Refugee Support Service Employment Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent humanitarian organization that responds to some of the world's most severe humanitarian crises. Established in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein, the IRC has grown to become one of the largest international non-governmental organizations (INGO) operating in over 40 countries and 29 cities across the United States. The organization is dedicated to helping individuals affected by conflict and disaster to regain their health, safety, education, economic stability, and empowerment. With a mission to restore dignity and hope to millions, the IRC employs a diverse workforce committed to making a positive impact on the lives of people worldwide. The IRC's approach is centered around solutions-driven strategies that aim to foster self-sufficiency and community resilience among the populations it serves.

Job Overview:
The Refugee Support Service Employment Specialist plays a crucial role in assisting refugees and qualified immigrants in achieving self-sufficiency through employment. This position involves guiding clients through various stages of employment preparation, coordinating job placements, and providing additional career advancement services. The Employment Specialist is expected to conduct thorough intake assessments, develop tailored employment plans, and offer job readiness coaching to help clients secure job opportunities. Building and maintaining relationships with local employers and staffing agencies is essential for identifying suitable employment opportunities for clients. The role also includes monitoring client job performance and addressing any post-placement issues that may arise. Collaboration with coworkers and partner organizations is vital to ensure comprehensive support for clients, and the Employment Specialist may also be responsible for training support staff and interns as needed. This position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to fostering a supportive environment for clients as they navigate their employment journeys.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Refugee Support Service Employment Specialist include, but are not limited to: conducting client intake and assessments to determine eligibility for employment services; providing program orientation and developing comprehensive employment plans tailored to each client's needs; offering job readiness coaching and facilitating job searches; establishing and nurturing long-term relationships with local employers and staffing agencies to identify job opportunities; assisting clients and employers with any post-placement issues and ongoing employment needs; monitoring client job performance, wage levels, and other relevant metrics; documenting client interactions in accordance with program requirements; inputting client information into databases and assisting with tracking and reporting; collaborating with coworkers and partner organizations to enhance service delivery; using personal or public transportation to travel within the service delivery area; and potentially training and leading support staff, volunteers, and interns. Other duties may be assigned as necessary to support the program's objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Refugee Support Service Employment Specialist position should possess a Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field, although relevant professional experience in workforce development is also highly valued. A minimum of two years of experience in the workforce development field is strongly preferred, with additional preference given to candidates who have experience working with refugee and immigrant populations. Familiarity with job placement and job readiness training is considered a plus. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong relationship-building skills, diplomacy, and networking abilities, along with a proven track record of effective communication in multicultural environments. Self-motivation, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively are essential attributes for success in this role. Attention to detail and accuracy in work products are also critical.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Refugee Support Service Employment Specialist position includes a Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field. This educational foundation is preferred as it equips candidates with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively support clients in their employment journeys. Relevant coursework or training in workforce development, social services, or community engagement may also be beneficial for candidates seeking this position.

Experience:
The position requires relevant professional experience in the workforce development field, with a minimum of two years of experience strongly preferred. Candidates with experience working specifically with refugee and immigrant populations will be given priority, as this background is crucial for understanding the unique challenges faced by these groups. Experience in job placement and job readiness training is also advantageous, as it directly relates to the responsibilities of the Employment Specialist role.

Languages:
Proficiency in English, both spoken and written, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, proficiency in languages spoken by the client group is highly desired, as it enhances communication and rapport-building with clients from diverse backgrounds. This linguistic capability is essential for effectively delivering services and ensuring that clients feel understood and supported throughout their employment journey.

Additional Notes:
The Refugee Support Service Employment Specialist position is based in the United States and may involve a combination of standard office work, remote work, and fieldwork within the service delivery area. Candidates should be prepared for occasional weekend and evening work as required by the demands of the role. The compensation for this position ranges from $20.00 to $21.00 per hour, with the exact offer determined by factors such as work location, individual candidate experience, and skills relative to the defined job requirements. The IRC is committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive workplace and 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. The organization also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, medical and dental insurance, retirement savings plans, and an Employee Assistance Program.