Career Development Specialist

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 operates in over 40 countries and 26 U.S. cities, providing assistance to refugees and displaced persons. The organization is dedicated to helping individuals and families achieve economic self-sufficiency and integration into their new communities. With a mission to restore safety, dignity, and hope to millions who are uprooted and struggling to endure, the IRC employs thousands of staff members worldwide, working collaboratively to deliver impactful programs and services.

Job Overview:
The Career Development Program is designed to promote economic self-sufficiency for refugees and immigrants who face barriers in achieving their career goals. The Career Development Specialist will play a crucial role in this program by working closely with clients to assess their eligibility and readiness for participation. This position involves creating tailored career development plans, scheduling various career development activities, assisting with job applications, and ultimately facilitating successful job placements. Given that many program participants encounter significant barriers to entering and completing career development programming, the specialist will also provide essential supportive services. The role requires a dynamic approach to meet the evolving needs of participants, necessitating flexibility, patience, and determination to help clients navigate their career paths effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Career Development Specialist will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: conducting pre-enrollment assessments with potential participants to evaluate their needs and readiness; developing comprehensive career development plans that outline strategic directions and realistic activities; providing one-on-one assistance to clients in preparing resumes, searching for job opportunities, and practicing interview skills; offering individual mentorship on various aspects of career advancement, including resume writing and job search techniques; ensuring the delivery of group coaching sessions focused on advanced work readiness and employability skills; supporting clients in identifying, enrolling in, and completing vocational training activities such as certifications, apprenticeships, and work experiences; assisting participants with networking opportunities and reviewing job applications; accompanying clients to job preparation activities, interviews, and job site tours while coaching them to attend these events independently in the future; collaborating with team members to provide comprehensive strength-based services to IRC clients; advocating for clients' rights in the labor market by providing references and educating employers about the benefits of hiring refugees and immigrants; assisting in the creation of program informational packets and marketing materials; ensuring compliance with all reporting requirements; conducting outreach to eligible clients; and developing relationships with employers to facilitate job opportunities for clients, particularly focusing on apprenticeship options.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an undergraduate degree or relevant work experience, with a strong interest in social services, employment, workforce programming, client counseling, or a related field. At least one year of experience in a similar role is preferred. The ability to work effectively with adult learners from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds and varying levels of English proficiency is essential. Experience working with refugee and immigrant populations, along with an understanding of local communities, is highly desirable. Candidates should have knowledge of workplace safety practices and a willingness to learn industry-specific practices. Creative and strategic thinking skills are necessary to overcome barriers faced by clients. Excellent verbal and interpersonal communication skills are required, along with strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and flexibility. Candidates must be capable of managing multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment while maintaining composure under pressure. Proficiency in MS Office applications and database management is required, and candidates should be willing to work some evenings and weekends regularly.

Educational Background:
The position requires an undergraduate degree or equivalent relevant work experience. This educational background should ideally be in social services, human resources, psychology, or a related field that equips the candidate with the necessary skills to support clients effectively in their career development journeys.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least one year of experience in a role related to social services, employment, or workforce programming. Experience working directly with refugee and immigrant populations is highly valued, as it provides insight into the unique challenges these individuals face in the job market. Familiarity with local community resources and networks is also beneficial for effectively assisting clients in their career development.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both spoken and written, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, multilingual abilities are preferred, particularly in languages such as Spanish, French, Arabic, Dari, Farsi, and/or Pashto. This linguistic diversity is important for effectively communicating with clients from various backgrounds and enhancing the support provided to them.

Additional Notes:
This position is represented by the OPEIU union and is subject to the terms and conditions of a collective bargaining agreement. The working environment includes a combination of standard office settings, remote work, and field time within the service delivery area. The role may require occasional evening and weekend work. Compensation for this position ranges from $22.75 to $24.50 per hour, with the exact offer depending on factors such as work location, individual candidate experience, and skills relative to the defined job requirements. The IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, considering 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. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, medical, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement savings plan, and an Employee Assistance Program.