Advocacy Specialist 2 (hourly)

About the Role

The New York State Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs (Justice Center), established in 2013 by the Protection with Special Needs Act, is charged with protecting over one million New Yorkers under the care or jurisdiction across six State Oversight Agencies.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the liaison for vulnerable individuals who have been alleged to have been victims of abuse and neglect and their families.
• Advise and consult with individuals receiving services, parents, and guardians regarding complaints or issues.
• Review and address specific complaints by consulting with responsible and appropriate staff.
• Provide information, resources, and referrals at conferences, information sessions, and presentations.
• Offer details on the legal and investigative process, including resources such as service providers, treatment and education programs, legal assistance, and financial aid.
• Respond to referrals to provide information, referral, and linkage to services and programs based on individual needs.
• Inform victims and their families about 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.
• Maintain proficiency with electronic databases and data entry.
• Attend quarterly staff meetings and required trainings at statewide regional offices.
• Assist with coverage in other regional offices as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Unit Director.

Requirements

• 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 options for experience:

• 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.
• A doctorate may substitute for six years of general experience.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package, including holiday and paid time off.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
• Pension from the 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.

Specific benefits and programs may vary based on negotiating unit, current contract, and length of State service.

Employees may be required to apply and obtain approval for telecommuting according to the Justice Center’s Telecommuting Program Guidelines.

Fingerprinting may be required upon job offer acceptance, with the cost covered by the employee.