POSITION DESCRIPTION:                                                                                            

General Position InformatIon:

This is a full-time position, 35 hours per week. The salary range is $34,481.20 to a top end of $49,319.00.  (Hourly rate is $18.94 – $27.09 per hr.)  Additional income is earned by processing court orders and transcripts.  Starting salary is dependent upon experience.  A degree or certificate in Court Reporting from a court reporting program of higher education; computer and stenographic skills required. Applicant must meet the requirements listed in Rule 4004 – Qualifications of Court Reporters, PA Rules of Court.  There is a comprehensive benefit package included.  An RPR status is preferred, but not required.  Mercer County pays for required continuing education as well as association memberships. A Steno writer, laptop, and Case CATalyst software are also provided by Mercer County.     

Overall Objectives

To stenographically record verbatim all court proceedings and transcribe a variety of hearings, as required by law; to prepare and process court orders, transcripts, and other related court proceedings with a high degree of speed and accuracy.  The position works with confidential and sensitive information, requiring discretion and strict confidentiality.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Must attend training, seminars, and conferences to maintain continuing education, as required.
• Must abide by the Code of Conduct of the Unified Judicial System.
• Must abide by the Rules Governing Court Reporting and Transcripts pursuant to Pennsylvania Rules of Judicial Administration 4001 through 4016.
• Must abide by the Mercer County Local Rules regarding court reporters and transcripts, as applicable.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

This position reports to the President Judge, any Common Pleas Court judge to whom assigned, and to the District Court Administrator, and occasional and limited direction from the Lead Reporter. Receives limited instruction or supervision in carrying out routine day to day tasks.

SUPERVISION GIVEN

N/A 

WORKING CONDITIONS

The work environment characteristics described herein are representative of those the employee

encounters while performing the essential functions of the position. A Court Reporter works indoors on a regular basis, in an office with minimal environmental factors, with adequate workspace, in adequate temperatures, ventilation, and lighting; and normal exposure to noise, disruptions, and stress; and normal indoor exposure to dust/dirt.

PHYSICAL/ MENTAL CONDITIONS

• Must possess ability to record, convey, assemble, and present information; explain procedures; and follow instructions.

2.    Must be able to sit for long periods throughout the workday with intermittent periods of standing, walking, bending, twisting, and reaching necessary to carry out job duties.

3.    Dexterity requirements range from coordinated movements of fingers/hands to simple movements of feet/legs and torso necessary to carry out job duties.

4.    Sedentary work, with occasional lifting/carrying of objects with a maximum weight of twenty pounds.

5.    Must be able to pay close attention to details and concentrate on court proceedings, testimony, and other work for long periods of time.

6.         At normal risk for repetitive stress injuries consistent with a job of this type.

QUALIFICATIONS

• EDUCATION/TRAINING

High School diploma or equivalent and a Degree or Certificate in Court Reporting from a court reporting program of higher education; computer and stenographic skills required.  Must meet the requirements listed in Rule 4004 – Qualifications of Court Reporters, PA Rules of Court.

• WORK EXPERIENCE

Prior court reporting experience is a plus but is not required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

• Excellent knowledge of English grammar, spelling, punctuation, and usage.

• Basic knowledge of courtroom and legal proceedings.
• Must possess the knowledge of the form and content of legal documents.
• Basic knowledge of legal terminology and the functions of various court officials.

• Knowledge of modern office practices and equipment.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions and directions.
• Ability to organize and maintain a record of exhibits for storage, retrieval, and/or disposal.
• Excellent oral and written communications.
• Ability to work independently and effectively with co-workers and others.
• Must accurately type and file all court orders, bench warrants and bench warrant vacates, and other courtroom documents in a timely manner.

• Excellent time management skills.
• Must possess excellent proofreading skills to ensure accuracy.

• Must demonstrate emotional stability.
• Must be able to pay close attention to detail and concentrate on work.
• Must be able to sit for long periods of time throughout the work day.
• Must abide by and maintain a professional dress code.
• Must conduct yourself in a professional manner at all times.
• Required to maintain strict confidentiality.
• Must occasionally work non-traditional hours and work at home on occasion to meet transcript deadlines.
• Must adapt to and use the equipment and software owned by the County and provided to the staff court reporters.

The above conditions reflect the general details necessary to describe the main functions of the position of court reporter and shall not be considered an exhaustive and exclusive description of all the work requirements that may be inherent in the position.

How to Apply:

Please send the standard County Application (which can be found here: https://www.mercercountypa.gov/Employment/Applications/Employment.Application.2022.pdf), a letter of interest, resume, and three references to the following:

Bo D. McCleary

District Court Administrator

Mercer County Courthouse

South Diamond Street

Mercer, PA  16137

(724) 663-3800 ext. 2516

bmccleary@mercercountypa.gov

Deadline to Apply: Currently open Until Filled

Applications can be made by regular mail, e-mail, or hand delivered.

Description

Responsibilities

• Drives to property locations, getting in and out of vehicle. Physically walks around property and examines all buildings to determine required property characteristics on various residential properties.
• Verifies residential/agricultural property location by associating information from the applicable field document with the map.
• Measures and inspects exterior of residential/agricultural buildings. Inspects interior of buildings, if required.  Accurately records property characteristics, square footage, angles, sketches, and dimensions on appropriate field documents and/or mobile devices.
• Takes clear digital images of properties including specified parcel improvements if required.
• Gathers cost and sales information and records on appropriate field documents or devices, as required.
• Updates data on the physical condition of buildings.
• Maintains personal production records in alignment with productivity targets. Completes logs and control forms and required documentation as required.
• Communicates effectively with the public to share the purpose of our visit to their property, inquires about the interior of the property, addresses questions, etc. Professionally represents Tyler and the client to property owners and other members of the public handling field questions and complaints in a courteous manner and escalates to their supervisor as appropriate.
• May assist in the training of new Residential/Agricultural Data Collectors.
• Regular attendance is required.
• Demonstrates awareness of and adherence to Company policies as outlined in the Employee Handbook and Safety Handbook. These include, but are not limited to, Safety, Equal Employment Opportunity, Business Ethics, and Anti-Harassment Policies.
• Performs other duties, as required.

Qualifications

• High School graduate or equivalent work experience
• Real Estate and/or appraisal experience is preferred.
• Good written and oral communications skills
• Solid problem-solving skills.
• Good organizational skills including attention to detail with the ability to capture and record accurate and comprehensive properties details.
• Ability to work independently or collaborate with team members.
• Possess spatial abilities necessary to read maps and locate a physical location on the map.
• Ability to visualize floor plan footprints based on three-dimensional buildings.
• Good math skills to calculate square footage, ratios, and similar functions.
• Must be able to travel to properties in assigned project area for the majority of the workday.
• Must provide reliable transportation and carry personal liability insurance on the vehicle driven to perform job.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license issued by the state in which the employee lives.
• Basic computer experience is preferred.
  
  
  

  To Apply please go to:

  Tyler Technologies Careers - Property Data Collector - Part Time (jobvite.com)
  
  

Department:             Mercer County Jail

Position Title:         Correctional Officer (Full-Time w/Full Benefit Package)

                                    Correctional Officer (Part Time – no Benefits)

Pay Classification:  Full Time Info:

• JCO 00-01 ($18.78/hr. Entry Wage)
• Raise after 6 Months to $20.40 and at one year to $21.19.
• Shift Differentials in Addition to base rate

Part Time Info:

• JCO 00-00 ($16.91/hr. Entry Wage)
• Raise after 520 hours worked to $18.78.
• Shift Differentials in Addition to base rate

Full Time Benefit Package Includes: Paid Vacation and Paid Sick time; Medical, Dental, Vision, Short Term Disability, Life Insurance (Single and Family level plans) and participation in the Mercer County Retirement System Pension Plan

Reports To:  Warden and Deputy Warden(s)

Date of Job Description Creation/Update: 3/21/24

________________________________________________________________

General Overview:

Correctional Officers will perform the direct supervision of inmates at the County Detention Facility according to laws, regulations, and policies of the State of Pennsylvania and Mercer County.  Officers will enforce the facility rules and maintain facility security.  Officers are responsible for the care, custody, and control of inmates at the facility.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Directly supervises inmates in the facility during all aspects of their incarceration such as housing, visitation, meals, medication distribution, searches, activities, work programs.
• Enforce the rules and regulations of the facility
• Must be able to act quickly, assess situations carefully, act in accordance with policy and procedure, and protect self and others (inmates and co-workers)
• Conducts periodic cell pod checks, performs searches of inmates, performs searches of cells and other areas for contraband
• Maintains discipline among inmates
• Responds appropriately to emergencies in the prison (which may include assaults, fires, riots, disturbances, natural disasters, medical emergencies and hostage situations)
• Maintains and updates Facility records (written, typing and basic computer skill required)
• Receives and books inmates (perform fingerprinting, photographs and searches)

Physical/ Age Requirements:

• Must be trained on and be able to perform weaponless self-defense and restraining techniques
• Must be trained on and be able to perform the operation and use of restraining devices
• Must be trained in and be able to perform initial first aid services to inmates as needed
• Regularly walk, stand or stoop; occasionally lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects weighing up to and over 100lbs.
• Use tools and equipment requiring a high degree of security
• Walk, stand, crouch or run on narrow, slippery inclining or erratically moving surfaces
• Stair climbing required (all cell pods are 2 levels)
• Sit and stand for sustained periods of time
• Must be 21 years of age
• Must pass a physical, drug and psychological evaluation post employment offer
• Must pass a criminal background check post offer of employment.

Other Requirements:

• Must have a High School Diploma or GED
• Bachelor’s degree preferred in criminal justice, social service or related field

• Ability to perform multiple activities and quickly identify inappropriate inmate conduct
• Ability to perform basic math
• Ability to communicate via radios
• Ability to work the rotating shifts (including weekends and holidays) as require by a 24/7 operating facility
• Ability to train for 4 weeks or more at the Academy at the Department of Corrections.
• Ability to work mandatory overtime
• Must have a valid Driver’s License
• All other duties as assigned

Full on-Site Training Program:  The Mercer County Jail is a state approved training center for Corrections Officers.  All training will be provided on-site at the Mercer County Facility.  No travel for training is required.

How to apply:

All interested applicants must print and complete the Standard County of Mercer Application for employment.

Please send the completed standard application, a letter of interest, salary history, resume, and three references to the following:

                                    Mercer County 

                                    HR Department

                                    125 S. Diamond St., Suite 17

                                    Mercer, PA 16137

Deadline to Apply:  December 31, 2024

Must be postmarked by Deadline date

Department:  Children and Youth Services

Position Title: Caseworker I and/or II

Pay Classification:   YCW 00-00 (Caseworker I Entry $20.05/hr.)

                                    YCW 00-01 (Caseworker II Entry $20.83/hr.)

                                    Moves to $21.64/hr. after one year

Includes 13 paid holidays, paid Vac., paid sick

Full Insurance/Medical Benefits available

County Pension Plan

Reports To:  CYS Director/Assistant Director and Casework Supervisor

Date of Job Description Creation/Update:  1/9/24

Overall Descriptions of the Position: 

This is professional social service work with Mercer County Children and Youth Services. Caseworkers provide a full range of social and casework/management services to children, youth, and families to assist them in attaining a more satisfactory social, economic, emotional, or physical adjustment. An important aspect of this work is the employment of casework skills in obtaining essential information, counseling clients and members of their families, and helping them to utilize all available resources. Work also involves the application of problem- solving techniques, providing counseling to maximize service delivery and to achieve service plan goals, monitoring client behavior, and interacting with agencies which make up the service network. Work is performed in accordance with established regulations, policies, and procedures but employees are expected to exercise initiative and judgment in discharging their duties.

Position Requirements:  (Below listed requirements will determine if a new hire begins employment as a CWI or CWII.  Training period for a CWI is approx. 6 months, prior to transitioning to a CWII.

Caseworker I

• Required Minimum Experience and Training:  A bachelor’s degree which includes or is supplemented by successful completion of 12 college credits in sociology, social welfare, psychology, gerontology, criminal justice, or other related social sciences.

Caseworker II

• Required Minimum Experience and Training:  Six months of experience as a County Caseworker 1; OR Successful completion of the Child Welfare Education for Baccalaureates (CWEB) program or County Social Casework Intern program; OR A bachelor's degree with a social welfare major; OR A bachelor's degree which includes or is supplemented by 12 college credits in sociology, social welfare, psychology, gerontology, criminal justice, or other related social sciences and one year of professional social casework experience in a public or private social services agency.

AND

• Child Welfare Direct Service Worker Certification

Additional Position Requirements:

• Standard hours of Work are either M-F from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM with a ½ hour lunch (37.5 hrs./week) or M-F 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM with a ½ hour lunch (37.5 hrs./week).
• Additional time at work may be required and flexibility of work times may be required to accommodate clients.
• Must have the ability to fulfill on-call client services on nights and weekends on a rotation basis. 
• Once training is complete, remote work from home is an available option in order to provide flexability. 
• All Required Child Abuse Clearances
• Valid Driver’s License
• Demonstrates the ability to professionally express ideas.
• Demonstrates the ability to complete written documentation that is not only grammatically correct, but also professionally prepared. Possesses the ability to articulate and communicate the roles and responsibilities for the Agency.
• Provides casework and counseling services to clients and members of their families to aid them in achieving a more satisfactory adjustment to their specific problems or situations.
• Provides protective and supportive services for clients who are in situations detrimental to their well-being or that of the community, or who are undergoing treatment or hospitalization.
• Possesses a clear understand of the Child Protective Service Law, the Juvenile Act, and all regulations governing child welfare practices, as well as Agency policies and procedures. Possess clear understanding of child welfare principles, philosophy and mission.
• Demonstrates knowledge of current social, economic and health problems and resources and the ability to understand and accept the needs and rights of others.
• Possesses the ability to engage clients and works with a light level of resistance.
• Possesses the ability to engage clients and works with a high level of resistance.
• Possesses excellent crisis management skills to de-escalate hostile, angry situations.
• Ability to complete thorough initial and ongoing risk and safety assessments, child and family assessment. Ensure that children are provided a safe, stable environment and will take emergency measures if child appears to be at risk.
• Possesses the ability to conduct individual and family interviews to identify problems and formulate plans for intervention. Basic knowledge of family system theory; genograms; and casual factors associated with abuse and neglect of children.
• Possesses the knowledge of the steps of child development and ways to work effectively with parents of children with developmental delays.
• Teaches clients home and budget management, child/adult care, and parenting skills; and assists with housing, employment, recreation and living arrangements, as required.

Position Duties and Responsibilities:

• Ability to complete thorough initial and ongoing risk and safety assessments, child and family assessments. Ensure that children are provided a safe, stable environment and can take emergency measures if child appears to be at risk.
• Conduct and complete investigations of referrals of abuse and neglect as defined by law, regulation and agency policy.
• Provide supportive and protective services to children of abuse and neglect.
• Develop family service plans and assess the goals on an ongoing basis to determine the adequacy of the plan and make revisions as required, prepare petitions, court summaries and documents as well as testify in court, schedule meetings with other agencies, dictation and documentation of case activities through correspondence, reports, case histories and other records.
• Attend individual supervisory meetings, unit meeting and staff meetings to assist in developing performance and case management skills and to continue to become familiar with current methods and techniques as well as changes in laws, regulations, and Agency policies.
• Conduct phone intakes to collect appropriate information and to screen incoming referrals and make collateral contacts as necessary.
• Obtains information from clients, members of their families, and others, necessary for the identification of social, economic, emotional, health or physical problems and assists clients in obtaining a wide variety of services on the basis of established policy, regulations and statutes.
• Participates in team meetings for the purpose of developing service plans to address the needs of clients and their families.
• Identifies appropriate community resources for clients, refers and links them to those resources, and advocates on behalf of client for resource service delivery.
• Continually assesses the adequacy of client service plans and revises, when necessary, to achieve goals and objectives.
• Possesses the ability to work effectively with people and develops and maintains working relationships with clients, their families, other staff and outside agencies as well as the general public.
• Works collaboratively with social agencies, hospitals, clinics, courts, and other community resources.
• Participates and when necessary conducts team meetings such as MDITs, Team Meetings, etc. to develop appropriate strategies for effective intervention and work collaboratively with other resource agencies.
• Demonstrates the ability to plan and organize their work, prepares adequate records and reports, and sets proprieties and maintains a caseload in an effective and timely manner. Possesses excellent time management skills.
• Possesses knowledge of agency’s internal resources.
• Possesses the ability to be a team player, asks for feedback and accepts supervision, is flexible and non-judgmental.
• Possesses the ability to be physically mobile over rough terrain in community while making home visits; verbally engages in conversation, utilizes phone, and observes and identifies physical indicators of abuse and neglect.
• The ability to lift 15 to 20 pounds and physically supervise young children.
• Complete all requirements for certification and attend trainings.
• Interpret Agency policies, laws, regulations and procedures as well as programs to individuals, groups, and other agencies.
• Participate in Emergency on-call duties and/or other non-traditional hours as required to meet client needs.
• Provide proper use of equipment such as computers, printers, personal vehicles, copy machines, telephones, fax machines, video and camera equipment and cell phones.
• Engage in placement planning including a determination of appropriate placement home or facility, sharing information regarding the child’s treatment, education and medical needs and preparation of the child and families for placement.
• Develop and modify Family Services Plans to address the needs for families and children in the home and prepare Child Permanency Plans for children who are placed out of the home. Perform all duties regarding placement as defined by regulations and policy.
• Prepare court packets and memos, attend court hearings, and provide testimony in a clear and concise manner.
• Provide for visitation for children in placement, including scheduling visits, providing transportation and/or supervision when appropriate.
• Engage in permanency planning for children in placement by identifying a permanent home for the children. Provide proper documentation and testimony for termination of parental rights. Complete appropriate adoption assessments and court materials. Identify and prepare the adoptive home and prepare the child and family for adoption.
• Provide or arrange transportation services on behalf of clients when necessary and appropriate.
• Performs all other work-related duties as required.

Physical and Mental Requirements:

• Must possess the ability to record, convey and present information, explain procedures and follow instructions.
• Must be able to sit for long periods throughout the workday, with intermittent periods of standing, walking, bending, twisting and reaching, as necessary to carry out job duties.
• Dexterity requirements range from simple to coordinated movements of fingers/hands, feet/legs; torso necessary to carry out duties of job.
• Sedentary work that may incur occasional lifting/carrying objects with a maximum weight of thirty pounds.
• Must be able to cope with the physical and mental stress of the position.
• Must be able to react quickly physically and mentally in the event of a disturbance or physical outbreak.

How to Apply:

Please send a completed and signed standard County application, a letter of interest, salary history, resume, and three references to the following:

                                    Mercer County Human Resources Dept.

                                    125 S. Diamond St., Suite 17

                                    Mercer, PA 16137

Copies of College transcripts and clearances will be required upon interview.

Deadline to Apply:  December 6, 2024

Department:  Mercer County Courts – Magisterial District Court

Position Title: Senior Procedure Clerk (Full Time) – Grove City Office

Pay Classification:   TCN 06 (Entry $18.32/hr.)

                                    Increase at 6 mo. ($18.77/hr.) and 1 year. ($19.55/hr.)

                                    Increase annually year 2 and 3

                                    Full County Paid Time Off Benefits (13 paid Holidays)

                                    Annual Paid Vacation and Paid Sick Time

                                    Full Medical/Insurance Package

                                    County Pension Plan

Hours of Work:  35 hours per week (M-F 8:30 to 4:30)

Reports To:  District Judge

Date of Job Description Creation/Update: 1/17/24

Overall Description of the Position: 

A Senior Procedure Clerk performs all clerical duties relative to the processing of forms and servicing of persons filing action with the Magisterial District Court. 

Position Requirements:

• High School Diploma
• A minimum of one to three years of related experience preferred. 
• Previous legal administrative experience a plus
• Basic knowledge of legal terminology, the criminal justice system and the court system a plus
• Ability to handle highly sensitive, confidential and/or legal issues
• Knowledge of and ability to use Microsoft Office Products (Basic Word, Word Perfect and Excel understanding, and use required)
• Professional Verbal and Written Communication
• Ability to work against a tight time deadline
• Ability to maintain records and files on a daily basis
• Basic record keeping skills
• Ability to type quickly and efficiently.  Accuracy is of utmost importance.
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals either on computer or calculator
• Ability to use computer or calculator with speed and accuracy
• Must establish and maintain an effective working relationship, both over the phone and in person with members of the public
• Ability to communicate and work with various other county and state departments and organizations
• Work independently with minimal supervision
• Ability to travel periodically for training
• Must be willing to participate in and pass a criminal background check.

Position Duties:

• Types letters, forms, reports and other correspondence
• Photocopies, scans, or images various types of documents
• Phone receptionist and direct customer service duties
• Duties also involve both accounting or procedural tasks and the handling of money.
• Must use the state MDJ computer system on a daily basis
• Assist District Judge and office staff members on a daily basis
• Assist with the scheduling of hearings
• Works on special projects as assigned
• All other duties as assigned or required

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to stand, sit, and walk at will.
• Must have the ability to engage in frequent or constant computer use.
• Must be able to bend, stoop, kneel, squat
• Must be able to lift up to 20lb on a regular basis and up to 50lb on an occasional basis.

How To Apply:

Please send a completed standard application, a letter of interest, salary history, resume, and three references to the following:

                                    Mercer County 

                                    HR Department

                                    17 Courthouse

                                    Mercer, PA 16137

Deadline to Apply: December 7, 2024

Position:                   Specialty Courts Coordinator

Department:             Intermediate Punishment Program

Reports To:             IPP Director

Program Area:         Community Corrections

Salary:                       P&A 06 ($23.21/hr. Entry - $32.82) *2024 Pay Rate*

                                    Full Time (35 Hrs. per week)

                                    Medical/Dental/Vision/Life available

                                    13 Paid Holidays per year

                                    Paid Vacation and Sick Time

                                    County Defined Benefit Pension Plan    

Position Summary:

This is a professional level position within the Intermediate Punishment Program operating under the authority of the Mercer County Prison Board. The Specialty Courts Program manages all duties and task associated with the Mercer County Treatment Court, Veteran’s Court, and Mental Health Court Programs.  The Specialty Court Program is designed and expected to maintain the integrity and credibility of the Courts, Prison Board, and the IP Program. Responsibility includes managing the day-to-day activities, scheduling court hearings, and appointments for case management, participant identification and tracking, community resource management and managing grant funding requirements. The coordinator must be familiar with the operation of the criminal justice system and drug and alcohol addiction and treatment along with case management protocols. This employee must be able to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing with program participants and their families, law enforcement officials, court staff, treatment staff and support agencies. There is an element of risk inherent in working with the offender population. Each Coordinator is expected to supervise a caseload ratio of 15:1.

Essential Duties:

• Develop, implement, and administer the goals, objectives, and procedures for the Specialty Courts Programs to ensure adherence to program policies and procedures.
• Become familiar with the Mercer County’s Drug Court, Veteran’s Court and Mental Health Court Operational Manuals that will include but not be limited to defining the Program’s goals/objectives, programmatic rules and progression phases, training requirements, sanctions and incentives, performance measures and processes and operational procedures.
• Screen and assess all referrals received for the Specialty Courts for eligibility.
• Obtain participant data and report all data through the PAJCIS system.
• Responsible for all aspects of supervision of assigned Specialty Courts participants.
• Assists program participants with the interpretation of Court Orders and their conditions.
• Conduct drug testing and maintain chain of custody for all appropriate specimens. Follows Drug Testing Policy collection policies and procedures to maintain the integrity of the specimen in all cases.
• Maintain records of drug testing in accordance with IP program policy and procedures. 
• Conduct alcohol breath testing using departmental supplied equipment.
• Attend and participate in all Specialty Courts Hearings, case staffing and related activities.
• Review alarm summaries submitted by the alcohol monitoring center on a daily basis to include activity summaries and/or breath alcohol test results.
• Establish partnerships and linkages and maintain open lines of communication with drug and alcohol treatment agencies and mental health treatment providers, the faith-based community, peer specialists, AA/NA groups and grass roots organizations.
• Properly educates stakeholders and the community on the Specialty Court’s mission, goals, and objectives.
• Conduct office, field, and collateral contacts to ensure offender compliance with program policies and procedures and directives, Court Orders, and their conditions.
• Responsible for maintaining the PAJCIS participant database.
• Investigates alleged violations of conditions governing supervision of the Specialty Courts Program. Complete and issue violation notices to offenders for infractions of program policies and regulations. Inform the Treatment Court, Veteran’s Court, and Mental Health Court Teams of all violations of the Specialty Courts Program.
• Provide written reports regarding participant violations for review by the IP Director and Courts.
• Effectively carries out the policies and procedures for the Specialty Court Program as established in the Mercer County Drug Court, Veteran’s Court, and Mental Health Court Programs.
• Prepares monthly statistical reports and maintains and provides information for the preparation of such other reports as directed.
• Performs such other related tasks and duties as maybe requested or assigned by the Court, Drug Court, Veteran’s Court and Mental Health Court Steering Committee, Criminal Justice Advisory Board, or IPP Director in support of the Specialty Courts Program.
• Coordinates treatment for offenders with special needs.
• Networks with local law enforcement, other court staff, probation/parole departments, drug and alcohol treatment providers, mental health treatment providers, housing providers and other treatment or social agencies that may become involved in the treatment and rehabilitation of the defendants.
• Completes and submits Daily Activity Reports to the IP Director identifying workload on a daily basis.
• Prepares recommendations and progress reports to the Court, treatment team, Drug Court, Veteran’s Court, and Mental Health Court Steering Committee as required.
• Provides daily or event occurrence updates of offender progressive records and files to include summarizing offender, collateral, offender employment, treatment, and police contacts as they occur.
• Coordinate with governmental agencies, service providers and attorneys to provide services for program participants.
• Research, analyze and evaluate best practices for Drug Court Programs as established by the National Association of Drug Court Professionals and PCCD.

Other Job Duties:

• Attends trainings, meetings and seminars as required or requested.
• Coordinates training and training related travel for the Specialty Courts Team.
• Research, analyze and evaluate best practices for Drug Court Programs as established by the National Association of Drug Court Professionals and PCCD.
• Develop and manage all grant proposals on behalf of the Specialty Courts to maintain/increase funding and access to treatment services program participants. This would include developing partnerships with community agencies where applicable to develop grant applications to serve the best interests of the partnering agencies and the Specialty Courts Program.
• Prepares the annual Veterans Court report.
• Ensures the Veterans Court facilities is a clean and safe environment for all veterans, team members, and any visitors.
• Processes all forms as required and updates and maintains all databases on a daily basis.  The AOPC supplied database is mandated for all specialty courts across the Commonwealth is a highly detailed, labor-intensive, complex information gathering system.
• Attends regular seminars and conferences for specialty courts professionals. 

Supervision Received:

The Specialty Courts Coordinator receives instruction and supervision from the Court, Drug, Veteran’s Court and Mental Health Court Steering Committee, Mercer County Prison Board and/or IPP Director in regard to daily work duties.

Supervision Given:

None.

Qualifications:

A.        Education/Training:

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or related field. Master’s Degree preferred.
• Working in the Criminal Justice System and/or Human Services with substantial exposure to the substance abuse and/or mental health fields.
• Ability to pass certification training as required and updating of specialized skills to include specialized training programs including self defense, firearms, and weapons of self defense.
• Ability to learn and understand practices and procedures for the operation of the Drug Court Program.
• Must be able to successfully complete training in Motivational Interviewing, LS/CMI, Drug Court Team Training on the Drug Court Model, PAJCIS System and drug testing protocols.
• Grant writing experience is beneficial.
• Federal Criminal History, Pennsylvania Criminal Background and Pennsylvania Child Abuse History clearances are required.

B.        Work experience:

• 3-5 years’ work experience is required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

• Must be able to read, write, speak, and understand the English language in an understandable manner in order to carry out the essential job functions.
• Must possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must possess initiative and problem-solving skills.
• Must possess the ability to function independently, have flexibility and the ability to work effectively with co-workers and staff.
• Must possess knowledge of criminal justice system and drug and alcohol addiction.
• Must possess the ability to maintain confidentiality in regard to offender information and records.
• Experience with Windows Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) and database input and report writing.
• Must possess the willingness to travel as needed to carry out the essential job duties.
• Must possess the ability to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action.
• Must be able to maintain accurate statistics and records in computer and in files and to provide required reports in a timely manner.
• Must possess the knowledge of ability to screen offenders and place them into appropriate programs.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Must be competent to be able to complete certification for drug and hair testing.
• Ability to work within the Court of Common Pleas and Criminal Justice Advisory Board as part of the Criminal Justice Team.
• Must have the flexibility to respond to situations and tasks that fall outside of typical weekday work hours.

Working Conditions:

• Works indoors in adequate work space with adequate temperatures, ventilation, and lighting.
• Moderate exposure to stress and disruptions.
• Normal indoor exposure to dust/dirt.
• Works in conditions of potential outbursts or disruptive behavior of defendants.
• Travels during all seasons and is exposed to outdoor elements including snowy, icy roadways.
• Conducts field contacts with offenders. Carries mace, TASER and expandable baton and is trained in defensive tactics both verbal and non-verbal.
• Potential exposure to infectious diseases during urinalysis and contacts.

This position works both in the office and community setting in the supervision of criminal offenders. Proper offender supervision includes potential hazards dealing with potentially violent, drugged, and offensive persons including the offender, their family, and friends in sometimes hostile environments.

Physical and Mental Conditions:

• Must possess the ability to record, convey and present information, explain procedures, and follow instructions.
• Must be able to sit for long periods throughout the workday, with intermittent periods of standing, walking, bending, twisting, and reaching, as necessary to carry out job duties.
• Dexterity requirements range from simple to coordinated movements of fingers/hands, feet/legs; torso necessary to carry out duties of job.
• Sedentary work that may incur occasional lifting/carrying objects with a maximum weight of thirty pounds.
• Must be able to cope with the physical and mental stress of the position.
• Must be able to react quickly physically and mentally in the event of a disturbance or physical outbreak.

How To Apply:

Please send the standard County application, letter of interest, salary history, resume, and three references to the following:

Mercer County Human Resources Dept.

125 S. Diamond Street, Suite 17

Mercer, PA 16137

Copies of College transcripts and clearances will be required upon interview.

Deadline to Apply: December 14, 2024

Department:  District Attorney’s Office

Position Title: Victim Witness Field Coordinator, Part-Time

Pay Classification: P&A 05  

Reports To:  District Attorney and Director of Victim Services

Date of Job Description Creation/Update: 11/04/2020

Overall Description of the Position: 

The Victim/Witness Field Coordinators will work within the District Attorney’s Office and assist victims and witnesses in navigating through the judicial system of Mercer County at preliminary hearings in adult court.  The coordinators provide vital information to Judges, the District Attorney, and Assistant District Attorneys to ensure victims are included and their voices are heard at the preliminary hearing stage.  These positions are a link to assure that victims of crime receive their mandated rights and are crucial to restoring victims to where they were before the crime occurred.

Position Requirements:

• High level of understanding of Pennsylvania’s Consolidated Victim Service Program Standards
• Familiarity with The Pennsylvania Bill of Rights for Victims, Act 111 and the Crime Victims Act, 18 P.S. 11.101-11.5102
• Thorough knowledge and strict adherence to the Pennsylvania Code of Ethics for Victim Services
• Familiarity with Act 84 of Title 42 regarding Pennsylvania restitution laws
• Ability to speak calmly and confidently to convey information to victims, witnesses, police officers, defense attorneys, and others in person and on the phone, who may be emotional and adversarial
• High level of organizational and prioritization skills
• Ability to work effectively and efficiently under strict legal time constraints
• Technical knowledge of personal computer operations including Microsoft Word, Excel, Windows, and ability to learn software such as CPCMS, PMS and INFOCON
• Ability to work in a professional and confidential environment
• High level of communication and interpersonal skills allowing for effective interaction with judges, attorneys, police officers, other County agencies, crime victims, witnesses, experts at hospitals and crime labs
• Ability to comprehend various insurance company statements and documents, in order to assist with restitution calculations
• Ability to assist victims with Victims Compensation Assistance Program claim forms
• Ability to assist victims with SAVIN, the State Automated Victim Notification System
• Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely both orally and in writing
• Ability to work independently
• Ability to interview and elicit information from individuals in a non-threatening, calm and authoritative manner
• PA Child Abuse Clearances are required
• Valid Driver’s License and ability to travel in-county

Position Duties:

• Performs victim advocacy work in accordance with Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Victim Rights and Services Act, which mandates the notification and participation in the criminal justice system for victims of crime and their families
• Inform victims of their rights, and the options they have on choosing whether to participate in court proceedings
• Instruct victims on courtroom procedures, processes, and in deciphering outcomes, both by telephone and personal contact
• Assist victims in preparing Victim Impact Statements (VIS) for sentencing court
• Provide court accompaniment for victims to preliminary hearings, as well as accompaniment to briefings by the District Attorney and police
• Notify eligible victims of their opportunity to file claims with the Victims Compensation Assistance Board, and assist them in gathering all documentation needed in order to file an on-line claim; this requires the coordinators to have specific training in the DAVE system
• Assess the danger factor (both emotionally and physically) for victims, and recommend both short-term and long-term solutions
• Inform and encourage victims to register with PA-SAVIN, for jail release notification
• Familiarity with all other Mercer County Human Service Agencies, and the services they provide, in order to make appropriate referrals
• Keep accurate statistics of number of victims and all services provided, to satisfy Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency grant requirements

Minimum Education and/or Experience Required:

A four year Bachelor’s degree or an Associate’s degree (Paralegal) or above and a minimum of 5 years’ experience working in a legal or human services setting, or a combination of the above

Ability to attend and complete the Victim Witness Assistance Academy within 6 months of hire

Requires a minimum of 10 hours continuing education annually, per PCCD 

Deadline to Apply:  December 16, 2024