Employment Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) was founded in 1933 at the request of Albert Einstein. Its mission is to provide lifesaving care and life-changing assistance to refugees who have been forced to flee from war or disaster. The IRC operates in more than 40 countries and has 29 regional offices across the United States. The organization is dedicated to helping refugees resettle and become self-sufficient, with a significant presence in Sacramento, California, where it has been resettling refugees for over 30 years. The Sacramento office assists over 1,000 refugees annually and offers various supplemental programs to support refugees and IRC clients throughout their journey.

Job Overview:
The Employment Specialist plays a crucial role in guiding, preparing, and empowering newly arrived refugees to achieve financial self-sufficiency through employment. This position is responsible for managing and documenting service provision while collaborating with team members to meet performance goals. The Employment Specialist provides a range of services, including employment preparation, job readiness training, placement support, career enhancement services, and follow-up services. Additionally, this role involves maintaining and nurturing existing employer relationships to facilitate job placements for clients. The Employment Specialist reports directly to the Employment Supervisor and is integral to the success of the employment services provided to refugees.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Employment Specialist's duties include conducting comprehensive intake assessments, orientations, and pre-employment/job readiness classes for clients eligible for employment services. They provide job counseling and case management support to newly arrived refugees, conducting both group and one-on-one job readiness courses that equip clients with essential skills to enhance their employability. This includes cultural and workplace orientation, mock interviews, resume creation, and job skills development sessions. The Employment Specialist is responsible for developing individualized employment plans for each employable adult, maintaining accurate digital and physical records of attendance, assessments, and service provision. They will also cultivate long-term relationships with local employers to identify suitable employment opportunities for clients, assist clients in navigating the hiring process, and monitor job performance and satisfaction levels. Furthermore, they will address post-placement issues and ongoing employment needs, ensure compliance with reporting requirements, develop training programs for career development, and supervise program interns and volunteers.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an undergraduate degree in Social Work or a related field, or have equivalent work experience. A minimum of two years of relevant work experience in the human services field is preferred, along with supervisory or mentoring experience. Demonstrated familiarity with the US job search process and the ability to effectively coach clients through the nuances of securing employment is essential. Knowledge of the Sacramento job market is strongly preferred. Candidates should have a proven track record of achieving goals and working effectively with diverse staff in a fast-paced, multicultural environment. The ideal candidate is a self-starter with excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to multitask, prioritize duties, and manage time effectively.

Educational Background:
The position requires an undergraduate degree in Social Work or a related field of study. Alternatively, equivalent work experience may be considered in lieu of formal education. This educational background is essential to ensure that the Employment Specialist has the necessary knowledge and skills to support refugees effectively in their employment journey.

Experience:
The Employment Specialist should have a minimum of two years of relevant work experience in the human services field. This experience should ideally include direct involvement in employment services, job counseling, or case management. Supervisory or mentoring experience is also desired, as the role involves overseeing volunteers and interns. Familiarity with the job search process in the United States and the ability to coach clients through this process is crucial for success in this position.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both spoken and written, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, bilingual ability in another language such as Spanish, Dari/Farsi, or Pashto is highly desired, as it can enhance communication with clients from diverse backgrounds and improve service delivery.

Additional Notes:
The Employment Specialist position is based in Sacramento, California, and may require occasional weekend and/or evening work. The compensation for this role ranges from $26 to $27 per hour, depending on various factors such as the labor market, job type, internal equity, and budget considerations. The IRC is committed to equal opportunity employment and considers all applicants based on merit, without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.