Full Time (1.0FTE) Juvenile Guardian ad Litem - 3rd District

About the role

The Minnesota Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Program seeks a full-time (1.0FTE), represented non-exempt Guardian ad Litem to advocate for children in juvenile court proceedings. The position is based in Houston, Fillmore, Winona, and Olmstead Counties.

Responsibilities

• Monthly observation of child(ren) in home and other settings to document interactions with caretakers, peers, and others.
• Compilation of accurate, precise, and factual findings, conclusions, and recommendations regarding the child’s best interests within the context of their family and community.
• Attendance of court hearings and other proceedings to present oral and written recommendations to the court and/or to testify as required.
• Examines files and discovery for relevant documents and data pertaining to the child including basic facts of the case and any extenuating circumstances.
• Interviews child and others involved with the child using recommended interview techniques.
• Obtains releases of information.
• Calls and questions witnesses, when appropriate.
• Demonstrates knowledge of and sensitivity to the child’s cultural background when working with family and community members.
• Identifies culturally appropriate resources for placement, treatment, and other necessary services for the family/child.
• Organizes and catalogues case notes and records in case management system ensuring accuracy and precision in accordance with GAL program requirements and access rules.
• Maintains an accurate and up-to-date calendar of hearings.
• Prepares written reports and provides other necessary documentation needed to make written and oral recommendations to the Court or testify as required.
• Fills reports and materials in a timely manner.
• Stores and closes files in accordance with district/county policies.
• Determines when to request legal representation for self-and/or child and works with attorney in case preparation and review as needed.
• Attends individual supervision meetings, administrative reviews, case plan meetings and other proceedings as an advocate for the child.
• Attends program staff meetings and continuing education sessions as scheduled.
• Participates on local, district and/or state task forces and committees.
• May be accompanied by and/or act as mentor to new Guardian ad Litem.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, education, nursing, criminal justice, law or child-related discipline and some experience working with families and children.
• An equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• A current driver's license, vehicle registration and valid automobile insurance in compliance with Minnesota statute.
• Reside near the assigned service area.

Benefits

• 11 paid holidays plus 2 floating holidays.
• State of MN insurance benefits and retirement package.
• Flexibility.
• Public service.

Supplemental Information

This is a 1.0 FTE represented full-time position with a starting rate of $23.35/hr. The Guardian ad Litem Program is an independent program within the Minnesota Judicial Branch and is governed by the Guardian ad Litem Board. This position is represented by the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Council 5 and is posted for bidding, internal and external application simultaneously. Only current permanent Guardian ad Litem program employees covered under AFSCME Council 5 bargaining agreement are eligible to bid. To apply, complete the online application at: Guardian ad Litem Job Opportunities | Sorted by Job Title ascending | Career Opportunities. Application deadline is extended to July 21, 2026, at 4:30 p.m. Please allow approximately 45 minutes to complete the on-line application process. The Guardian ad Litem Program is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to the principles of diversity. We actively seek and encourage applications from persons of diverse backgrounds. It is the policy of the Guardian ad Litem Program that all decisions regarding recruitment, hiring, promotions, and other terms and conditions of employment be made without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, disability, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, and genetic information. If you need a reasonable accommodation for a disability to participate in the employee selection process or if you have any additional HR related questions, please contact, GALHR@courts.state.mn.us. The Guardian ad Litem Program offers affordable yet competitive benefits to support you and your family’s wellbeing through the State of MN's Employee Group Insurance Program (SEGIP). Our Wide-ranging Benefits Package Includes The Following Components Medical Insurance, Vision Insurance, Pharmacy benefits, Pre-Tax Spending Accounts, and more.