Full-Time (1.0 FTE) FC Guardians ad Litem- South Metro 1st Judicial District

Overview The Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Program represents the best interests of abused and neglected children in court. GALs are independent from the court and child welfare system and are appointed by a judge to advocate for a child's best interests in court proceedings. The Minnesota GAL Program is a state agency providing services throughout Minnesota.Position DescriptionThe Family Court Guardian ad Litem – South Metro, 1st Judicial District, is a full-time, represented non-exempt position. The GAL advocates for children in family court proceedings and works under the supervision of a Division Coordinator and the Family Court Division Manager.IntroductionThis is responsible work advocating on complex Family Court matters where children may have been abused or neglected and in high-conflict custody disputes. The position is home-office based and may serve counties in and around the 1st Judicial District. Travel throughout the area is required. Program procedures align with Minnesota Rules of Practice, Guardian ad Litem Procedures, Juvenile Protection Rules, Minnesota Rules of Court, Statutes, Administrative Orders, GAL Board Policies, Program Standards, and district/local program requirements.Position DetailsThis is a remote position; the candidate must reside near the 1st Judicial District. The role involves travel and in-office documentation of findings and recommendations for court consideration.Work InvolvesObservation of children in home and other settings to document interactions with caretakers, peers, and others.Compilation of accurate findings, conclusions, and recommendations regarding the child's best interests for written and/or oral reports in a timely manner in line with court rules, statutes, and program policies.Attendance at court hearings and other proceedings to present or testify to recommendations as required.Primary Responsibilities (additional detail provided upon hire)Examine files and discovery for relevant information to inform proceedings.Observe the child in home and other settings, prepare interview questions, interview involved parties, obtain releases of information, and question witnesses as appropriate.Demonstrate sensitivity to the child's cultural background and identify culturally appropriate resources for placement, treatment, and other services.Organize and manage case notes and records in the case management system, maintaining confidentiality and access controls.Maintain an accurate calendar of hearings and prepare written reports and other documentation to support recommendations or testimony; file materials timely and manage case storage per policy.Determine when to request legal representation for self and/or child and coordinate with an attorney as needed.Attend supervision meetings, case plan meetings, and other proceedings; participate in staff meetings and ongoing education; participate in local, district, and state task forces or committees.May mentor new Guardians ad Litem.ExposureExposure to extensive secondary trauma and ongoing conflict is anticipated as work involves victims and/or perpetrators of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and child neglect.Qualifications KnowledgeKnowledge of family judicial processes, rules, and law (including Minnesota statutes); knowledge of GAL program objectives, policies, and procedures; knowledge of child development; knowledge of family case dynamics (parental conflict, custody disputes, abuse, domestic violence, chemical dependency, mental health).AbilitiesAbility to interact professionally with judges, court staff, attorneys, children, and the public; work independently; think critically; and provide objective recommendations in the child's best interests. Ability to maintain professional relationships, remain composed in crisis situations, and defuse high-conflict situations. Ability to use feedback for continuous improvement and work with interpreters as needed.SkillsEffective listening, oral and written communication, and observation; able to present findings in interviews, reports, and court proceedings; strong time and resource management; basic technology proficiency and data entry skills.Minimum QualificationsBachelor's degree in psychology, social work, education, nursing, criminal justice, law, or related field, plus relevant experience with families and children (or equivalent combination). Must possess a valid driver's license, vehicle registration, and automobile insurance. Must reside near the assigned service area. Successful candidates must pass a background check at hire and every three years thereafter.Preferred QualificationsExperience as a Guardian ad Litem with completion of the GAL pre-service orientation and demonstrated understanding of GAL responsibilities are desirable.The LocationThis is a remote position with significant travel; candidates must reside near the 1st Judicial District.The Benefits11 paid holidays plus 2 floating holidays; state insurance benefits and retirement package; flexibility; public service.Interested?This is a 1.0 FTE represented full-time position with a starting rate of $23.12/hour. 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 AFSCME Council 5 and is posted for bidding with internal and external applications. Only current permanent GAL program employees covered under AFSCME Council 5 bargaining are eligible to bid.How to ApplyComplete the online application at: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/guardianadlitem. Application deadline was Monday, September 25, 2023, at 4:30 p.m. Please allow time to complete the online application process. This posting is for internal and external applications.The Guardian ad Litem Program is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity. We actively seek applications from persons of diverse backgrounds. The program does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, age, or other protected status. For accommodations in the selection process, contact GALHR@courts.state.mn.us.#J-18808-Ljbffr