Training Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent organization dedicated to providing high-quality programming for refugees resettling in the United States. Established to respond to the needs of displaced individuals, the IRC has a mission to develop innovative programs that cater to the unique strengths and needs of refugees. The organization utilizes its extensive learning and experience to influence policy and practice while promoting best practices in refugee service provision. The IRC operates in multiple countries, focusing on humanitarian aid and support for vulnerable populations, and employs a diverse workforce committed to making a difference in the lives of those they serve.

Job Overview:
The Training Officer position at the IRC is integral to the Switchboard project, which aims to enhance the capacity of service providers in the U.S. that assist refugees and newcomers. This role involves leading the development and delivery of training initiatives that address the specific needs of these populations. The Training Officer will provide technical assistance and training to various stakeholders, including resettlement agencies and community organizations, ensuring they are equipped to meet the resettlement and case management needs of their clients. The position requires a strong background in direct service, as well as the ability to create culturally responsive service plans that utilize a range of approaches, including client-centered and trauma-informed methodologies. The Training Officer will also be responsible for maintaining high-quality performance through collaboration with experts and the design of effective learning resources, ultimately contributing to improved outcomes for families and individuals served by these organizations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Training Officer will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Developing and delivering training related to refugee and newcomer services, utilizing various formats such as webinars, e-learning courses, and in-person training sessions.
• Providing consultation and guidance to refugee service providers, addressing their inquiries and technical assistance requests through virtual meetings and written communication.
• Producing written learning resources, including blog posts and toolkits, to support service providers.
• Leading the development of multimedia resources, such as e-learning modules and videos, in collaboration with colleagues.
• Coordinating a monthly community of practice to address emerging topics relevant to refugee and newcomer services.
• Contributing to the creation of the annual training and technical assistance workplan for Switchboard, ensuring timely and budget-compliant delivery of resources.
• Managing relationships with external subject matter experts and overseeing project plans related to training initiatives.
• Monitoring and evaluating training outputs and outcomes, analyzing feedback data, and contributing to performance reports.
• Performing other duties as assigned to support the overall mission of the IRC and the Switchboard project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Training Officer position must possess a Master’s Degree in a relevant field, such as a Master of Social Work (MSW), or equivalent experience. Additionally, a minimum of six years of direct service experience with refugees or other populations eligible for Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) services is required. Experience in providing training and technical assistance to enhance the capacity of refugee service providers is essential. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of client-centered, trauma-informed, and strength-based service delivery. Experience in pre- and post-arrival services for newcomers, as well as knowledge of educational, financial, medical, and social resources, is also necessary. Preferred qualifications include licensure as a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), direct service experience in refugee education services, and familiarity with project monitoring and evaluation processes.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s Degree in a relevant field, such as Social Work, Public Health, or a related discipline. This advanced degree is crucial for understanding the complexities of refugee services and the social issues faced by displaced populations. Equivalent experience in a related field may also be considered, particularly for candidates who have demonstrated significant expertise in direct service or training roles.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least six years of direct service experience working with refugees or ORR-eligible populations. This experience should include providing training and technical assistance to service providers, as well as a strong background in client-centered and trauma-informed service delivery. Candidates with experience in managing external consultants or subject matter experts, as well as those who have contributed to project monitoring and evaluation, will be highly regarded.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Strong communication skills are essential, particularly in engaging public speaking and the ability to convey complex information clearly. While English is the primary language required, additional language skills relevant to the refugee populations served may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is fully remote, allowing for flexibility in work location. However, it does require domestic travel of up to 20% for training and consultation purposes. The compensation for this role ranges from $80,000 to $85,000 per year, depending on various factors such as the labor market, job type, and individual candidate experience. The IRC is committed to equal opportunity employment and adheres to professional standards that promote integrity, service, equality, and accountability. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, medical and dental insurance, retirement savings plans, and an Employee Assistance Program to support staff and their families.