Employment Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent international humanitarian non-governmental organization (INGO) founded in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein. The IRC operates in over 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 empowerment 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 diverse workforce dedicated to delivering lasting impact and hope to millions globally.

Job Overview:
The Employment Specialist plays a crucial role in assisting newly arrived refugee clients in achieving self-sufficiency through employment. This position involves delivering job readiness services, providing career coaching, and establishing connections with employers while guiding clients through the application and placement processes. The Specialist is responsible for maintaining strong relationships with local employers, coordinating with other IRC staff, and ensuring compliance with donor and program requirements. The role requires a proactive approach to help clients navigate the job market and secure employment opportunities that align with their skills and aspirations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Employment Specialist's responsibilities include conducting intake and assessments for employment-eligible clients, developing individualized employment plans, and delivering job readiness orientations in both group and one-on-one settings. The Specialist will cultivate and maintain relationships with local employers to identify suitable job opportunities for clients, match clients to these opportunities, and guide them through the application, interview, and hiring processes. Additionally, the Specialist will monitor job placements, assess wages, and ensure satisfaction for both clients and employers, providing post-placement support as needed. The role also involves assisting clients with Unemployment Insurance applications and weekly claims, maintaining accurate case notes and data entry in required systems, preparing employment vouchers and other documentation, participating in program meetings and trainings, and adhering to all IRC policies, including safeguarding and confidentiality standards. Other related duties may be assigned as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Employment Specialist position should possess a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, workforce development, or a related field, although equivalent work experience may be considered. A minimum of 2 years of experience in case management, employment, job placement, or business within a social services setting is required. Experience working with vulnerable or underserved populations is strongly preferred. The ideal candidate will demonstrate knowledge of the U.S. job search process and possess the ability to coach clients effectively in securing employment. Strong organizational and time-management skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams) are essential. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, along with public speaking and presentation abilities, are also important. The candidate should have a proven capacity to problem-solve, prioritize tasks, and meet goals independently or as part of a team.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, workforce development, or a related field. While a degree is strongly preferred, equivalent work experience may be taken into account, allowing for flexibility in the educational requirements based on the candidate's professional background and skills.

Experience:
The Employment Specialist role requires at least 2 years of relevant experience in case management, employment services, job placement, or business within a social services context. Candidates with experience working with vulnerable or underserved populations will be given preference, as this experience is crucial for understanding the unique challenges faced by the clients served by the IRC.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, bilingual abilities in languages such as Spanish, Dari, Swahili, Kinyarwanda, Arabic, French, or other refugee/immigrant languages are preferred, as they can enhance communication with clients from diverse backgrounds and improve service delivery.

Additional Notes:
The Employment Specialist position may involve a combination of standard office work, remote tasks, and fieldwork within the service delivery area. Candidates should be prepared for occasional weekend and/or evening work as required. The role also necessitates the ability to lift 35 to 50 pounds, which may include moving furniture, household supplies, and food boxes. The compensation for this position is set at a pay range of $20.16 per hour, applicable to U.S.-based candidates, and is influenced by various factors such as the labor market, job type, internal equity, and budget considerations. The IRC offers a comprehensive benefits package, including sick days, 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 discrimination.