What are the responsibilities and job description for the Staff Guardian ad Litem position at Cowlitz County and Clark County Child Advocates?
Position: Staff Guardian ad Litem - serving SW WA
Responsible to: Executive Director
Status: Part-Time 24 hours per week, Non-exempt
Job Description:
This position serves as staff GAL who represent and advocate for the best interest of children who are subject to dependency proceedings. The duties of a Guardian ad Litem include: to investigate, monitor, report to the court, and represent and advocate for the best interest of the child as defined in RCW 13.34.105.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO, THE FOLLOWING:
- Supervise, support Volunteer GAL; adhering to CCCA policy and procedures, Local Court Rules, Revised Code of Washington, Washington Superior Court Guardian ad Litem Rules, and in alignment with the organization’s mission and values.
- Review incoming case documents, attend any/all case related meetings necessary, support volunteer GAL with case work and serve as staff GAL in cases not assigned to a volunteer GAL.
- Record and maintain accurate case related data in CASA Manager database and physical/ electronic case files.
- Weekly docket/ hearing attendance, in person or virtually.
Qualifications and Requirements
- Experience in the field of child welfare, child development, juvenile justice, or social services, and direct experience with Child Advocates/CASA/GAL work is desirable
- Experience working with volunteers is preferred
- Experience working with database Casa Manager is desirable
- Ability to prioritize and effectively manage multiple tasks and projects in order to meet mandated deadlines
- Strong organizational skills with attention to detail
- Ability to offer and receive critical analysis and constructive feedback
- Capable of establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with staff, volunteers, and community partners
- Knowledge and application of self-care and stress management practices
- Strong computer skills, proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Google Workspace, Adobe, and ability and willingness to learn new software
- Ability to work from the office, home, in the community, and attend virtual or in person meetings and court hearings
- Ability to work independently and part of a multidisciplinary team
- Ability to work some evenings and weekends, to meet case responsibilities, support volunteers, or to attend a special event
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills required
- Must be respectful of all people regardless of race, ethnicity, culture, socioeconomic background, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation or disability
- Criminal background clearance; Federal fingerprint, State criminal check, Child Protective Services history check, Sex Offender registry check in accordance with R.C.W. 13.34.100
- A GAL is required to maintain independence, objectivity, and the appearance of fairness in dealings with parties and professionals, both in and outside of the courtroom. A GAL shall maintain the ethical principles of the rules of conduct, and avoid any actual or apparent conflict of interest, treat parties with respect, become informed about the facts, contact all parties, and examine all material information and take into account the positions of all the parties
Application
Include a cover letter with your resume. Explain in the cover letter your interest in the position and why you are the ideal candidate for the job.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: From $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
Schedule:
- 4 hour shift
- 8 hour shift
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Work Location: In person
Salary : $20