Youth Program Specialist for Secondary Programs

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) was founded in 1933 with the mission to help people whose lives and livelihoods are shattered by conflict and disaster. The organization operates in over 40 countries and has 27 offices across the United States. The IRC opened its office in the greater Seattle area in 1976, providing a wide range of services including intensive case management, employment and economic empowerment services, immigration assistance, health and wellness programming, and educational support to refugee and immigrant families in Washington State. The IRC Washington is dedicated to delivering trauma-informed, equitable, and accessible services while fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace.

Job Overview:
The IRC Washington’s Youth Programs aim to equip youth from refugee and immigrant backgrounds with the necessary skills and resources to achieve academic success and pursue future opportunities. The Youth and Education Department is committed to providing educational and enrichment opportunities for school-aged and young adult youth from these backgrounds. The Youth Program Specialist for Secondary Programs will facilitate IRC Washington’s extended learning and enrichment programs for middle and high school youth. This role involves co-designing and facilitating programs that enhance literacy, English language acquisition, math skills, college and career readiness, and social/emotional asset development for newcomer youth and families. The educator will ensure eligible participants have access to the program, feel welcomed and supported during their transition to the US education system, and can rebuild their futures with confidence and agency.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Youth Program Specialist will lead the implementation and support the design of IRC Washington’s middle and/or high school programs using a strengths-based, experiential education approach. Responsibilities include planning and leading large and small group activities and lessons in English literacy, high school completion requirements, and post-secondary planning, as well as social-emotional asset development. The specialist will manage group dynamics during activities, create safe and healing learning spaces, and build supportive relationships with newcomer students using a trauma-informed approach. They will also support curriculum development, lesson planning, and design activities that meet the needs of various levels of English language development. Additionally, the specialist will lead outreach, registration, and data management for assigned programs, maintain accurate tracking files for external reporting, and provide communication to families regarding program updates. They will independently maintain knowledge of English and Math Standards, college and career pathways, and available services within IRC and partner agencies. The specialist will actively engage in community events, support family engagement initiatives, and comply with all agency policies and procedures.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should have lived experience as a refugee or immigrant, or experience working with refugees and/or immigrants. A minimum of 2 years of experience teaching, tutoring, or mentoring secondary youth is required, along with experience navigating post-secondary opportunities. Proficiency in written and spoken English is mandatory, and a relevant degree or equivalent experience in youth development, college/career advising, teaching, tutoring, or mentoring is desirable. Experience in group youth enrichment programs is also desired, as well as experience working with multi-lingual students or English Language Learners. A TESOL certificate is a plus. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to work independently and as part of a team, possess strong intercultural communication skills, and be committed to anti-racism and continual professional development.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree or equivalent experience in fields such as youth development, college/career advising, teaching, tutoring, or mentoring is desirable for this position. Candidates should have a strong educational background that supports their ability to facilitate learning and development for youth from diverse backgrounds.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of experience in teaching, tutoring, or mentoring secondary youth. Experience in navigating post-secondary opportunities is essential, as well as experience in group youth enrichment programs such as day camps, after-school programs, or outdoor education programs. Experience working with multi-lingual students or English Language Learners is also beneficial, and a TESOL certificate is considered a plus.

Languages:
Proficiency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. While not explicitly stated, knowledge of additional languages may be beneficial given the diverse backgrounds of the youth served.

Additional Notes:
The position primarily involves working in middle and high schools located in Tukwila, Auburn, Kent, and Federal Way, requiring reliable transportation to travel to these fieldwork locations. Some remote or office work will be required at IRC’s office in SeaTac, WA or Renton, WA. The typical schedule is Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with occasional evening or weekend activities as needed. Compensation for this role ranges from $27.00 to $29.00 per hour, based on various factors including labor market conditions and individual candidate experience. The IRC offers a comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical and dental insurance, a retirement savings plan, and an Employee Assistance Program.