Anti-Trafficking Caseworker

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent international humanitarian non-governmental organization (INGO) that was founded in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein. The IRC operates in more than 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, focusing on responding to the world's most severe humanitarian crises. The organization aims to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and power to individuals affected by conflict and disaster. With a mission to help people survive, reclaim control of their futures, and strengthen their communities, the IRC employs a workforce dedicated to delivering lasting impact and hope to millions of individuals worldwide. The IRC is recognized as one of the largest organizations in its field, employing a diverse team of professionals committed to humanitarian efforts.

Job Overview:
The Anti-Trafficking Caseworker position at IRC Oakland is designed to provide comprehensive case management services to survivors of trafficking and other violent crimes, with a primary focus on immigrant survivors. The role involves connecting clients with essential resources such as legal services, housing, public benefits, health providers, and psychosocial services. The caseworker will conduct regular check-ins with clients to discuss their safety and service plans. This position requires a deep understanding of human rights, strengths-based approaches, and trauma-informed care to effectively support survivors. The caseworker will embody key social work values, including survivor empowerment and professional boundaries, while also being mindful of self-care practices and the potential for vicarious trauma. The position is structured as a 36-month contract, emphasizing the importance of sustainable solutions tailored to the unique situations of each client.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Anti-Trafficking Caseworker will be responsible for a variety of duties, including:

• Providing trauma-informed comprehensive case management for survivors of trafficking to ensure they feel safe, empowered, and stable.
• Meeting acute client needs in a timely and culturally appropriate manner.
• Conducting individualized initial assessments and safety planning, as well as providing orientation to services, support, referral, and advocacy services based on clients' distinct needs.
• Assisting clients with referrals and access to appropriate resources, including shelter, physical and mental health services, and legal services to help them achieve stable immigration status.
• Identifying barriers to services and advocating for improved service quality while fostering positive relationships with community stakeholders.
• Participating in outreach efforts, including the development and delivery of technical assistance and training to community-based organizations, government agencies, law enforcement, and other relevant entities.
• Ensuring quality case notes and documentation, managing case files, and maintaining compliance with agency policies and procedures.
• Preparing, distributing, and documenting direct assistance requests for clients, including payments for rent and utilities, while maintaining accurate records of case management expenses.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Anti-Trafficking Caseworker position should possess the following qualifications:

• A minimum of two years of relevant work experience in social services, case management, human services, or related fields.
• An undergraduate degree is preferred, particularly in Social Work, Psychology, or a related field; however, significant relevant work experience may substitute for formal education.
• A compassionate understanding of the unique needs of survivors of trafficking.
• The ability to maintain a positive, cooperative, and professional demeanor when interacting with clients and partner organizations.
• Skills in de-escalating stressful situations in a trauma-informed manner.
• Experience working effectively in a team-oriented, multicultural environment.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, along with strong organizational abilities to manage multiple clients, priorities, and projects.
• Fluency in Spanish is required, with culturally sensitive skills relevant to underserved communities being preferred.
• Strong organizational skills and proficiency in case-file document management. 1
• A working knowledge of legal providers, social services, public benefits, community organizations, and healthcare systems in the Bay Area is strongly preferred. 1
• A proven ability to contribute both independently and as a key team member. 1
• Reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license are required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Anti-Trafficking Caseworker position includes a preference for an undergraduate degree in Social Work, Psychology, or a related field. While a degree is preferred, candidates with significant relevant work experience may be considered in lieu of formal educational qualifications. This flexibility allows for a diverse range of applicants who possess the necessary skills and experience to effectively support survivors of trafficking.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant work experience in social services, case management, human services, or related fields. This experience should demonstrate the candidate's ability to work with vulnerable populations, particularly survivors of trafficking, and to navigate the complexities of case management in a supportive and effective manner. Candidates with significant relevant experience may be considered even if they do not meet the formal educational requirements.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory for this position, as it is essential for effective communication with a significant portion of the client population. Additionally, candidates with proficiency in other languages, particularly those relevant to the communities served by the IRC, may be viewed favorably, as this can enhance the organization's ability to provide culturally and linguistically appropriate services.

Additional Notes:
The Anti-Trafficking Caseworker position is structured as a 36-month contract, emphasizing the commitment to providing sustained support to survivors of trafficking. The role operates within a hybrid work schedule, combining standard office work with travel in and around the service delivery area. Compensation for this position ranges from $26.00 to $27.00 per hour, with the posted pay ranges applicable to US-based candidates. These ranges are determined by various factors, including the labor market, job type, internal equity, and budget considerations. The IRC offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, medical and dental insurance, retirement savings plans, and an Employee Assistance Program to support staff and their families during times of crisis. The IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, considering all applicants based on merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.