Disability Rights NJ is seeking a full-time Advocate-Investigator to work with our Investigations and Monitoring team under the supervision of the Director of Investigations and Monitoring. Our Investigations and Monitoring team is responsible for conducting both individual and systemic investigations of abuse and neglect of individuals with various types of disabilities throughout the state of New Jersey. Team members are also responsible for conducting monitoring in a variety of settings within the state for abuse and neglect or rights violations, interviewing individuals who live or work in those settings, and providing information to these individuals about the programs and services of the protection and advocacy system. The Advocate-Investigator also works collaboratively across all Disability Rights NJ legal issue teams to coordinate systemic advocacy efforts.
Past work experience, specifically conducting investigations, is preferred but not required. Candidate should have strong writing skills, ability to work independently, and have willingness to travel throughout the state. Preferred candidates have strong organizational and analytical skills.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Investigates allegations of abuse, neglect, and deaths reported to the system through interviews with individuals, family members, and others as needed, collection and analysis of records or other information related to allegations, prepares review and conclusions.
Drafts memos, reports, or other written record related to individual and systemic investigations
Monitors settings (institutional or community based) where individuals with disabilities live, work, or receive services. Collects and analyzes information obtained through monitoring activities and prepares reports as required.
Reviews, researches and has basic knowledge of statutes, regulations, policies and procedures related to project and/or other involved agencies.
Participates in outreach, education, training and technical assistance activities.
Performs other duties as assigned.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
For beginning level position, a bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, nursing, counseling or related field from an accredited college, and one year of experience working with people with disabilities, or the equivalent.
For a senior level position, a master’s degree in social work, psychology, nursing, counseling, or some related field, from an accredited college and a minimum of three (3) years of experience, one (1) of which must have involved work directly related to disabilities; or alternatively, a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college and a minimum of five (5) years of experience, three (3) of which must have involved work directly related to disabilities.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge and understanding of disability rights, laws, policies and issues.
Ability to cope with complex and emotional contacts with clients and family members, as well as to empathize with them.
Ability to write clearly and concisely, to use necessary technical vocabularies and to organize information in an understandable and efficient manner.
Ability to prepare clear, technically sound, accurate and comprehensive reports, summaries, and compilations containing findings, conclusions, and/or recommendations.
Ability to work as a team member.
For senior position, ability to provide effective leadership as appropriate, manage complex matters, and mentor and train less experienced staff.
Knowledge of and ability to understand and relate to culturally diverse communities.
Ability to obtain and maintain any federal security clearance required by federal funders. Have a valid driver’s license and willingness to drive to various sites located throughout the state

Disability Rights NJ seeks candidates committed to diversity and to the rights of individuals with disabilities to full inclusion in society. Disability Rights NJ staff work under a hybrid, with some work from home. Disability Rights NJ requires COVID-19 vaccination for all staff, with exemptions available in accordance with federal law.
Disability Rights NJ is an Equal Opportunity Employer and committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace.
The salary for this position will be based on years of relevant experience beginning at $51,520.
Interested applicants should email a resume, letter of interest and writing sample to: Interview Committee, Disability Rights New Jersey at advocate@disabilityrightsnj.org.

Job Type: Full-time

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