Forensic Psychologist

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates to fill the post of:

Forensic Psychologist (SOG/ST 8) Specialized and Medical Services Division

Job Purpose

The incumbent is responsible for liaising with the other Corrections professionals working in the Correctional Centers and Probation Services to conduct screenings of inmates, investigate psychological disorders among inmates and to assist in examining the mental state of detainees to determine if they can stand trial.

Requirements

• M.Sc. in Forensic Psychology or Clinical Psychology;
• Three (3) years’ experience in working with forensic psychiatric cases.

Responsibilities

Management/Administrative Responsibilities

• Supervises counselling clinical practicum student from various tertiary institutions who come to the Correctional Centers on supervised field practicum;
• Advising prison staff on incidents;
• Manages the delivery of offender treatment programmes;
• Presents findings from assessments to a wider staff audience;
• Provides necessary reports to Court, Parole Board and Privy Council;
• Makes recommendations regarding policies concerning the psychological operations of the Department.

Technical/Professional Responsibilities

• Performs competency, triage, and suicide and violence risk assessments;
• Compiles quantitative and qualitative reviews of offender population;
• Arranges the psychological testing, when needed, for clients/inmates;
• Carries out one to one assessment of offenders;
• Educates clinical team on psychological issues;
• Creates, evaluates and initiates correctional programs for inmate population;
• Undertakes research projects to evaluate the contribution and effectiveness of intervention programmes;
• Assists in hostage negotiation;
• Provides expert testimony in court;
• Evaluates and counsels sex offenders using individual and group therapy;
• Conducts periodic research on test instruments with the goal to improve inmate assessment and better determine insanity;
• Develops dual diagnosis programs, (treatment programs where mental health and substance abuse issues are addressed).

Other related duties

• Performs any other duty in the interest of the department that may be assigned from time to time.

Required knowledge, skills & competencies

• Clinical assessment
• Interviewing
• Report writing
• Strong verbal communication skills
• Psychological assessment
• Ability to counsel persons who have HIV/AIDS or are facing HIV testing
• Excellent knowledge of psychological evaluation and intervention
• Knowledge of the organization’s policies and procedures
• Good problem-solving skills and strength of character
• Excellent presentation, oral and written communication skills
• Proficiency in the use of relevant computer applications
• Good interpersonal skills
• Proficient understanding of cultural diversity

Special conditions

• Highly stressful and hazardous environment;
• Exposure to confidential information.

Salary

Salary Scale: $2,457,386 – $2,921,059 Per annum and any applicable allowances.

Note

Interested persons should forward their applications and résumés NO LATER THAN Friday, January 15, 2021. Subject: Forensic Psychologist (SOG/ST 8).

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Contact

Senior Director, Human Resource Management & Administration
Human Resource Management & Administration Division
Department of Correctional Services
5-7 King Street
Kingston.

 

Email: vacancy@dcs.gov.jm

 

Base Salary: Undisclosed