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, helping people to survive and rebuild their lives. Established in 1933, the IRC has grown to operate in over 40 countries and 26 U.S. cities, employing more than 14,000 staff members. The organization is dedicated to empowering individuals and communities affected by conflict and disaster, providing them with the tools and resources necessary to achieve self-sufficiency and resilience. The IRC's mission is to help people whose lives and livelihoods are shattered by conflict and disaster to survive, recover, and gain control of their future. The organization focuses on various sectors, including health, education, economic wellbeing, and protection, ensuring a comprehensive approach to humanitarian aid and development.

Job Overview:
The Career Development Specialist position within the IRC's Connect2Work Program in San Diego is designed to empower opportunity youth aged 16 to 24 to achieve economic mobility through a variety of services including education, career exploration, work-based learning, and occupational skills training. This role is crucial in providing comprehensive case management and career coaching to youth who face significant barriers to education and employment, such as refugees, immigrants, and those experiencing homelessness. The specialist will utilize a trauma-informed and culturally responsive approach to create individualized career pathways that support long-term success for participants. The position requires a commitment to participant-centered service delivery, creativity, and flexibility, as well as strong relationship-building skills to effectively engage with youth and community partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Career Development Specialist will be responsible for delivering a wide range of workforce development and case management services to opportunity youth. Key responsibilities include conducting outreach and eligibility screenings, managing intake and enrollment processes, and developing Individual Service Strategies (ISS) tailored to each participant's needs. The specialist will provide ongoing career coaching and case management, ensuring regular contact with participants to promote engagement and successful outcomes. In terms of employment and career development, the specialist will deliver both one-on-one and group instruction in essential skills such as work readiness, job search techniques, resume development, and interviewing. They will assist participants in identifying and securing employment opportunities, internships, and apprenticeships, as well as providing post-placement coaching to support job retention and career advancement. Additionally, the specialist will support participants in navigating educational pathways, including secondary school completion and postsecondary education, while monitoring their progress and coordinating necessary resources. Building partnerships with employers, training providers, and community organizations is also a critical aspect of the role, as is maintaining accurate case files and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and performance metrics.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Career Development Specialist position should possess a Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field, although relevant professional experience in human services may be considered in lieu of formal education. A minimum of three years of experience in the field is strongly preferred, particularly with refugee and immigrant populations. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong relationship-building skills, diplomacy, and the ability to effectively communicate in a multicultural environment. They should be self-starters with excellent problem-solving abilities, capable of managing multiple tasks and prioritizing duties effectively. Attention to detail and accuracy in work is essential, along with proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and the ability to utilize digital tools for data entry and research.

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 essential for understanding the complexities of human services and effectively supporting youth in their career development and educational pursuits.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant professional experience in the field of human services, with a strong preference for candidates who have experience working with refugee and immigrant populations. This level of experience is crucial for understanding the unique challenges faced by the target demographic and for providing effective support and guidance.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both spoken and written, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, proficiency in languages spoken by local refugee and immigrant populations is strongly preferred, as it enhances communication and rapport with participants.

Additional Notes:
The Career Development Specialist position is expected to end on July 6, 2027, and operates within a standard professional office environment, including a hybrid model of remote work within San Diego County. The role requires regular in-office days and some field time to fulfill responsibilities. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, with occasional evening and weekend work required. The compensation for this position ranges from $23.00 to $26.80 per hour, depending on various factors such as labor market conditions and individual candidate experience. The IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, medical and dental insurance, retirement savings plans, and an Employee Assistance Program.