Intensive Case Management Caseworker

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a global humanitarian organization that responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. Established in 1933, the IRC has grown to operate in over 40 countries and 26 U.S. cities, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to providing assistance to those in need. The organization’s mission is to help people affected by conflict and disaster to recover and rebuild their lives, focusing on the most vulnerable populations, including refugees and displaced persons. The IRC is committed to maintaining high standards of accountability and transparency in its operations, ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most.

Job Overview:
The Intensive Case Management Caseworker plays a crucial role in addressing the barriers to safety and wellness faced by vulnerable populations, including refugees and asylees. This position requires a strengths-based, client-centered approach to case management, focusing on single-headed refugee households, survivors of domestic violence, older refugees, youth without guardians, and those facing mental health challenges or physical disabilities. The caseworker will collaborate closely with clients to develop personalized service plans that align with their unique needs and preferences, utilizing a wide array of resources such as financial, medical, and social services. The role demands a proactive approach to client engagement, ensuring that individuals receive the necessary support to navigate complex systems and achieve self-sufficiency. The caseworker will also be responsible for evaluating client progress and adapting service plans as needed, thereby fostering a supportive environment for clients to thrive.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Intensive Case Management Caseworker will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: determining client eligibility for ICM programming through intake assessments; developing individualized SMART self-sufficiency plans; evaluating client progress biannually and adjusting plans accordingly; assisting clients in navigating healthcare and social service systems; conducting community outreach to build a robust network of service providers; maintaining relationships with local and state refugee coordinators; providing clients with comprehensive orientation on relevant topics; responding to client crises with appropriate guidance; assisting clients in requesting financial assistance and tracking such assistance; ensuring meticulous documentation of services in client case files; attending relevant trainings and meetings; and potentially training and supervising volunteers and interns. The caseworker will also be expected to perform other duties as assigned, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic work environment.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Intensive Case Management Caseworker position should possess a strong foundation in social services, with a minimum of 2 years of case management experience in a relevant environment. A bachelor’s degree in Social Work or a related field is strongly preferred, although comparable work experience may be considered. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications is essential, along with strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Candidates should demonstrate effective communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to work collaboratively in a cross-cultural, multi-disciplinary setting. Public speaking or presentation experience is preferred, as is the ability to drive a 15-passenger van. Problem-solving skills and the capacity to work independently while also being a team player are crucial for success in this role.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate for the Intensive Case Management Caseworker position should have an undergraduate degree in Social Work or a related field. While a degree is preferred, relevant work experience may be considered as a substitute. This educational background equips candidates with the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively support vulnerable populations and navigate the complexities of social services.

Experience:
A minimum of 2 years of case management experience in a social services environment is required for this position. This experience should demonstrate the candidate's ability to work with diverse populations, particularly those facing significant barriers to safety and wellness. Candidates should have a proven track record of developing and implementing individualized service plans and evaluating client progress, as well as experience in community outreach and collaboration with external partners.

Languages:
Proficiency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, bilingual abilities in languages such as Spanish, Dari, Swahili, Kinyarwanda, Arabic, French, or other languages commonly spoken by refugees and immigrants in Arizona are preferred. Strong cross-cultural communication skills are essential for effectively engaging with clients from diverse backgrounds.

Additional Notes:
The Intensive Case Management Caseworker position is a full-time role that 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 evening work as needed. The position requires the ability to lift 35 to 50 pounds, as the caseworker may need to handle furniture, household supplies, and food boxes. Compensation for this role ranges from $22.23 to $22.59 per hour, with pay determined by various factors including labor market conditions, job type, and individual candidate experience. The IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.