Youth Summer Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent international humanitarian non-governmental organization (INGO) that was founded in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein. The organization is dedicated to responding to the world's most severe humanitarian crises, providing assistance to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment to individuals affected by conflict and disaster. With operations in over 40 countries and 29 cities across the United States, the IRC employs a diverse workforce committed to delivering impactful solutions that help millions of people regain control over their lives and strengthen their communities. The IRC's mission is to be a force for humanity, and its employees are driven by a passion for making a positive difference in the lives of those in need, ensuring safety, dignity, and hope for all.

Job Overview:
The Youth Summer Specialist is tasked with the critical role of planning, coordinating, and leading engaging and educational activities for youth participants during the summer program. This position is designed to create a positive, safe, and enjoyable environment for youth aged 13 to 20, while also assisting in the development of the program's curriculum. The Specialist will work closely with the Education & Youth Services Manager and other team members to ensure that all activities align with the educational goals of the organization. The role requires a proactive approach to fostering an inclusive atmosphere where youth can develop essential social skills, confidence, and leadership abilities. The Specialist will be responsible for implementing activity schedules that promote learning and personal development, while also ensuring that safety protocols are adhered to throughout the program.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Youth Summer Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities that include, but are not limited to: leading and supervising youth in various recreational, educational, and creative activities; creating and implementing activity schedules that foster learning and teamwork; maintaining a positive and supportive atmosphere for youth development; providing clear instructions and guidance for activities; ensuring a safe environment by adhering to safety rules and regulations; collaborating with the Education & Youth Services Manager to align activities with program objectives; assisting with the setup and teardown of materials and equipment; ensuring proper supervision of all youth participants; resolving conflicts and addressing issues constructively; providing feedback and reporting on activity progress and individual youth development; assisting in the recruitment and training of other youth staff or volunteers; attending regular meetings to discuss programming; and performing other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Youth Summer Specialist position should possess a Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field of study, although this is preferred rather than mandatory. Additionally, candidates should have experience working with youth in group settings, particularly in recreational, educational, or camp environments. The role requires strong relationship-building skills, diplomacy, and the ability to effectively communicate and network within a multi-cultural environment. A self-starter mentality with excellent problem-solving skills is essential, as is the ability to prioritize and manage time effectively. Attention to detail and accuracy in work output are also critical for success in this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field. This educational foundation is important as it provides the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively engage with youth and manage educational activities. While a degree in social work is preferred, other related fields may also be considered, depending on the candidate's experience and skills.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have relevant experience working with youth in group settings. This experience should ideally be in environments such as recreational programs, educational settings, or camps, where the candidate has demonstrated the ability to engage and supervise youth effectively. The role demands a proven track record of successfully managing group dynamics and fostering a positive learning environment.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both spoken and written, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, proficiency in any language(s) spoken by the client group is highly desired, as it enhances communication and engagement with the youth participants.

Additional Notes:
The Youth Summer Specialist position is a full-time role that may require occasional weekend and/or evening work. The working environment will be a combination of standard office settings, remote work, and field time within the service delivery area. Candidates should be prepared for occasional domestic travel, which may be up to 10%. Compensation for this position ranges from $21.00 to $23.00 per hour, with the exact offer depending on various factors such as labor market conditions, job type, internal equity, and the candidate's experience and skills. 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.