Employment Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) was founded in 1933 with the mission to assist individuals whose lives and livelihoods have been disrupted by conflict and disaster. The organization operates in over 40 countries and has 27 offices across the United States. The IRC aims to lead individuals from harm to home, providing a wide range of services to help them recover and regain control over their futures. The IRC opened its Spokane office in 2022, offering services such as intensive case management, employment services, immigration assistance, health and wellness programming, and educational support specifically tailored for refugee and immigrant families in Washington State. The organization is dedicated to delivering trauma-informed, equitable, and accessible services while fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace environment.

Job Overview:
The Employment Specialist plays a crucial role in administering services that promote self-sufficiency through employment for refugees and immigrants newly arrived in the United States. Reporting to the Economic Wellbeing Program Manager, the Employment Specialist is responsible for providing employment services to program participants. This includes collaborating with employers, community organizations, service providers, and other IRC staff to enhance job readiness and facilitate job placements. The position also involves documenting employment activities and outcomes to ensure program compliance. The Employment Specialist primarily works under state-funded employment programs, focusing on helping participants navigate the complexities of the job market and achieve sustainable employment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Employment Specialist's duties encompass a variety of responsibilities aimed at supporting program participants in their employment journey. Key responsibilities include:

• Case Management Services: Providing employment-focused case management, facilitating intake and assessment, conducting pre-employment orientations, and developing comprehensive employment and self-sufficiency plans for each employable adult and their family members.
• Job Readiness Workshops: Conducting both group and one-on-one job readiness workshops to equip participants with essential skills for employability in the U.S.
• Job Placement Support: Identifying suitable employment opportunities for participants and guiding them through the application, interview, and hiring processes.
• Documentation: Maintaining detailed case notes and documentation throughout the service period, monitoring job performance, wage levels, and employer/employee satisfaction post-placement.
• Employer Relations: Building and nurturing relationships with local employers to identify job opportunities and providing post-placement support.
• Compliance Documentation: Tracking participant job performance and wage levels, gathering necessary documentation for case files, and ensuring compliance with reporting requirements.
• Team Participation: Collaborating with team members to provide comprehensive services, participating in program meetings, and adhering to agency policies and procedures.
• Additional Duties: Performing other tasks as assigned by the Economic Wellbeing Program Manager.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Employment Specialist position should possess a relevant degree or equivalent professional or lived experience. They should have a solid understanding of the U.S. job search process, including interviews and placements. Demonstrated success in effectively communicating and working in a multicultural environment is essential. The ideal candidate will be a self-starter with excellent problem-solving skills, capable of managing multiple tasks and prioritizing duties efficiently. Professional proficiency in English, both spoken and written, is mandatory. Strong organizational skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook) are also required. A commitment to anti-racism and ongoing learning is expected from all candidates.

Educational Background:
The position requires a relevant degree or equivalent professional experience. Candidates with lived experience as refugees or immigrants are particularly encouraged to apply, as this background can provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by program participants.

Experience:
The Employment Specialist role requires candidates to have relevant experience in employment services programming or a similar field. Experience working in a multicultural environment and a proven ability to contribute both independently and as part of a team are essential. Previous experience in case management or related services is highly desirable.

Languages:
Professional proficiency in English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, bilingual ability in a language spoken by the local refugee population is strongly preferred. Languages such as Arabic, Spanish, Swahili, Dari, Pashto, Burmese, Vietnamese, or Tigrinya are particularly valuable for effective communication with program participants.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a short-term role with an anticipated end date of September 30, 202

• It is not eligible for IRC's full benefits package. However, U.S.-based short-term employees will have access to a 403(b) retirement savings plan with employer matching, paid sick leave, and the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential counseling and mental health support. The working environment is standard and professional, with flexibility for remote and in-office work, and may require occasional weekend or evening hours. IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and adheres to professional standards that promote integrity, service, equality, and accountability.