rights, and available resources. Explain legal proceedings, court dates, and the roles of various professionals involved, reducing confusion and anxiety.

3. Advocacy and Accompaniment: Act as an advocate for victims within the Criminal Justice system. Attend court proceedings, meetings with law enforcement, and interactions with other stakeholders to ensure that victims' voices are heard, their rights are protected, and their interests are represented.

4. Resource Coordination: Work closely with existing support networks and partner organizations to coordinate necessary services for victims. This may include mental health support, legal assistance, housing, transportation, and other resources essential to their well-being and recovery.

5. Empowerment and Education: Provide victims with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed decisions and participate actively in the legal process. Educate victims about available options, such as victim compensation programs and restorative justice opportunities.

6. Trauma-Informed Care: Receive specialized training in trauma-informed care to ensure sensitivity to the emotional and psychological needs of victims, fostering trust and healing. www.theopendoors.ca The Open Doors PO Box 1491 Camrose, AB T4V 1X4 7. Data Collection and Reporting: Use a robust data collection system to monitor the impact of the position. Provide regular reporting on the number of victims served, services provided, and outcomes achieved to improve the program continually. 8. Community Outreach: Actively engage with the community to raise awareness about available services and support for victims, reducing stigma associated with reporting crimes and encouraging more victims to seek assistance.

9. Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, Criminal Justice, or a related field

• Experience working with victims of crime, preferably in a Criminal Justice setting.

• Commitment to The Open Doors mission statement and values

• Ability to work with high-risk, marginalized community members

• Strong communication, advocacy, and interpersonal skills.

• Knowledge of trauma-informed care principles.

• Must have strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Workspaces, database management, communication technologies, and a willingness to adapt to new technologies for remote service delivery and data security.

• Clear Intervention Record Check

• Clear Vulnerable Sector Police Information Check

• Standard First Aid Level C with AED

• Class 5 Driver’s License with a Driver’s Abstract – 3 years of insured driving

• Automobile Authorization for Alberta Motor Vehicle Record - must be at fault accident free for 3 years

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Working conditions

Location: based in Wetaskiwin, Alberta. The Navigator may be required to travel to various locations within the region to meet with victims, attend court proceedings, and engage in community outreach activities.

Hours: The position is full-time, with regular office hours. However, flexibility in scheduling may be required to accommodate the needs of victims, which may include evening or weekend work.

Environment: The work environment may vary, including office settings, courtrooms, law enforcement facilities, and community outreach locations. The Navigator may also need to work in potentially stressful and emotionally challenging situations.

Safety: The Navigator will be expected to adhere to safety protocols and guidelines, especially when working in potentially volatile or unsafe environments

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: $21.00-$25.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Ability to Relocate:

• Wetaskiwin, AB T9A 0V2: Relocate before starting work (required)

Work Location: In person