Job Description

The New York County District Attorney's Office (DANY) has an opening for an Engagement Specialist in its Early Engagement Case Support Unit (EECU). The EECU serves as an early point of contact for crime victims and witnesses, helping to facilitate communication between victims, Assistant District Attorneys, and partner agencies during the initial stages of criminal case processing. The Engagement Specialist contributes to this work by obtaining supporting depositions, providing information about the criminal justice process, connecting victims and witnesses with available advocacy and support services, and coordinating with internal and external stakeholders to ensure timely case progression. The position may present opportunities for special focus on particular categories of crime (e.g., Domestic Violence, Gender-Based Violence, Elder Abuse, Human Trafficking) and within individual communities across Manhattan.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Contact victims and witnesses to obtain supporting depositions and other required documentation.
• Explain the criminal justice process and provide case-related information.
• Assist victims with orders of protection, victim notification registration, and other available victim services.
• Refer victims and witnesses to appropriate advocacy, counseling, and supportive services.
• Serve as a liaison between victims, Assistant District Attorneys, law enforcement agencies, and other criminal justice partners.
• Coordinate follow-up with victims and witnesses to ensure timely completion of required documentation.
• Maintain accurate records and process supporting documentation.
• Participate in trainings, outreach initiatives, and community events.
• Work collaboratively with supervisors and staff to address sensitive or complex matters.
• Assist in onboarding and training new staff, as assigned.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

In addition to the Minimum Qualification Requirements, candidates must possess the following:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college.
• Must be able to work one 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm late night shift weekly.

Preferred Requirements/Skills:

• Spanish speaking proficiency is a plus.
• American Sign Language (ASL) proficiency is a plus.
• Experience working with crime victims.
• Familiarity with the criminal justice system.
• Training and/or experience in retail, customer-service and advocacy preferred.
• Ability to demonstrate a high level of confidentiality and sensitivity to victim issues.
• Ability to perform under pressure in a fast-paced environment; must be detail oriented self-motivated, able to multi-task, and high concern for data accuracy.
• Dependable team player who works collaboratively and cooperatively with staff in a team-oriented environment.
• Strong organizational and computer skills.
• Ability to follow directions and apply proper policies, procedures, and guidelines.
• Ability to handle high caseload and set priorities.
• Ability to interact effectively with victims, witnesses, Assistant District Attorneys, law enforcement officers and criminal justice personnel.
• Social service degrees.
• Ability to work overtime and flexible hours including holidays, evenings, and weekends.

How to Apply:

• Apply with a Cover Letter & Resume.

Hours/Shift:

• Monday – Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
• Flexibility for late night shifts from 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm required a few times per month based on scheduling.

Additional Information:

• Current office employees: To be eligible for a transfer or promotion, staff must have already served at least 1 year in their current unit/bureau/department and be in good standing. In addition, must meet the minimum and additional qualifications of the position.
• Looking for candidates that could commit to one (1) year to the hiring unit.
• Authorization to work in the United States is required for this position.

Minimum Qualification Requirements:

1. High school graduation or equivalent and three years of experience in community work or community centered activities in an area related to duties described above; or
2. Education and/or experience which is equivalent to "1" above.

Public Svc Loan Forgiveness:

As a prospective employee of the City of New York, you may be eligible for federal loan forgiveness programs and state repayment assistance programs. For more information, please visit the U.S. Department of Education’s website at https://studentaid.gov/pslf/.

Residency Requirement:

City Residency is not required for this position.

The New York County District Attorney’s Office is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.

The New York County District Attorney’s Office serves and protects the People of New York through the fair administration of justice, without fear or favor. The Office’s Professional Staff perform a variety of key functions, including supporting the Trial Division, Investigation Division, Special Victims Division, Pathways to Public Safety Division, and Appeals Division, which handles all the Office’s matters in state and federal appellate courts.

Professional Staff members perform a variety of key functions for the Office, including supporting the five Divisions, as well as other prosecution support and office functions. Our Professional Staff receive a competitive salary and a generous benefits package, as well as unparalleled opportunities for professional development.

The New York County District Attorney’s Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse and culturally responsive workforce. Given the diverse nature of our community, the ability to work with people of different backgrounds is critical. The Office seeks to have a staff that reflects the diversity of the community that we serve. To that end, all applicants will be considered without regard to actual or perceived race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, marital or parental status, disability, sex, gender identity or expression, age, prior record of arrest; or any other basis prohibited by law. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring practices, appraisal systems, promotions, training, and career development programs.

The Professional Staff Recruitment Team at DANY supports the Office’s initiatives to have a staff that reflects the diversity of the community that we serve. We seek employees that are interested in a career in the public sector and will support the Office’s initiative of delivering One Standard of Justice for All.

For questions or inquiries, please contact Recruitment@dany.nyc.gov.