Career Development Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a global humanitarian organization that helps people affected by conflict and disaster to survive, recover, 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 committed to helping individuals and families achieve self-sufficiency and integration into their new communities. The IRC employs thousands of staff members worldwide, working collaboratively with local partners to deliver essential services and support to those in need.

Job Overview:
The Career Development Specialist plays a crucial role in the National Virtual Program for Professional Advancement (NVPPA), which is designed to assist newly arrived refugees in the United States. This position serves as the primary point of contact for participants, guiding them through the process of career development from initial intake to the achievement of their professional goals. The specialist will work remotely, utilizing phone, video, and online tools to connect with participants across the country. Responsibilities include conducting eligibility verification, developing individualized Professional Advancement Plans (PAPs), and providing ongoing support to help participants navigate training, credential evaluation, and job placement opportunities. The specialist will also collaborate with various stakeholders, including IRC staff and external partners, to ensure a seamless experience for participants and maintain accurate case records in compliance with reporting requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Career Development Specialist include:

• Conducting virtual outreach, intake, and enrollment for eligible participants, ensuring all eligibility documentation is verified.
• Completing skills assessments with participants and developing individualized Professional Advancement Plans (PAPs) that outline their career goals and pathways.
• Providing ongoing career navigation support through phone and video consultations, assisting participants in accessing training, credential evaluation, and other approved resources.
• Researching career advancement opportunities and maintaining knowledge of local labor markets, credential evaluation services, and state licensing requirements.
• Coordinating with the Economic Empowerment Technical Unit and other IRC staff to ensure participants receive comprehensive support and that financial assistance requests align with approved PAPs.
• Maintaining accurate and timely case files in Efforts to Outcomes (ETO), ensuring all documentation is complete for ORR reporting.
• Collaborating with other service providers to support co-enrollment and avoid duplication of services.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Career Development Specialist position should possess the following qualifications:

• 1-2 years of demonstrated experience in a human services field, preferably within a nonprofit or social services setting.
• Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to build rapport with clients through remote interactions.
• Proven ability to deliver services remotely, manage a high-volume caseload, and maintain confidentiality.
• Excellent organizational, prioritization, and time management skills, with a commitment to follow-through on tasks.
• Ability to research and navigate workforce, education, and social service systems in various local markets.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, video conferencing, and remote collaboration tools, along with experience in tracking and reporting information in a database.
• A commitment to anti-racism and equitable service delivery to all eligible clients.

Educational Background:
The preferred educational background for this position includes an undergraduate degree in Social Work or a related field. This educational foundation provides the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively support refugees and navigate the complexities of career development and social services.

Experience:
Candidates should have 1-2 years of relevant experience in a human services field, ideally in a nonprofit or social services context. This experience should include direct interaction with clients, case management, and familiarity with workforce development or career coaching.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, proficiency in another language relevant to current refugee populations is considered a strong asset and is preferred.

Additional Notes:
This position is fully remote, allowing for flexibility in work hours to accommodate participants across different states and time zones. The compensation for this role ranges from $19 to $28 per hour, depending on various factors such as labor market conditions, job type, and individual candidate experience. The IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. Benefits for U.S. employees include paid time off, medical, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement savings plan with matching contributions, and an Employee Assistance Program to support staff and their families.