Senior Wellness Specialist

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 organization is dedicated to responding to the world's most severe humanitarian crises, aiming to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment to individuals and communities affected by conflict and disaster. With operations in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, the IRC employs a large workforce committed to delivering impactful solutions that help millions of people regain control over their lives and strengthen their communities. The IRC's mission is to be a force for humanity, providing lasting support and hope to those in need, and it actively seeks passionate individuals who are driven to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Job Overview:
The Senior Wellness Specialist plays a crucial role in supporting the mental health and resilience of individuals and families who have been forcibly displaced. This position involves providing one-on-one peer support, case management, and group-based services tailored to the needs of clients. The Senior Wellness Specialist is responsible for client engagement, which includes conducting initial intakes, offering psychoeducation, and facilitating skill-building workshops and MHPSS (Mental Health and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Psychosocial Support) groups. In addition to direct client support, the role requires coordination of program logistics, recruitment of participants, documentation of services, and contribution to program evaluation through data collection. The specialist will also connect clients to appropriate mental health resources, assist with care coordination, and collaborate with supervisors to provide crisis support as necessary. This position is client-facing and requires a compassionate approach to addressing the unique challenges faced by displaced individuals and families.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Wellness Specialist has a comprehensive set of responsibilities that include:

• Client Engagement & Support: Processing client referrals and conducting initial intakes; providing Skills for Psychology Recovery (SPR) services; offering mental health navigation case management; developing individualized action plans based on assessments; identifying community resources; referring clients to appropriate mental health care providers; supporting crisis assessment and intervention; documenting client interactions and program activities.
• Program Facilitation: Facilitating MHPSS group programs; conducting psychoeducation and skill-building sessions; recruiting and enrolling participants; organizing logistics for MHPSS programs; completing required training; developing group curricula based on client feedback; ensuring compliance with documentation requirements.
• Monitoring & Evaluation: Administering pre and post program surveys; supporting data entry for monitoring and evaluation; evaluating current services and identifying opportunities for new programs; documenting client information using IRC software; proposing program improvements based on evaluation findings.
• Administrative & Team Support: Actively participating in team meetings and trainings; collaborating with supervisors and team members; performing other duties to support MHPSS programming; contributing to strategic planning; recruiting and supervising interns and volunteers.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Senior Wellness Specialist position must possess a relevant degree or equivalent professional and/or lived experience in social work, social service provision, psychosocial support, mental health, or community engagement. Preference is given to individuals with lived experience as a refugee or immigrant, or those who have worked with refugee and immigrant populations. Candidates should have familiarity with the challenges faced by these communities, particularly regarding trauma and mental health. Strong problem-solving skills, the ability to prioritize and develop action plans, and excellent communication skills are essential. Candidates must also demonstrate the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, cross-cultural environment, and adhere to strict guidelines of client confidentiality.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a relevant degree in social work, psychology, mental health, or a related field. Equivalent professional experience may also be considered in lieu of formal education. Candidates should have a solid understanding of mental health principles and practices, particularly as they relate to displaced populations.

Experience:
The position requires prior experience working with refugees and/or community organizing, ideally with marginalized or oppressed communities. Experience in providing psychosocial support or mental health services is highly desirable. Candidates should have a proven track record of effectively communicating and working across diverse cultural and social lines.

Languages:
Professional proficiency in English is mandatory, and candidates should also be proficient in one or more of the following languages: Ukrainian, Dari, Pashto, or Swahili. Knowledge of additional languages is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's ability to connect with clients.

Additional Notes:
The Senior Wellness Specialist position is based in a flexible hybrid office environment, allowing for both remote and in-office work. The compensation for this role ranges from $28.00 to $32.00 per hour, depending on various factors such as labor market conditions, job type, 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. The organization is committed to equal opportunity employment and considers all applicants based on merit without regard to race, gender, or other protected characteristics.