Employment and RCA Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a global humanitarian organization that helps people affected by conflict and disaster to survive, recover, and rebuild their lives. Established in 1933, the IRC operates in over 40 countries and 26 U.S. cities, providing assistance to refugees and displaced persons. The organization is committed to helping individuals attain self-sufficiency and rebuild their lives through various programs, including employment services, health care, education, and economic development. With a workforce of over 14,000 employees, the IRC is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professional conduct and integrity in its operations.

Job Overview:
The Employment and RCA Specialist plays a crucial role in assisting newly arrived refugees and qualified immigrants in achieving self-sufficiency through employment. This position involves guiding clients through employment preparation, coordinating job placements, and providing career advancement services. The specialist is responsible for screening potential participants for the Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) Program, evaluating ongoing eligibility, and determining the appropriate monthly benefits based on individual circumstances. The role requires a proactive approach to help clients navigate the complexities of employment and financial assistance, ensuring they have the resources and support needed to thrive in their new environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Employment and RCA Specialist has a diverse set of responsibilities that include conducting employability assessments and providing program orientation to clients eligible for employment services. They develop comprehensive employment plans and budget strategies tailored to each employable adult, offering job readiness coaching and connecting clients with job opportunities. Building and maintaining relationships with local employers and staffing agencies is essential for identifying suitable employment opportunities. The specialist monitors client job performance and wage levels, documenting each interaction in accordance with program requirements. They also input client information into databases and assist with tracking and reporting as necessary. In terms of RCA responsibilities, the specialist conducts assessments of eligibility for families seeking assistance, completes enrollments, and holds monthly meetings to confirm eligibility and understanding of program rules. They request monthly cash assistance and vendor payments, maintain detailed case notes, and coordinate with other staff to ensure accurate documentation of any changes in case status. The role may also involve providing support to other direct service teams and assisting with front desk duties as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Employment and RCA Specialist position should possess strong relationship-building skills, diplomacy, and networking abilities. They must demonstrate success in working within a multicultural environment and have a self-starter attitude with excellent problem-solving capabilities. Attention to detail and accuracy in work is crucial, along with proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and the ability to use digital tools for data entry and research. A valid driver's license and access to a personal, insured vehicle are also required.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field of study is preferred for this position. This educational background equips candidates with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively support clients in their employment and financial assistance journeys.

Experience:
Relevant professional experience in the workforce development field is required, with a minimum of 2 years strongly preferred. Experience working with refugee and immigrant populations is highly desirable, as is familiarity with job placement and job readiness training.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both spoken and written, is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages spoken by IRC’s clients is considered a valuable asset, enhancing the specialist's ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations.

Additional Notes:
The Employment and RCA Specialist position is a full-time role that may involve a combination of standard office work, remote tasks, and fieldwork within the service delivery area. The position may require occasional weekend, early morning, or evening work to meet the needs of clients. Compensation for this role ranges from $24 to $25 per hour, with specific offers calibrated based on work location, individual candidate experience, and skills. The IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace, and offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes paid time off, medical and dental insurance, retirement savings plans, and an Employee Assistance Program.