MISSION STATEMENT:

“We Are Committed to Advocating For The Best Interests of American Indian Children By Persistently Applying ICWA & MIFPA to Preserve American Indian Families and Culture”

The Guardian ad Litem Program is currently seeking a full-time (1.0 FTE) non-exempt ICWA Guardian ad Litem employee to advocate for the best interests of children in Juvenile and Family Court proceedings within in our ICWA Division. The Guardian ad Litem Program is an independent program within the Minnesota Judicial Branch and is governed by the State Guardian ad Litem Board. This position will be a remote work position where the ideal candidate will reside in close proximity to the Brainerd area (Aitkin and Crow Wing County).

Having an understanding and familiarity with the American Indian community in which Indian children, parents and extended family members reside or maintain social and cultural ties.

Meets with and observes the child in the home and other settings and documents the child's interaction with parents, caretakers, and others.

Independently communicates with others involved with the case to include but not limited to: Tribal Social Services, Child Protection, Foster Home, extended family.

Attends court hearings and makes written and oral recommendations to the Court. Maintains an accurate and up-to-date calendar of hearings.

Attends administrative reviews, case plan meetings and other proceedings involving the child as an advocate for the child.

Manage case files which includes: compiling, organizing, creating up to date notes and maintaining confidentiality.

Attends program staff meetings and continuing education sessions as scheduled. May participate on local, district and/or state task forces and committees.

Familiarity with culturally appropriate resources and agencies in the community.

Prepares written reports to the court in a timely manner.

May be accompanied by and/or act as mentor to new Guardians ad Litem.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's degree in a child-related discipline along with some experience working with families and children OR an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.

Knowledge:
Familiarity with Federal and State laws that affect American Indian families involved in child protection and the court system.

Familiarity with issues and dynamics that impact American Indian Children and families such as historical trauma, child abuse, domestic abuse, chemical dependency, and developmental disabilities.

Ability to identify American Indian community resources available for providing culturally appropriate services.

Knowledge of the culture/demographics being served in the American Indian community and the ability to work with diverse people.

Skills:
Critical observation skills.

Ability to work independently.

Ability to analyze complex family situations and make objective and sound recommendations in the best interest of the child.

Ability to create and maintain accurate, complete, and up-to-date files.

Ability to listen, speak and write effectively.

Familiarity with or a willingness to learn how to use technology to include but not limited to: computer, laptop, iPad, smart phone, and relevant program applications.

Behavior:
Ability to relate professionally with other stakeholders and the public while representing the Guardian ad Litem Program.

Ability to partner and work collaboratively with justice partners, tribal representatives, peers, and families.

Ability to work as part of a team as well as individually.

Ability to efficiently manage time and resources.

Upon hire must be able to pass a Criminal Background Check.

Must possess a current driver's license, vehicle registration and valid automobile insurance in compliance with Minnesota statute.

Must reside in close proximity to the assigned service area.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Knowledge and familiarity with the American Indian community.

COMPENSATION: Starting pay is $23.12/hr. This is a full-time 1.0 FTE position that is eligible for full-time State of MN benefits.

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 the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Council 5.

Posted for bidding, internal and external application simultaneously.

TO APPLY: Complete the online application at the employment website at: www.mncourts.gov and attach your cover letter and resume. Application deadline for bidding, internal and external application is Wednesday December 21, 2022, at 4:30 p.m. Please allow approximately 45 minutes to complete the on-line application process.

The Guardian ad Litem Program is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to the principles of diversity. We actively seek and encourage applications from persons of diverse backgrounds.

It is the policy of the Guardian ad Litem Program that all decisions regarding recruitment, hiring, promotions, and other terms and conditions of employment be made without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, familial status, membership or activity in a local commission, disability, sexual orientation, or age. If you need a reasonable accommodation for a disability in order to participate in the employee selection process or if you have any additional HR related questions, please contact, GALHR@courts.state.mn.us.