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Abuse Counselor

How an Abuse Counselor Will Make a Difference:


This is professional work protecting children and vulnerable adults at the Florida Abuse Hotline. The employee(s) allocated to this class, assess allegations of abuse, neglect or abandonment of children, and abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable adults. The employee(s) will determine if the information meets statutory criteria for an investigation or referral to an appropriate agency.

Growth Opportunities:
With 12,000 employees across the state DCF promotes opportunities and training for all.  Our jobs are among the most challenging, complex, and difficult in State government. They are also among the most rewarding. All employees are encouraged to take advantage of available Department opportunities for advancement and professional development.

Benefits of Working for the State of Florida:
Working for the State of Florida is more than a paycheck. The State’s total compensation package for employees features a highly competitive set of employee benefits including:

  • No state income tax for residents of Florida
  • Annual and Sick Leave benefits
  • Nine paid holidays and one Personal Holiday each year
  • State Group Insurance coverage options, including health, life, dental, vision, and other supplemental insurance options
  • Retirement plan options, including employer contributions. For more information, please click myfrs.com.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Tuition waivers
  • And more! For a more complete list of benefits, visit mybenefits.myflorida.com.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. (When applying please attach required education, certification, or licensure).
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and accurately, both orally and in written form.
  • Ability to attend an approximate 9 - 13 week training course that could be scheduled during day, weekend, and evening hours.
  • This position will require night, weekend, and holiday work; including working on scheduled off duty days and various shifts. This position has also been designated as an essential position.  Incumbents are expected to work during emergency situations or natural disasters and may be required to work before, during and beyond normal work hours/days. 

Specific Responsibilities:

  • Research appropriate information systems to determine prior history to assist in the safety and risk assessment of alleged victim(s).
  • Assign cases to appropriate Department of Children and Families county units or law enforcement agencies for investigation.
  • Receive and refer, as appropriate, complaints against vendors, related licensed facilities, and department employees that may include human rights violations, inappropriate treatment, and inadequate services.
  • Enter reports in the appropriate information system.
  • Enter screened out calls in the appropriate database.
  • Gathers information and consults with supervisory staff regarding child and adult death reports.
  • Provides supportive assistance and referral services to persons in need.
  • Maintain professional respect with field investigative staff, supervisors, and other adult and child protective service professionals in both public and private sectors.