Jessica Rivera
Plant City
Summary
Dedicated Child Protective Investigator with professional experience conducting complex investigations, crisis intervention, behavioral assessments, and multidisciplinary collaboration involving vulnerable populations. Skilled in investigative interviewing, risk assessment, conflict de-escalation, evidence documentation, and managing emotionally charged situations with professionalism and sound judgment. Proven ability to maintain confidentiality, assess safety threats, and navigate high-pressure environments while coordinating with law enforcement, schools, medical personnel, and community agencies.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Child Protective Investigator
Department of Children and Families
Lakeland, FL
07.2024 - Current
- Conduct investigations involving allegations of child abuse, neglect, abandonment, and unsafe living conditions
- Perform home visits, forensic interviews, and comprehensive safety assessments to evaluate child welfare concerns
- Gather, document, and maintain detailed case records while ensuring confidentiality and compliance with state policies
- Collaborate with law enforcement, schools, medical professionals, attorneys, and community agencies to coordinate services and safety planning
- De-escalate emotionally charged situations while maintaining professionalism, composure, and sound decision-making
- Develop and monitor safety plans to reduce risk factors and support family stabilization efforts
- Prepare detailed reports and documentation for legal proceedings and court-related matters
Program Manager
HOST Aftercare Program
Tampa, FL
01.2011 - 01.2015
- Managed daily operations of an after-school program serving children grades K–8
- Maintained student records, attendance, financial documentation, and program reporting
- Supervised staff and coordinated educational and recreational programming in a structured environment
- Addressed behavioral concerns through conflict resolution and individualized support strategies
- Collaborated with parents, teachers, and school personnel regarding student welfare and behavioral concerns
- Ensured a safe, supportive, and organized environment for children with varying developmental and behavioral needs
Education
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Lakeland, FLSkills
- Investigative Interviewing
- Crisis Intervention
- Behavioral Assessment
- Child Welfare Investigations
- Conflict De-escalation
- Risk & Safety Assessments
- Case Documentation
- Court Preparation
- Professional Communication
- Trauma-Informed Communication
- Multidisciplinary Collaboration
- Microsoft Office Suite
Accomplishments
- Cum Laude Graduate with honors distinction
- Recognized for professionalism and strong communication in high-conflict environments
- Experienced in conducting investigations and assessing safety risks involving vulnerable populations
- Demonstrated leadership through crisis-response rescue operations and community outreach initiatives
Timeline
Child Protective Investigator
Department of Children and Families
07.2024 - Current
Program Manager
HOST Aftercare Program
01.2011 - 01.2015