Re-entry Specialist - Defender Association Of Philadelphia : Job Details

Looking to make a difference! Become a Defender! Through collaboration with criminal justice partners, the Probation, Parole & Alternative Sentencing Unit creates, improves, and expands reentry programs as alternatives to mass incarceration.The Unit's attorneys represent clients at county and state detainer hearings and at county and state parole or probation violation hearings before judges and before the Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole. The Probation and Parole Re-entry Specialist [ED1] [TM2] will work closely with Chief on the creation and implementation of the Bridge Home program . The purpose of the program is to work with attorneys to assist with re-entry planning for incarcerated clients. This role is offered as a time-limited, grant-funded appointment for two years. The re-entry specialist will complete a needs-based assessment for incarcerated clients, gather pertinent mitigation information, as well as develop pre- and post-release plans to ensure success upon reintegration into the community and help reduce recidivism. As this is a grant-funded position, the re-entry specialist will also be responsible for assisting with management of the project and collaboration with the grant team (Director, Grants Specialist, Finance). The re-entry specialist should be able to combine a focus on social work and client-based services with an executive skillset that involves data management, long-term planning, and problem-solving. This position will interface with all members of the unit, attorneys, clients, private counsel, probation officers, social workers, judges, and other criminal justice partners and service providers. Must be able to communicate effectively with clients and their families, as well as various criminal justice partners and service providers. What You'll Do

• Assist attorney and social work staff to identify clients who will benefit from comprehensive re-entry planning and connection to service providers.
• Review and collect all relevant documentation in preparation of parole planning documents
• Conduct a needs-based assessment for referred clients
• Compose parole plans with the assistance of clients, social work and administrative staff and attorneys
• Arrange post-release services and conduct follow-up with clients upon release
• Contact and interview clients, when applicable, both pre-release and post-release
• Answer calls and questions from clients on supervision, family members, and service providers
• Communicate with clients through different platforms: letters, phone calls, video conferencing, in person, etc.
• Update client files and input information pertaining to hearings into client management system
• Assist with other department duties as needed
• Gather data for evaluation and work closely with Senior Data Analyst
• Move between on the ground client service and big picture strategic thinking[TM5]
• Set up and manage program systems; work collaboratively to address hurdles and make changes to improve client services and program outcomes.

What You'll Need

• Candidates with an MSW are preferred, but those with a master's degree in a related field such as psychology and relevant experience will also be evaluated
• Minimum two years, experience working with clients in criminal justice proceedings and/or experience with high-risk/high-needs populations preferred
• [TM5] Solid understanding of the criminal justice system, mental health services, and substance use treatment. Understanding of trauma informed practices
• Working knowledge of motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral approaches, and a strengths-based focus therapy is highly desired
• Ability to engage effectively with both participants and colleagues through verbal and written communication
• Skilled in writing and maintaining computer-based participant records in an accurate and timely manner
• Highly organized, self-starter with good interpersonal, problem-solving, and analytical skills
• Organized with attention to detail.
• Ability to interact effectively and collaboratively with attorneys, clients, office and court personnel, oftentimes under considerable pressure
• Proficient in Google Drive, Microsoft Office Suite or similar software and computer literacy including the ability to learn multiple internal and external computer systems
• Must be able to handle a number of tasks simultaneously.
• Must be able to travel to various City courtrooms and prisons[TM6] within the city and more infrequently outside the city

Salary This is a grant funded position for the next two years with annual salary of $64,000Benefits & Perks

• Generous and rich benefits plan offering 100% employer paid medical plan, dental, vision life insurance, long term disability insurance
• Substantial paid time off- close to 35 days off plus all federal holidays
• Retirement Savings Employer Match
• Six weeks paid parental leave
• Free Septa Anywhere Key Card
• Public Loan Forgiveness Eligible Employer
• Meaningful Work
• Wellness Benefits
• Ongoing Training and Development of You

To applyPlease apply online and include resume and cover letterWho is the Defender Association? The Defender Association of Philadelphia is more than just a law firm. We're the community's lawyers.The Defender team - more than 500 attorneys, social workers, investigators, administrators, and other staff - make sure that everyone, regardless of income, has access to high-quality defense when facing criminal charges. Our mission-driven, client-centered model focuses on outcomes that support a system that is fundamentally fair and creates safer, stronger communities. Our unique model and approach give our staff with the skills and support they need to get the best outcomes for our clients. Come join our team! For more information, go Defender's website and follow us @PhillyDefenders (Twitter, IG, Tiktok) and on LinkedIn. The Defender Association provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, The Defender Association complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. [