Caseworker

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a global humanitarian organization that responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises. Founded in 1933, the IRC has been dedicated to helping people affected by conflict and disaster to survive, recover, and rebuild their lives. The organization operates in over 40 countries and in 26 U.S. cities, providing assistance to refugees and displaced persons. The IRC's mission is to help people whose lives and livelihoods are shattered by conflict and disaster to survive, recover, and gain control of their future. The organization employs thousands of staff members worldwide, working collaboratively with local partners to deliver essential services and support to vulnerable populations.

Job Overview:
The Caseworker position is integral to the IRC's mission of providing trauma-informed services to refugees and other qualified immigrants. The primary goal of the Caseworker is to facilitate a positive resettlement experience for clients and to support their journey towards self-sufficiency. This role involves close collaboration with clients, colleagues, and external partners to develop tailored service plans that address individual needs and preferences. The Caseworker will utilize a comprehensive range of resources, including financial, medical, social, and vocational services, to ensure that clients receive the support necessary to thrive in their new environment. The Caseworker is expected to conduct thorough assessments of client needs, develop individualized self-sufficiency plans, and set SMART goals in partnership with clients. This position requires a proactive approach to client engagement and a commitment to monitoring progress and addressing challenges as they arise.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Caseworker's responsibilities include coordinating timely pre- and post-arrival services to ensure that clients have access to essential resources such as airport pick-up, housing, food, medical care, and transportation. The Caseworker will conduct intake assessments to evaluate client needs and develop individualized self-sufficiency plans. They will provide relevant services aligned with client goals, including distributing direct financial assistance, assisting with public benefits applications, and making referrals to medical and mental health services. The Caseworker is responsible for ensuring that clients receive meaningful interactions throughout the service delivery period, monitoring their progress towards established goals, and addressing any challenges that may arise. Detailed documentation of client interactions is required, along with inputting client information into the ETO database for tracking and reporting purposes. Collaboration with coworkers and partner organizations is essential, as is building and maintaining relationships with local service providers to enhance client support. The Caseworker may also be responsible for training and leading volunteers and interns, as well as performing other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Caseworker position should possess a Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field, although relevant professional experience in the human services field may be considered in lieu of a degree. A minimum of two years of experience in a similar role is strongly preferred, particularly experience working with refugee and immigrant populations. Candidates should demonstrate strong relationship-building skills, diplomacy, and the ability to navigate a multi-cultural environment effectively. Proficiency in database systems such as IRIS and ETO is desirable, along with strong problem-solving skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently. Attention to detail and accuracy in work products are essential, as is fluency in English, both spoken and written. Proficiency in additional languages spoken by IRC clients, such as Dari, Farsi, or Pashto, is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Caseworker position includes a Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of social services and the specific needs of refugee and immigrant populations. Candidates with relevant experience in lieu of a degree may also be considered, particularly if they have demonstrated success in similar roles within the human services sector.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in the human services field, with a strong preference for candidates who have experience working directly with refugee and immigrant populations. This experience is crucial for understanding the unique challenges faced by clients and for effectively providing the necessary support and resources to facilitate their successful resettlement and integration into the community.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both spoken and written, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, proficiency in languages spoken by IRC clients, such as Dari, Farsi, and/or Pashto, is highly desirable and can enhance the Caseworker's ability to communicate effectively with clients and provide tailored support.

Additional Notes:
The Caseworker position may involve a combination of standard office work, remote work, and field time within the service delivery area. Candidates should be prepared for occasional weekend and evening work as needed. The compensation for this position is competitive, with a pay range starting at $22.59 per hour for US-based candidates. The IRC offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, medical, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement savings plan, and an Employee Assistance Program to support staff and their families during times of crisis.