ABUSE COUNSELOR

ABUSE COUNSELOR -

This is professional work protecting children and vulnerable adults as a Team Member at the Florida Abuse Hotline. The employee(s) allocated to this class, assess allegations of abuse, neglect or abandonment of children, and abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable adults. The employee(s) will determine if the information meets statutory criteria for an investigation or referral to an appropriate agency.

Conduct thorough assessments via telephone and analyze information received electronically to assess for indicators of abuse, neglect, or abandonment of children and for indicators of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable adults. Research appropriate information systems to determine prior history to assist in the safety and risk assessment of alleged victim(s). Enter reports in the appropriate information system. Assign cases to appropriate Department of Children and Families County units for investigation. Receive and refer, as appropriate, complaints against vendors, related licensed facilities, and department employees that may include human rights violations, inappropriate treatment, and inadequate services. Provide supportive assistance and referral services for persons in need. Maintain professional respect with field investigative staff, supervisors, and other adult and child protective service professionals in both public and private sectors. Performs other related work as required.

A high school diploma or GED equivalent and four years of law enforcement experience or active military service (honorably discharged or status that current service reflects serving honorably); OR An associate degree or 60+ credit hours from an accredited college or university and two years of professional work experience (see examples below) or two years of law enforcement experience or active military service (honorably discharged or status that current service reflects serving honorably); Examples of professional work experience could be, although not limited to: Intake Specialist Case Management Contact Center Experience (Inbound Calls, Complaint Resolution) Guardian Ad Litem or similar child advocate role Family Support Worker Group Home Worker Teacher/Teacher's Assistant/Aide Daycare Provider/Worker Therapeutic Assistant Behavioral Health Technician Family Intervention Specialist Home Health Aide/CNA Healthcare Practitioner (LPN, RN) or similar profession Nursing Facility Assistant Paramedic/EMT Firefighter Law Enforcement Dispatcher/Communications Officer Security/Safety Officer Emergency Management Deputy/Director or similar position Investigator (sworn/non-sworn) for a government entity Other welfare, education, first responder, emergency management or medical professional jobs that occur in high-paced, high-stress environments that require critical decision-making to occur. OR A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.

Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and accurately, both orally and in written form. Ability to attend an approximate 4 – 9-week training course that could be scheduled during day, weekend, and evening hours. Training schedules may vary from actual working schedules based on business needs.

This position may require evening, night, and weekend hours. It has also been designated as an essential position. Incumbents are expected to work during emergency situations or natural disasters and may be required to work before, during and beyond normal work hours/days.