Forensic Psychologist Job Description Template

Forensic psychologist sitting down and talking with a fellow investigator about a case.

Forensic psychologists are master puzzle-solvers, combining extensive training with the right amount of intuition and insight into human nature. The best ones are able to solve crimes and, in some cases, prevent them from happening.

Add the specifics of your position to this forensic psychologist job description sample to attract the most qualified candidates to your practice. You can also find even more ideas to add to your posting by taking a look at our forensic psychologist job listings.

Forensic psychologist sitting down and talking with a fellow investigator about a case.

Forensic Psychologist

[Intro paragraph] Jurisdictions looking for the highest quality employees often introduce themselves with a few sentences to tell the job seeker what makes their organization unique and the value they bring to new hires. This is your chance to really make your opportunity shine and set yourself apart from competing psychologist job postings.

Forensic Psychologist Job Responsibilities:

  • Evaluates patients and defendants for symptoms of mental disorders and behavioral problems.
  • Conducts mental status examinations and psychosocial histories.
  • Develops DSM-5 diagnoses.
  • Performs comprehensive evaluations of competence to stand trial, using selected forensic assessment instruments.
  • Provides leadership in reviewing and integrating assessment information from the program’s multidisciplinary team to guide court reports.
  • Actively participates in staff meetings, case conferences, case presentations, and training activities.
  • Provides timely crisis management assistance for patients on suicide watch or in a safety cell.
  • Performs suicide risk assessments and on-call crisis management assistance.
  • Referring clients to necessary psychiatric and medical services or other specialized care as necessary.
  • Communicates results from evaluations to the courts and other criminal justice system stakeholders.
  • Writes comprehensive court reports that are well supported by data.
  • Provides effective court testimony regarding individual patient participation and response to treatment program.

[Work Hours & Benefits] This is the ideal place to include details about any working hours and benefits unique to your organization. Tell prospective forensic psychologists about flexible hours or work-week structures, along with any travel requirements. You can also talk about the special benefits you provide, like tuition or conference sponsorship, continuing education credits, and sabbatical and paid parental leave options.

Forensic Psychologist Qualifications / Skills:

  • Forensic science
  • Bedside manner
  • Listening
  • Discretion
  • Analyzing information
  • Decision-making
  • Verbal communication
  • Building relationships
  • Documentation skills

Education, Experience, and Licensing Requirements:

  • PhD in psychology
  • State license or eligibility
  • 3 years’ forensic experience preferred, which may include internships, externships, or fellowships
  • Experience with diverse population preferred

[Call to Action] The most effective forensic psychologist job listings know how to turn potential applicants into actual applicants: by letting clinicians know exactly how to apply with a well-crafted call to action. Provide details on application, resume, and supporting document submission, as well as any other requirements. Or, simply tell candidates to click the “apply” button at the top of the posting.

Leverage Your Job Description Into Your Next Great Hire

It’s not easy to find a skilled and experienced forensic psychologist, so you’ll want to put extra effort into your job posting. Once you’ve written a thorough forensic psychologist job description, you’ll want to post it where talented professionals will see it. That’s where Monster can help. Get started today by posting your job at no charge.