Career Specialist

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 has a significant presence in the United States, where it focuses on helping refugees and other underserved populations. The IRC employs thousands of staff members worldwide, working collaboratively to provide essential services and support to those in need. The mission of the IRC is to restore safety, dignity, and hope to millions who are uprooted and struggling to endure. The organization is committed to promoting equality and accountability in all its operations, ensuring that the needs of the most vulnerable populations are met with respect and integrity.

Job Overview:
The Career Specialist position is a vital role within the Youth and Economic Empowerment Team at the IRC, focusing on assisting refugees and underserved populations in achieving financial stability in the United States. Under the supervision of the Career Development Specialist, the Career Specialist will engage in a variety of activities aimed at fostering employer relations and facilitating job placements through programs such as CareerLink and BRIDGE youth programs. The role requires a proactive approach to outreach and relationship-building with local employers to identify suitable employment opportunities for clients. The Career Specialist will also provide essential support to clients throughout the hiring process, ensuring they have the necessary resources and guidance to succeed in their job searches. This position emphasizes collaboration with team members to deliver personalized career advising and coaching, helping clients set goals and navigate the complexities of the job market. The Career Specialist will also be responsible for developing training materials and conducting workshops to enhance clients' job search skills and understanding of U.S. workplace culture.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Career Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: developing and nurturing long-term relationships with local employers to identify job opportunities; conducting outreach to facilitate job placements and paid work experiences; guiding clients through the hiring process and ensuring they have access to appropriate employment opportunities; monitoring clients' job search activities and compliance with Employment Services Program policies; assessing job performance and satisfaction levels for both clients and employers; providing ongoing support for post-placement issues; collaborating with team members to offer one-on-one career advising and coaching; creating and maintaining resource guides on employment and training opportunities; conducting assessments to evaluate client strengths and weaknesses; facilitating career development workshops; ensuring compliance with reporting requirements; providing intake and pre-employment orientations; managing case documentation and client progress; and participating in program meetings and other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Career Specialist position should possess an undergraduate degree, preferably in Social Work or a related field. Comparable work experience may be considered in lieu of a degree. Additionally, candidates should have demonstrated experience in the human services field, ideally within a non-profit or social services agency. A minimum of two years of direct service experience with underserved communities is required, with a preference for candidates who have worked with refugee populations. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are essential, as is familiarity with local employers and vocational training programs. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are necessary, along with strong computer proficiency, particularly in Microsoft Word and Excel. The ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks is crucial, as is having a valid driver's license and reliable transportation for regular travel within the service area.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Career Specialist position includes an undergraduate degree in Social Work or a related field. Candidates with equivalent experience in human services may also be considered. The emphasis is on having a solid foundation in social work principles and practices, which will enable the Career Specialist to effectively support clients in their career development and job placement efforts.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant experience in providing direct services to underserved communities, with a strong preference for candidates who have experience working with refugee populations. Experience in a non-profit or social services setting is highly advantageous, as it provides the necessary context for understanding the challenges faced by clients and the resources available to assist them. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of successful client engagement and support in a career development capacity.

Languages:
While proficiency in English is mandatory, candidates who are fluent in additional languages will be considered an asset. This is particularly important in a diverse community where clients may speak various languages, as it enhances communication and support for clients from different backgrounds.

Additional Notes:
The Career Specialist position is full-time and may require working outside of traditional office hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate client needs. The role is union eligible and represented by the OPEIU union, subject to collective bargaining agreements. Compensation for this position ranges from $26.00 to $27.00 per hour, with pay rates determined by factors such as labor market conditions, job type, and individual candidate experience. The IRC is committed to providing a supportive work environment and offers benefits such as a 403b retirement savings plan with matching contributions, sick leave, and an Employee Assistance Program for staff and their families.